Aztecs Bikes joins the Cycle Security Pledge

Bike theft remains one of the biggest barriers to cycling in 2026, and one that requires community support to combat. Stolen Ride was proud to see many bike shops take the Cycle Security Pledge in 2025 and display the badge on their websites.

This year is no different. One of the latest shops to join is Aztecs Bikes, winner of BikeBiz Independent Dealer of the Year 2025.

The following interview takes a deep dive into Aztecs Bikes, their views on bike theft, and why they have joined the Cycle Security Pledge – and why you should too.

Can you introduce Aztecs Bikes and the cycling community you serve?
Aztecs Bikes is, first and foremost, a love story, a blend of French and Mexican cultures meeting in the fast-paced heart of London. The shop was born from Marco’s lifelong dream and my passion for business and marketing. Our journey began in our living room; in 2021, Marco was literally repairing bikes in our kitchen while I managed the branding.

When we found premises right next to our flat, everything clicked. We knew we wanted to create a shop based on our own rules. While we primarily serve London’s dedicated commuting community, our new partnership for custom builds means that in 2026, we are expanding our expertise to serve elite cyclists and performance enthusiasts.

Marco – Aztecs Bikes

How significant is bike theft as an issue for your customers or your local area?
It is a massive concern. Only a few months after opening, we experienced an attempted break-in through our back door, which forced us to install heavy-duty security gates alongside our front shutters. In our local area, bike storage units in nearby residential blocks are frequently targeted.

We see the heartbreak theft causes our customers every day, which is why we’ve made security a pillar of our service.

What motivated you to join the Cycle Security Pledge?
The fear of theft is one of the biggest deterrents keeping people off their bikes. We joined the pledge because we believe in being proactive rather than reactive. By aligning with the Cycle Security Pledge, we are helping to make London a safer, more reliable place for the cycling community.

We want our customers to feel confident that they have the best advice and support to protect their investment.

What does displaying the Cycle Security Pledge badge on your website represent for your business?
It signals our commitment to a city-wide effort to tackle bike crime. Displaying the badge on the Aztecs Bikes website isn’t just for show; it’s about setting a high standard for the industry.

We want to lead by example, encouraging other local businesses to take shared responsibility for the safety of our cycling community.

What advice do you most commonly give customers about protecting their bikes from theft?
We always advocate for a “multi-layered” approach: specialist insurance, a high-quality lock with a Sold Secure rating, and crucially proper locking technique. We actually went viral on Instagram (reaching 1.6 million views!) for showing people how to lock their bikes correctly. While no lock is 100% “angle-grinder proof,” being mindful of where you leave your bike is key.

My personal rule? If you can’t see it, don’t leave it. We have a range of recommended security products listed on our website.

What would you say to other bike shops considering getting involved in the Cycle Security Pledge?
Do it. As bike shop owners, we aren’t just selling a product; we are selling a lifestyle. If our customers lose their bikes to theft, they lose their mobility and their passion. By joining the pledge, we strengthen the industry and build deeper trust with the people who keep our businesses running. It’s a small step that makes a huge collective impact.

Aztecs Bikes’ commitment to cycle security shows how independent bike shops can and will lead meaningful change at a local level. They are helping to build a safer and protected cycling community.

Visit the Cycle Security Pledge page to learn more and become part of a fast growing network of organisations working together.

If you sign up, be sure to mention Stolen Ride on socials!