TRACKER reports motorcycle recoveries on the rise

TRACKER, the UK’s leading stolen motorcycle tracking and recovery systems specialist, has revealed that it has recovered nearly double the number of stolen motorcycles in the first half of 2010 than it did in the whole of 2009.  It also confirms that theft of motorcycles using the owner’s keys is also on the rise and warns owners to keep keys for security devices and bikes out of sight.

“In 2009 TRACKER recovered over £500,000 worth of stolen motorcycles and mopeds, which was a 40 per cent increase on 2008.  But 2010 is set to significantly exceed that,” explains Stephen Doran, managing director for TRACKER.  “Bike owners obviously need to make it difficult for thieves by using a range of different security options, including chains, immobilisers and markers, and keeping keys out of reach.  Most bikes are stolen by two men who load the bike into a van and are gone within minutes.  This is why motorbikes are twice as likely to be stolen than a car, but only half as likely to recovered if not fitted with a stolen vehicle recovery system.

“It is not just prestige models that are catching the eye of these thieves. We are seeing anything from pizza delivery mopeds being stolen and recovered right to a top of the range Ducati Desmosedici RR worth £45,000.  The recession has put pressure on criminals too, so all motorcycle owners need to take steps to protect their assets. With many households continuing struggling in the current climate, replacing a stolen motorcycle may not be an option due to insurance access.”

TRACKER stolen motorcycle recovery systems work like an electronic homing device. A covert transmitter is hidden in one of several places around the motorcycle. There is no visible aerial, so the thief would not know it is there. The tracking device works even if the motorcycle is hidden in a container or transported in the back of a van.   TRACKER is the only vehicle tracking system operated by all 52 police forces in the UK, offering bike owners the ultimate in security.

“The first line of defence a motorcycle owner should take is installing a tracking device. Having a tracking device fitted offers owners that added level of security, increasing their chances of recovering their stolen bike,” concludes Stephen Doran.  “Thieves are becoming more organised with professional gangs specifically targeting the more desirable motorcycles, changing their identity to ship them abroad.  Often stolen bikes are broken down to sell on the parts as this is more financially lucrative for the criminal.  Speed of recovery is of the essence and a motorcycle recovery system offers motorcycle owners the ultimate in peace of mind should the worst happen.”

Tracker’s motorcycle security tips

Fit a tracking device to ensure recovery if the bike is stolen

Always put the steering lock and chains on

Keep your keys with you at all times and keep them safe at home

If you have a garage, use it to store your bike

Make sure your garage is fitted with strong locks

Mark the main areas of the motorcycle with your registration number or post code

Purchase a good immobiliser

Do not advertise your motorcycle to the world by leaving it on the drive. If you do not have a garage, cover it

When you park your bike in a public place, cover it and park in a well-lit area