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OF 2024The fact of the matter is motorcycle theft prevention and the protection of personal property starts with you. Finding a well-lit and well-traveled spot that isn’t overly conducive to crime is great, but it isn’t always possible. The possibility of theft isn’t something you should ignore, either, given the recent rise in stolen bikes (more on that below). Our bottom line is this: Invest in the best motorcycle locks so your bike doesn’t grow legs in the middle of the night.
Motorcycle Disc Locks
Simple to use, tough to crack and easily hidden, motorcycle disc locks will stop your bike from being rolled away.
Motorcycle Chain Locks
Big, burly and capable of sustaining serious abuse, motorcycle chain locks secure your bike to an immovable object.
Motorcycle Cables & Cable Locks
For everything else, motorcycle cable locks can help you keep the helmet, jacket and other bits of gear on lockdown.
Things to Consider
No garage? No problem. How to prevent motorcycle theft is often as simple as investing in the best motorcycle locks alongside adopting some effective practices on the best way to lock a motorcycle. No approach is totally bulletproof, but as you’ll see the goal is slowing criminals down. Below are five fast facts we think all motorcyclists should be aware of when it comes to security.
Statistically Speaking
According to data released last year from the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB), 2020 saw motorcycles “swiped at a 30 percent higher rate compared to 2019.” The grand total of reported thefts clocked in at 53,111, with California, Texas and Florida logging the highest occurrences in that order. Adding insult to injury, the NICB found that “there were 22,403 motorcycles recovered, a 42 percent recovery rate.” The not-for-profit insurance crime organization does suggest some common sense steps to avoid this fate, including constant use of locks — namely ones with an alarm system. We would add a motorcycle cover to your shopping list, which generally deflects most prying eyes, and a ground anchor if you’re able to install one.
Nearly Universal
Unless you have drum brakes (not that there’s anything wrong with that, we love vintage bikes), a motorcycle disc lock is a wise first step. As the name implies, a disc lock for your motorcycle utilizes either a U-shaped shackle or slides over the rotor and secures itself with a locking pin. The lock assembly thus prevents a full rotation of the wheel, deterring someone who tries to push your bike away. Do realize, however, this means next to nothing if a whole crew comes to lift the bike and stash it in a van. Measurements are key here, and you’ll need to make sure the shackle will loop through a space in the rotor and be long enough to reach back to the lock body itself. Pin-style motorcycle rotor locks are measured in millimeters and can go through braking surface vent holes — so make sure they are large enough.
Weigh Your Options
Make no mistake: The strength of a chain lock is due, in part, to all that heft from hardened steel. According to Kryptonite, their Fahgettaboudit chain tips the scales at a little over 15 lbs. Do you know what else weighs that much? About five Shoei RF-1400s. What we’re trying to say is carrying a chain lock around might not be the most practical means of mobile security. It’s great for overnight duty outside of your house or apartment, especially when it’s wrapped in a durable sheath and suspended off the ground where it provides leverage for cutters. However, even the best motorcycle chain lock going to be a real pain in your backpack or pannier so opt for a lighter alternative.
Lock Limitations
It’s gut-wrenching to watch security camera footage of ne’er-do-wells making off with stolen bikes — but that’s the harsh truth. It’s why we advocate for something other than motorcycle wheel locks for all those smaller personal effects. A motorcycle cable lock is a popular option for your helmet, as these lightweight and flexible locks are great for gear. Even Kryptonite says their double loop cable lock is “perfect for accessory security,” so take that route and then get something bigger for bike security. Be sure to check out the FAQ section for more on how to lock helmet to motorcycle. For more of our staff picks on the best gear, head here for the rest of our articles!
Double Duty
If one lock is enough to slow thieves then surely two will stop them cold, right? Well, yes and no. If said thief can penetrate one lock, then a second identical style isn’t going to present as much of a problem. If you chose to run both the best motorcycle disc lock and a chain lock, Kryptonite deems this approach “maximum protection” and you’ve made your motorcycle a much less desirable prospect in the process. The time required to crack or cut two solid locks — not to mention the noise it’s going to make — could be a crucial advantage. Only you know your neighborhood well enough to make this decision but as they say, better safe than sorry.
Frequently Asked Questions
This question is where a cable lock comes in handy. One of these locks would go through the open visor, around the chin bar and back through your bike’s frame or handlebars if there’s an enclosed part. Owners of open face helmets are still in luck, as they would use a lock that attaches to your bike and then through the strap’s D-ring.
If you’re using a chain lock, the best way to lock a motorcycle in this case is to loop it through the frame and then to another immovable object, such as a ground anchor. A wheel can be removed and the bike carted off, especially if it’s the front wheel, so running even the best motorcycle chain lock through rim alone isn’t as effective.
Some alarm-equipped disc lock owners have said certain models are so sensitive they can be triggered by something as simple as nearby movement. If you have neighbors whom you’d like to stay friendly with, be cognizant of this. We’ve previously tested some disc lock alarms at a recorded 94 decibels, which is about the same as a motorcycle while it's being operated. Many companies tout even louder levels, including some products from our selections above. No thief wants to mess with power tools while crouched next to an ear-splitting alarm.
It’s an easy mistake to make, and one that can damage more than your ego. Forgetting that there’s a lock on your bike and attempting to ride away will bring things to an abrupt and expensive halt. A reminder cable is a brightly-colored, coiled cord that will grab your attention. It can stretch from the lock up to the handlebars so there’s minimal chance of absentmindedness.
Despite our best efforts to stop motorcycle theft, locks can be cracked given the right tools, time and tenacity. While we stand behind the products we sell, we are not liable for possessions that are lost or stolen while locked. We encourage customers to review our returns page for more information.
There are three more ways to address theft before, during or after the crime. First, a motorcycle cover shields your bike from both the elements and from someone trying to suss out if it’s worth stealing. A cover alone obviously isn’t enough, but some are lock-compatible and add that extra layer of mystery not worth messing with.
Next is a motorcycle ground anchor. This strong and simple mound is ground-mounted with masonry bolts to a cement surface. It creates an immediate and incredibly sturdy locking point. You’ll need the right drill for installation (bits are included with some products) and we recommend checking local laws before installing one on your public sidewalk.
Finally, a GPS tracker for motorcycles offers a modern solution to an age-old problem. Users can utilize their phone to keep real-time tabs on tracker location and other alerts for shocks, tilts, ignition and more. Some of these products come with monthly subscription fees so plan for a small continued cost. You’ll also need to wire the GPS tracker to the motorcycle or maintain a rechargeable battery.
