If you are the victim of theft despite your protective accessories, it is important to react quickly and follow a procedure to maximize your chances of recovering your vehicle.
What are the best practices in case of theft?
1- File a complaint as quickly as possible at a police station or directly online by completing a pre-complaint . For it to be registered as a complaint, you will need to sign this declaration at a gendarmerie or police station.
If your bike is equipped with a GPS tracker, provide police access and the unique code linked to your tracker to law enforcement.
When filing a formal complaint, it is important to bring the vehicle documents with you (the purchase invoice, your identity papers and a photo of the vehicle if you have one).
2- Report the theft to your insurance company , which is also very important (only if you have taken out insurance for this). It is necessary to do this as quickly as possible to inform them.
3- Report the theft to the national database with your anti-theft marking organization so that it is reflected in the FNUCI (national bicycle identification database). This will allow you to be contacted by law enforcement or a third party if the bicycle is found and identified using the marking.
4- Monitoring classifieds sites may help you find your bike for sale. To do this, don't hesitate to check the various classifieds sites often and set alert notifications.
If you think you see your bike in a suspicious ad, contact a police station to inform them.Â
Zero risk doesn't exist, so be vigilant to minimize the risk of theft. Equip yourself with security accessories that are suitable for your bike/e-bike. Keep all proof of purchase, invoices, and proof of marking in case you need to identify your bike and prove that it belongs to you.
To put all the chances on your side:
- Buy good locks! Two are better than one, and don't skimp on the price of them. You can refer to the FUB (bicycle users' federation), which is very good on this point, or ask your bike shop or insurer for advice.
- Equip yourself with a GPS tracker or buy a bike that's already equipped. This probably won't prevent theft, but it will give you a better chance of finding your vehicle. Choose a built-in, discreet GPS tracker that doesn't require recharging and that thieves won't be able to easily identify. Trackap products are a great choice for this!