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Lock, chain, cover - Protect your motorcycle


Hello Resident,
 

During the Spring and Summer months we often see a rise in reports in motorcycle theft. Please read and share the following crime prevention advice below with your neighbours and anyone who rides a motorcycle/moped.

There are simple yet effective steps you can take to safeguard your ride. By layering up your security, you can make it harder for criminals to steal your motorbike and easier for us to recover if it is stolen. 
 

Thieves look for easy targets, and motorcycles can be vulnerable without proper protection. Using multiple layers of security increases the time, effort, and risk for criminals, discouraging them from attempting to steal your bike.    

1. Lock, Chain, and Cover  

Thieves only need seconds to take an unsecured bike. Make their job difficult by using these key security measures: 

Lock – A disc lock or grip lock can stop the wheels from moving. 

Chain – Secure your motorcycle to an immovable object, such as a ground anchor or street furniture, with a high-quality, tight-fitting chain. 

Cover – A bike cover helps to conceal your motorcycle, making it less tempting for thieves to target. 

You can find police accredited motorbike covers here: Product Category Search (securedbydesign.com)

2. Remove the keys every time

Even if stepping away for a moment, always remove the keys and secure a steering lock. Opportunistic thieves are waiting for an easy steal.
  

3. Alarms and trackers for extra protection  

A Thatcham-rated alarm system can deter thieves and alert you to suspicious movement. A GPS tracker can help police locate your bike if stolen, increasing the chances of recovery. 

Always contact the police before attempting to locate your motorbike on your own.  

4. Property marking Marking your bike’s parts makes it harder for criminals to sell stolen parts and easier for police to return recovered bikes. 

Use a bike marking kit from SecuredByDesign: Product Category Search (securedbydesign.com)

Mark as many parts of the motorcycle as possible.  

Register your bike with a police-approved database.  

5. Securing your motorcycle at home  

Your bike is safest in a garage or shed with enhanced security:  

Install a ground anchor to keep your motorcycle firmly in place.

Use a garage door defender for extra protection.

Fit shed alarms and dusk-to-dawn lighting to deter thieves. 

Unable to park your motorcycle at home or in a garage? Park it in an area near to your home where it’s well overlooked with good lighting. 

You can also use a Park Mark approved car park which has a higher level of security than other car parks: ParkMark - Home
 

6. Don’t let thieves shop your bike 

Thieves target specific motorcycle models, often scouting for potential steals. Using a bike cover instantly makes your ride less appealing, adding an extra layer of protection. 

To safely sell your motorbike, prepare the bike by cleaning, repairing damage, and ensuring all documentation is in order. 

When selling privately, be cautious about meeting potential buyers in a safe location, write down their registration when they arrive, and never hand over the bike until you've received payment.

If you see any suspicious behaviour around motorcycles or vehicles:

Call 101 to report non-urgent concerns 

Report online via our website 

Always call 999 in an emergency  
 

Improve your riding skills with BikeSafe

Do you own a motorbike, or know someone who does? 

Whether you're an experienced rider or just looking to build confidence on the road, BikeSafe is here to help.

What is BikeSafe?

BikeSafe is a practical, police-led training programme that helps riders improve their techniques and sharpen their hazard awareness. The goal? To make you a better and safer motorcyclist.

What you’ll learn:

The session starts with a classroom based workshop, covering key riding techniques such as cornering, overtaking, filtering, junction awareness and hazard perception. 

You’ll then hit the road for an assessed ride with an advanced police motorcyclist. You’ll get real-time feedback, riding on A and B roads, plus motorway sections, to refine your skills.

Why join a BikeSafe workshop?

  • Expert guidance from advanced police motorcyclists  
  • Hands-on training to improve road awareness 
  • Confidence-building techniques to help you ride smarter
  • A stepping stone to advanced rider training
  • How to book

    📍 Location: Halesowen Police Station 

    💷 Cost: £84 

    📅 Dates: Available throughout May, June, August, September and October.

    Spaces are limited – follow the link below to secure your place: West Midlands BikeSafe - BikeSafe


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    Message Sent By
    Georgia Patterson
    (West Midlands Police, Communications Officer, West Midlands)

    Neighbourhood Alert Cyber Essentials