Riding a motorcycle is pure freedom—cutting through traffic, exploring off-the-beaten-path, and embracing the thrill of the open road – But with this freedom comes a real worry for riders: theft.
But keeping your motorcycle safe doesn’t have to be tedious; with a few savvy moves, you can make your ride practically untouchable to would-be thieves. Here are some effective and creative ways to secure your motorcycle.
Lock It Up!
Think of your motorcycle’s security like wearing layers of armor. A single lock would be easy to hit, but multiple layers will make it much harder for thieves to crack. There are several options in the market for you to choose from – all of them are highly effective when combined.
- Disc Locks: Restrains both the front and rear wheels from being moved
- Solid Chain Lock: Secures your motorcycle to something immovable (ex. Light post)
- Brake Lever lock: locks the brake lever in place, making it difficult to release
- Built-In Steering Lock: Locks the movement of the handlebars.
Remember, the more obstacles you create, the less attractive your motorcycle becomes to a potential thief.
Stay Incognito!
Here’s a tip that works surprisingly well: use a plain, non-branded cover to keep your motorcycle incognito. The key is to make your motorcycle look as unremarkable as possible, hiding any brand logos or flashy details. Thieves scout for specific models, so a generic-looking cover reduces temptation. Plus, with a cover that has grommets, you can lock it down, adding yet another barrier for anyone thinking of making a quick grab. The more low-key, the better.
Park Smart, Park Safe
Where you park can also make a world of difference. Go for spots that are well-lit and crowded, as thieves avoid the attention that comes with bright lights and people around. When possible, park near security cameras or in sight of security personnel. If you’re at home, a locked garage or shed is the best option.
Set Up an Alarm System
Alarms are a fantastic deterrent—loud and attention-grabbing – which is exactly the combo that thieves hate. If your motorcycle doesn’t come with an alarm, check out third-party alarm systems. They’re a great investment, alerting you (and everyone else nearby) if anyone tries to tamper with your motorcycle. An unexpected blast of noise is often enough to make a thief rethink their life choices.
Go High-Tech with GPS Tracking
If you want to ramp up your motorcycle’s security, install a GPS tracker. Compact and easy to hide, these devices can be hidden on your bike and help you locate it if it gets stolen. In the event of theft, you’ll have a much better chance of recovering your motorcycle with the help of tracking tools.
Stay Vigilant
Sometimes, the best security is simply being mindful. Always engage your motorcycle’s steering lock, even for quick stops. Take off any valuables so they don’t catch a thief’s eye. And if your motorcycle’s parked for a while, take a quick check-in now and then; showing up unannounced can throw off anyone with bad intentions.
While these tips won’t make your motorcycle completely theft-proof, they are sure to make it a far less attractive target, giving you peace of mind as you enjoy the open road. And of course, a comprehensive insurance policy is the ultimate backup plan, covering you even in the unlikely event of theft.
Started in 1927, the Philippines Graphic is the longest-running printed magazine of national circulation that provides relevant news and features and promotes Philippine literature.
