Securing Bikes

College campuses are notorious for bicycle theft, and unfortunately, SIU is no exception. There are a couple of things you can do to help keep your bike yours.

• Register your bike with us. It's free and helps ensure that if it is stolen and then recovered, we can return it to you.
• Get a lock. Better yet, get two locks. Get the best locks you can afford - bicycle locks are a case of getting what you pay for.
• Use of U (a/k/a D) type bike locks is recommended, though there are some (very) heavy chains that work well.
• Cable locks are not recommended, except as a secondary lock.
• Lock your bike to a bike rack. Lock your bike up every time you park it and walk away. Not just sometimes, not just some days.
• Bring your bike inside where you can do so. Don't forget to lock your doors.
• Don't leave your bike locked up outside for long periods of time - it will likely be stolen one part at a time.
• Anything with a quick release (e.g., seat, wheels) will be quickly released and stolen. Lock them to the bike or take them with you.
• Attach the lock so the keyhole is facing down, and high enough that it cannot be easily smashed against the ground with a stone or hammer.

For additional guidance on locking up a bike and choosing locks, see: Locking Your Bike (the polite New York City guide)

For a more authentic New York City bike locking experience, look up Hal Ruzal on Vimeo.