TA+TOO is a new type of bicycle saddle from Selle Royale that promises to prevent theft and vandalism by hiding its fixings beneath a removeable top.
The saddle is padded with 3D Skin Gel for shock absorption and comfort and you can choose from 12 colour combinations. The seat is available with a handle to help with maneuvering the bike when parking.
Police in Britain have described thieves who strip saddles, handlebars and wheels as bike cannibals.
As locks have improved, and parts become ever easier to sell online, thieves have turned their attention to stealing parts. Expensive handlebar shifters and Brooks saddles are particularly at risk.
The police suggest cyclists carry parts with them when they secure their bikes in public, but since that isn’t always practicable or desirable, the alternative is to get cycle insurance from a provider that protects against the theft of parts, including quick release saddles and wheels. ETA bicycle insurance covers against the theft of quick release parts as standard and does not require that they be secured – as long as the frame of the bike is locked then all parts are covered.
Each summer, the number of cyclists on the roads reaches a peak as bikes that spend the rest of the year languishing in sheds get dusted off and most bikes are bought new and used for the first time. Unfortunately, it all makes for rich pickings for cycle thieves.
Bike thieves target particular cycle racks at particular times. If stealing from your shed or side of your house, they will overlook other valuable items in favour of a bike. From a thief’s perspective, it’s pretty much the perfect crime; most bicycles are easy to steal, difficult to trace and a breeze to sell on. Having a bicycle stolen is at best an inconvenience, but it’s also demoralising and if the bike is not covered by insurance, it can push a victim to give up on cycling for good.
- Invest as much as you can afford in your lock and learn to use it properly – insurers specify that it needs to secure the bike frame for good reason. Don’t worry too much about getting the lock around the wheels or other bike parts as a good insurance policy will cover them against theft whether they are locked or not.
- Bike thieves might have the equipment to cut through padlocks and silently remove shed door hinges, but they are unlikely to expect to encounter an alarm. One of the most simple and cost effective ways of scaring away bike thieves is to fit a shop bell to the inside of your shed or on the back of the door that leads to your side return if that’s where you store your bike. Alternatively, and for a more high-tech approach, a battery-powered motion sensor alarm can be situated to cover the front door, back door, garage, shed or outbuildings and costs from less than £5 on eBay.
- Motion-activated security lights are cheap and easy to install and thieves don’t like them at all.
Cycle insurance from the ETA
For 25 years we have been providing straightforward, affordable bicycle insurance. Whether you use your bike to commute, shop, race or amble in the park, ETA Cycle Insurance has you covered.
Many cycle insurers offer very limited cover, charging extra for features we believe should come as standard – such as third party cover, personal accident or extension of your cover to family and friends. ETA Cycle Insurance provides one fully-comprehensive package for total peace of mind, whatever your cycling needs.
Every cycle insurance policy you buy helps support the work of the ETA Trust, our charity campaigning for a cleaner, safer transport future.
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