TAKE YOUR BIKE  
PUT IT HERE: WHERE AND HOW TO PARK
Where and how you lock your bike can help you avoid a rip-off!

WHERE TO PARK

Parking indoors is your safest option. If you are a bicycle commuter, ask your employer for a bike parking area that is secure. Whenever possible, park in indoor parking garages close to highly visible zones, by entrances for example.

When parking outside, find an area frequented by foot traffic to discourage theft and vandalism.

If no bike racks are available, lock your bike to a sign pole or other public, permanent fixture. Just be sure it's a secure fixture that can't easily be cut or removed, and that your lock can't be slipped over the top of the pole. A parking meter works well, but be warned: Some cities (like Los Angeles) have ordinances against locking to meters.

If you will be parking your bike in very public places for long periods of time, consider riding a bike that is less attractive to thieves, i.e. an older, cheaper bike, or at least one that doesn't look brand new. Cover your bike with stickers to conceal logos.

Some Metro Rail and Metrolink Stations offer secure bicycle parking.

BIKE LOCKERS

Bike lockers provide secure parking for those who bike and use mass transit. While cyclists can usually take their bikes on Metrolink and Metro trains and buses, lockers provide another option to aid you in your commute. LACBC manages the following locker programs:

Metro Bike Lockers — Metro provides bicycle lockers for rent at many of the Metro Rail and Metro Orange Line stations. Bicycle locker rentals currently cost $25 per year plus a $50 refundable security key deposit.
For locker locations and instructions on renting a locker: metro.net/riding_metro/bikes/images/locker_rental_instructions.pdf.
For more information about bikes on Metro, visit www.metro.net/bike.

Metrolink Bike Lockers — LADOT provides bicycle lockers at several San Fernando Valley Park and Ride locations. Rental is FREE with a $15 refundable key deposit.
For more on Metrolink and bikes, visit www.metrolinktrains.com/about/faq.php.

HOW TO LOCK YOUR BIKE

Use a U-lock, chain or cable. U-locks are generally the most reliable and convenient to use. Chains and padlocks should be at least 3/8" thick, making them very heavy. Cables should also be 3/8" thick. Some manufactures make very high-end locks and chains made specifically for high-bike-theft areas. Remember, a lock is still cheaper than purchasing a new bike.

Secure the lock and frame tightly; leave no extra space where a lever or crowbar could be used to pry the lock apart.

Lock your frame, not just your wheel. A thief can just unbolt your wheel and take your frame.

For quick-release wheels, or in high-theft areas, secure the wheels with an additional U-lock and cable combination, or by removing the wheels and locking them with your frame. If you're concerned about your quick-release seat, take it with you. Consider replacing quick-release seat bolts and wheel axles with standard ones.

Take loose items with you: lights, bags, water bottles, pumps, etc.

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MUST HAVES
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BIKE LAW 101
SAFETY FIRST
WHERE & HOW TO PARK
COOL & CALM
COMMUTER CHECKLIST
 LOS ANGELES COUNTY BICYCLE COALITION - Building a Better, Bike-able LA County