As of 2024, over 146,000 bikes have been registered in the Edmonton area, resulting in approximately $1 million worth of property recovered thanks to the partnership. Bikes can range in value with some being worth thousands of dollars, and in some cases, are crucial for their owners' daily transportation.
“Part of what has made Bike Index so successful in Edmonton is our partnership with 20 local bicycle shops,” says Sgt. Dana Gehring. “They are introducing the registry to their customers, educating them on the benefits and providing onsite registration so customers have peace of mind the moment they wheel their new bike out the door.”
Bike Index is free for bike owners and the EPS. Once a bike is registered, owners can simply log on to their online Bike Index account to indicate if their bike has gone missing. Conversely, when a police officer encounters a missing bike, if it has been registered, they are able to search by serial number online to find its rightful owner.
Recently, Bike Index helped officers recover a $10,000 mountain bike. Despite being disguised with black wrap by thieves, the bike's identity was confirmed through its serial number, and officers were able to return it to its owner weeks after it was reported stolen.
A new Edmontonian who moved to Alberta several months ago from Nova Scotia had two of his bikes stolen from work. One was seized in the downtown area and upon further investigations by EPS, which included contacting the bike manufacturer, the owner was reunited with his bike valued at $4,000. The owner wasn’t aware of Bike Index, but both bicycles are now registered, and the owner is hopeful the other bike, valued at $10,000, will also be recovered.
Earlier this year, a cyclist had reported her orange Fat Bike stolen, and in less than 24 hours the bike was recovered thanks to the work of EPS officers and an EMS paramedic. As a teacher and Ph.D. student, the bike was this cyclist’s sole form of transportation to school and work.
Bike enthusiasts consistently share how Bike Index has benefited them, demonstrating how effective the partnership with EPS is:
“I got a call from the Edmonton Police Service that a peace officer had pulled a man off the LRT and he had my bike! Thank you so much!!!! I am so lucky and incredibly grateful to everyone who helped return my bike to me!” Gordon – Bike Enthusiast
Every summer, the EPS hosts Bike Index registration events around the city. The final event of the 2024 season will be held on September 14th, 2024, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Old Strathcona Farmers’ Market. Anyone who has yet to register their bike is welcome to stop by, conveniently register onsite and meet the EPS officers behind Bike Index.
Learn more about Bike Index at edmontonpolice.ca/bikeindex