Unlike car thefts, most bicycle thefts occur in broad daylight and in a matter of minutes. The thief doesn't have to be a genius to figure out an unlocked bike is an easy take, especially if it's parked outside your house in plain view or leaned up against a business while you run a quick errand.

So what can you do to lessen your chance of bike theft? Try following this simple common sense approach to foil those criminals:

• ALWAYS lock your bike with a good quality lock even if it's not being used and sitting in your garage.
• Know who you or your children allow to ride the bike without you present.
• Save the serial number and bike description in a safe place. The police will need this information in the case of a theft.
• Save the purchase receipt to prove ownership should the bike turn up in a pawn shop.
• Engrave your driver's license number and state identification on it by using an electronic engraving tool.

 To file a police report regarding a stolen bicycle.