Has your bike been stolen?
We know that being left without a bike can disrupt your ability to attend classes, access part-time work, or simply get around safely and affordably.
That’s why we’ve created the Bike Loan Scheme: a practical support service for students who have had their bikes stolen. The scheme offers access to a temporary bike and lock, giving you the time and space to find a more permanent solution without extra financial pressure.
The SU provides a small number of secure, roadworthy bikes that can be borrowed for up to 8 weeks, with an option to extend for 4 more weeks where needed. Each bike comes with a D-lock and an identification sticker registered with the police.
We hope this scheme helps affected students stay mobile, maintain independence, and reduce the stress and disruption caused by theft.
How do you access the scheme?
You can access the Bike Loan Scheme by completing a short online form. To be eligible, you must:
- Be a current student at the University of Oxford
- Have had your bike stolen and provide a crime reference number
- Use your Oxford University email address
- Be able to show your Bod card (student ID) upon collection.
- Pay a £25 refundable deposit via BACs
Once your application is reviewed, we’ll get in touch to arrange a collection slot. You’ll be asked to sign a short loan agreement before you receive the bike. Bikes are available on a first-come, first-served basis. A maximum of one extension (up to 4 additional weeks) may be granted if requested in writing during the last 2 weeks of your loan.
What if the loaned bike is damaged, lost or stolen?
- If the bike is returned damaged, the deposit will be forfeited.
- If the bike is stolen again during your loan period and you provide a new crime reference number, no further fees will apply - only the deposit will be retained.
- If the bike is not returned and no crime report is provided, you will be liable for the depreciated replacement cost, currently set at £118 incl. VAT (2025 rate).
- If you would like to keep the bike permanently, you may request to purchase it by paying this cost minus the deposit.