Q: I am a petty officer in receipt of orders to USS Fitzgerald (DDG 62). I am considering bringing my bicycle to Japan, but a friend who had been stationed there informs me that bicycle theft is a problem on board Fleet Activities Yokosuka. My question is, how much of a problem is it, and does the security department have a bicycle registration program in place? I also have a lock.

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A: Unfortunately some bicycle theft does occur here in Yokosuka, but it’s not a problem if you secure your bike with a lock. We have an excellent program for registering your bicycle, a process which is required if you bring one or purchase one here. The registration takes place at the Vehicle Registration Office in Bldg. 1971, Security headquarters. Please bring some proof of ownership to register. It is also required that you have all the proper safety gear when registering. Your bicycle will be inspected when you register, and we will need to see a working bicycle light, reflectors for front and back, helmet, receipt of purchase or household goods shipment list. Don’t let a few minor thefts deter you. Bring your bicycle to Japan – you will be glad you did.

My husband and I will be purchasing a bicycle this Spring/Summer. At least now I will be more prepared with the useful information answered above. These forums are wonderful tools!

Aha! I just bought my son a new bike and needed to know what all we had to have in order to register it with the base, so this was helpful!

Off to Fleet Rec for a light.