Crime reduction 

Motorbike security

Please consider the crime prevention advice below to make sure that your motorbike is safe against theft and damage. About 50% of people do not lock their bike correctly.

• Apply forensic and security marking to body panels, seats and engine parts.
• Invest in an electronic tagging system, such as Datatag or use a paint-on application such as Alphadot or Microdot. These are reasonably priced and recognised by most motorcycle insurance companies.
• Keep your motorcycle in a garage, if possible. Fit a ground anchor. Alarm the garage. Secure the garage doors/shutters with strong locks. Secure any side door.
• At home, keep bike keys out of sight.
• Always put the steering lock on, and fit a brake lever lock.
• Make sure that the ‘kill switch’ is well hidden.
• Secure your bike to a fixed object with a u-lock or heavy duty chain.
• If possible, use custom-built motorbike/scooter parking spaces in busy areas.
• Fit a disc lock, but never rely on a disc lock alone.
• Get a bike alarm and immobiliser fitted – preferably a professionally-fitted Thatcham or Sold Secure approved product.
• Cover your bike. Avoid leaving bike equipment on or around the bike.
• Be extra vigilant if you advertise the bike for sale.
• If you buy a new bike, don’t leave it out for even one night until it is fully marked and secured.

For more advice, please contact your local crime prevention and reduction adviser.