It seems that bike thefts are on the increase. Don't forget to use approved
locks and make sure your bike is tied to something immovable. You should
especially lock the bike once you get it home - 50% of all thefts are from
the owner's property. For approved locks, check:

<http://www.soldsecure.com/Leisure.htm>

Rule of thumb? 10% of the cost of your bike should be spent on a lock. If
your bike costs £500, spend £50 on a lock.

There is advice on the web for keeping your bike secure:

<http://www.safermerton.org.uk/index.php?id=219>
<http://www.brixtoncycles.co.uk/security.html>

Merton Cycling Campaign recently reported that 500 bikes have been stolen
from Wimbledon town centre in the past 6 months! The local paper reports
that most of these were taken with boltcutters. Local police want to set up
a problem solving group to reduce cycle theft and are keen to hear from
cyclists who have had their bike stolen. Contact nick.tittle@...
I'm still waiting for a reply so not sure what their plan is.

And don't fall victim to this scam:

<http://www.bikeforums.net/video/7.wmv>

This link opens a Windows Media video of a D-lock being undone in seconds
with a Bic biro. If you have one of these locks, bin it. Thieves know this
trick.


See you all tomorrow for Christmas lunch (with your locks!!)
I'm off for a ride down the Medway Path between Rochester and Tonbridge.


Mark
PHC Co-ordinator
http://www.pollardshillcyclists.org.uk
07711 688189