Why you should properly secure your fatbike
Securing your fatbike today is more important than ever. In fact, fatbikes are popular with thieves because of their high value and good resellability. Especially business fatbikes are an attractive target, because these bikes quickly cost between 2,000 and 5,000 euros. Fortunately, with the right measures, you can properly protect your fatbike from theft. This article tells you exactly how to do that.
A good security strategy for your fatbike consists of several layers. Consider strong locks, GPS tracking and appropriate insurance. By combining these measures, you make it as difficult as possible for thieves. This significantly reduces the chances of theft. Let's take a closer look at all the options.
What locks are best for a fatbike?
Choosing the right lock to secure your fatbike is the first step. This is because not every lock fits around the wide tires of a fatbike. Therefore, you need locks that offer enough space. There are roughly three types of locks that work well for fatbikes: shackle locks, chain locks and folding locks.
Bracket locks for your fatbike
Bracket locks are compact and sturdy. They fit perfectly through the wide spokes of a fatbike. Choose a shackle lock with a minimum thickness of 15mm, because thinner locks are easier to cut. The advantage of a shackle lock is that you simply attach it to the frame while riding. The disadvantage is that you are limited in where you can attach the bike. This is because the fixed shape of the lock determines your options.
Want to secure your fatbike extra well? Then combine a shackle lock with another type of lock. Thieves often only carry tools for one type of lock. So by using two different locks, you make it a lot more difficult for them. That is exactly what you want to achieve.
Chain locks: more flexibility
Chain locks offer more flexibility than shackle locks. This is because you wrap them around different parts of your fatbike. As a result, you easily adapt them to different bike racks and poles. Choose a chain lock that is at least 10mm thick with a strong padlock. This will give you good protection against theft.
The disadvantage of a chain lock is the weight. With fatbikes, weight is already a concern, so adding a heavy lock is not ideal. Still, safety outweighs comfort. After all, a stolen fatbike is much more annoying than a slightly heavier bike. Check out the ABUS chain locks for good options.
Folding locks: compact and practical
Folding locks combine flexibility with portability. They fold up compactly and therefore fit easily into a bag. Just make sure that the folding lock is long enough for the wide wheels of your fatbike. Not all folding locks are suitable. So always check the length before you buy.
We do not recommend cable locks as the main security for your fatbike. They simply offer too little protection against serious theft. A thief will cut them within seconds. Use a cable lock at most as additional security for individual parts such as your saddle or front wheel.
ART mark: what to look out for?
When choosing a lock to secure your fatbike, pay attention to the ART seal. This seal indicates how well a lock resists burglary attempts. The higher the ART class, the better the protection. For fatbikes, we recommend at least ART-2 or ART-3. These locks meet strict safety requirements.
Note that many insurers require an ART-approved lock for coverage in case of theft. Without such a lock, you may not receive payment. So always check your policy conditions before you buy a lock. That way you avoid unpleasant surprises later. At STOER Bikes find ART-approved folding locks that fit fatbikes perfectly.
GPS tracking for your fatbike: how does it work?
In addition to good locks, GPS tracking is a smart way to secure your fatbike. A GPS tracker is a small device that you mount hidden in the frame. It sends real-time location data to an app on your phone. That way you always know where your fatbike is.
Types of GPS trackers for fatbikes
There are several types of GPS trackers available. Built-in trackers you mount permanently in the frame. These are the hardest for thieves to find because they are completely out of sight. Loose trackers, on the other hand, you can move between bikes. The downside is that thieves discover them more easily.
Some trackers run on batteries that you have to charge regularly. Other trackers connect to the battery of your electric fatbike. The latter option is convenient because then you don't have to charge separately. The battery life of separate trackers varies between 1 and 6 months, depending on use and settings.
What does GPS tracking for your fatbike cost?
The cost of GPS tracking to secure your fatbike consists of two parts. First, you buy the tracker itself. Prices range between 50 and 200 euros, depending on the brand and features. Next, you pay monthly subscription fees for the data connection. These are usually between 5 and 15 euros per month.
For companies with multiple fatbikes, fleet packages are often available. These include discounts for purchasing multiple trackers. Also, many systems offer additional features such as motion alarms and virtual fences. With a motion alarm, you get immediate notification if someone moves your fatbike. A virtual fence alerts you as soon as the bike leaves a certain area.
STOER Bikes offers the Tracefy GPS tracker to. This tracker fits perfectly into STOER fatbikes and offers extensive tracking capabilities. So you always have control over the location of your bike.
Where do you best mount a GPS tracker?
The placement of your GPS tracker partly determines how well your fatbike is secured. Hide the tracker in a place where thieves are not likely to look. The seat post or stem are good options. Avoid obvious places like under the saddle, because that's where thieves look first.
Always use a waterproof tracker. After all, your fatbike is regularly outside in the rain. Also make sure the antenna is clear for optimal signal. This is because a blocked antenna gives poorer location accuracy. Having doubts about mounting? Then have it done by a bike shop. That way you can be sure that everything is seated correctly.
Why do fatbikes need extra security?
You may be wondering why you need to secure your fatbike extra well compared to regular bikes. In fact, there are some important reasons why fatbikes are more attractive to thieves.
Higher value and resaleability
First, fatbikes have a higher purchase value than regular bikes. Whereas a standard bike costs several hundred euros, you quickly pay 2,000 to 5,000 euros for a fatbike. This higher value makes them more attractive to thieves. Stolen fatbikes sell well on the black market.
Moreover, fatbikes are recognizable because of their unique look. The wide tires and tough design appeal to many people. As a result, used fatbikes are in high demand. Thieves know this and therefore specifically target these bikes. Individual parts such as the special wheels and frames are also valuable for resale.
Specific vulnerabilities of fatbikes
Fatbikes also have specific vulnerabilities that make securing them more difficult. Their size makes them harder to hide, but at the same time more difficult to secure properly to standard bike racks. The fat tires won't fit through all locks. So always check that your lock is big enough before you buy.
For business fatbikes, another risk comes into play. These bikes are often used for deliveries or promotional purposes. As a result, they are left unattended on the street for long periods of time. This significantly increases the risk of theft compared to regular bikes that you usually only park for a short time.
Insurance for your fatbike: what to look out for?
In addition to locks and GPS tracking, proper insurance is important to protect your fatbike from financial loss in case of theft. Not all insurance policies cover fatbikes in the same way. Therefore, pay close attention to the terms and conditions before taking out a policy.
Types of bike insurance for fatbikes
Standard business property insurance policies sometimes cover bikes up to a certain amount. This amount is usually insufficient for fatbikes because of their higher value. Therefore, you often need special bike insurance. These offer more comprehensive coverage including theft, vandalism and damage during use.
There are also specific fatbike insurance policies on the market. These take into account the higher value and increased risk of theft of fatbikes. The premiums are therefore higher than for regular bikes, often between 8 and 15 percent of the new value per year. In case of theft, you are usually paid the current value, unless you have taken out new-for-old insurance.
What are the requirements of insurers?
Insurance companies often have requirements for how you secure your fatbike. For example, you may have to use at least two different locks. Also, many insurers require that you store the bike inside at night. Do you leave the fatbike outside? Then your coverage may be void.
GPS tracking is sometimes rewarded with a discount on the premium. Insurers see this as extra security because it increases the chances of being found. So check to see if your insurer offers a discount when using a GPS tracker. That way you may save money on your premium.
Also note the deductible and exclusions in your policy. Theft from unlocked areas is often not covered. The same goes for bikes that were not locked. So always read the policy conditions carefully before signing. STOER Bikes offers a specially developed insurance policy for their models with 3-year new-value coverage.
Practical tips for securing your fatbike
In addition to locks, GPS tracking and insurance, there are other ways to properly secure your fatbike. Below we share practical tips that further reduce the risk of theft.
Choose the right parking space
Where you park your fatbike matters a lot for safety. Always choose a busy and well-lit spot. This is because thieves avoid places with lots of people. Near a lamppost or camera, they are more quickly visible. That deters them.
Bicycle racks with surveillance or camera monitoring are ideal. This is where theft is least likely to occur. Avoid dark alleys and secluded corners. That's where thieves prefer to strike. Even if it costs you some extra running time, a secure parking spot is worth it.
Store your fatbike inside if you can
The best way to secure your fatbike is to store it inside. A garage or shed with a good lock is ideal. This way you not only protect against theft, but also against weather conditions. After all, rain and cold are not good for the battery and electronics of your fatbike.
Don't have indoor storage? Then use a wall or ground anchor to secure your fatbike to. This is a sturdy bracket that you attach to the wall or to the ground. Thieves then can't just take the bike. Combine this with motion sensors and lights for added deterrence.
Register your fatbike
Always record the unique frame number of your fatbike and register it with Stop Healing. This is a nationwide database where buyers and sellers can check if a bicycle has been reported stolen. If stolen, the frame number helps police identify and recover your bicycle.
Also, take pictures of your fatbike and keep them safe. In case of theft, you can use the photos for reporting and insurance claims. Photos make it easier to recognize your bike if it turns up somewhere. Make sure the photos clearly show the frame number and any unique features.
Common mistakes when securing fatbikes
Many people make the same mistakes when securing their fatbike. Knowing and avoiding these mistakes will help you better protect your bike.
Using only one lock
The most common mistake is using only one lock. Thieves often carry tools for only one type of lock. Are you using two different locks? Then they have to go through twice as much trouble. That deters many thieves. For example, combine a shackle lock with a chain lock for maximum protection.
Attaching the wheel instead of the frame
Many people only attach the wheel to a pole or rack. This is a big mistake because wheels are easy to dislodge. Thieves simply unscrew the wheel and take the rest of the bike. So always make sure you secure the frame. Then also secure at least one wheel for extra security.
Not installing a GPS tracker
Many fatbike owners think a lock is enough. Nevertheless, a GPS tracker is a valuable addition to secure your fatbike. If your bike is stolen despite all measures, a tracker greatly increases the chances of retrieval. This is because the police can immediately see the location and take action.
Do not write down serial numbers
Not noting serial numbers is a common mistake. Without a serial number, it is difficult to prove that a recovered bike is yours. So write down all serial numbers of frame, motor and battery. Keep these records in a safe place separate from the bike itself.
What do you do if your fatbike does get stolen?
Unfortunately, despite all the measures taken to secure your fatbike, theft can still happen. In that case, know what to do to increase the chances of recovery.
Report directly
Report it to the police immediately once you discover your fatbike has been stolen. Do you have a GPS tracker? If so, provide the location information to the police. Never go looking for the bike yourself, as that can be dangerous. Let the police do their job.
Engage insurer
Contact your insurer within 24 hours to report the theft. They will tell you exactly what documents you need for the claim. Usually these are the police report, proof of purchase and photos of the bike. Keep all communications with police and insurer as evidence.
Activate GPS tracking
Do you have a GPS tracker installed? Then enable the app for continuous monitoring. Some GPS services offer a tracking service that you can engage. They actively help you find your fatbike. The cost for this is usually included in the subscription.
Fatbike securing for businesses: additional points of interest
Companies that deploy multiple fatbikes have additional security concerns. After all, a corporate fleet requires a different approach than a single bike.
Central tracking of the fleet
For companies with multiple fatbikes, centralized GPS tracking is indispensable. This gives you an overview of all bikes from one dashboard. You immediately see where each bike is located and receive notifications in case of suspicious movements. This makes managing your fleet a lot easier.
Many GPS systems also offer route history. This allows you to see exactly what routes your employees drive. This is useful not only for security, but also for scheduling maintenance and optimizing routes.
Clear protocols for employees
Establish clear protocols for employees who use fatbikes. Establish how they should secure the bikes during breaks and after work hours. Make sure everyone knows what locks to use and where to park the bikes. Training in how to properly secure the bikes prevents many problems.
Also make clear what employees should do in case of theft. Who should they call? What information do they need? By recording this in advance, you act quickly and correctly in the event of theft.
Calculate total security costs
For businesses, it's smart to calculate the total cost of securing your fatbikes in advance. Add to this: purchase cost of locks (50-150 euros per bike), GPS trackers (50-200 euros plus 5-15 euros per month), insurance premium (8-15 percent of new value per year) and any storage costs.
For a fleet of, say, ten fatbikes at 3,000 euros each, you end up with about 4,000 to 6,000 euros per year in security costs. This may seem like a lot, but does not outweigh the loss of one or more bikes due to theft.
STOER Bikes: security built in as standard
At STOER Bikes security is not an afterthought. In fact, all models come standard with built-in security features that properly protect your fatbike.
Immobilizer with PIN code
All STOER fatbikes have a PIN code immobilizer. The bike starts only when you enter the correct code. This significantly reduces the risk of theft, because without a code the bike is virtually unusable. Thieves prefer bikes they can immediately use or resell.
GPS functionality on the UrbanX
The STOER UrbanX has standard GPS functionality on board. This way you always know where your bike is. This makes securing your fatbike a lot easier. With the CargoX cargo bike GPS tracking is even built in by default.
Special STOER insurance
STOER Bikes offers a specially developed bicycle insurance for their models. This insurance offers 3 years of new-value coverage with no deductible in case of theft. You also get 24/7 assistance in case of damage or breakdown. So you are always assured of the best protection.
Summary: this is how to best secure your fatbike
Securing your fatbike requires a multi-layered approach. Always combine multiple measures for the best protection. Below we summarize the key points:
- Use at least two ART-approved locks of different types
- Install a GPS tracker in a hidden spot in your bike
- Get a good bike insurance policy that meets your situation
- Always park in busy, well-lit areas
- Preferably store your fatbike indoors in an enclosed space
- Register your bike with Stop Heling and record all serial numbers
- Attach the frame and at least one wheel to a solid object
By combining these measures, you will make it as difficult as possible for thieves. You can then enjoy your fatbike with peace of mind, knowing that you've done everything possible to prevent theft. Want to learn more about STOER Bikes' security options? Then schedule a test drive and discover for yourself how well secured these bikes are.
Frequently asked questions about fatbike securing
What is the best way to mount a GPS tracker in my fatbike?
Hide the tracker in the frame, preferably in the seat post or stem where it is not visible. Avoid obvious places such as under the saddle. Use waterproof trackers and make sure the antenna is clear for optimal signal. If in doubt, have a bike shop do the installation.
Can I leave my fatbike outside overnight with two locks?
It depends on your insurance terms and location. Many insurers require indoor storage overnight, regardless of the number of locks. Check your policy conditions and always consider indoor storage for expensive fatbikes. Parking outside increases the risk significantly, even with multiple locks.
What security mistakes do companies often make with their fatbike fleet?
Common mistakes include: using the same lock type for all bikes, not installing GPS tracking, not providing enough insurance, and no clear protocols for employees. They also often forget to record serial numbers and take photos for identification in case of theft.
How do I prevent parts of my fatbike from being stolen?
Use bolts with special heads that can only be loosened with special tools. Wire loose parts such as saddle and front wheel to the frame. Consider permanent attachment of expensive parts or take them inside. An additional cable lock can provide additional security for small parts.
Is it wise to secure multiple fatbikes with the same key?
This is convenient for everyday use, but increases risk. If one key is lost, all bikes are vulnerable. Better to combine different lock brands or use a master key system. That way you maintain flexibility but reduce the risk in case of key loss.
What should I do if my fatbike with GPS tracker is stolen anyway?
Report it to the police immediately and provide the GPS location. Never go looking for the bike yourself, as this can be dangerous. Contact your insurance company within 24 hours. Enable the GPS tracking app for continuous monitoring and keep all communications as evidence.
How much does it cost to fully secure my business fatbike fleet?
Add up: purchase cost of locks (50-150 euros per bike), GPS trackers (50-200 euros plus 5-15 euros per month) and insurance premium (8-15 percent of new value per year). For a fleet of 10 3,000 euro fatbikes, full security costs about 4,000 to 6,000 euros per year.