Current Bike theft situation in Toronto? Security, helmet and other advice?

[SchlongConery]

Wondering what the current state of affairs is regarding bike thefts downtown. I recall the days of that bike theft kingpin and hoarder Igor Kenk but wondering what's the situation is nowadays.

I've decided to start riding in the downtown area from time to time instead of walking. Also going to start riding the Martin Goodman trail, Don Valley and Tommy Thompson for exercise and to enjoy the outdoors. I grew up riding bikes everywhere and did the BMX thing, rode motorcycles for years etc so I'm good when it comes to riding, braking etc with competence and confidence.

I'm still concerned with traffic and inattentive drivers and those electric motorcycle delivery maniacs so also appreciate any general bike riding safety etc.

And any practical advice on security while I pop in to a store or something. I KNOW that nothing stops a cordless angle grinder but any thought would be appreciated.

My bike is nothing special, a 20 year old Schwinn hard framed cruiser in great shape with a seat I like and great city/trail tires. Maybe worth $500 new now.

Definitely will put an AirTag somewhere with the speaker disabled.

Looking forward to the discussion.

 

[unassuming]

If your front wheel is not a quick release, I would suggest that you replace it with one, same with the seat, (take the wheel and seat with you)this deters theft. Lock up bike to bike post...etc.
I've never had a theft this way.

 

[Butler1000]

So I'm an e biker. Here are my tips.

1 have patience, especially in the MG trail. Tons of clueless pedestrians, families meandering around.
2 make sure you have reinforced tires, lots of debris in the roads so blowouts are a thing.
3 the E bike delivery guys are not the most dangerous thing on the trails. It's the lucra wearing stripped down bike dudes who refuse to use their brakes. They actually get up to much higher speeds than the e bike guys. And are reckless.
For the most part traffic is fine. Just be aware and make eye contact with drivers at intersections. And remember right of way is nice but they weigh more than you.
I have parked my bike at St. LAWRENCE Market and a few other spots. Never had an issue. But I use 2 locks and in places with tons of traffic. So I can't say much about security.

 

[SchlongConery]

Thanks to both of you above @unassuming and @Butler1000

 

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A theft, a sting and an apology: How these Toronto cyclists got their stolen bikes back

The thief who cut a hole into Noah Rosen and Suzanne Carlsen's fence to steal their bikes probably didn't expect what happened next.Rosen and Carlsen run VéloColour, a Toronto shop known for painting high-end bikes.The couple says the stolen bikes, which they lovingly modified, have a combined...

ca.yahoo.com

 

[jon_snow]

Could always hide a blade under the seat or somewhere for an unsuspecting thief to cut themselves on when they try to steal the bike.

(Jks, please don't)