Motorcycle security tips

Being so vulnerable, everyone would wonder what options are available for protecting a motorcycle from being stolen. Here is a list of security measures and devices and my thoughts about them.

Probably the first and cheapest device that one could get is a disk lock. It seems small, but it can deter a quick theft. They can fit most brake disks and serve to immobilize the motorcycle. However, they do not prevent it from being picked up and thrown in the back of a van, although it requires a van and a few people for which the thieves have to be determined. Alarmed disk locks are even better, with some of them even sensing vibrations (not only tilting) are not only a big deterrent, but will also remind you that they are there so you don't drive off with them. Talking of which, I have to remind you to be very careful not to forget a disk lock on, because it can ruin your disk and calipers. A disk lock is something you should have.

Probably the most effective immobilizing device is the motorcycle grade chain. Having your motorcycle chained to something that cannot be easily broken off will disable anyone from picking it up. Good tips are to pass the chain through the frame, or through the back tire which cannot be taken off as easily as the front one. For chaining at home, it is best to combine the motorcycle chain with a ground anchor system. You should have a chain along with a disk lock for combined protection and better immobilization of the vehicle.

A motorcycle alarm system, is a good investment if combined with immobilizing devices like the two described above. It will also be a measure against vandalizing your property. There are different kinds of motorcycle alarm systems. It is best to have one with backup power system. There are such alarms that can give you an insurance discount as well (check with your insurer). Another useful feature of some alarm systems is the proximity sensor, which activates the alarm if someone is dangerously close to the motorcycle. 2-way communication between the remote and the alarm on the motorcycle might increase the price of the unit, but will alert you whenever the alarm goes on, even if you are far from the motorcycle itself. The downside of alarms are that they use up the battery charge fairly quickly, so such a system should be paired with the purchase of a trickle charger in case it gets discharged.

If you are really afraid of your motorcycle getting stolen. You might look for a GPS tracking service available at your location or a theft recovery service, which works much the same way. However, it is not something that I can strongly recommend because it can be costly. As far as I know, such a service can cut down on your insurance too.

Covering your motorcycle is a good deterrent. A cover is not something that will cost you much, but your motorcycle will attract less attention since one would have to go up next to it and check it out in order to know whether what is under the cover is valuable.

Personalize your motorcycle and take a picture of it. Personalized motorcycles are easier to be recovered after theft and less desired by thieves.

Here are some additional tips on motorcycle security that you should definitely read. If a thief is determined to steal your motorcycle, he will eventually manage to do it. That doesn't mean, however, that we shouldn't make their lives as miserable as possible, by using a combination of security devices and some sense and logic. Park in areas where many people pass and not in the back alley. Locate security cameras and park in front of them if possible. Check back on your motorcycle and you should be safe.