37,000 bikes stolen

37,000 bikes have been stolen in the past year, according to the Retail Motor Industry Federation.

RMI motorcycle retailers director Frank Finch, said: “Motorcycle theft is a very real problem, and due to their nature bikes can be seen as easy prey by thieves, but the rider is not powerless.”

Immobilisers are now often fitted as standard, SmartWater or Datatag is usually fitted or applied before a new bike leaves the showroom, and alarms are becoming the norm.

Finch has also offered these guidelines to help you avoid becoming another victim of bike crime:

Steering lock should always be used when bike is parked

Do not leave helmet or other possessions on the bike

If you have got a garage use it and lock it; if not, use ground anchors and cover your machine

When away from home park bike somewhere well-lit and, if possible, covered by CCTV

Always use quality-approved products such as Sold Secure or Thatcham

Lock bike to an immoveable object

Keep keys safe and out of sight at all times

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