Shanghaiist: Have you seen this bike? Or how not to become a victim

girl

Fri, 31 Mar 2006 15:29:39 +0800

Hey, my boyfriend's bike was also stolen recently. It was also a red Giant (don't know model) and he always left it outside our apartment. The thief actually went to the trouble of lugging the thing down four flight of (steep) stairs. Whoever took it knew it was there. It's a small, non descript building, who would've thought it would be taken. It really doesn't matter what kind of bike you have, I've seen all types get stolen. Old, new, rusty, missing parts... it doesn't matter. It seems bikes are meant to be stolen.

yu888

Fri, 31 Mar 2006 14:48:48 +0800

Sorry to hear about your loss, but really this happens in almost any big city. Sad but true. If someone WANTS your bike, its gone...too easy and too portable. Only thing one can do is to make it as challenging as possible for the thief to take the bike. So far mine has been with me since 2003...Knock on wood. I agree with the advise given at the end of your entry. This is what i have doen so far to keep my bike: 1) ALWAYS LOCK BIKE, preferably with more than one lock. 2) ALWAYS BRING BIKE INSIDE APARTMENT Over nighg its the BEST tim for a theif to work your lock and take you bike. 3) Whenever possible lock bike in enclosed / supervised lot, even if it means paying. 4) Lock to something solid whenever possible. I use roadside signs and railings alot. 5) NEVER leave you bike locked in an unknown area overnight, metro stations and such are the worst. And one final piece of advise...dont get too emotionally attached to your bike here...it will get stolen sooner or later so budget accordingly. And according to my budget, i am overdue for a new bike...good thing. Advise to the writer...hope you get over the loss soon and join us back on the roads soon as with this weather, I cannot see how you would be able to stand being a "chump in a taxi" for long. Cheers.

Anton

Thu, 30 Mar 2006 23:26:25 +0800

I've heard of poeple having something slashed on their parked bikes (not sure if it was the tire) and then when they found their bike damaged, they were approached by peddlers offering to replaced the damaged part...sort of coincedental, no?

John

Thu, 30 Mar 2006 21:53:26 +0800

Oh, you mean this kind of "sturdy U-lock?"