As e-bikes grow in popularity, so does the unfortunate rise in bike theft. At GOAT Power Bikes, we’ve heard from customers who have had their bikes stolen, and we’re here to make sure you’re not one of them. The good news? You can take several simple but highly effective steps to safeguard your electric bike. Whether you're commuting, riding trails, or cruising around town, keeping your e-bike secure should always be a priority.
Here are four crucial steps to take the moment your bike arrives, and tips to keep your ride safe every time you lock up.
1. Save Your Serial Number (First Thing You Do!)
Your bike’s serial number is like its fingerprint. It's unique to your frame and will be required if your bike is ever lost or stolen. You’ll find the serial number on the frame, typically located just behind the headlight or under the bottom bracket.
Why it matters:
-
Law enforcement needs the serial number to recover your bike.
-
It’s essential when filing an insurance or warranty claim.
-
It can help prove ownership in the event of a dispute.
📝 What to do:
-
Snap a clear photo of the serial number on your frame.
-
Save it to your phone, email, or cloud storage with a label like "GOAT Bike Serial Number."
-
If you use Apple Notes, Google Keep, or Evernote, create a dedicated "Bike Info" note for quick access.
2. Keep Your Order Details and Proof of Purchase
In the unfortunate event that your bike goes missing, having proof of purchase is critical. Your order confirmation and receipt can serve as ownership documentation for insurance claims, police reports, or theft tracking.
📁 Best practices:
-
Save the order confirmation email in a folder labeled "E-Bike Purchase."
-
Print a hard copy and store it somewhere safe (like a file cabinet or safe).
-
Include your order number, date of purchase, and any add-ons (accessories, GPS trackers, etc.) in your notes.
This documentation can also be helpful if you ever sell your bike or need support for repairs.
3. Install a GPS Tracker or Apple AirTag
One of the best ways to protect your e-bike is to hide a tracking device on it. Whether it's an Apple AirTag or a dedicated GPS tracker, having location tracking could mean the difference between recovery and a lost cause.
🚨 Why this matters:
-
GPS trackers offer real-time location monitoring.
-
Some GPS apps offer "safe zone" alerts if your bike moves unexpectedly.
-
Police are far more likely to retrieve a stolen bike with tracking data.
💡 Where to hide your tracker:
-
Inside the seat tube or under the seat.
-
Inside the handlebar grips.
-
Within a hollow section of the frame (check your model specs).
Recommended Accessories:
-
Apple AirTag (great for iPhone users)
-
Invoxia or LandAirSea GPS trackers (monthly subscriptions required)
-
Anti-theft bolts or seat clamp mounts to secure your device discreetly
Bonus Tip: Set up your tracker with your smartphone immediately after installation and test the signal.
4. Use a High-Quality U-Lock (Not Just a Cable Lock!)
Many bike thefts are crimes of opportunity. A quick snip of a cable lock and your ride is gone. A hardened steel U-lock or folding lock makes a huge difference in deterring thieves.
🔒 Locking Best Practices:
-
Lock your frame (not just a wheel) to a fixed, immovable object.
-
Avoid street signs or flimsy racks that can be easily dismantled.
-
Don’t leave your bike unattended overnight in public places.
-
Use a secondary cable or chain lock to secure your wheels.
Remember, the more time it takes to steal your bike, the less attractive it becomes to a thief.
Bonus Protection Tips
✅ Register your bike online:
Sites like Bike Index or Project 529 allow you to register your bike using the serial number and photos. If your bike is stolen, these registries can alert the cycling community and secondhand sellers.
✅ Remove valuable accessories:
If you’re parking your bike in a public place, take your phone mount, lights, and removable batteries with you.
✅ Store your bike indoors whenever possible:
Whether it's your garage, apartment, or office, indoor storage drastically reduces theft risk.
✅ Get e-bike insurance:
Some companies offer e-bike-specific insurance that covers theft, damage, and liability. This can be especially helpful if you rely on your bike for daily transportation.
The Cost of Not Being Prepared
E-bikes are a significant investment. Losing one to theft isn’t just frustrating, it’s expensive. With models like the Motor Goat V3, Mini Goat, and Dirt Goat 96V priced between $2,700 and $5,250, it’s worth spending a few extra minutes upfront to secure your ride.
Final Thoughts: Stay Ahead of the Thieves
You don’t need to live in fear of losing your bike. A few smart precautions can make all the difference. From registering your serial number to using a solid U-lock and GPS tracker, these simple actions can save you time, money, and stress down the road.
🛡️ Ride smart. Ride prepared. Ride protected.
Explore our full range of accessories to find fenders, maintenance kits, locks, and more built to keep your GOAT Power Bike safe and running strong.
