Tempting Targets

Motorbikes and scooters are an easy target for thieves if they are not secured and can be wheeled away or bundled into a van in seconds. The last thing any rider wants is for their pride and joy to be stolen. It may be insured for theft, but the hassle and time it takes to get the insurance money to replave it will be terrible, and your insurance premiums may well go up because you have made a claim. Motorbike and scooter theft is a big problem, so it's important to keep your ride safe by taking steps to protect it and by choosing and using the right security devices.

How To Choose

Basically, the more security you can put around your motorbike or scooter, the less attractive it will be to thieves. No single product can cover all possibilities, but if you invest in both mechanical and electronic security devices, you will reduce the risk of becoming a victim of theft. Always look for products recommended by 'Thatcham' or 'Sold Secure', as these have been tested to ensure they meet high security standards. Some security devices may get you a discount on your insurance, check with your insurance company.

Security Measures

Get a combined alarm immobiliser professionally fitted as these devices really put off would-be thieves. If someone tampers with your bike, the alarm will go off and the engine will not turn over so theives cannot ride the machine.

Chains and padlocks are the most versatile forms of mechanical security. They can be difficult to carry around but some come with bags. A good disc lock will put off casual thieves, but some will only delay a professional for a matter of secounds. Don't rely on a disc lock alone. Use them with a U-lock, but make sure they're long enough to secure the bike to an object whcih cannot be moved.

Whatever type of lock you choose, always try to secure your motorbike or scooter to something which is solid and connot be moved (like security rails or a ground anchor). Also, try to keep the lock off the ground as this makes it harder to break.

At Home

Remember that your motorbike or scooter is still at risk of being stolen when it is parked at your home. Ground anchors are good for protecting your machine at home. if you keep your Motorbike or Scooter within a garage or shed, ensure that the garage / shed is fitted with good strong locks and the motorbike/scooter is locked to a ground anchor within them. Consider fitting a garage / shed alarm to further deter the thief.

Tips

Purchase and use only approved security devices.

Always put the steering lock on.

Never leave the keys with the motorbike / scooter, even for a short time.

Whenever possible, use parking spaces designed for motorbikes and use the stands or security loops to lock the bike up to.

When you are not using your bike enusre that you lock it up with more than one lock.

If you store the bike withn the shed or garage, lock it up and ensure the gargae or shed has good strong locks on it.