There is a lot of technology in modern high-end bikes
We've all seen the lone wheel padlocked to railings and we can imagine the frustration of the bike owner still holding the key. Of course, quick release axles have made this a more common occurrence. Bike theft in some European cities has risen to significant levels -- for example, 10% of all the bikes in Amsterdam were stolen in 2009 and 2,500 a year go missing in the UK's bike-theft hotspot, Cambridge. And yet people keep using bikes in cities. If you are coming to Europe on a cycling tour here are my thoughts on the basic principles you should follow to ensure your holiday is not ruined by bike theft. These are:
bike simplicity and appearance
bike locks
vigilance
overnight security
Bike simplicity and appearance
There is a lot of technology in modern high-end bikes, but a simple, battered old machine is less likely to be stolen than one that looks more valuable. So, if in doubt, don't choose a bike with multiple suspension, a carbon fibre frame and built-in GPS, but instead buy a cheap one, splash the odd bit of paint on it and replace the components as they wear. Eventually, nothing on the bike will match anything else, but it is unlikely to be a target for thieves. If you must buy an expensive bicycle, try and disguise it with a bad paint job and cheap accessories.
