Petty thieves stealing bikes across Adelaide as global shortage of parts depletes supply

A Daw Park boy was heartbroken to lose his dream bike to thieves just days after finally getting it. He’s not alone.

Aiden Williss bike was stolen just days after he got it. Picture: Tanya Wiliss

Petty thieves are taking advantage of the warmer weather – and more people enjoying the outdoors – to steal bicycles.

Unsecured bikes, or those with cheaper locks, are being stolen from schools, homes, offices and bike racks.

Within the CBD, 37 bikes have been stolen since the start of the month.

Last year, an average of 11 bikes a week were stolen across the eastern district of Adelaide.

SA Police’s officer in charge of the Eastern District, Superintendent Craig Wall, said it was crucial to invest in a good lock to protect your bike.

“Whether you’re a casual commuter, Sunday rider or cycling enthusiast, it’s absolutely essential,” he said.

“Whatever the value of your bike, it is worth paying for a quality lock to protect it.

“That means a D-style or U-style lock that can’t be cut by a pair of easily concealed bolt cutters.”

Eastern District, Superintendent Craig Wall Craig Wal. Picture: Keryn Stevens

Bike SA chief executive Christian Haag said bike thefts generally spiked during the Tour Down Under.

However, this year, the COVID-19 pandemic had also led to an increase.

“With COVID, the implication for family incomes and individual incomes have been absolutely shattered,” Mr Haag said.

“It’s unacceptable, it’s unfair, and some of those more marginalised in our community rely on their bicycle to get around in their everyday life”.

Mr Haag said stock levels were depleted, and it was “virtually impossible” to buy a bike at the moment as manufacturers faced continued parts shortages due to the pandemic.

“The supply chain has been crushed globally,” he said.

Tanya Williss’s son, Aiden, had his brand-new $2800 Merida One Forty 600 mountain bike stolen in daylight from St Therese School, Colonel Light Gardens, on November 18.

The bike, a 12th birthday gift, was stolen three days after he received it.

“It’s heartbreaking,” Ms Williss, of Daw Park, said.

“You can’t replace it or get another one like it.

“You can’t get the same bike, same specs, same colour – it’s all done with now. He waited so long for this really fancy and expensive bike to ride with his mates.”

As well as bike locks, police recommend:

FILLING in the SAPOL Bike Passport with your frame number, located in the middle of your bike, and a picture;

ALWAYS leaving and securing your bike in well-lit and populated areas, and;

NEVER leaving your bike unattended and unlocked.