As we know, bike theft is a real scourge in Montreal. To prevent thieves from having an easy time, here are some lesser-known tips to protect your ride.
U-locks are the most effective. The smaller the "U", the harder it will be for thieves to break it with their tools. If the "U" lock is larger, another trick is to find an attachment point that "fills" it as much as possible. To give thieves even more trouble, place the lock in such a way that they have to strain to reach it. You'll have to twist yourself to lock it, but it could deter less serious thieves.
2. Operation Camouflage
Hiding your bike in a bush or under a stairwell are all tricks that don't guarantee your bike's protection every time, but they do have the advantage of attracting less attention from thieves.
3. Drive thieves crazy
One of the classic techniques of thieves is to target a bike during the day and then come back to steal it at night. When you park your bicycle for a long period of time, it is best to move it at least once.
Some people carry their pets everywhere in their bags. The same philosophy could apply to bikes. Ask your friends or your company to let you bring it inside when possible. It's also better to bring it in at night. Since you're sleeping, it won't bother you too much.
5. Surprising attachments
Saddle, wheels... These are all parts that can be removed in an instant due to their quick-release mechanisms. However, it is possible to purchase a set of locking skewers that allows you to secure everything.
6. Put pressure on municipalities
That said, bike thefts should not be solely the responsibility of owners. For several years, it has been a social problem, especially in the metropolitan area. Enclosed spaces that protect bicycles from theft and bad weather are starting to appear. For example, bike stations are available at the commuter train stations in Deux-Montagnes, Longueuil, and Sainte-Julie. The STM has also installed a BIKE SHELTER at the Lionel-Groulx station. Knowing that thefts are more frequent in places heavily used by users, one wonders why other stations of this type are not installed elsewhere in Montreal. The only way to get things moving is often to mobilize.