Nearly 7,000 bikes have been stolen across the country since January 2020, gardai have revealed.
Cycling has become increasingly popular since the start of the pandemic, with more and more people investing in expensive bikes – and gardai have urged cyclists to lock their bikes as securely as possible.
The Dublin South Central area recorded the most bicycle thefts in 2020, with 991 bikes stolen, while Cork City recorded the highest number of thefts (256) outside of Dubin.
Crime Prevention Officer in the Galway Garda Division, Sgt Michael Walsh said: “We are appealing to all bicycle owners to ensure they lock their bikes as securely as possible when they are not in use.
“Anecdotally, more people are cycling since the start of the pandemic and this is to be welcomed. Schemes like cycle to work offer great opportunities but it does mean people are investing in more expensive bikes.
“Therefore, it makes sense to invest in quality locks.”
Of the 6,845 bicycles stolen over the last 16 months, a total of 2,139 have been recovered by gardai – but many cannot be returned to their owners because their serial numbers are not recorded.
Meanwhile travel restrictions have eased in Ireland this week, meaning that for the first time in 2021, you're now able to travel nationwide.
Inter-county travel has resumed, with people no longer having to count their two, five or 20km radius but can just hop in their car or on a bus or train and cross over counties.
And Gardai and The Road Safety Authority (RSA) have launched a new road safety campaign calling on road users to be extra cautious and alert to others on the road.
The easing of travel restrictions will mean more cars are back on the road while the numbers of walkers and cyclists having increased a lot over the last year.
Garda Chief Superintendent Ray McMahon said: “We appreciate that the vast majority of road users act responsibly when driving but even a slight lapse in concentration can have very serious results.
"You never know when a pedestrian might step off the pavement or a cyclist might need to avoid an obstacle.
"It’s about expecting the unexpected and reading the road ahead.
"We are reminding drivers to remember the simple things – keep within speed limits, make sure to put on your seatbelt before setting off.
"Put your phones away and stay focused on the road ahead remaining vigilant of vulnerable road users.”
