Freeze out motorcycle theft

As the nights draw in and summer turns into winter, motorcycle owners will be thinking about storing their bike for the season ahead. TRACKER, the UK leader in stolen vehicle recovery, is reminding bikers that even if they are not using their bikes this winter, it is essential they store them securely. TRACKER is offering bikers security tips on storing their motorcycles through the winter, to help ensure that when it is time to get out on the road again, their pride and joy is waiting for them.
 
Despite making up just 1% of the vehicles on the road, more than one in five vehicles stolen is a motorcycle, highlighting the appeal bikes have to thieves. In 2010, TRACKER recovered nearly £900,000 pounds worth of stolen motorcycles and scooters. Alongside working with the Police, TRACKER also works with other partners, including the Motorcycle Crime Reduction Group, to combat this type of crime.
 
“We urge all bikers to take steps to protect their motorcycles if they are not using them during the winter.” says Stephen Doran, Managing Director for TRACKER. “Don’t make it easy for thieves. Instead, bikers should use a range of security options, including chains, immobilisers and markers. Having a tracking device installed significantly increases the chances of police recovering a stolen bike, offering owners an added level of security and peace of mind.”
 
TRACKER stolen motorcycle recovery systems work like an electronic homing device. A covert transmitter is hidden in one of several places around the motorcycle. TRACKER offers the ultimate in protection as it detects when the bike is being moved without the ignition being turned on. The tracking device works even if the motorcycle is hidden in a container or transported on back of a van. TRACKER is the only vehicle tracking system operated by all police forces in the UK, offering bike owners the ultimate in security.
 
Doran concludes, “At the end of a good biking season, it always pays to ensure you have taken adequate measure to protect your bike when you are not using it. These simple steps can save heartache and the expense of finding that your bike has been stolen while in storage for the winter.”
 
Tracker’s Motorcycle Security tips

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

Always fit a steering lock and chain when storing

Keep your bike keys safe and out of view at home

If you have a garage, use it!

Make sure your garage is fitted with strong locks

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

Consider some form of marking such as Datatag

Purchase a good alarm and immobiliser - preferably one that is approved by your insurance company and is Thatcham approved.

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