Protect your bike: Tips against theft and the purpose of bicycle insurance

To protect your bike or e-bike from theft, there are various measures you can take. Here are important tips to reduce the risk of bicycle theft: 

1. Always secure your bike: Use high-quality locks and secure your bike to fixed objects such as bike stands, fences or posts.
2. Choose robust locks: Opt for hardened steel U-locks that are difficult to cut.
3. Use different types of locks: Combine U-locks with additional locks such as chain locks.
4. Choose illuminated parking spaces: Park your bike in well-frequented, well-lit and supervised areas. At many train stations there are specially secured and video-monitored bicycle stations.
5. Remove valuable items: Take valuable accessories such as bike computers or saddlebags off your bike to minimize theft.
6. Register your bike: Enter your bike in a bike register to find it more quickly in the case of theft.
7. Attach a GPS tracker: With a GPS tracker, you can track the location of your e-bike or bike via your smartphone. In the event of theft, you can forward location information to the police.

Find out about bicycle insurance

Despite all precautions, it may be that your bike gets stolen. Here are the steps you should take to increase your chances of recovering your bike. 

1. Report the theft to the police immediately: Provide all relevant information such as make, model, color and special features. You should also provide any information about the theft and where the bike was stolen. If you have a GPS tracker attached to your bike, give the police all the information they need to locate the stolen bike. Keep a copy of the notice as it may be requested by the insurance company.
2. Inform your insurance company: Contact your insurance company and report the theft. 
3. Check online platforms: Search online ads for bikes that match the stolen bike.
4. Share the theft with the community: Inform local bike stores, bike clubs and other cyclists.