8 Motorcycle Anti-Theft Tips

Unlike cars, motorcycles are not fitted with theft prevention devices by their manufacturers, so motorcycle theft protection is entirely up to the users. Here are eight tips on how to prevent motorcycle theft:

1. Don’t forget about the safety basics

Always lock your steering and ignition, and remove your keys.

2. Chose where you park carefully

If you have access to a garage, use it, but keep in mind that just parking your bike indoors isn’t enough to keep it safe. Close and lock the door, upgrade your locks if necessary, install motion sensor lighting, and add extra security by using a ground anchor.

3. Try to deter thieves when you’re not home 

Park your motorcycle in well-lit, high traffic areas or within the field of view of security cameras. Whenever possible, park somewhere you can keep an eye on your bike, or at least check on it every once in a while. 

4. Consider getting a cover

A cover will not only protect your motorcycle from the elements but also help keep it safe from thieves who are less likely to attempt stealing it without knowing what kind of bike it is, or what type of security devices you’re using. Chose a cover you can lock, which effectively conceals the shape and features of your motorcycle.

5. Use a high-quality disk lock

They prevent wheels from turning, stopping thieves from simply rolling your bike away. Use it preferably on the back wheel, as it is harder to remove and replace than the one on the front.

6. Chain your motorcycle to street furniture or something solid

Invest in the highest quality chain you can afford and secure it tightly to your bike so that the chain doesn’t rest against the floor when in place. 

7. Install an alarm

There are some lock models that include an alarm, so they are easy enough to install. Alarms may deter thieves who avoid bringing attention to themselves, but remember to stay within earshot and remain vigilant as they are often just ignored by others.

8. The best approach is combining several tactics at once

Keep in mind that no single device is enough to ensure motorcycle theft prevention by itself, so the best approach is combining several tactics at once. 

Note that these motorcycle anti-theft measures mainly function as deterrents and that stealing any motorcycle is feasible given enough time and the right tools. According to the latest report published by the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB), in 2018, there were a total of 41,674 motorcycle thefts in the U.S. 

The most commonly stolen motorcycle models are manufactured by Honda, followed by Yamaha, Suzuki, Kawasaki, and Harley Davidson. Only 44% of stolen motorcycles were recovered in 2018. In that case, you might be wondering, does motorcycle insurance cover theft? 

There are different types of coverage, in some cases insurance will cover damages or injuries caused by events like collisions, fire, vandalism or theft. Some of these features are legally required in most U.S. states, while others are entirely optional. So if motorcycle theft protection is something you’re concerned about, one of the best measures you can take is making sure that you’re adequately covered by your insurance policy.

Find the motorcycle insurance you need in Washington, Oregon, and Idaho with Vern Fonk. Start your free motorcycle insurance quote online, over the phone, or at one of our offices near you.