Preventing Motorcycle Theft: Part II

While it's important to know the basics of who is most vulnerable for motorcycle theft and which locations and times see the highest number of crimes, it's also critical to know what you can do to prevent it.

Simply letting your motorcycle go unprotected without any additional or security feature is a recipe for disaster. In fact, several motorcycle thefts are a part of larger black market theft rings. For criminals, it's all too easy to load a motorcycle into the back of a van, disassemble it and resell parts overseas or use the parts to rebuild completely new rides.

These theft rings have been all too common in recent years and hundreds of thousands of dollars worth of motorcycle parts have been caught and tracked from New York to Southern California.

Luckily, there are some ways to improve your security. In this second part of this series, we'll show you what you can do to prevent your bike from getting stolen. Here are a few security features you should consider investing in for your ride:

1) Kryptonite New York Legend and New York Padlock

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When it comes to massive bike locks, the Kryptonite New York Legend chain and New York Padlock is a beast not to be reckoned with. This lock comes with either 3 or 5 feet of hefty chain with 15-millimeter chain links, which are constructed of 3t hardened steel for the most strength. Its durable and protective nylon cover with hook and loop fasteners allow you to lock up your bike to any part, wheel or post - all without scratching the paint or chrome on your ride. The New York Padlock is a 16mm MAX-Performance steel shackle that has a double dead bolt locking mechanism that will prevent twist attacks. In addition, the lock comes in a reinforced and shrouded shell designed to protect it from cut attacks. If that's not enough hardware for you, the lock comes with a $2,000 Anti-Theft Protection guarantee from the manufacturer.

2) Kryptonite Stronghold Security Anchor

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For those who have to park motorcycles outside of their home, the Kryptonite Stronghold Security Anchor is a great security device to keep their bike locked up. This piece of hardware gives you an anchor point to attach your bike to a large immovable object like a wall or even the ground. It comes with the masonry drill bits and cement anchors needed to permanently attach the security anchor onto masonry around your home. The anchor will stay in place and features a hardened carbon alloy steel shackle, which can be looped with a chain or lock cord to keep your bike in place. The steel shackle lies down flat in the anchor's domed body when you are not using it, so it doesn't stick too far off the ground. It is completely weatherproof as well.

3) OnGuard Boxer Series Lock

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If you're looking for a portable and easy-to-use option, you should consider the OnGuard Boxer Series Lock. This piece of equipment has a five star plus security level rating and can easily be attached to your motorcycle's disc, to prevent anyone from riding off with your bike, or used to secure a chain. The 14mm hardened steel shackle resists many forms of attack, including cutting, prying or jacking. The locking mechanism itself is an advanced X4P Quattro Bolt locking system, which secures the shackle on four sides for ultimate protection. The four laser-cut keys, and one light key, that come with the lock make it easy for your to unlock - even at night. For added convenience, a carrying pouch with belt clip and reminder cable are included to help with storage and to prevent accidentally damaging your bike by trying to drive off with the lock still attached to your disc or rotor.

4) Nelson-Rigg Deluxe All-Season Cover

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As mentioned before, it's always best to conceal your ride to prevent theft. The Nelson Rigg Deluxe All Season Cover will do just that and gives you extra protection from harmful UV rays. This cover is made with a lightweight UV-treated Tri-Max polyester and has a snug elastic bottom to help hold it in place. A built in ventilation system minimizes condensation build-up and allows plenty of circulation, while the soft windshield liner helps protect against scratching and hazing. Additionally, the cover features silver panels that are heat resistant to help protect the cover from your hot motorcycle exhaust. While not entirely waterproof, it is water resistant and comes in a variety of colors and sizes along with a two year "No Hassle" manufacturer's warranty.