I want to ride my bicycle…
10 November 2020
One of the big changes seen since the start of the pandemic has been the number of people getting on their bike – whether that’s to enjoy a safe commute, keep fit and healthy or to enjoy leisurely rides with the family. During the second lockdown, even the weather doesn’t seem to have dampened the spirit of cyclists.
But how many of us have checked our bike is detailed on our home insurance policy, or registered our new bike?
Bicycle shops were some of the busiest in the country during lockdown, between April and June alone bicycle sales increased by 63% year-on-year and at the end of July, the Government launched the Fix your Bike Voucher Scheme too.
With the Government actively encouraging everyone to get on their bike, keeping them safe and secure is an ongoing challenge. BikeRegister has seen a ‘significant spike’ in bike thefts – up by over 50% in July compared to last year.
Thieves are now targeting the thousands of new bikes bought during the last few months, alongside those expensive bikes that aren’t usually used for commuting or a trip to the shops. The need for quality locks and security marking your bike is greater now than it has ever been. These two simple steps will help deter thieves from targeting your bike if it is left unattended.
So what can you do to make sure your bike stays safe and you find it where you left it?
- Insure your bike, or check it’s detailed on your home insurance policy
- Buy a safe and reliable lock
- Register your bike at The Bike Register – www.bikeregister.com
- Take photos of your bike
- Lock your bike where it’s visible on CCTV
- ALWAYS lock your bike – even if it’s in a garage or on your car/van
Bicycles are automatically covered under many High Net Worth and Executive Home policies, as long as they are secured when left unattended, but it’s always advisable to check your policy and the cover limits.
To notify us of a claim if your bike is stolen, call your usual contact in our Private Client Team. BikeRegister also gives advice on what you should do if you unfortunately become a victim of bike theft.