In 2016, 172 bicycles were stolen. It should be no surprise that the most bicycles were stolen in June and July, but the number of thefts start to rise starting in May. A vast majority of stolen bicycles were either unlocked, improperly locked, or locked with inadequate locks such as lightweight cables or chains.
Make it Hard to Steal
You should always have a secure lock with you whenever you plan to leave your bicycle unattended. The U-locks have proven to be most effective, but like all locks they can be defeated with some perseverance. Use a high-end U-lock to reduce the chances of your lock being defeated. Always lock your bicycle through its frame and both wheels to an approved bicycle parking rack, preferably one with a thick frame. Lock all free parts of the bicycle as well or take them with you. If you lock only the front wheel of the bike, you may return to find your bike is gone and only that wheel remaining. Always park your bicycle in a visible, well-lit area and if possible, avoid leaving your bicycle locked outside overnight or for long periods of time.
Some thieves are creative. If they are unable to steal the bicycle, they may try to take any valuable parts. Missing parts can average between $300-$500 or more depending on type of bike and parts taken.
In the City of Fargo there are rentable bike lockers in three downtown locations:
- The parking lot behind the Black Building, 118 Broadway.
- MATBUS Ground Transportation Center, 502 NP Ave.
- NDSU Renaissance Hall parking lot, 605 NP Ave.
For more information about renting bike lockers, contact Parking Service at 701.235.1618.
Register Your Bike
The City of Fargo offers a free registration program, My Property, that helps residents and police identify and recover stolen or lost property. The online program allows residents to create an account, enter information about the property, such as a bicycle serial number and pictures of the bicycle. Residents are able to reference this information at a later time in the event their bicycle, or any property registered. Officers are also able to search a found or recovered bicycle’s serial number in this system to return it to the rightful owner.
My Property is a secure and free site. Create your account at www.myproperty.cityoffargo.com. The website retains information such as purchase receipts, manufacturer’s information and a photograph of the bicycle at the very least.
Report Theft
If you bicycle is stolen you should report the crime immediately to police. Provide the police with descriptive information such as the serial number, make, model, color, etc. To report the theft of a bicycle contact the Fargo Police Department at 701.235.4493.