Cycle safety advise

Cycle safety advise

The Tipton Neighbourhood Policing Team, in partnership with Transport for West Midlands, has issued dedicated cycle safety advice focusing on bike theft prevention, digital tracking, and road safety. West Midlands Police highlight that with high demand for bicycles and e-bikes, taking extra physical and digital precautions is essential around 

Tipton, Great Bridge, and Princes End.

1. Physical Security

• Layered Locking: Use two high-quality locks, including a heavy-duty Sold Secure Gold-standard D-lock, as thieves carry tools for only one type. Lock the solid frame and both wheels to an official permanent stand, keeping locks off the ground to deny leverage.

• Remove Accessories: Take detachable items, lights, saddles, and expensive e-bike batteries with you. 

 2. Digital Security & Registration

• Register & Hide Data: Log your frame serial number into a database like BikeRegister to help police return recovered bikes. Set privacy zones on fitness apps around your home to prevent thieves from locating your storage spot.

• Home Security: Secure bikes inside sheds or garages, ideally using a ground anchor. 

3. Road Safety & Local E-Bike Rules

• Visibility & Routes: Use working lights at night per the UK Highway Code and stick to well-lit streets rather than isolated areas.

• E-Bike Regulations: Police are cracking down on modified e-bikes and e-scooters in local areas. Legal e-bikes require working pedals, a maximum 250W motor, and assistance cutting out at 15.5mph; anything higher is treated as an unregistered motorcycle subject to seizure. 

Reporting Bike Crime

• Report suspicious activity via West Midlands Police Live Chat or by calling 101. Dial 999 if a theft is actively occurring. 

Thank you from your local Tipton team.