Bikers beware! Motorbike theft figures rise

Stolen vehicle recovery (SVR) expert, TRACKER, says that motorbike owners should take greater steps to protect their vehicles. Andy Barrs, Head of Police Liaison at TRACKER, explained: “The latest Police Recorded Crime statistics for England and Wales showed a 3% rise in ‘theft of vehicles’, for the year to June 2015, the first rise in two decades. This increase appears to be due to an increase in stolen scooters and motorcycles, which have become increasingly attractive to thieves and joy riders - particularly young offenders - as sophisticated security on cars acts as a deterrent.” According to the Government report, the year to June 2015 saw a three per cent increase in police-recorded thefts of vehicles in England and Wales, the first rise in two decades. Analysis of the figures suggests this is mainly due to an increase in stolen scooters and motorcycles. While motorbike thefts fell in line with other crime from 1995 to 1999, from onwards the number of thefts has remained stable, while thefts of cars fell sharply. This difference between two-wheeled and four-wheeled ‘victims’ ties in with an increase in immobilisers, alarms and central locking being fitted as standard on new vehicles. However, motorbikes are less well protected for the simple reason that they are easier to transport away from the scene without cracking the immobiliser. Andy Barrs added: “The Home Office Report concludes that many criminals are choosing to take motorcycles because cars are simply too difficult to steal, thanks to improved security systems.” TRACKER have offered their Top Tips for Motorcycle Security: Motorbike Locks Always secure chain locks of cable locks to an immovable object, such as a lamp post. Always try to thread the chain or cable through the bike frame. Motorbike Alarms and Immobilisers A quality Thatcham approved, professionally fitted alarm system will not only deter a thief, but could also reduce insurance premiums. It’s crucial to get it fitted by a factory trained technician as modern bikes are sensitive to poorly fitted alarms. Mark Your Motorcycle Using a simple UV pen, mark parts of the motorcycle with the VIN (vehicle identification number), vehicle registration and postcode. Alternatively invest in an identification system such as Datatag. Remove Equipment As an added guard, remove the spark plug or HT cap. Be Seen! Always park the bike where it can be seen, day or night, by passers-by. Use Different Parking Spots Try to vary the places you park - sophisticated thieves will study parking habits and routines before making a theft. Use Public Secure Parking Most cities will have a secure parking area for motorcycles with fixed security hoops for locking chains to - use them. Garage If you have a garage, use it. Always put the bike away immediately and make sure the garage is properly secure. Consider putting in a ground anchor in the garage to lock the bike to. If You Love it, Track It… Invest in a stolen vehicle recovery system and be sure to choose one that is used by all UK police forces. You could also reduce insurance premiums.