With Go By Bike Week in full swing and summer quickly approaching, the City of Kelowna has recently relaunched their annual Bike Valet Program in downtown Kelowna.
The program started on Monday May 19, 2025 and goes until Sunday August 31, 2025 where residents and visitors can safely park their bikes. Valet service is free on weekdays between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m. and starting this Saturday, the program will also be offered on weekends from 11:00 a.m. until 7:00 p.m. The valet service is conveniently located at the intersection of Bernard Avenue and Mill Street.
“The Kelowna RCMP are excited to see this program back for a third year,” says Cpl. Allison Konsmo, Media Relations with the Kelowna RCMP. “This program has proven to be a valuable option for riders and helps reduce bike thefts in the downtown core. When cyclists are not able to use the valet service, the Kelowna RCMP remind you of these important tips to keep your bike safe.”
- Using high quality locks that can lock the frame and wheels together,
- Considering trying out a high-tech smart lock for extra security,
- Registering bicycles with websites like Project 529 that can help identify and recover stolen bicycles,
- Avoiding leaving bicycles unattended overnight or in isolated, dim lit areas,
- Having the details of your bicycle written down including the make, model, year, approximate worth, serial numbers and photographs greatly assists the police in the recovery of your bicycle,
- Making your bicycle unique with personalized elements allowing for easier identification and harder for thieves to sell compared to a more generic style bicycle.
By implementing these measures, individuals and cities can work together to reduce bike theft and create safer cycling environments. “Along with these important safety tips to keep your bike safe, don’t forget to keep yourself safe by wearing a helmet, riding in the appropriate bicycle lanes and wearing high visible clothing,” says Cpl. Konsmo. “Making sure that drivers and other cyclists can see you on the road, makes for a safer cycling community.”
For more information on steps you can take to protect yourself and your bicycle please visit the City of Kelowna’s Community Safety Toolkit. If you are the victim of bicycle theft contact the Kelowna RCMP non-emergency line at 250-762-3300 or online at Online Crime Reporting | Kelowna RCMP (rcmp-grc.gc.ca)
