Tracker Network U.K. recovery figures show that over a quarter of million pounds worth of motorbikes were recovered in 2024 and it is not just expensive bikes that are targeted. With longer daylight hours and warmer weather on the way, it’s even more important for bikers to be vigilant in protecting their vehicles from theft.
Motorbikes are a huge draw to thieves as one owner discovered in Stapleford, Nottinghamshire. The brand new Lexmoto motorcycle worth £2,500 was taken from the owner's driveway but due to the Tracker Vantage unit installed on the bike, it was successfully recovered within just 5 hours. Found hidden in bushes, its recovery is thanks to the collaboration between Tracker and Nottinghamshire Police force.
The bike had recently been purchased from the Superbike Factory and the owner, had taken advantage of buying a SVR Tracker Vantage unit, which included the first three months of subscription for free. The Vantage tracking unit alerts the motorcycle owner to any unauthorised movement, so when the owner received an alert to say their bike had been moved, they soon realised it had been stolen from the driveway.
Steve Whittaker, Tracker Police Liaison Manager said, “The signal from the tracking device on the Lexmoto quickly led officers to a location 36 miles from where the bike was last seen. After a thorough search, officers found the bike hidden in bushes where it had been left 'soaking’. Criminals will often leave a stolen vehicle lying in wait to see if police locate it, otherwise known as ‘soaking’. If when the thieves return later the vehicle is still there, they know it hasn’t got a tracking device installed and move the vehicle on to be sold, dismantled or used for criminal activity.
Whittaker concludes, “We would always advise bike and scooter owners to make it as difficult as possible for thieves by using a range of security options, including chains, immobilisers and markers. A tracking device won’t stop a bike being stolen, but it does increase the chances of a speedy recovery.”
Tracker is the only stolen vehicle recovery expert that works in partnership with every police force across the U.K. to assist in the unrelenting battle against organised vehicle theft rings. With a 95% success rate of recovering stolen vehicles, Tracker is the best defence against determined thieves.
Tracker’s Top Tips for Motorcycle Security:
- Motorbike Locks - Always secure chain locks or cable locks to an immovable object, such as a lamp post. Always try to thread the chain or cable through the bike frame.
- Motorbike Alarms and Immobilisers - A quality Thatcham approved, professionally fitted alarm system will not only deter a thief but could also reduce insurance premiums. It’s crucial to get it fitted by a factory trained technician as modern bikes are sensitive to poorly fitted alarms.
- Mark Your Motorcycle - Using a simple UV pen, mark parts of the motorcycle with the VIN (vehicle identification number), vehicle registration and postcode. Alternatively invest in an identification system.
- Remove Equipment - As an added guard, remove the spark plug or HT cap.
- Be Seen! - Always park the bike where it can be seen, day or night, by passers-by.
- Use Different Parking Spots - Try to vary the places you park - sophisticated thieves will study parking habits and routines before making a theft.
- Use Secure Public Parking - Most cities will have a secure parking area for motorcycles with fixed security hoops for locking chains.
- Garage - If you have a garage, use it. Always put the bike away immediately and make sure the garage is properly secure. Consider putting in a ground anchor in the garage to lock the bike to.
- Invest in a stolen vehicle recovery solution (SVR) that will locate and return your motorcycle to you before thieves can dismantle it. Most Tracker devices feature motion sensors to detect unauthorised movement and notify Tracker and the rider.
