TfL and Halfords aim to curb bike theft

TfL has launched a new collaboration with cycling retailer Halfords to encourage Londoners to safely and securely lock up their bikes and reduce the risk of theft.

TfL says record numbers of Londoners have taken up cycling as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic – and points to a 20% increase.

Meanwhile, Halfords reports a 60% year-on-year increase in sales of new bikes since the start of the pandemic.

However, while sales continue to surge, bike theft is being increasingly reported across the Capital. 

Between April and September this year, reports of bike theft almost trebled, with 3,079 cycles reported stolen in September – up from 2,004 in September 2019.

As part of the collaboration, everyone who completes TfL’s free online Cycle Skills course will receive 15% off Halfords’ own brand locks – ‘making good quality deterrents more affordable’ – as well as lights and helmets.

Sadiq Khan, mayor of London, said: “I’m determined to do all I can to ensure a green recovery for our city by building on Londoners’ record-breaking demand for cycling over the past few months.

“I am proud that we are rapidly rolling out more space for walking and cycling and upgrading cycle routes to make them safer.

“I know how distressing it can be when a bike is stolen. As well as doing all we can to address the scourge of bike theft, I urge Londoners to register their bike and invest in a good quality lock to minimise the risk of theft.”

Graham Stapleton, chief executive of Halfords, said: “We are delighted to partner with TfL in support of our mission to get more Londoners cycling, as a healthy and green way to travel around the capital.

“Our partnership will encourage people to brush up on their cycling skills, make sure their bikes are more secure, and learn more about the Cycle2Work scheme.”


26 November 2020