Locking & Security Guide

Locking a vehicle securely is crucial to prevent theft. Our theft data shows thefts are most likely to happen within the first 90 days of getting your vehicle. Lock up carefully, every time. Use this guide to learn key measures for securing your vehicle.

For a step-by-step guide on how and where to properly lock your bike, check out the instructional video below or review the written instructions that follow.

Choose a brightly lit, public location with a designated bike rack whenever possible and opt for high-traffic and easily visible areas. Never leave your vehicle locked outside overnight, and avoid leaving it for long periods. In the city, a crowded spot with lots of eyes on it is safer than a remote one where thieves can work unnoticed. Also, it's crucial to lock your vehicle whether it's parked in a home or work garage. These are common targets for vehicle theft, so taking this precaution is highly advisable.

Common places where bicycles are often stolen include:

• Workplaces: Bike thefts can occur at workplaces, particularly if there are inadequate bike parking facilities or if bikes are left unlocked.

• City Streets: Especially in urban areas with high foot traffic, bicycles left unattended on city streets are at risk of theft.

• Public Bike Racks: While convenient for parking, public bike racks can also be targeted by thieves, especially if they are not well-monitored or located in secluded areas.

• Transit Stations: Bike thefts can occur at transit stations where commuters leave their bicycles parked while using public transportation.

• Commercial Areas: Shopping centers, malls, and business districts can be targets for bike theft, especially if there are inadequate bike racks or security measures.

• School Campuses: With many students using bicycles for transportation, school campuses can be hotspots for bike thefts, particularly if bikes are not secured properly.

• Residential Areas: Even in residential neighborhoods, bicycles left in driveways, yards, or unlocked garages can be vulnerable to theft.

• Parks and Trails: Bicycles left unattended in parks or along trails, especially in secluded areas, can attract thieves looking for easy targets.

Bike rooms and garages

A shared bike room or garage is not a guarantee of safety. Most reported Ridepanda thefts happened in "secure" bike rooms in downtown buildings. If you can, keep your vehicle inside your apartment or living space.

If you need to use a shared bike room or locker:

• Use at least 2 locks when leaving your vehicle overnight.

• Remove the battery and any accessories if you can.

In addition to supplying all our Ridepanda subscribers with durable KRYPTONITE U-Locks and chain locks tailored for larger models, we recommend adding another security layer such as a cable lock to deter thefts of wheels and other easily removable components from your vehicles. If your bike has quick-release components like a seat or front wheel, use a secondary lock or cable lock to secure them to the frame or the main lock.

Pass the lock through the frame of the bike and the front wheel. If using a U-lock, position it around the frame and inside the front wheel. This makes it difficult for thieves to remove the wheel or steal the entire bike. If the front wheel cannot be locked, lock the frame anyway.

A lock around only the wheel leaves the rest of your vehicle free to take. In real Ridepanda thefts, a locked wheel was all that was left behind. Adding a second lock or cable to secure the other wheel greatly increases your security.

Attach your bike to a sturdy and immovable object, such as a bike rack, pole, or secure railing. Ensure that the object is not easily removable or can be cut through.

Think about what you're locking to. Thin or loosely bolted racks and railings can be weaker than your lock, and thieves can cut or pull them apart in seconds.

Before walking away, double-check that your bike is securely locked and all valuable components are protected. Test the lock to ensure it is properly engaged.

• Use the lock provided with your vehicle.

• Lock through the frame and wheel, every time.

• Remove the battery and accessories if you're locking in an unsecured area.

• Always lock to an immovable object.

• Use a second lock for added security.

What do I do if my bike is stolen?

If your vehicle is stolen, your Ridepanda subscription plan includes a $500 theft member contribution, which will be charged to your card on file. This member contribution protects our customers from being liable for the full cost of the stolen vehicle. If your vehicle is stolen, you will need to provide a police report as proof, an image of the broken lock, and a description of how and where the vehicle was locked. See more details in our PandaCare Guaranty article.

All Hub, Partner Shop Program and Direct Ship subscribers can reference this guide.

• Pandacare Guaranty

• Locks and Alarms for Security

• How to Lock Your Bike (Video)

If you have questions or need assistance, please email us at support@ridepanda.com or call 1-650-523-9577.