The increasing popularity of bicycling as a sport and a means of transportation has made bicycles an easy target for thieves. It is estimated that over 1.5 million bicycles are stolen every year. Nowhere is bicycle theft a bigger problem than on college campuses.

Bikes that are registered are more likely to be recovered and returned to their owners if they are stolen.

The bicycle registration information is kept on file at Ball State University Police Department, so even if the owner has graduated or moved, Ball State police will be able to provide ownership information on the bicycle.

About the Program

The bicycle registration program is essentially a database of bike information – the owner’s identification along with the brand, model, serial number, and color of the bicycle.

The purpose of the program is to help the bike owner protect their property.

Why Register?

Bikes that are registered are less likely to be stolen, and if stolen and recovered, more likely to be returned to their owners. The bicycle registration information is kept on file at Ball State University Police Department, so even if the owner has graduated or moved, Ball State police will be able to provide ownership information on the bicycle.

Serial Numbers

You will need to provide your bike’s serial number in order to register it. These are generally stamped onto the bicycle frame (not on wheels, etc.). It usually starts with SN and is rarely a sticker.

Bike serial number locations
  1. Across the top bar
  2. On the seat mast
  3. On the lower bar
  4. On the hanger bracket near the sprocket (this is the most common location)
  5. On one of the rear forks (left) or (right)
  6. On one of the rear stay bars (left) or (right)

Register Your Bike

Any Ball State student, faculty or staff member can register their bicycle online.

REGISTER YOUR BICYCLE

More Information

For more information, contact Crime Prevention Coordinator, Officer Justin Smith at 765-285-3009.