More than 2,500 bicycles are reported stolen each year in Montreal, and the province's cycling advocacy group Vélo Québec is urging police to treat the offenses with greater seriousness. The organization highlighted the scale of the problem on Friday, September 4, 2026, calling the frequency of thefts a growing concern for cyclists across the city.
Vélo Québec said the theft figures, which exceed two and a half thousand annually, reflect a broader trend of bike-related crime that has become a major issue in the metropolis. The group noted that the loss of a bicycle not only represents a financial setback for owners but also discourages the use of cycling as a sustainable mode of transportation.
The advocacy body appealed to law enforcement agencies to prioritize bike theft investigations, allocate more resources to prevent the crime, and improve reporting mechanisms. While the organization did not provide specific policy proposals, it stressed that treating bicycle theft as a serious offense could help reduce the number of incidents.
City officials have previously acknowledged that bike theft remains a challenge, but detailed response strategies have not been outlined publicly. The lack of a coordinated approach has left many cyclists feeling vulnerable, especially in neighborhoods with high rates of reported thefts.
Vélo Québec's call comes as Montreal continues to promote cycling infrastructure and encourage residents to adopt bike commuting. The contrast between the city's efforts to expand bike lanes and the persistent theft problem underscores the need for comprehensive measures that address both promotion and protection of cyclists.
Stakeholders, including local businesses that rent bicycles and community groups, are watching the situation closely. They hope that heightened police attention will lead to a decline in thefts and restore confidence among Montreal's cycling community.
As the city moves forward, the pressure remains on law enforcement to respond to Vélo Québec's request and develop actionable solutions that curb the annual loss of thousands of bicycles.