Prince George RCMP have released a video showing just how easily poorly-secured bikes can be stolen.
Posted on on the detachment's website, it shows two thieves making off with a pair of bikes from the back of a SUV parked at 1500-block Victoria Street motel. The bikes had been secured to the vehicle with an "easily-defeated" cable lock and the thieves had made their getaway in about 30 seconds.
Despite a lack of serial numbers, RCMP were able to recover one of the stolen bikes, valued at $1,500, but the other - a black and green mountain bike worth $500 - remained missing as of Thursday.
The theft was reported during the morning of Monday, July 2.
It's suspected both culprits are male. One was wearing a hooded grey sweater with black sleeves, green pants, white runners and a ball cap and the other was wearing a hooded black sweater, bright blue hat, grey sweatpants and bright orange shoes.
Both wore masks to cover their faces.
Bike owners are urged to secure their bikes using high-quality locks designed for bicycles, avoid using inexpensive cable and chain locks and, whenever possible, keep bicycles locked and indoors.
"Bikes get stolen from everywhere in every community," said Cpl. Craig Douglass. "Whether you are here in Prince George, visiting a small town or vacationing in a big city, always take extra precautions to secure your bicycles. They are extremely sought after by thieves."
Use of a bike registration, reporting and recovery system like 529 Garage, is highly recommended. At minimum, take a few minutes and document the make, model, serial number and colour of your bicycle, and take a photograph for your records.
For more information, call the Prince George RCMP detachment at 250-561-3300.
