Originally Posted by
GeraldF
Another major thing to consider is the unpredictability of bike theft. In urban environments I know numerous people who have had more than one or two bikes stolen over the course of several years. Then there's also theft of wheels and other components. Vandalism, such as bending of wheels, is another not uncommon happening in cities.
Yes... I forget this. I've never had a bike stolen. But I spent 8-10 hours this summer working on a bike for a relative. That was was stolen off the veranda where it was locked up.
Theft is a major cost item.
Still, I recall the New York fashion photographer Bill Cunningham (a longtime car free rider...) who claimed he had 17 bikes stolen over the years. "I never buy new", he said.