The bike black market's thriving - as thieves take advantage of low stock and increased demand

Police say there's anecdotal evidence of an increase in reported thefts of e-bikes in the central city.

Stores are also experiencing a shortage of certain bike models and parts, after Covid shut down factories overseas.

Bike and Beyond Newmarket's Eloise says bikes they have for sale on the footpath, are having to be securely fastened.

She says thieves are starting to realise what bikes can be sold for, and are targeting them.

And a word from the wise ... Eloise says secondhand e-bikes not sold with a charger - are a red flag it may be stolen.

Police say if a sale price looks too good to be true, it probably is.