Gwent Police are urging cycle owners to be vigilant following a spate of thefts of high value bikes throughout Monmouthshire.

DCI Nick Wilkie highlighted the increasing use of GPS ride recording systems as a potential hazard stating, ‘This kind of technology can actually let potential thieves pin point the exact location of your bike. I would encourage anyone who uses these apps to check their privacy settings; you can select the information you want to share and who you want to share it with.

I would also advise against using a photo of your bike as your profile picture as this can allow thieves to identify and target high value bikes.’

He added, ‘If you are buying a second-hand bike, always ask for proof of purchase to ensure you are not purchasing a stolen bike.’

Other security precautions for bicycle owners include;

Buying the best quality lock you can afford – for a decent lock you can expect to pay around £40 – or 20% of the value of your bike.

Always use two different locks.

Never buy a lock with a combination.

Avoid locking your bike in the same place on a regular basis – it could be stolen to order,

Register your bike for FREE on the national property database www.immobilise.com

Take a photo of your bike and write a clear description for your own records.

The safest place to store your bike at home is in your house – if you don’t have space in the house then secure it in a shed or garage and cover any windows so that it is not on view.