France records more than 150,000 motorcycle thefts per year. This figure includes all types of two, even if the prize goes in 2021 to the Honda 750 X-ADV. Previously, it was the turn of the T-Max 530 to be stolen at an industrial rate in France. From the Piaggio 125 cm3 scooter to the BMW GS R1250, all engine sizes are targeted by thieves. Fortunately, there are a few ways to reduce the risk of having your favorite mount stolen.
Protecting your motorcycle by electronics and mechanical means
The safety of your motorcycle relies on two distinct aspects. In the mechanical protection category, you have several choices, including the famous metal chain which will connect the rear wheel to a post. The use remains very simple, but just remember to opt for a fairly “robust” model that a thief could not knowingly saw off in the street. You can also count on a disk unit. It is a kind of padlock with a special key that must be attached to the front braking device. Effectively immobilizing your vehicle, it has the advantage of being discreet and compact.
Electronic protection often takes the form of an anti-theft device coupled with a shrill scream alarm. Some disc units and security padlocks are equipped with a siren (+100 decibels) in the event of forcing. There are also boxes that prevent the vehicle from starting. The most advanced systems rely on location by GSM network or satellites. Both technologies give the exact position of the motorcycle. Discreet devices that have their own long-lasting battery are recommended.
Install an immobilizer or GPS for two-wheelers
The on-board electronics include an original immobilizer. This anti-theft device is fitted as standard for the biggest brands. However, it is also possible to install it on any other model. If a third person tries to start the motorcycle without the key, the on-board computer blocks the entire electrical circuit. In addition to the contact being deactivated, the entire ignition process is on standby. It will then be impossible to run the engine.
The safety GPS is separate from the one that indicates the route. It is more of a transmitter to be camouflaged under the fairing in an unexpected place. The alarm is sent directly to the owner’s cell phone. Which does not prevent the thug from seizing the two-wheeler. However, his position will be quickly traced, unless he dismantles the vehicle within an hour of the theft in order to deactivate the GPS. Efficient and precise, locators such as Monimoto are also mounted on cars. The best would be to communicate the information to the police who will recover the stolen property.
Explore other methods to protect your vehicle
Electronic immobilization and GPS tracker are two effective methods. However, they do not prevent the thief from committing their act. This is why it is better to invest in a quality mechanical anti-theft device. It would already be very good if you can buy an NF certified device. Engineers have also developed a material that is impossible to cut with a saw. Called Proteus, it is an ultra-resistant ceramic-based product. It can break the shears, the preferred tool of thieves for cutting chains.
Insurance companies explain that you should bet on a chain that resists cutting attempts for more than 10 minutes. After this time, the robber abandons the loot for fear of being spotted. Security experts strongly recommend sturdy devices. The way to avoid having your motorcycle stolen would be to park it in a safe place. Prefer private car parks to esplanades, even if it means paying a supplement. All the better if the parking space is equipped with concrete posts or metal pillars to secure the vehicle. In fact, the thugs load the two-wheeler directly into a van.
