Bike thefts ‘could worsen debt fears’

A number of people may soon see their debt fears worsen as bike thefts are on the rise.

According to new research from Aviva, many of the expensive cycles are being stolen from a number of hotspots.

More than 2,000 bike owners took part in the survey and it has been revealed around one-third of cyclists have fallen victim to theft.

Of these individuals, eight per cent stated their two-wheeler has gone missing as many as three times.

The Aviva Cycle Security project saw a bicycle placed in different locations and only protected with poor security techniques.

Out of the five bikes left in wait, three were pinched within five hours and one had been taken in a matter of minutes.

A cycle left outside a shop was stolen in less than 20 minutes – a fate experienced by 21 per cent of cyclists.

Within four hours a bike left locked to a parking meter was swiped.

This has happened to ten per cent of bicycle owners, while 15 per cent have suffered one going missing outside a home – which occurred in under five hours during the experiment.

The report found 13 per cent of bike riders have left their vehicle unattended while performing a quick errand, 12 per cent left it locked to a small post and 17 per cent discarded their bike out of sight and unlocked.

Ian Coull, household claims manager at Aviva, noted the average price of replacing a two-wheeler is around £400.

M&S Money recently advised holidaymakers to ensure their houses are adequately secured before heading off on their travels.

By Amy White