The Costa Mesa Police Department (CMPD) has partnered with Project 529 to give Costa Mesa residents a quick and easy way to register their bikes. Bike registration is no longer a requirement in the City of Costa Mesa, but the police department strongly encourages its residents to register their bikes through Project 529 to assist law enforcement in returning lost or stolen bicycles to the rightful owners.

Project 529 is the largest bicycle registration database that allows residents to register their bikes, by providing contact information and uploading photos, to help with identification in the event that it is lost or stolen. By registering, you increase your chances of having your bike returned.
 

It’s easy and free! To register your bike(s) and e-bike(s), visit www.project529.com/costamesa. If you previously registered your bike with CMPD, you are encouraged to register with Project 529 as the program has enhanced features and incorporates an international network of bike registrations and law enforcement agencies. 
 

If your bike is stolen, residents should use the Project 529 Garage app or website to make note of the incident. You should also file a police report with CMPD.

Help prevent bike theft by following the safety tips below:

• Always lock your bicycle to secure object like a bike rack or something secure that cannot be easily broken, cut or removed.
• Make use of bike lockers when available.
• Consider adding a tracking device to your bike.
• Consider using a Project 529 shield, a tamper resistant bike decal with a unique 7-digit code.
• Use a U-lock to secure your bike frame and wheel to a bike rack.

Store your bike inside your residence or in a garage where it can be hidden from public view; make sure your garage or storage is secured and checked on regularly.

Bicycle Safety

Bicycle and e-bike safety is a everyone’s responsibility. Please follow these bike safety tips:

• E-bikes are categorized as Type 1, Type 2, which can both go up to 20 miles per hour, and Type 3, which is only for cyclists 17 and older and can go up to 28 miles per hour.

• Wear a helmet. Helmets are mandatory for cyclists under 18, but still, if you are an adult, it doesn’t hurt to wear a helmet for your safety. Plus, you set a good example for everyone.

• If you are riding an e-bike, the rules of the road apply to you.

• Stop at red lights, stops signs, and ride in the same direction as vehicle traffic.

• Be cautious at intersections. Most collisions occur at intersections.

• Every cyclist should pay attention to the flow of traffic. It’s even more important on an e-bike. Drivers may not expect a cyclist to reach 20 mph on the road, which can lead to a potentially dangerous scenario.

We suggest riders take time to learn how the e-bike feels at lower speeds before going faster. You need to know how to brake earlier and assess the safest time to start slowing down.

Drivers, please be mindful of cyclists. Let’s all do our part to keep everyone safe.