Most stolen e-bikes right now

E-bike theft has grown rapidly in recent years. In 2024, between 73,000 and 109,500 e-bikes were stolen in the Netherlands. This means hundreds of thefts every day. Criminals mainly target expensive electric bikes because they have a high resale value. In this article, we focus on the brands, models, and categories of e-bikes that thieves currently target the most.

Popular brands targeted by thieves

Gazelle, Batavus, and Cortina are among the brands whose bikes are most stolen. This isn't surprising because these brands sell many e-bikes, often in higher price ranges. Thieves focus mainly on bikes that are valuable and popular. Expensive and common models become attractive targets. Below we highlight some of the most stolen e-bikes right now, including examples of popular models.

Gazelle: Gazelle is one of the best-known and most-sold e-bike brands in the Netherlands. Especially luxury city bikes like Gazelle Orange C8 HMB and Gazelle Grenoble C7 are often targeted due to their popularity and high prices. These models are known for their quality and powerful motors, making them popular among consumers and unfortunately also thieves.
Batavus: Batavus makes stylish, comfortable e-bikes suitable for everyday use. Popular models like Batavus Razer and Batavus Finez E-go Active Plus are frequently stolen. Their combination of durability, attractive design, and wide appeal makes them high-risk targets.
Sparta: Sparta is known for innovative electric bikes with modern designs. Models like Sparta M8b and Sparta A-Shine Energy are favorites among thieves. They have strong motors and advanced technology, increasing their second-hand value. Unfortunately, Sparta’s trendy e-bikes often attract thieves.
Stella: Stella e-bikes are popular due to their great value for money and ease of daily use. Many Stella models, like Stella Livorno and Stella Morena, are frequently stolen because they are often parked outside homes, making them easy targets. Stella bikes are affordable and widely used, providing criminals with regular opportunities.
Koga: Koga offers high-end e-bikes known for luxury and performance. Top models like Koga E-Nova and Koga Pace B10 appeal to demanding riders, but also attract thieves. The exclusive design and high price make Koga bikes attractive targets. These premium bikes often disappear because they bring high prices on the second-hand market.

Other categories frequently stolen

Besides the popular brands above, certain special e-bike categories also have a high theft risk. Data from ANWB shows not only regular e-bikes but also fatbikes and electric cargo bikes are popular among thieves. Even heavy electric cargo bikes are frequently stolen by organized gangs who easily load and sell them. Fatbikes also appeal greatly to bike thieves. In short, nearly every expensive electric bike, from sporty e-bikes to family cargo bikes, is at high risk if security is weak.

Securing your e-bike is becoming crucial

Given their popularity among criminals, good security is essential for e-bikes. Many thefts happen because bikes are only secured with a simple ring lock. Such frame locks can be broken in seconds, and the bike isn't fixed to anything, allowing thieves to lift and steal it easily. It's strongly recommended to always use an ART-certified chain lock and secure the e-bike to a fixed object. Smart chain locks with alarms and no keys are now setting the new standard in theft prevention. In our blog “Why a smart chain lock is the new standard for e-bike security”, we explain why modern e-bikes need modern locks and how a smart chain lock can better protect your valuable e-bike. Safety first, so you can leave your bike without worries!