A superhero undercover in Toronto, nicknamed “Batman” by some, took it upon himself to save them Bike Share bikes across the city and return them to their rightful stands.
The self-described “ethical bike thief” in question, who preferred to be referred to only as “Jonny” in this article, told blogTO that he’s noticed these stolen bikes all over the city, but especially near Queen Street West and Spadina Avenue . area
His most recent “rescue” was documented in a Reddit thread, in which he discussed some of the telltale signs that a Bike Share bike has been hit.
According to Jonny, some signs include the bike’s lights not flashing, its appearance looking “chewed”, and the person using it stashing it somewhere.
Most recently, he told blogTO that he saw a man trying to hide a Bike Share bike in some bushes while he was getting some food at A&W. While the man was ordering his food, Jonny snuck in and managed to bring it back to a stand.
In total, he estimates he’s saved about four bikes so far, but finds them stolen at least once or twice a week. “I can’t save them all because they are in use or closed,” he said. “Like anything, once you have an eye for it, you’ll start to notice it.
While Jonny says he wants to do the same for everyone’s stolen bikes, people have already praised the “ethical bike thief” for his hard work.
“Thanks, Batman,” read one comment. “At your service, citizen,” Jonny replied.
