Keeping your Bicycles and Motorbikes safe

Bicycles

Over 100,000 bicycles are reported stolen every year. They are a popular target with thieves because they can easily be sold. They should be locked whenever you leave them, even if you are just going into a shop. Mark the frame with your postcode. This will help the police get it back to you if they find it - they have thousands of unclaimed unidentified bicycles. Find out if your local police station, or cycle dealer does this free.

• Get a 'recorded cycle' form from your local police station or bicycle dealer and take a photograph. Record all your bike's details so that if your bike is stolen and then recovered, the police will be able to match it to the description.
   
• The best kind of bicycle locks are made of a loop of solid metal. Chains deter casual thieves, but can be easily cut with the right equipment.
   
• Always lock your bike to something solid like a lamp-post or railings. If you have quick release wheels, take off the front wheel and lock it to the frame and back wheel.

Motorbikes

Motorcycles are a target for both opportunist and professional thieves, who steal bikes for resale, or for the market in motorcycle parts. Take the same measures for parking as with cars.

• Fit an alarm, available from DIY or bike shops. Some shops and dealers offer discounts on security devices when you buy a motorcycle or other equipment.
   
• Anti-theft schemes encourage motorcyclists and others to spot motorcycle theft and generate new ideas to tackle it.
   
  Contact your local police crime prevention officer or a motorcycle support group, such as the Motorcycle Action Group, for information about local groups and advice on how to set up new ones.

Get your bike frame marked with your postcode and stick on a 'Coded Cycle' sticker to let thieves know.

• Mark your motorcycle with the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), registration number or your postcode. You can do this with an engraving or etching kit, or a security marker pen. If you use indelible ink or an ultraviolet pen, remember to renew the markings every few weeks before they begin to fade.
   
  Use a high tension steel cable, padlock or U-lock to secure your motorcycle to an immovable object when you park.
   
• Always lock up your motorbike when you leave it. Put the steering lock on, and wherever possible use a steel cable, padlock or U-lock to attach it to an immovable object or another motorcycle.

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Keep your Car Safe

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