RDW Bicycle Register vs BIKEBAZE: What's the difference?

Registration is essential in the fight against bicycle theft. In the Netherlands, there are several initiatives to register and retrieve bicycles. Two of them are the RDW Bicycle Register and the private initiative BIKEBAZE. But what are the differences between the two, and which solution suits you best as a cyclist or municipality? We have listed it clearly for you.

What does the RDW Bicycle Register do?

The RDW register is primarily focused on registering insured bicycles. Registration is usually done by manufacturers or insurers and is not publicly accessible. Bike owners can therefore not register their bike or request information themselves. The system is primarily intended to find stolen bicycles via official channels, such as the police or insurers.

What does BIKEBAZE do?

BIKEBAZE is a startup with a clear mission: to reduce bicycle theft through technology and community. It offers a public and voluntary bicycle register for individuals. In addition, the platform offers the possibility to have your bike stolen, search for bicycles, and use the unique SafeTag sticker with QR code. Anyone can scan these bikes and help them find them. BIKEBAZE focuses on prevention, awareness and cooperation with municipalities, police and citizens.

Key differences:

• Registration:
  • RDW: Only by insurers/manufacturers.
  • BIKEBAZE: Everyone can register themselves.
• Accessibility:
  • RDW: Only accessible to approved bodies.
  • BIKEBAZE: Anyone can register, search, and scan bikes.
• Prevention:
  • RDW: No physical means of prevention.
  • BIKEBAZE: SafeTag sticker scares off thieves.
• Community:
  • RDW: Not focused on cooperation with citizens.
  • BIKEBAZE: Users can help each other through notifications and scans.
• Technological innovation:
  • RDW: Limited, long processes.
  • BIKEBAZE: Fast, private tech company.

Conclusion

The RDW register is an important foundation in the formal chain of insurers and the police, but has limitations in the accessibility and involvement of citizens. BIKEBAZE fills this gap with an accessible, modern approach focused on prevention, direct action and collaboration. Together, they can reinforce each other, but if you want to protect your bike and be actively involved today, BIKEBAZE offers an innovative and accessible solution.