Almost 19,500 Bicycle Thefts in Austria in 2024: Vienna Not the Hottest Spot

The highest rate was recorded in the city of Salzburg with 70 stolen bikes per 10,000 inhabitants, analyzed the VCÖ based on data from the Ministry of the Interior. Klagenfurt ranked just behind with a rate of 65.

Further Statistics on Bicycle Thefts 2024

The fewest bicycle thefts occurred in the district of Güssing with two, in the district of Hermagor with three, and in the district of Feldkirchen with five, reported the mobility club. Outside the capitals, the most bicycles were stolen in the district of Dornbirn with 368.

1,731 bicycle thefts were solved last year. The clearance rate is very low at 8.9 percent. Those who note down the frame number of their bicycle will find it easier to get it back if it reappears after a theft. For high-quality or newer bikes, theft insurance that includes parts theft is advisable.

Despite Increase: Still Below Pre-Corona Levels

Despite the increase of almost 900 bicycle thefts compared to the previous year, the total number in 2024 was below the pre-Corona level. In 2019, 20,805 "iron horses" were reported stolen, and in 2014 even 28,274. Overall, there are more than seven million bicycles in Austria.

"An important theft prevention measure is sufficient and secure bicycle parking spaces, especially in high-traffic areas such as shopping streets, leisure facilities, sports facilities, universities, and schools," said VCÖ spokesperson Christian Gratzer. Train stations, subway stations, and bus stops are also included. Where parking spaces are lacking, the organization wants to highlight this with the help of the population on an online map. Entries are collected and forwarded to the responsible municipality or city. Participation is possible until May 4.

(APA/Red.)

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