What to do in case of bike theft: A complete guide

Bicycle theft is a common problem that affects cyclists everywhere, especially in bike-rich cities such as Rotterdam. If you discover that your bike has been stolen, there are specific steps you can take to increase your chances of getting your bike back and preventing future thefts. Here's a detailed guide to what to do if your bike is stolen, including how to use BIKEBAZE®.

Step 1: Check that the bike has been moved by the Municipality

Before reporting theft, check to see if your bike may have been moved or removed by the municipality. This can happen if the bike was parked incorrectly or annoyingly, or if it was considered an orphan bike or a bicycle wreck. You can contact the local bike depot or check your municipality's website to see if your bike is stored there.

Visit verlorenofgevonden.nl, a platform supported by Dutch municipalities and police, to search for your stolen bike. This platform offers a comprehensive overview of found objects, including bicycles. Use relevant search terms and filters to refine your search. If your bike is not on the list, you can also report a loss here.

Step 2: Report it to the police

If it appears that your bike has actually been stolen, report it to the police. You can file a report by phone or use a online declaration form. The frame number or chip number of your bike is important when declaring. These numbers are crucial to identify and return your bike if it is found.

Step 3: Register your bike as stolen on BIKEBAZE®

Report the theft of your bike in the BIKEBAZE® database. If your bike is already registered with BIKEBAZE®, activate the “stolen” status. This will increase the visibility of the theft within the BIKEBAZE® community, which actively helps track down stolen bikes. If someone comes across your bike and scans the SafeTags, or looks up your bike's frame number, they can contact you.

Step 4: Inquire at local bike points

In addition to checking the bicycle theft register, you can also inquire at local bike points such as the Rotterdam bike point. These points store bicycles that are incorrectly or annoyingly parked and can provide information about recently collected bicycles.

Step 5: Take preventative measures with BIKEBAZE®

For future protection, register your new or replacement bike with BIKEBAZE® and activate the SafeTag. These tags help prevent theft by providing a visible deterrent and easy verification of property status.

Step 6: Keep all documentation

Keep all relevant documents, such as your bike purchase receipt, serial number, and theft report, in good condition. These documents are important for both the identification of your bike and for insurance requirements.

Conclusion

Experiencing bike theft can be a very frustrating situation. Fortunately, by following the steps mentioned above, you can significantly increase your chances of getting your bike back while contributing to the prevention of future thefts. Actively use local resources such as BIKEBAZE® and Verlorenofgevonden.nl, along with community support through the BIKEBAZE® Society, provides a solid basis for detecting stolen bikes. In addition, preventive measures are crucial. For detailed tips on how to protect your bike against theft, visit our in-depth guide at 8 essential tips to prevent bike theft. By being proactive and taking the right measures, you can not only help keep your bike safe, but also contribute to a safer cycling environment for everyone.