The number of stolen bicycles in Barcelona increases by 34%, reflecting the vulnerability of this sustainable transport

The study, carried out by the City Lab BCN research group at ICTA-UAB, indicates that in 2023, 1,167 bicycles were reported stolen in the city of Barcelona, a significantly higher figure compared to the 870 bicycles stolen in 2021 and the 1,042 in 2022. The report shows a rising trend in these numbers, which researchers warn could be much higher due to the large number of thefts that go unreported to authorities.

To compile an accurate database on thefts and other incidents affecting cyclists, ICTA-UAB has launched the "Stop Bicycle Thefts" campaign as part of the European Union’s IMPETUS programme. The goal is to gather detailed data through citizen science and the BiciZen app, a tool that allows users to report various incidents and create a precise database to enhance research.

The ICTA-UAB study provides information on bicycle thefts in different districts and neighbourhoods of the city, based on data provided by the Mossos d'Esquadra police. According to the report, in 2023, 68.5 bicycles were stolen per 100,000 inhabitants in Barcelona, amounting to more than 3 bikes per day.

The vulnerability to theft for those who choose bicycles as a means of transportn is particularly high in certain areas of the city. Of the 1,167 reported cases last year, most occurred in the districts of Sant Martí, Ciutat Vella, Eixample, and Sarrià-Sant Gervasi, the same as in previous years. These districts together represent 69% of the total thefts reported in Barcelona. Districts like Nou Barris, Les Corts, and Horta-Guinardó have a lower incidence, although cases still occur.

Sant Martí is the most affected district, with 255 cases. It is closely followed by Ciutat Vella with 223 reports, and Eixample in third place with 221 reported cases. It's no coincidence that thefts are more frequent in these districts, as they are areas where more bicycles are parked on the street, where most crimes occur.

The ICTA-UAB study goes further, identifying the neighbourhoods—within these districts—where bicycle thefts are a major concern. The Raval neighbourhood (Ciutat Vella) ranks first with 93 reports, followed by Dreta de l’Eixample (Eixample) with 70, and Diagonal Mar and Front Marítim del Poblenou with 76 stolen bicycles. They are followed by Poblenou with 55, and the Barri Gòtic with 47.

Seasonal and time variations

The report reveals that thefts peak in January and October, while May and June record the lowest incidents. In terms of time, most thefts occur between 8 p.m. and midnight when bicycles are parked for extended periods.

Data show that most bicycle thefts happen in public spaces, but there are also reports of thefts in residential and communal areas.

However, the research group seeks to delve deeper into these findings through citizen participation to assess whether other public thefts are not reported to the police, which could bias the data.

Victims of theft often do not buy another bicycle and stop using this mode of transport. Specifically, in Barcelona, it is estimated that approximately 1 in 5 theft victims give up cycling.

To combat this wave of thefts, Jordi Honey Rosés, the lead researcher of the study, states that promoting secure bike parking is essential, which is one of the key issues to address alongside climate change.

The report will be officially presented on 19 September at 6 p.m. in Barcelona, at the secure bike parking facility recently opened by the CUBIC cooperative at Carrer Progrés 35 in Barcelona’s Gràcia neighbourhood.