I got my bike stolen from the outside of my work,it was locked up?

Question

When I had my bike locked up,it was locked up to a light pole on the street,just outside of my work.We do have a bike rack that I could use,but the managers want the shopping carts to be along the front of the store where I work,and when we do that,I can't use the bike rack without a lot of trouble with the shopping carts.I don't like to use the breakroom,in the store,becauseit is a breakroom,ti has alot of tables and chairs that I would have to fit my bike around,they don't always close the door to the breakroom like should when they leave it.I have decided that I'm going to be walking to work from now on,instead of saving up for another bike.Its only about a mile to work.any suggestions about what to do next,to either get another new bike,or to walk to work?

Answer 1

Hey,

I know how you feel. I've had two bikes stolen, one with a $50 cable lock. This was broken with simple 3 foot cable cutters.

If you want to bike I would pick up a bike that you only use as a commuter, say $20 from a garage sale, or something like that.

If you want a lock that is better, go with a U-Lock. These often come with insurance programs by the lock company, and if you get an appraisal of your bike, register it with the police, a simple U-Lock for $40 can protect a bike up to $1000.

Another idea, since you're only 1 mile away from work, how about roller blades?
they are quick, and small. Bring a bag with some shoes in them and you're set.

good luck

Answer 2

I know you probably don't have much space, but why weren't you keeping the bike in your apartment? Just because there's a bike rack doesn't mean you have to use it. Like you said, the garage may as well be open to the street because it closes so slowly. If you have issues storing your bike in your apartment because of space, take both wheels off and hang everything on the ceiling in some unused corner. It wouldn't be necessarily comfortable, but it's better than having no bike at all? Yes? You can try reporting the theft to the police if you have the serial number, and ask shops around the area to be on the lookout for you bike too. Pretty much all anyone can do when a bike is stolen.

Answer 3

I would buy another bike. But for work, just to travel a mile, I would not buy an expensive one. There are things that you can do. Locking your bike is the first step. You can also DataTag your bike. I think the kit comes with electronic tracking, but don't quote me on that. You can leave your bike somewhere visible, preferably under CCTV. Ask your work about this. Security is a big issue for any company, so they may be willing to help, or offer advice. You can also get insurance. Normally, your bike would be covered by your household insurance. I am not sure if that is the case, since your machine was stolen from work. Separate insurance is not costly, however and is a good idea anyway, since you can get 3rd party cover as well.

All of this advice is fine, but at the end of the day, do you enjoy cycling? Are you going to let some scrote dictate what you can/can not do, just in case they get itchy fingers?

Your decision.

Luck

Answer 4

Become friends with the security guards; talk with the manager -- there should be customers who might use the bike rack too - if it was available.

Advantages of the bike over walking:
faster
less polluting
easier to do errands before / after work

I often use 2 locks - one u-lock and one wire + padlock. I also replaced quick release skewers with skewers with an hex end. Like most things, these will not prevent theft, but will hopefully delay it long enough to thwart the attempt.

Answer 5

Now the sucks!

I agree with getting a cheapo used bike. Yard sales, Salvation Army and Craig List are great places for a 25 - $50 bike.

When I worked in a grocery store a long time ago, I'd just keep it in the stock room - the break room was too small like you say.

Answer 6

If its only a mile, I wouldn't bother with the bike. You'll spend more time stashing it than you saved by riding.

If you feel you must ride, garbage pick a beater that noone will want to steal or mess with. I certainly wouldn't leave one of my good bikes exposed like that.

I used to bike commute 16 miles each way. Fortunately, my employer was extremely enlightened regarding fitness and bike commuting. They put in a bike rack in view of a security camera, right outside the VP of HR's window. They also had a locker room and showers.

Answer 7

Walk to work until you have enough money to buy a new bike. In the meantime think of a good place to lock your bike up while you are at work. Also, invest in a really good Bicycle Lock that will actually insure your bike in case of theft due to their lock's negligence.

Answer 8

Man go to a pawn shop or a used store and buy a old bike for like 20 bucks. Then if someone steals it its no big deal.

Answer 9

i say get a new bike! a junky one, a beater, whatever. and a better lock. better yet, 2 locks. also, i've started taking my front tire off the bike when i leave it for extended periods. harder to steal a bike with a missing tire. just make sure the other tire is locked with the bike or they'll take it like they took mine- $200 for a new back tire!!!
i'm in nyc tho, maybe not so roughneck where you are!

Answer 10

been there a few times. If they catch the thiefs, call me. I got some payback I would like to issue.
BIKE THIEFS BEWARE> I AM COMING FOR YOU