There has been a huge increase in stolen bikes in Fort Collins as of late. If you are unlucky enough to have your bike stolen, you can increase the odds of having it returned by registering it in BOTH of the databases below beforehand and following these best practices.
Best Practices- Before its stolen:
- Record serial number.
- Save or photograph the original receipt.
- Note all distinguishing characteristics.
- Take lots of photographs of your bike.
- Record color, make, model, build, size and year.
- Take a selfie with your bike. For real.
Best Practices- After it’s stolen:
- File a police report online. Once a police report is filed all agencies will be able to identify you as the rightful owner via the National Crime Information Center and Colorado Crime Information Center databases. Be sure to add the serial number, all distinguishing characteristics, color, make, model, build, size and year and photos. Make it easy for them to get it back to you.
- Confirm Bike Index and FtCPS/FC Moves database registration and accuracy.
- Mark it as stolen on Bike Index.
- Post on your personal social media channels and on NoCo Cycling, Denver Stolen Bikes and Colorado Stolen Bike Watch
- Monitor Craigslist, Ebay, LetGo, OfferUp and online sales forums.
Databases:
Register your bike in both of these.
- If local law enforcement find your bike, they’ll check the database hosted by FC Moves and Fort Collins Police Services.
- If a community member locates a potentially stolen bike, they’ll be able to search for the original owner via Bike Index.