Bicycle theft is decreasing: How to protect your bike effectively!

Bicycle theft is decreasing: How to protect your bike effectively!

Bicycle theft remains a serious problem for cyclists in Germany. In 2024, around 245,900 bicycle thefts were recorded, a decrease of four percent compared to the previous year. This marks the second year in a row that theft rates have been reduced. A possible reason for the decline is the use of GPS trackers, which are now increasingly being used to track the location of stolen bicycles. However, there is a worrying development: Although the number of thefts is falling, the damage suffered by insurance companies is increasing, as thieves are increasingly focusing on expensive (e-)bikes, the purchase price of which is now similar to that of motorcycles.

To protect yourself against bicycle theft, it is important to choose the right insurance. Not all home contents insurance covers bicycles, and prices for specific bicycle insurance vary depending on the type and where you live. Consumers should have all the necessary information about their bicycle on hand, including a bicycle passport, which is necessary for identification in the event of theft. GPS trackers are also being marketed and can prove to be an effective preventive measure.

Effective protective measures

GPS trackers like Apple's AirTag are popular options for tracking stolen bikes. This coin-shaped tracking system is approximately 3cm in diameter and operates over the Find My network but requires an Apple device to determine location. The strengths include the easy setup, a long battery life of around a year and the low one-time costs. However, users should also keep the weaknesses in mind: the location determination can be inaccurate, and the functionality could be limited on older iPhones.

Another example are the automatic locks such as “I LOCK IT”, which can be operated via smartphone and offer a battery life of up to seven months. This lock has the advantage that it works in automatic mode and allows keyless operation. However, there are limitations here too, as the lock cannot be opened if the battery is empty.

Alternative tracker systems

Alternative systems are also available for cyclists, such as the “Bikefinder”. This flexible tracker can be hidden in the handlebars and has a battery life of around eight weeks. A high level of security can also be achieved with an e-bike tracker such as the “PowUnity Bike Trax”, as it is integrated into the e-bike drive unit and is powered by the e-bike battery.

The use of such GPS trackers can be an effective deterrent against bicycle theft. The ADAC also recommends recording all necessary information about the bike and informing the police immediately if it is stolen instead of taking action yourself. These measures can make a decisive contribution to preventing the loss of a bicycle or making it easier to replace it.

In order to optimize your own safety and that of your bike, it is helpful to be informed about the different tracking systems and their advantages and disadvantages. Technical progress today offers cyclists many options to be at least somewhat prepared against the threat of theft.