Bike Theft Prevention Tips

Record your bike information

Keep a record of the following information:

• Serial number
• Manufacturer and model
• Frame and accent colors
• Distinctive features or modifications
• Purchase receipt or other proof of ownership
• Clear photographs of the bike

Store this information somewhere you can access even if the bike is stolen. Update your registration when your phone number, email address, ownership information, or bike appearance changes.

Use a high-quality lock

• Use a high-quality U-lock, folding lock, heavy chain lock, or another lock designed as a primary bicycle lock.
• Do not rely on a cable lock as your bike's primary security.
• Use a second lock or cable to secure removable wheels and accessories.
• Replace damaged, worn, or malfunctioning locks.

Lock your bike correctly

• Lock the bike frame to a fixed bicycle rack or another permitted object that cannot be easily cut, lifted, or removed.
• Position the main lock around the frame rather than only through a wheel.
• Keep the lock tight against the bike and rack to reduce space for tools.
• Position the lock low when practical, but do not allow it to rest on the ground.
• Remove easily detachable accessories before leaving the bike.

View full size image of Diagram showing how to properly lock your bike.

Secure the frame to a fixed bicycle rack and protect removable wheels.

Choose the location carefully

• Use a visible, well-lit location with regular pedestrian activity.
• Avoid isolated racks or objects hidden from public view.
• Do not leave a bike unattended longer than necessary.
• Check on the bike regularly when it must remain parked for a long period.
• Do not assume an indoor bike room, garage, shed, or parking facility is secure.

Store valuable bikes inside

Keep valuable or frequently used bikes inside your residence whenever possible. Bikes can be stolen from garages, sheds, balconies, shared storage rooms, and other areas that appear secure.

Lock the bike to a fixed object even when storing it inside a shared room, garage, or other common area.

Protect electric bikes

Remove the battery whenever you store or lock an electric bike, when practical. Taking the battery with you protects one of the bike's most valuable components and may make the bike less useful or attractive to a thief.

Follow the manufacturer's instructions for removing, transporting, charging, and storing the battery.

Buy used bikes carefully

Before purchasing a used bike:

• Ask the seller to provide the bike's serial number.
• Check the serial number through 529 Garage.
• Ask where and when the seller obtained the bike.
• Request a receipt, bill of sale, registration record, or other proof of ownership.
• Confirm that the seller's description is consistent with the bike.
• Inspect the serial number for signs that it has been removed or altered.

Do not complete the purchase if the seller refuses to provide the serial number, the serial number appears altered, or the seller cannot reasonably establish ownership.

Search for a bike through 529 Garage 

If your bike is stolen

1. Mark the bike as stolen in your 529 Garage account.
2. Report the theft to the Portland Police Bureau.
3. Provide the serial number, photographs, registration information, and proof of ownership.
4. Keep your police report number.
5. Preserve screenshots and links if you later find the bike advertised online.

For a theft that is not currently occurring, call the police non-emergency line at 503-823-3333.

Learn about online police reporting 

Call 911 when a theft is occurring now, someone is in immediate danger, or an immediate police response is needed.

If you find your bike advertised for sale

• Do not attempt to recover the bike yourself.
• Do not confront the seller.
• Save screenshots of the advertisement and seller profile.
• Copy the advertisement URL and any available contact information.
• Contact police and provide your report number and documentation of ownership.

Online advertisements may be deleted quickly. Preserve the information before reporting it.

If you find an abandoned bike

Do not assume that an abandoned bike is stolen. Check 529 Garage for a public stolen-bike listing when a serial number is visible.

To report an abandoned or found bicycle, call the police non-emergency line at 503-823-3333. Do not retain, sell, give away, or dismantle a bicycle that may belong to someone else.

Additional registration assistance

Help is available for finding a serial number, completing a registration, updating an existing record, or requesting information about a 529 Shield.

Request bike registration assistance