USER MANUAL | Motorcycle Security 101
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Step 1: Insure.
From the moment you purchase a motorcycle, insurance is a no brainer. Shop around for the best policies to suit your needs/budget, and make sure you are covered for theft. We pray to the moto gods that it doesn’t come to that, and suggest that you do all that you can to prevent it, but give yourself the best possible chance of getting through it financially if it does.
Lean on others in the community (e.g. facebook groups or riding groups) for advice and personal experiences with different insurance providers and keep tabs on what’s out there throughout your whole policy so you can always have the best coverage available.
CREDIT: Swann Insurance
Step 2: Deter.
Step 3: Delay Delay Delay.
LOCKS
One of the simplest ways to decrease the risk of motorcycle theft, or at least delay the process is by using a sturdy lock or alarm system - or better yet, both!
Opt for locks that are specifically designed for motorcycles, and make sure they are made by reputable brands with high-quality materials.
Types of locks include;
Disc Locks
This is a portable security device that attaches to a wheel disc and prevents your bike from being rolled more than a single revolution. If you’re a forgetful soul, you might want to buy a reminder cable so you don’t forget to take it off before you ride off and damage your bike!
CREDIT: Oxford Products
Grip/Handlebar Locks
These attach to your right handlebar grip and lock the brake lever in an activated position, so even if your bike is put in neutral, it won’t be able to be rolled away.
CREDIT: Grip-Lock
Chain Locks
These can attach multiple different points like wheels or frames to a fixed object, such as a ground anchor, lamp post or fence. Tip: If you’re in a rental, ask your landlord for permission to install a ground anchor in your driveway or down the side of your home!
CREDIT: Oxford Products
ALARMS
Many locks on the market are dual purpose and will have alarm features. These simply sound an alarm at different frequencies and for different durations if someone tries to move your bike. This alone can act as a great deterrent, particularly in public spaces or outside your home at night.
COVERS
Motorcycle covers aren’t often seen as theft prevention but in our eyes, the more barriers, the better. A cover alone can take time to remove and also hides your bike from the eyes of thieves on the lookout for specific bikes to prey on.
Step 4: Track.
A GPS tracker can be incredibly helpful in recovering your lost love and there are many to choose from, so do your research and choose one that suits your needs, budget and location. Thoughtful placement is also crucial to avoid it being removed straight away. Hide it somewhere that is unassuming, hard to get to or inaccessible without locks/keys.
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