Keep your bike, keep it locked

You should ensure that your bike is locked whenever you leave it - even in the shed at home. We recommend a D-lock passed through the back wheel and downtube, and an additional cable through the front wheel if you have quick-release hubs. If you have a QR seatpin, consider switching to a normal allen key seatpin.

An alternative to the D-lock is the less secure but more convenient Axa type lock. Read a review here.

You should also lock your bike to a solid object, such as one of the many sheffield-type cycle parking stands provided by Colchester Council, or in the cycle hutches provided by Colchester Council at kthe bus station, Vineyard Street or St Mary's, or at Colchester General Hospital. Many town centre bike parks are covered by CCTV, so if anything happens to your bike, ask for a check on the film.

Rumour has it that the cycle park with the worst reputation is Trinity Street. Certainly, CCC has seen more damaged bikes here than anywhere else, although these look likely to have been left overnight.

Check your house contents insurance policy to see whether it covers cycles. Special policies are available from most insurance companies or thenational lobby group, the CTC. You should also check if your insurance company allows you to buy a new bike of your choice, or limits you to a specific retailer.

Please e-mail colchester.cycling at mac.com if any links are broken.