Keep your Bike Secure
Want to keep your bike? Lock it up the right way!
- Lock your bike with a U-shaped lock, not a cable lock that can be easily cut.
- Always lock your bike to a bike rack when possible; lock the frame and wheel to the bike rack.
- Do not park your bike and block entryways or stairs or lock to railings; your bike can be impounded for impeding access.
- If you lose your bike lock key, call the Campus Bike Shop at 650. 723.9300 to have the lock cut (for a fee).
- If your bike is stolen or lost, contact Public Safety, non-emergency number, 650.723.9633.
Bicycle parking and security
- Most thefts can be prevented by properly securing the bicycle with an adequate lock, to a secure parking facility such as a bike rack. U-locks, such as Kryptonite, are recommended, but a knowledgeable thief can easily defeat even these. A 6-foot cable or chain (the thicker the better) used with a U-lock allows you to lock to any rack and secure your wheels as well.
- Be aware that any cable is easily cut. Don't entrust your good bicycle to a cable alone. Most bike thefts on campus are due to "cut" cable locks.
- When parking your bike, don't obstruct walkways, railings, doorways or ramps intended for use by pedestrians or people with disabilities. Improperly parked bikes will be removed and impounded by Stanford Public Safety. Utilize bicycle racks whenever possible.
If your bike is stolen, follow these instructions:
- Report a stolen bike to Stanford Public Safety Department immediately, 723-9633 or call the local police department within the community where the bike was stolen. To report a theft or other crime in progress call 9-911 on campus phones, 911 from other phones.
- Provide the Bike Registration Number, Serial Number, Make, Model, Size and Color
Abandoned bicycles:
If left unattended, a bicycle may be tagged by the Stanford University Department of Public Safety as abandoned. If the bicycle is not removed in 2 weeks, the department may claim it. This abatement process is performed in student living areas and other parts of campus on an ongoing basis. So please, we recommend you do not store your bike for more than 24 hours by locking it to a bike rack, or it may be removed by the time you return. Register your bike so you can be notified in the case that it is picked up as abandoned.
For questions about abandoned bikes, go to the Department of Public Safety website.