Motorbike Theft

Now the better weather has finally arrived, many motorbike owners are taking the opportunity to get their bikes out of storage. Unfortunately this has seen a rise in bike theft in Aberdeen over the last month. Many were left with no security whilst others had very poor quality security which was easily overcome. To prevent your bike from being stolen, NE Crime Reduction officer PC Irvine has the following advice:

Motorbike theft is a persistent problem that plagues riders not only in the North East but around the world. Motorcycles are attractive targets for thieves due to their high resale value, portability, and ease of theft. However, there are several effective measures you can take to enhance the security of your motorbike and deter potential thieves.

Investing in a good-quality lock is crucial. A sturdy disc lock or U-lock can be a valuable deterrent as they are difficult to break or tamper with. It's essential to secure your motorbike to a fixed object, such as a sturdy post or railing, whenever possible. This will make it more challenging for thieves to carry or ride away with your bike.

In addition to locks, consider using a chain or cable lock to further secure your motorbike. Loop it through the frame, wheels, and any available anchor point. Ensure the lock is visible, as its presence alone can discourage thieves. Opt for locks made from hardened steel, as they are more resistant to cutting or sawing attempts. Always buy the best quality locks and security you can afford and look out for those that have been endorsed as ‘Sold Secure’ or ‘Secured by Design.’ 

Installing an alarm system or an immobilizer can also be a valuable investment. Alarms draw attention to any unauthorized tampering or movement, potentially scaring off thieves and alerting nearby individuals. Immobilizers, on the other hand, prevent the motorbike from being started without the correct key or code, making it nearly impossible for thieves to hotwire the bike.

Parking your motorbike in well-lit areas with good visibility is another effective preventive measure. Thieves prefer dark and secluded locations where they can work undetected. By choosing well-lit and busy parking spots, you increase the chances of someone noticing any suspicious activity.

Finally, consider marking your motorbike with a unique identification number or security marking. This can deter potential thieves, as marked bikes are harder to sell and easier to trace back to the rightful owner.

Remember, the key to preventing motorbike theft is to make your bike less attractive and more difficult to steal than others. By combining multiple security measures and being vigilant, you can significantly reduce the risk of your motorbike being stolen and enjoy peace of mind.

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Police Scotland's North East Division covers rural and urban areas in Moray, Aberdeenshire and Aberdeen City.  The division has five territorial command areas which have their own dedicated Area Commander, who is responsible for the daily policing function.  Each command area is served by a number of community policing teams whose activities are built around the needs of the local community.  These teams respond to local calls and look for long term solutions to key issues.  They are assisted by the division's Crime Reduction Unit who deliver against Force and local priorities in a number of areas, including physical and social crime prevention, supporting and enhancing community engagement and creating and sustaining strong and effective partnership working.