Bicycles and electric scooters are a very popular choice among commuters in Gibraltar as a form of transport due to the fact that they are economic and have less environmental impact. However, this growing popularity also makes electric scooters attractive targets for thieves.

How Are Electric Scooters Easily Stolen?

It might sound surprising, but one of the most common ways bicycles or electric scooters get stolen is simply by being left unattended. On a busy day, leaving your bicycle or e-scooter outside for just a few minutes is easy, but that is all a thief needs to make off with it. Thieves are always looking for easy targets and are quick to act when someone lets their guard down.

Another method thieves use is going prepared with the right tools. You might think a simple padlock will protect your bicycle or e-scooter, but it is often not enough. An experienced thief can steal your scooter with a pair of bolt cutters within seconds. Even disc locks are not fool proof; some thieves might still take your bicycle or e-scooter and sell it, even if the wheels are locked.

What Makes Electric Scooters Vulnerable?

Leaving your electric scooter in the same spot daily can make it vulnerable to theft. Thieves are observant and quickly learn where they can find easy targets. If they notice you consistently leave your bicycle or e-scooter in the same place without surveillance or tracking devices, they’ll wait for the right moment to strike. Even if you use a sturdy lock, a thief with enough time can eventually break through it.

Why Are Electric Scooters Such a Target for Thieves?

The reason is simple: high value, low risk. Most thieves don’t want to deal with anti theft alarms, GPS tracking, or other deterrents. They prefer to go after valuable items that are easy to steal, and electric scooters fit that description perfectly.

In Europe, the average electric scooter costs around £300, and a bicylcle can range from £600 to several thousands of pounds. A significant reward for just a few minutes of work. With the growing popularity of e-scooters, there’s always a market for them, along with their accessories and parts.

 4 Tips to Secure Your Bicycle or E-Scooter

Whatever the cost, your bicycle or e-scooter is an investment worth safeguarding. Thankfully, you can take several effective security measures to keep it out of the hands of thieves. By combining these strategies (layered security), you can help prevent it from being stolen:

 1. Never Leave Your Bicycle or Electric Scooter Unattended Outside

Leaving your electric scooter unattended is risky, even if you only step into a coffee or shop. Thieves are quick to seize opportunities like this. If they spot an unattended bicycle or e-scooter, they won’t hesitate to take it.

Experienced thieves know how to act swiftly, even in broad daylight. While locking your bicycle or e-scooter can deter them, keeping it with you is a more effective theft prevention method. Thanks to the portability of some bicycles and e-scooters, this is easy to do. Here’s how:

• If you have a folding bicycle or e-scooter, fold it up and take it inside with you.

• Store it safely within your office or beneath your desk when you arrive at work.

• Keep it inside your home or garage when not in use.

2. Be Strategic About Outdoor Parking Locations

If you must leave your bicycle or e-scooter outside, choosing the right parking spot can deter potential thieves. Consider the following when selecting a location:

• Good lighting – Thieves prefer the cover of darkness, so park your scooter in a well-lit area to reduce their chances of targeting it.

• Security cameras (CCTV) – Many public areas are under video surveillance. Parking near a camera can discourage thieves, especially if a sign indicates active monitoring.

• Secure locking structure – Always lock your bicycle or scooter to a sturdy, immovable object like a bike stand or light pole. We’ll cover lock options shortly, but the key is to ensure your scooter is securely attached to something solid.

• Visible to onlookers – Thieves are less likely to attempt stealing your bicycle or e-scooter if they’re being watched. Public spaces with plenty of people passing by can serve as a deterrent. If possible, secure it in a spot where you can watch it from your destination or work place.

3. Secure Your Bicycle or E-Scooter with a Lock

Locking your bicycle or e-scooter is crucial to protecting it from theft, especially when leaving it outside. With various lock types available, choosing the right one can make a significant difference in safeguarding your ride. Here’s a breakdown of the most common anti theft locks, which when used in a combination, adds a delay to the theft attempt:

• U-locks: 

Made of hardened steel with a U-shaped shackle, U-locks are popular. They securely fasten around the stem or frame and attach to a sturdy object. However, while effective, many U-locks can be cut with bolt cutters or power tools, so they may not offer the strongest protection.

• Cable locks: 

Lightweight and affordable, cable locks are made of steel cables coated in plastic to prevent scratches. They can be locked with a key or combination, but their flimsy construction makes them easy targets for thieves with wire cutters.

• Chain locks: 

Composed of steel links often covered in cloth or plastic, chain locks provide stronger protection than U-locks and cable locks. They’re tough to break without specialised tools, making them ideal for high-crime areas. The downside is their heavy weight, which can be cumbersome to carry.

• Disc brake locks:

These locks attach to your bicycle or e-scooter’s brake calliper, preventing the wheels from turning. Some models include an alarm that sounds if the scooter is moved, adding an extra layer of security. While lightweight and compact, disc brake locks may not be sufficient for lighter e-scooters, as thieves can carry them away.

• Grip locks:

Mounted on the handlebars, grip locks keep the brakes engaged, immobilising the bicycle or e-scooter. They’re effective in drawing attention if someone tries to move the scooter, but like disc brake locks, they may not offer enough protection for lighter models.

• Folding locks:

Combining the benefits of U-locks, cable locks, and chain locks, folding locks are made of steel bars connected by metal rivets. They offer robust protection in a compact form and can be folded and stored in your bag or attached to your scooter. Folding locks are the most popular among e-scooter owners.

Choosing the right lock depends on your budget and security needs. For added protection, consider using two different locks simultaneously. While a thief may know how to break one lock, tackling two in a limited time is much more challenging as it adds a delay factor to the theft.

4. Additional Anti-Theft Devices

Locks are just the beginning when protecting your bicycle or e-scooter from theft. Increase security with these additional anti-theft measures:

• Alarms

Some locks have built-in alarms, but you can opt for a standalone anti-theft alarm. Simply attach the alarm to your bicycle or e-scooter. If anyone tries to tamper with it while you’re away, the alarm will go off, alerting everyone nearby.

• GPS Tracking Devices

Even with the best theft prevention tactics, there’s always a small chance that a thief might succeed. In such a case, a GPS tracking device is invaluable. Secretly attach one to your bicycle or e-scooter; if it’s stolen, share the tracking data with the police instead of confronting the thief yourself. This way, you increase the chances of recovering it without putting yourself in danger.

Final Words

Bicycles or e-scooters are prime targets for thieves. Securing them is imperative to preventing them from being stolen. Never leave them unattended. Choose secure parking spots. Use strong locks. Consider adding anti-theft devices like alarms and GPS trackers. By combining these measures, you can significantly lower the theft risk and enjoy your ride with peace of mind.