Bike Trader

Although motorcycles may seem harder to secure than cars, basic security is a must. To make life as difficult as possible for both the casual and professional thieves, make sure you do the following:-

Parking

• During the day park in a busy, public place.
• At night, park in a well lit area.
• Try to vary the parking place.
• Whenever possible use custom-built motorcycle areas, especially fixed stands or loops.
• Keep a look out for car parks displaying a "Secure Car Park" sign.
  
  

Locking up

• Always engage the steering lock.
• Whenever possible, attach the motorcycle to an immovable object or another motorcycle, using high tension steel cable and a high quality padlock, or a U-lock through the rear wheel or bike frame.
• Don't leave your crash helmet, or other possesions, attached to the motorcycle or in pannier bags.
  
  

Motorcycle Alarms

• Fit a motorcycle alarm, available from DIY or bike shops, and make it conspicuous. An alarm warning sticker will help put off the opportunist thief.
  
  

Security Marking

• Security marking as many parts of the motorcycle and accessories as possible with the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), registration number or your post code, will make bikes easier to trace even if cannabalised.
• Make the motorcycle - or parts of it - much harder for a thief to sell.
• Provide proof of ownership and evidence for police to use.
• There are various methods of security marking, all inexpensive and easily available, either through DIY or carried out professionally by dealers.
  
  

Indelible marking

Indellible ink or ultraviolet pens can be used to mark a motorcycle's non metal parts and accessories and are available from most stationers. Ultraviolet marks are invisible to the naked eye but show up under an ultraviolet lamp. However, remember to renew such marks every few weeks before they begin to fade.


Engraving or etching

Metal stamps or a glass etching kit can also be used and should be accompanied by a security sticker warning "All parts marked".


Bike Watch Schemes and Associations

There is considerable scope for anti-theft schemes that will encourage motorcyclists and others to spot motorcycle theft and generate new ideas to tackle it. Contact your local police crime prevention officer or the various motorcycle support groups, such as the Motorcycle Action Group or British Motorcycle Federation, for information about local groups and advice on how to set up new ones.