In recent years, motorcycle theft statistics have become alarming. Protecting your motorcycle is now a priority for any rider keen on preserving their investment. This often involves purchasing one or even several anti-theft devices.
But are motorcycle anti-theft devices really effective in protecting against theft? Invoxia investigated for you!
Motorcycle Theft Statistics #
Motorcycle theft remains a major problem in France and around the world. According to the latest statistics, about 70,000 motorcycles are stolen each year in France, according to the National Interministerial Road Safety Observatory (ONISR). Scooters and sports bikes are the most targeted. Paris and its region are particularly affected, with a high concentration of thefts in urban areas. In 2023, the podium of the most stolen motorcycles consisted of the BMW R1250GS, the Yamaha Ténéré 700, and the BMW R1250RT.
In Europe, the findings are quite impressive: over the past 10 years, the European Federation of Motorcyclists’ Associations (FEMA) has counted about 2 million motorcycles stolen. The most affected countries are Italy, Spain, and the United Kingdom. Generally, BMW GS and Yamaha MT-07 motorcycles are highly prized by thieves on the Old Continent.
Finally, across the Atlantic, the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) reports that more than 40,000 motorcycles were stolen in the United States in 2020. California, Florida, and Texas are the most affected states. Frequent targets? Japanese brand motorcycles, notably the Honda CBR600RR, the Yamaha YZF-R6, and the Suzuki GSX-R.
Why Use an Anti-Theft Device on Your Motorcycle? #
As the statistics show, motorcycle thefts are quite common, especially in Europe. As theft techniques improve, not using an anti-theft device for your motorcycle exposes owners to a high risk of seeing their ride disappear.
The advantages of a motorcycle anti-theft device are numerous:
- Deterrence of thieves who may choose to change targets upon seeing an anti-theft device
- Protection of your investment (which can range between 5,000 and 10,000 euros for a road motorcycle)
- Reduction of your insurance cost depending on your contract. Insurances like Mutuelle des Motards have a list of certified anti-theft devices that can reduce your deductible.
And if that hasn’t convinced you of the importance of an anti-theft device on your motorcycle, studies show that motorcycles equipped with anti-theft devices are much less likely to be stolen. A survey by the French Federation of Angry Bikers (FFMC) revealed that 85% of stolen motorcycles were not properly secured.
Different Models of Motorcycle Anti-Theft Devices #
Now that you know more about motorcycle thefts and the advantages of anti-theft devices for your two-wheeler, let’s take a quick tour of the different models available on the market!
U-Lock #
The U-lock is a rigid U-shaped security device. It is generally made of hardened steel to resist cutting attempts. This anti-theft device allows you to attach your motorcycle’s wheel to a fixed object, such as a post or barrier, to prevent the motorcycle from being moved. This type of motorcycle anti-theft device is well-known for its effectiveness, as it reduces the risk of theft by 70% when used correctly*.
In terms of installation, it works like a padlock. Simply insert the U through a wheel of your motorcycle, attach the other end to a fixed object, and lock it with the integrated lock.
*Study by the Motorcycle Industry Association
✅ Advantages:
- Very resistant and difficult to cut.
- Offers excellent security for the motorcycle.
❌ Disadvantages:
- Less convenient to transport due to its rigidity.
- Cannot be attached to all fixed supports, especially if they are too thick.
Recognized U-Lock Models: #
- Kryptonite: Known for the robustness of its U-locks.
- Abus: Known for its innovative and secure models.
Motorcycle Chain Lock #
The chain lock is made of hardened steel links, often covered with fabric to avoid damaging the motorcycle. Like the U-lock, it allows you to secure the motorcycle to a fixed object by passing the chain through the wheel or frame of the motorcycle. For this type of motorcycle anti-theft device, the risk of theft is reduced by 60% according to a study by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
For installation, it is also very similar to the U-lock. The only difference is that you will need to add a padlock to lock the two ends.
✅ Advantages:
- Flexible, allowing the motorcycle to be secured to fixed objects.
- Can be used in various environments.
❌ Disadvantages:
- Heavier and bulkier, which can be a drawback for some riders.
- Requires a suitable padlock that you need to remember to bring as well.
Recognized Chain Lock Models: #
- Oxford: Offers robust and durable chain locks.
- Kryptonite: Provides resistant chains with high certifications.
Disc Lock #
The disc lock is a small locking device that attaches to the motorcycle’s brake disc. It prevents the wheel from turning, making the motorcycle impossible to move without removing the disc lock. The effectiveness of the disc lock is quite variable, as a study by the Motorcycle Council of New South Wales considers that the risk of theft is only reduced by 50%.
To install it, simply insert the disc lock through the holes in the brake disc and lock the device in place. Some models include a sound alarm to deter thieves.
✅ Advantages:
- Compact and easy to transport, ideal for daily commutes.
- Easy to install on the motorcycle.
❌ Disadvantages:
- Does not secure the motorcycle against complete removal.
- Theft rate remains quite high.
Recognized Disc Lock Models: #
- Xena: Known for its disc locks with integrated alarms.
- Abus: Offers robust and reliable disc locks.
GPS Trackers: The Ultimate Solution to Combat Theft? #
Despite all your efforts to protect your motorcycle with these different types of anti-theft devices, the risk of it being stolen persists. And it is not your anti-theft device that will allow you to recover your two-wheeler once it has been stolen. For maximum protection, the ideal would be to combine a motorcycle anti-theft device with a GPS tracker. The first deters and can prevent theft, while the second takes over if the worst happens.
With years of expertise in the field, Invoxia offers a range of GPS trackers that will precisely meet your localization needs. No need to connect it to your motorcycle’s battery, simply hide the ultra-compact device in a strategic location on your two-wheeler.
And with a recovery rate of over 50% for vehicles, Invoxia’s GPS trackers have already proven their effectiveness many times. And our users can attest to that!
I was able to find my motorcycle in less than an hour. Vibrations were detected at 10:06 PM, the motorcycle was moved a few kilometers from my home, and with the help of the police, by 11 PM my motorcycle was back home.
- Nicolas H., user of an Invoxia GPS tracker
✅ Advantages:
- Alert in case of theft attempt or suspicious movement.
- GPS tracking and position history.
- Helps in the recovery of your motorcycle thanks to the Theft Report
- Coverage in 15 European countries for the Classic version, and in over 40 countries for the Pro version.
- Long battery life.
❌ Disadvantage:
- Generally more expensive than traditional motorcycle anti-theft devices, but cost-effective in case of theft.
How to Choose the Best Motorcycle Anti-Theft Device? #
To choose the best motorcycle anti-theft device, it is essential to consider several criteria:
- Resistance: Opt for robust materials and certified models (SRA, NF/FFMC).
- Practicality: An anti-theft device should be easy to transport and use.
- Certification: Prefer anti-theft devices that have passed rigorous resistance tests.
You can also inquire with different motorcycle groups on social networks to get feedback. Your dealer can also guide you if needed.
Tips for Properly Using Your Motorcycle Anti-Theft Device #
Here are some best practices to maximize the effectiveness of your anti-theft device:
- Always attach your motorcycle to a fixed and solid object.
- Use multiple types of anti-theft devices for increased security, and don’t hesitate to add a GPS tracker to your protections.
- Avoid leaving your motorcycle in isolated or poorly lit areas.
Additionally, complementing the use of an anti-theft device with other security measures, such as a motorcycle cover or a secure parking area, can greatly reduce the risk of theft.