Bike coding in Wuppertal: Protect your bike from theft!

Bike coding in Wuppertal: Protect your bike from theft!

On July 16, 2025 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. there will be an exciting event at Loh train station: the first bicycle coding, organized by ADFC Wuppertal/Solingen. This measure aims to offer cyclists effective protection against theft. After all, losing a bike is a big hassle and financial loss for many. This makes it all the more important to protect your bike against theft!

The coding is carried out by imprinting a special encrypted code, called the owner identification number (EIN code), into the bicycle frame. This code is made up of various information: the car registration number, the municipality and street code of the place of residence, the house number and the initials of the owner. This means that in the event of theft, the identity of the rightful owner can be quickly traced, which also increases the chances of getting the bike back. Blickfeld Wuppertal reports that coding for ADFC members only costs 5 euros, while non-members pay 15 euros.

Why coding is so important

In view of the increasing number of bicycle thefts, it is a smart move to have your own bike coded. Coded bicycles are harder to sell as stolen goods, which is a major deterrent for potential thieves. The police can easily assign found bikes to their rightful owners using this code. ADFC explains that coding not only improves the security situation, but also significantly increases the replacement rate. Many bikes do not find their way back to their owners due to a lack of clear identification features, which makes the coding all the more important.

The coding method has been around since the 1990s, when it was developed by the Bergisch-Gladbach police. The EIN code, which is attached to the bicycle frame by engraving, imprinting or sticking on it, not only protects ownership, but also clearly shows who the bike actually belongs to.

In order to better prevent possible bike loss, the ADFC recommends keeping a physical bike passport. The frame number, the coding code as well as special features and photos of the bike should be stored in this document. This is not only useful for anti-theft protection, but also of great advantage for insurance matters. Further information about coding, technology and appointments can be accessed via the ADFC event portal.

Conclusion

So you can look forward to the coding event on July 16th in Loh. It is an excellent opportunity to additionally secure your own bike and arm yourself against the increasing number of thefts. It's worth stopping by and giving your bike personal theft protection - not least to have the good feeling that you've done everything to ensure the safety of your beloved bike.