Bicycle Thefts Hit 5-Year High in Minneapolis

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) -- Bicycle theft in Minneapolis is at a five-year high.

Police Department data shows almost 4,300 bikes reported stolen since 2017.

The rash of thefts frustrates cyclists and police, who don't always have time to track down stolen bikes amid other more serious calls. But for thieves, selling stolen bikes can be a quick way to make hundreds of dollars.

Bike thefts peak from April to September, the most desirable months to ride.

Police department data shows the most reported thefts in downtown Minneapolis and surrounding neighborhoods.

Data show Minneapolis police recovered 346 bikes in 2017 and 2018. But recovered bikes often don't come back in the same condition.