Protect Your Harley: Keep Your Bike Safe From Theft
With an increase in Harley-Davidson thefts, make sure you keep your ride safe and sound.
A recent string of thefts of newer model Harley-Davidson motorcycles has caused concern across the country. Recently, in Fresno, California, for example, there has been a rash of thefts, some thieves so brazen as to steal the bikes right in front of a Harley-Davidson dealership’s security cameras. And according to Fresno’s ABC 30 Action News, the general manager of Visalia Harley-Davidson, Geoff Allan, noted that the recent burglary is actually the fourth time the shop has been broken into since he has been in charge of the store.
It’s no surprise that sweet Harleys are a magnet to thieves and fetch a hefty price at swap meets. So, to protect your investment, here are a few tips on how to keep your Harley safe from unsavory opportunists looking to nab your ride.
How to Best Protect Your Motorcycle
Park your motorcycle in a garage! Also, parking motorcycles in well-lit areas with high visibility can also serve to stymie potential thieves, and even better, hide your bike. If you don’t have a garage, cover that Harley up. Believe it not, thieves are deterred by something as simple as a tarp or motorcycle cover.
Always lock your ignition and remove the key. Park your bike within range of a security camera. Additionally, keep all of the important papers regarding the bike’s registration and insurance card on your person, and not with the bike. If you use a garage to park, block the motorcycle in with a car, and be certain to lock the garage.
Change the Factory Settings
Owners of newer bikes should be sure to change that the factory setting codes on the motorcycle security systems are changed, and fork locking mechanisms should be used. Nuts and bolts should be used to fasten license plates rather than easily removed wing nuts. Also, it is a good idea to take a few minutes to take note of your key numbers, then file them off the locks. Anyone with a key number can have that key cut to fit.
Use Anti-Theft Devices
Anti-theft devices can definitely serve as a deterrent and there are many options available that are compact and effective. In addition to your bike’s built-in lock, it is a good idea to use two or more locks.
A cable lock is a good start. though a more sophisticated thief might have the tools handy to cut through a cable lock. However, if the bike is attached to a stationary item, like a lamppost for example, it will prevent your bike from being hauled off.
Steering locks create a barrier for the potential thief, no matter how savvy or resourceful he may be.
A disc lock can come either with or without an alarm, and are a convenient choice for their size, weight, and effectiveness. The disc lock basically prevents the wheel from moving.
Invest in GPS
GPS devices are not a preventative, anti-theft mechanism. But besides helping you find your way to where you want to go, the GPS device can locate a bike once it’s been stolen.
Security Systems run the gamut both in features and in price, but offer a lot of peace of mind. This one by Harley-Davidson will automatically self-arm your ride, disabling your vehicle starter, ignition and electronic fuel injection (EFI).
There are other options on the high-tech end from security apps, cameras, and smart fingerprint technology security systems.
Hopefully these tips to protect your Harley prove helpful. And let’s hope that these bike bandits trip their way into the hoosegow sooner rather than later. Keep that chopper safe!
Join the Harley-Davidson Forums now!
