Strathcona County cyclists can protect their bikes by practicing smart theft‑prevention habits.

Bicycle theft prevention tips

• Register your bicycle on Bike Index.

• Lock your bike with two high quality but different locks, securing both the frame and at least one wheel to the bike stand. Using two different types of locks (ex. a U-lock and cable lock) can require different sets of tools, slowing thieves down. Don’t rely solely on a single lock.

• Avoid leaving bicycles unattended when they are attached to your vehicle or camper. If you must leave them, make sure the bikes are locked to the vehicle.

• Do not leave any bikes in the back of your truck when running errands.

• Bring bicycles indoors at night. If you keep your bike in a detached garage or shed, remember to lock them.

• If you live in an apartment or condo, avoid keeping your bike in underground storage units or on ground level balconies. If there is a communal bike locker, ask your neighbours and property manager if there have been any break-ins.

• In public, make sure to lock your bike in well-lit, high-traffic areas and near security cameras if possible. Cameras may not deter thieves but could help recover your bike.

Bike Index

How to register your bike on Bike Index

Strathcona County RCMP and Enforcement Services has partnered with Bike Index to help quickly return recovered bikes to their rightful owners.

Bike Index is a free, voluntary, bike registration service. To register, follow these four steps.

1. Visit bikeindex.org and create an account.

2. Submit your name, bike manufacturer, serial number, and any unique identifiers.

3. Upload a photo of your bicycle.

4. Optional: add a Bike Index QR sticker to your bike and link it to your account.

Bike Index stickers

Bike Index QR stickers link your Bike Index registration to your bicycle and act as a visible deterrent to theft. If someone finds your bike, they can scan the QR code and send a message to your Bike Index account.

Stickers are available at the front counter of the detachment during front counter hours. Community Peace Officers will also be at local events throughout the summer to help people register and provide stickers.

A Bike Index QR sticker is not required to register your bicycle on Bike Index.

Bike Index registration events

If you have questions or would like to register your bike in-person, Community Peace Officers will have a Bike Index registration table at the following events in 2026:

• Bike Rodeo, May 9

• Canada Day, July 1

• Public Safety Showcase, Date TBA

If you would like a Community Peace Officer to attend your school or community event to discuss bike safety, bike theft prevention, or Bike Index registration, please email bike.index@strathcona.ca

Stolen and found bikes in Strathcona County

What should I do if my bike is stolen?

If your bike is stolen within Strathcona County, report it to the Strathcona County RCMP by calling the non-emergency line at 780-467-7741. If the value of the bike is under $5,000, you can report it online through the RCMP online reporting tool: https://ocre-sielc.rcmp-grc.gc.ca/alberta

If your bike was stolen in Edmonton, please report it to the Edmonton Police Service.

It's also a good idea to report it as stolen on Bike Index. If someone from the community sees your bike or finds it online, they can contact you through the Bike Index website.

What happens if my bike is found in Strathcona County?

If your stolen or lost bike is registered on Bike Index and recovered, a staff member from the detachment may contact you to return your bike. You may be asked to provide the following information:

• Photo I.D.

• The serial number for your bike

• A detailed description of your bike including any aftermarket parts or unique identifiers

• A copy of the police report or file number If you do not know the serial number, you may be asked to provide sufficient proof of ownership with photos of you and the bike, sales receipt, etc.

What should I do if I see my stolen bike listed for sale online?

Take screenshots of the ad and report it to the Strathcona County RCMP by calling the non-emergency line. Do not try to meet up with the seller yourself.

What should I do if I find a bike?

If you find a bike and it is registered with Bike Index, you can message the owner through the website. If you find a bike in Strathcona County and it is not registered Bike Index, call the non-emergency line at 780-467-7741.