Paris: a cycling city with a theft problem
Paris has invested heavily in cycling infrastructure since 2020, adding hundreds of kilometres of protected bike lanes. But this cycling boom has brought a parallel surge in theft. Community reports on Ronda show clear patterns across the city.
Worst arrondissements for bike theft
The 10th, 11th and 18th arrondissements consistently top the charts. Gare du Nord and Gare de l'Est are particularly dangerous — the high foot traffic and quick escape routes via RER make them prime hunting grounds for organised thieves.
When do thefts happen?
Unlike London, Paris sees a strong evening peak between 18:00 and 22:00, coinciding with after-work socialising. Bikes locked outside restaurants and bars in the Marais and Bastille areas are frequent targets.
E-bikes and cargo bikes: the new targets
Electric bikes now account for an estimated 35% of all bike thefts in Paris, despite being only 15% of bikes on the road. Their higher resale value makes them a magnet for professional thieves who use angle grinders on U-locks.
Protect yourself
Use two different types of lock (a U-lock plus a chain), register your bike with Bicycode, and always lock through the frame and wheel. Check the Ronda map before choosing where to park — avoiding known hotspots can cut your risk dramatically.