Bicycle Thefts Rise to 5-Year High in Minneapolis

Minneapolis, Minnesota, police say bicycle theft in the city is at a five-year high.

Police department data obtained by the Star Tribune shows almost 4,300 bikes reported stolen since 2017.

The rash of thefts frustrates cyclists and police, who don’t always have time to track down stolen bikes amid other more serious calls. But for thieves, selling stolen bikes can be a quick way to make hundreds of dollars.

Bike thefts peak from April to September, the most desirable months to ride.

Police department data show the most reported thefts in downtown Minneapolis and surrounding neighborhoods.

Data show Minneapolis police recovered 346 bikes in 2017 and 2018. But recovered bikes often don’t come back in the same condition.

Topics Trends Fraud Law Enforcement