Eye-catching “information bikes” installed to deter bicycle theft
The number of reported bicycle thefts in Voorschoten is high. Higher-priced bicycles, such as e-bikes, are a particularly popular target. The municipality of Voorschoten is therefore taking action and placing two elaborately decorated “informational bicycles” in the village. These bicycles feature a link to a clear message: lock your bike, preferably with a second lock attached to a pole or bike rack, for example.
So far this year, 152 bicycles have been stolen in our municipality. That’s 46 more than the previous year. Of course, that’s far too many. Moreover, these are only the thefts that were reported to the police. In reality, the number of thefts is likely much higher than what’s reported. Most thefts occur near supermarkets, sports fields, and train stations, as well as during events—in other words, in places where large numbers of bicycles are parked. The Voorschoten municipal enforcement team will therefore be keeping a closer eye on these areas in the coming period.
Eye-Catching Information Bikes
Cyclists can take a number of steps themselves to better protect their bikes. To raise residents’ awareness of the risk of bike theft, two eye-catching informational bikes will be placed at Albert Heijn and the Voorschoten train station. The informational bikes feature a link to a municipal webpage. On this page, interested residents can find practical tips to reduce the risk of bicycle theft. These include using a second lock, removing the battery and display from an e-bike, and regularly checking the condition of bicycle locks.
More information
More information about the informational bikes and tips for preventing bike theft can be found atwww.voorschoten.nl/fietsdiefstal.