Motorbike security devices

A high percentage of motorbike claims are down to theft. It’s common for bikes to be stolen straight from the owner’s home. If you want your bike to stay where you left it, motorcycle security is something you should take seriously…

Most bikes come fitted with a steering lock that prevents the handlebars from being turned. However, it’s a good idea to take extra security measures whenever you leave your bike unattended.

Fortunately, there are all sorts of devices that will help make your bike as secure as possible. Most will fall into one of the following categories:

1. Factory-fitted security products

Factory-fitted security devices are built into a bike at the manufacturing stage. This gives your motorbike an extra degree of security before it even hits the showroom.

Manufacturers are encouraged to fit these devices to help reduce the number of theft claims connected to their bikes. After all, no-one wants to buy a bike with the reputation of being the most stolen.

Primarily, these devices take the form of immobilisers that are built into a bike's ignition. Immobilisers ensure that a motorbike can only be started by an original manufacturer-supplied key. Thanks to the chip technology used, a potential thief's makeshift key would be useless.

Some examples of this type of security are:

• K.I.S.S (Kawasaki Ignition Security System)
• SAIS (Suzuki Advanced Immobilisation System)

Many stolen bikes are broken down for parts. Security markings are a way of deterring thieves, as they know a marked bike will be more difficult to sell on.

2. Security markings

Mark your bike with identifying details in as many places as possible. Use your postcode or your motorbike’s VIN (vehicle identification number). This can easily be done with a UV pen. Alternatively, you can use one of the numerous kits available. 

These kits often come with at least one distinctive sticker. You should place yours on a prominent part of the bike to show that your bike is ‘marked’.

Popular examples of security markings kits are:

• Datatag
• Alpha Dot
• SmartWater

3. Alarms and immobilisers

A Category One alarm/immobiliser is a device that’s been approved by an independent security firm. An example of which is Thatcham. Some insurers may offer you a discount if your motorbike is fitted with one. This ensures that your bike can’t be started, and the alarm will sound if your bike is tampered with.

These devices are great at preventing theft. That’s because the alarm can sound if the bike is moved, the wires are cut, or even if the bike is gently knocked. They also have their own built-in power supply. If the wire to the bike's battery is cut, they will still operate under their own power.

Insurers like these types of motorbike security devices as they are 'self-arming'. This means they are not reliant on you remembering to activate the device. Once you switch your bike off, the device will arm itself a few seconds later. When you need to start your bike, you just need to press a button on a fob (often kept with your bike key), which deactivates the device.

Some examples of Category One alarm and immobilisers are:

• Datatool System Four C1 Red
• Meta M357TV2
• Spyball 6829

4. Physical security

From padlocks and chains to motorcycle disc locks and ground anchors, security devices will physically prevent your motorbike from being moved.

Fixing a chain to your motorbike's wheel will stop someone from wheeling your bike away. To make it even more secure, it's advisable to attach the chain to an immovable object like a lamppost. You could also use a metal railing or ground anchor. This will prevent your bike from being picked up and put in the back of a van.

It's worth considering the placement of a chain, too. Keeping it off the ground will prevent someone trying to sever it against the hard surface. Avoiding any slack will also make it more difficult to snap.

The most secure bikes use a combination of security: a factory-fitted immobiliser, security markings, a Category One alarm/immobiliser and some physical security.

Correct at the time of publication. Information in this article has been gathered from various sources, therefore Swinton Insurance cannot be held responsible for any view or opinion expressed herein.