Transport for London has partnered with Halfords to reduce bike thefts, offering 15% discounts on locks to cyclists who complete an online skills course. 

From today, anyone who completes TfL's free online cycle skills course can access discounted locks, lights and helmets at the retailer. 

As bike sales have surged since the start of the pandemic, theft is being increasingly reported across the capital.

Between April and September this year, reports of bike theft almost trebled, with 3,079 cycles reported stolen in September - up from 2,004 in September 2019.

Siwan Hayward, Director of Compliance, Policing Operations and Security at TfL, said: "This year, we've seen thousands more people discover the health and environmental benefits of getting around London by bike.

"As cycling continues to boom in popularity, however, bike theft is unfortunately also on the rise.

"It's therefore crucial for Londoners to do all they can to minimise the risk of their bike being stolen.

"We're encouraging Londoners to get their bikes visibly security marked and registered and to invest in a good quality lock to keep them safe.

"Our new collaboration with Halfords will ensure that bike locks are even more affordable to all those who complete our online Cycle Skills course."#

News Shopper:

Despite fewer journeys being made across the city overall, cycling is up by 20%, with Santander Cycles use up by 20% too.

On some routes, there has been a massive 200% increase in cycle trips.

Halfords have reported a 60% year-on-year increase in sales of new bikes since the start of the coronavirus pandemic as record numbers of Londoners take up cycling.

There are fears that many owners of new bikes aren't aware of the latest advice or using high quality locks to keep their bikes as secure as possible.

An Opinium survey of 691 current London bike owners commissioned by Halfords found that almost half - 47% - have not marked or registered their bike.

While seven in 10 respondents said they use a bike lock, only half (50.5%) are using a more robust secure lock.

It can take thieves as little as a few seconds to cut through cheaper quality locks.

Londoners are reminded to use two locks of gold 'Sold Secure' standard - ensuring one is a D-lock - to secure both the bike's frame and wheels to a stand at recognised cycle parking facilities.