Do get a U-Lock and use it. Replace any quick-releases on your wheels and seatpost with bolts that require some kind of tool. Doesn't need to be the magical locking variety. Wrap a cable around your wheels and saddle if your bike will be parked there all day, but it is onerous so don't feel like you need to do it every time you stop at a store.
Bike theft in the area is more opportunistic than targeted. Unlocked bikes in backyards are stolen. Lights that clamp onto handlebars are stolen. Worst case: a garage is broken into and the crooks may or may not know which bike is worth more. If your bags come off easy, take them with you. If it's a complex unlocking/unwrapping operation, don't worry about it if you're just shopping. Maybe worry about it if you're leaving your bike exposed and alone all day long. Get a BikeLink Card (http://www.bikelink.org/) which will let you put your bike (and luggage!) in fully enclosed cage lockers at BART stations for pennies per hour. There's also a new bike parking station in downtown Berkeley. Always do a walk around the front of the Berkeley Bowl to see if there are any other Rivs locked up. Ogle them. -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "RBW Owners Bunch" group. To post to this group, send email to [email protected]. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to [email protected]. For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/rbw-owners-bunch?hl=en.
