Help centre

Trackers

How do you install bike trackers?

Not all bike trackers are created equal — and neither are the bikes they're installed on. Here's how installation actually works in the wild, what to expect, and why stealth (not brute force) is our superpower.

👷 Who does the installation? Where? How long does it take?

We’ve designed our installation process to be smooth and flexible:

  • Most installations are handled by our expert fitters, either at your home, workplace or through one of our partner locations.
  • We also offer self-fit kits for simpler installs—with guidance provided.
  • Typical install time? 30–60 minutes, depending on the complexity and the bike model.

Some live GPS trackers need to be wired into your ebike’s electrical system, which takes a bit more care and expertise. Sleeper trackers and beacons, by contrast, are often drop-in or adhesive-based installs.

Illustration of a mechanic in overalls kneeling beside a pink electric cargo bike, fitting a GPS tracker near the battery housing with an open toolbox on the ground.
Every Backpedal tracker is fitted by a trained mechanic — tucked inside the frame, battery compartment, or another hard-to-spot location so a thief can't easily find or remove it.

🔌 Wired vs Non-Wired

Here’s the difference:

Tracker typeWiredNon-wired
Live GPS✅ Yes🚫 No
Sleeper GPS🚫 No✅ Yes
Proximity beacon🚫 No✅ Yes
  • Wired trackers get power from your ebike’s battery. Best for full-featured apps and frequent location updates.
  • Non-wired trackers are ultra-stealthy, low-maintenance, and perfect for bikes without built-in power.

Live GPS is generally for ebikes only, while non-wired devices work on any bike, including analog and road bikes.

🔧 What types of fittings are there?

We offer a buffet of creative and covert fitting styles. Why? Because if the thief can’t find it, they can’t remove it.

🔒 Hidden in the frame

Some trackers slide into the seat tube, downtube, or headset. These placements are fully enclosed and invisible from the outside.

🪛 Attached to the frame

Discreet adhesive or mechanical bonds can secure trackers under saddles, within cargo containers, or on pannier racks.

🧩 3D printed casings

We’ve developed custom 3D printed shells to disguise trackers as standard bike parts: pedals, reflectors, lights—you name it. We currently support over 30 custom casings including brands like Brompton, Estarli, and AMX.

TREK / E-MTB
RALEIGH / CARGO
TERN / LONGTAIL
TERN / FAMILY
TREK / E-MTBIN THE FRAMEUNDER STEMSEATPOST

🧾 Does installation affect my bike warranty?

Nope — installation does not void your warranty.

We never drill or cut your frame. Even wired installs are done using non-invasive access points like the motor or battery compartments of ebikes. We also work closely with brands to ensure compatibility when possible.

Still unsure? Send us your bike model—we’ll confirm before booking.

🚴 Surely it’s impossible to fit to road bikes?

It’s trickier—but not impossible.

Road bikes have minimal frame space and weight tolerance, so we’ve created new options like:

  • Slimline reflectors with built-in GPS
  • Under-seat casings that hug the saddle rails
  • Pedal-embedded trackers (still in pilot testing)

We’re continually expanding fitting options for this category. If you’ve got a carbon racer, join our waitlist—we’ll notify you when new fittings drop.

🧠 Won’t thieves just remove them?

That’s what people think. But, in practice, it’s very rare.

Our defence strategy: stealth, not stickers.

  • No visible warning labels
  • Devices are often completely hidden
  • Removal is hard without knowing it’s there

Even if a thief suspects a tracker, our response times are fast. We often locate bikes before anyone thinks to look.

Plus, most bikes are fitted with multiple trackers—so if one’s discovered, the others keep working.

Ready to protect your bike?

Tracking kit, professional installation, and a 24/7 recovery team — all included in your subscription.

See pricing plans