Visit OHSU

Visit OHSU

Bicycle Theft Prevention

Go By Bike Valet
Go By Bike valet service

Bikes are a frequent target of theft but with the some simple strategies you can greatly reduce your chance of being targeted and success at recovery. Report suspicious activity immediately to Public Safety at 503-494-4444.

OHSU has some of the lowest rates of theft of any campus in Portland and the lowest rate of theft, per density of bikes in the city. That said, theft can and does occur. At OHSU, even one theft is one too many.

With a few simple strategies, you can reduce the chance of your bike being targeted. Although OHSU cannot guarantee the protection of your property, some strategies can reduce the instances of theft on campus.

Bike valet

A free service open to anyone, simply stop by Go By Bike at the Portland Aerial Tram's lower terminal. You don't need to bring a lock or take any accessories off your bike. Go By Bike has partnered with OHSU and the Tram and safely returned bikes hundreds of thousands of times.

Open 5:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m., Monday to Friday. Closed on OHSU-observed holidays.

Badge-access facilities

With an OHSU badge, you can request access to five different facilities at OHSU's two main campuses. Some facilities include a locker room and showers. Request access at one of the Campus Access and Commute Services Customer Service Centers.

Parking in public areas

Mere visibility or simply parking near staffed areas is not protection. The only place staff can determine bike ownership, and protect a bike, is inside the valet.

Always follow these recommendations in public areas:

  • Use a U-lock; secure the frame (and back wheel if possible)
  • Don't rely on cables; they're easily cut and are the most common target of thieves
  • Take extra precaution with quick release parts or replace with bolts
  • Remove any accessories of value
  • Only lock your bike to bike racks

If you experience theft

  1. File a report. On campus, contact Public Safety immediately. OHSU police officers will help file a report.
    Emergency: 503-494-4444
    Non-Emergency: 503-494-7744
    Off campus: contact your local police department
  2. Register your bike as stolen. The local network of buyers, sellers, mechanics, and riders will keep an eye out. A bike flagged as stolen is much harder to sell and much easier to recover.
  3. Check listings of stolen bikes.
  4. Get back on a bike. Don't let thieves stop you from riding. Go By Bike can set you up with a loaner bike and talk options for a replacement.