Knowledge Why bicycle theft still occurs in secure parking facilities 19 January 2026 - Author: Dries Dederen Blogs by experts Indoor bicycle parking is an important part of a cycling–friendly city. Apartment garages, workplace storage rooms and underground facilities are meant to help people cycle more, not worry more. Yet BIKEBAZE data shows that a notable share of thefts in the Netherlands still happens in these controlled environments. This guest blog summarises the main insights from BIKEBAZE’s findings. The full investigation is available on their website. As a community-driven platform against bicycle theft, BIKEBAZE connects cyclists, cities, and organisations to make cycling safer together, locally and internationally. What the data shows From weekly incoming reports, BIKEBAZE consistently see one remark: “I kept it in a locked storage room. I thought it would be safe.” Across the country, similar patterns appear. Quotes may be translated or lightly edited for clarity and specific locations have been removed. Common situations include: Indoor storage rooms in apartment complexes “My bicycle was stored in my building’s indoor garage with a frame lock, but it was gone the next morning.” Facilities with cameras that are installed but not active “My bike was parked in a secured storage room. Cameras were visible at every entrance, but later turned out to be inactive. The cut chain was still on the floor.” Underground parking garages with tag-based access “The storage areas on the lower levels require an access tag. I locked my bike with a chain and removed the battery, yet it still disappeared overnight.” Bicycle storage rooms in schools or workplaces “My bicycle was stolen from the locked bicycle room on campus.” Municipal parking garages with controlled entry “Parked in an underground garage with controlled entry, but the bike still vanished.” These reports appear nationwide and are not isolated events. Why enclosed spaces can be vulnerable Shared access Tag or badge systems are convenient but easy to misuse. Offenders can follow someone inside or enter through a door that remains briefly open. Limited natural surveillance Unlike public streets, indoor parking often lacks movement and visibility. Quiet spaces give offenders time to remove locks unnoticed. Inactive or unmonitored cameras Cameras provide reassurance, but only when they function and record. Many reported cases show gaps in monitoring. Lighter locks due to perceived safety Because the environment feels secure, many cyclists rely on basic frame locks. Experienced thieves take advantage of this. Impact on riders Theft inside a building affects more than the cost of a replacement. People report: reduced mobility for work or study; stress about safety in their own residence; additional insurance or replacement costs; longer and less flexible journeys. Bicycle mobility depends on trust. Maintaining that trust is crucial for cycling culture. Practical steps that make a difference For cyclists Use at least one ART certified lock, ideally a hardened twelve-millimetre chain. Attach the bike to a fixed object, even indoors. Choose a visible location instead of dark or isolated corners. Confirm that cameras in the facility are active. Register the bike and make this visible, e.g. by applying a SafeTag through BIKEBAZE. For building managers, housing associations and companies Test cameras monthly and ensure recordings are stored, in compliance with local laws. Install fast closing doors and motion activated lighting. Number bicycle spaces for easier oversight. Provide a simple way to report suspicious activity. Offer group bicycle registration for residents or staff. Small improvements can significantly reduce risk while supporting a cycling friendly environment. Why we share these insights BIKEBAZE maps bicycle theft across the Netherlands to support prevention, transparency and safer cycling conditions. Their goal is to strengthen cycling, not discourage it. Sharing real world data helps cities and organisations build facilities that match the trust people place in them. If you are a researcher, facility manager or cycling expert and would like to contribute insights to BIKEBAZE’s ongoing analysis, we welcome your input. You can find the full deep dive and contact details on their website.