Just because no one has ever stolen your motorcycle, doesn’t mean that it won’t happen to you. Since motorcycles are easily accessible, they are highly prone to theft. If you like to hit the open road on two wheels, be mindful of these top 10 theft prevention tips to avoid having your bike taken:
- When you get off your bike, shut off the ignition and then lock it.
- Lock the forks (disk brakes). Purchase locks that are brightly colored to discourage potential thieves.
- Lock multiple motorcycles together if you are traveling in a pack.
- If you are riding alone, lock your motorcycle to a stationary object that cannot be dismantled such as a light pole.
- Install an alarm on your bike that sounds when it is tampered with.
- Check on your bike periodically when you are at a public event, especially shortly after you arrive.
- Park your bike in front of a security camera or close to your room, when staying at a hotel for the evening.
- Store the title for your motorcycle in your home; not in the compartments or saddlebags on your bike.
- Mark your bike with a unique symbol or mark and take photographs of that. If your motorcycle is stolen, you can present this information to the police.
- Always keep your motorcycle registration and insurance information with you when riding.
Another concern is that thieves may try to steal your bike when you are putting it up for sale. Using fake identities has become a common activity among bike thieves. When potential buyers come to test drive your bike:
- Withhold the title until you have conducted a background check on the potential buyer and his/her payment has cleared.
- Verify the buyer’s personal information and cross reference it with their identification. (be especiallycautious of out-of-state identification)
And while we’re worrying about theft, make sure you carry the appropriate insurance for your motorcycle. If your bike is stolen, you will want to be protected. Call us with any questions you may have!
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