Stay one step ahead: smart tips to prevent bike and scooter theft
LEXINGTON, Ky. (Jan. 23, 2026) — There has been a recent uptick in bike and scooter thefts across campus. The University of Kentucky Police Department is actively working to identify patterns, increase patrols in affected areas and hold those responsible accountable.
Although police can investigate those thefts, preventing them starts with each of us. Whether you ride every day or just occasionally, taking a few extra steps can go a long way in protecting your property.
Here are some tips for preventing the theft of your bike or scooter:
Use a U-Lock and lock it right
Always secure your bike or scooter through the frame to a solid bike rack using a high-quality U-Lock. Cable locks alone are easier to cut and don’t offer the same protection.
Stick to designated parking areas
All bikes and scooters must be parked and locked at the designated bike racks around campus. Find designated bike racks online.
Record your ride
Take clear photos of your bike or scooter, including the serial number. This helps us return it to you if it’s ever recovered.
Register with UK Transportation Services
Transportation Services offers free bike and scooter registration, which can help deter theft and assist in recovery. It’s quick, easy and available through UK Transportation Services.
If you see something, say something
Report suspicious activity immediately by calling UK Police at 859-257-UKPD (8573) or report tips anonymously using the SafeZone app. Timely tips from the community make a big difference.
Our goal is to ensure you feel confident leaving your ride on campus — knowing it will be there when you return. Together, with simple steps and shared awareness, we can cut down on theft and keep our campus safe and accessible for everyone.
Stay alert. Stay Wildcat Ready.
As the state’s flagship, land-grant institution, the University of Kentucky exists to advance the Commonwealth. We do that by preparing the next generation of leaders — placing students at the heart of everything we do — and transforming the lives of Kentuckians through education, research and creative work, service and health care. We pride ourselves on being a catalyst for breakthroughs and a force for healing, a place where ingenuity unfolds. It's all made possible by our people — visionaries, disruptors and pioneers — who make up 200 academic programs, a $476.5 million research and development enterprise and a world-class medical center, all on one campus.