Why is it that when a bike's seat gets stolen, the bike becomes abandoned?

Question

I've noticed that someone will chain a bike to a street light, and notice the next day the seat is missing. After several weeks, the bike will still be there...possibly with a tire missing or more beat up..never appearing to be claimed after the seat went missing.

I have seen this happen several times...anyone have theories on why this is?

Answer 1

Some of the Bikes on their saddles have a quick release so that's out first. If it's a good quality bike, the front and rear tires also have a quick release.

I also take out my tire out when i lock it up in public.

Answer 2

Other way around: the seat's the first thing stolen on an abandoned bike.