The number of electric bicycles on the country’s streets is increasing significantly. This also applies to the number of reported electric bicycle thefts, according to statistics from the Swedish Anti-Theft Association (SSF).
During the period January – May this year, the number of reported electric bicycle thefts increased by 50 percent compared with the same period the year before, SSF states.
A total of 20,525 bicycles were reported stolen during that period and 4,920 of them, approximately every fourth, were an electric bicycle. Thus, the percentage risk of being robbed of an electric bicycle is much greater than getting rid of a regular bicycle.
The batteries on the electric bikes are also desirable objects for the thieves.
“If you have an electric bicycle, it is extra important to do what you can to reduce the risk of being exposed to theft. It is best to lock the bike in a fixed object in both frame and wheels and remember to bring the battery in “, says Lina Nilsson, consulting expert at SSF.
The number of reports to the police was clearly greatest in the regions North and South, where it increased by 107 percent in each region. In Stockholm – which is a separate region where Gotland is also included – the increase was much smaller: 7 percent.
Statistics from the autumn of 2021 showed that approximately every fifth new bicycle sold is an electric bicycle, the industry organization Cykelbranschen stated at the time.
Facts
Tips for curbing the bike thief
The associated bicycle lock is not enough. Put money on a real and approved lock.
When locking, make sure to lock the bike in a fixed object and then lock both frame and wheels.
For those who have an electric bike: bring the battery, even if you only have to leave the bike for a short time.
For those who are really careful: mark the bike and the bike parts with micro dots, UV etching code and ID sticker with QR code. It helps the police to link the thief to the crime and increases the chances of getting the bike back if it is stolen.
Source: Theft Protection Association (SSF).
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