With Britain in the thralls of warmer weather, many people may find it is a perfect time to hit the streets and enjoy some fresh air by riding their bicycle. However, although the temperatures may be rising cyclists should also be aware that crime levels are soaring.

In research carried out by Halifax it was revealed that a bike is stolen once every 65 seconds in the UK. Such a figure represents an increase from the one theft every 71 seconds recorded in 2007. Overall, the average cost of replacing a bicycle was shown to stand at 337 pounds.

However, financial pressures could be particularly felt by those living in Bristol who have their bike stolen. The typical claim filed by people in this part of the country over the course of last year stood at 505 pounds and 14 pence. On the other hand, consumers in Gloucester made an average claim of 249 pounds and 81 pence. Meanwhile, south London was revealed to be the location in which the most cases of bicycle theft were reported to the police. In addition Reading, south-east London, Chester and north Wales were shown to be major hotspots for cycle crime.

Following the theft of a bike which may have been particularly expensive, those consumers looking to replace such an item might wish to get a personal loan to assist them with such costs. However, the financial services firm revealed that many Britons could be placing themselves under unnecessary financial pressures by not reporting such incidents to the authorities.

David Rochester, head of underwriting at Halifax Home Insurance, said: “We have been looking into the frequency of bike theft for some years now and still we see no sign of a decrease in this crime.”

He added: “One bicycle theft occurring every 65 seconds in the UK is shocking. With the majority of thefts affecting bikes which have been placed under lock and key, it may be worth considering spending a little more money for a high security lock which may stand a better chance of deterring a thief.”

In addition, the study revealed that five per cent of bikes stolen over the course of 2007 were taken from within the owner’s home. Meanwhile, 86 per cent of those taken illegally had initially been locked up.

To help keep a bike safe, consumers were advised to use a hardened steel U-type lock and keep their vehicle locked inside the house or in an outbuilding while it is not in use. Further precautionary tactics were shown to include registering with a bike ownership agency and taking photographs of extras such as water bottles, tyres and mudguards. Using anti-pry devices was also recommended to help prevent would-be criminals from forcing a bike free from the object it is secured to.

Britons wishing to purchase a high-performance bicycle might wish to consider getting a personal loan. By getting a loan, borrowers may be able to buy the latest model of bicycle and be left with an affordable level of repayments to make each month. The additional assistance that a personal loan provides could also help consumers to take out a comprehensive insurance policy.

Getting a loan may also be recommended for those people who are looking to splash out on an expensive musical instrument. In February, a report by Halifax Home Insurance showed that 7.8 million Britons have some type of instrument or recording equipment within their homes, worth an average of 523 pounds. Once again the firm advised consumers of the need to obtain adequate insurance.

1 Stop Finance Shop providing you with breaking personal loans news.