The Center for Problem-Oriented Policing (ASU) provides a comprehensive guide to bicycle theft, examining its scale, causes, and prevention. The guide notes that bike theft is often underreported and clearance rates are low, with only 56% of thefts reported and few resulting in arrests. Most stolen bikes are either not locked or poorly secured. Thieves range from opportunists to organized criminals, and motivations include joyriding, resale, and theft to order. The guide discusses risk factors (e.g., parking practices, lock quality, location), the CRAVED model (Concealable, Removable, Available, Valuable, Enjoyable, Disposable), and the impact of theft on cycling rates. Prevention strategies include better locks, secure parking, registration, and targeted policing (e.g., bait bikes). The guide emphasizes the need for systematic evaluation of interventions and improved data collection to inform policy and police practice.
