Brussels has long battled a persistent problem: bike theft. For residents who rely on two wheels for commuting, it’s a daily concern that cannot be ignored.
At the Morning Cycles bike shop in Madou, the wall lined with U-locks, chains, and folding locks reflects how seriously locals take the issue. Yet with prices for these security devices rising, cyclists are asking what really keeps a bike safe in the Belgian capital.
Pascal, the shop’s manager, keeps his advice straightforward. “No lock is 100% theft-proof,” he explained. “Thieves are professionals. They pick a bike and calculate how long it will take. Your goal is to waste their time.”
The key, he said, is to plan every decision in minutes—how long a bike will be left unattended and how much effort a thief must exert before someone notices.
The first and simplest recommendation is to use two locks. Pascal said, “Two locks are the minimum. Heavier is better. That’s the trade-off if you want a real chance to keep your bike.”
Common setups include a solid U-lock securing the frame paired with a heavy chain, or a rear wheel ring lock combined with a plug-in chain looped around a sturdy rack. Folding plate locks can be useful but are most effective when used alongside another type of lock.
“Two different lock types force a thief to switch tools,” Pascal explained. “That slows them down, which is what you want. One expensive lock alone can have a weak point and be defeated quickly.”
Thieves often prioritize speed and cover. Pascal recounted a colleague’s experiment, cutting his own lock with a battery grinder on a busy street. Despite the noise, nobody intervened.
Cyclists need to act as if no one will come to their aid and should be mindful of where, when, and for how long they park. Electric bikes require extra vigilance. Riders frequently leave removable parts exposed.
“If your display comes off, take it with you. Bring the battery inside when possible. Swap quick-release bolts for regular ones,” Pascal advised. Thieves are aware of the second-hand market for components. Even a thick lock cannot protect valuable parts left on the bike.
Locking properly is critical. Pascal teaches cyclists to secure the frame and one wheel to a solid, immovable stand. Locks should be kept high and tight, avoiding contact with the ground.
Using a ring lock on the rear wheel with a plug-in chain adds extra protection. A second lock of a different type and the removal of accessories such as lights further strengthen security.
Prices for locks vary. Basic U-locks start around €50, while thicker, insurance-rated models can exceed €150. Chains begin at €75 and increase with length and thickness.
Folding plate locks are priced in between and work best as a secondary lock. Small additions like wheel or seat bolts can prevent quick thefts at a lower cost than replacing entire components.
For those choosing a single purchase, a solid U-lock is recommended. Ideally, cyclists should aim for two locks—a rated chain or a combination with a ring lock—to maximize security.
Vox pops at a busy central Brussels bike rack revealed that most riders already follow this practice. One commuter said, “I use a U-lock and a chain. It slows them down.”
Another noted adding a second lock for longer stops, while e-bike owners often keep their bikes indoors, opting to leave older city bikes outside for short trips. Choosing where and when to park remains crucial. Pascal warned against taking bikes to late-night events in poorly lit areas.
During daytime, cyclists should favor busy, visible racks near shops or cafés. Indoor cages at offices offer superior security, but public racks can suffice if locks are used properly. Finally, registering bikes with MyBike (mybike.belgium.be) can aid recovery. Cyclists provide bike details and receive a sticker with a unique QR code.
Anyone finding the bike can scan it to verify if it’s reported stolen and contact the owner. Filing a police report promptly, with photos and serial numbers, is essential for insurance claims.
While Brussels has no magical solution to bike theft, combining strong locks, strategic parking, protective habits, and registration increases the odds that a bicycle will remain safe in the city streets.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members
