As I described in another thread, some local hick kids in WY tried to steal my stove that I had left in plain view. Fortunately, I was nearby and have a keen eye for picking out people who are up to no good. They fled when I advanced towards them.

Whether you are on a bike tour or not, theft is often a crime of opportunity. Leave something out and unattended and is accessible to the general public anbd you might lose it. The proverbial pie left on the window sill to cool. Assess the situation and take appropriate measures. But I pitty anyone who is walking around with the irrational fear that everyone is out to steal from them.