California motorcycle theft – insurance and prevention
Ideally, coverage for theft should be included in your motorcycle insurance in California. Motorcycles are an attractive target for thieves, so the possibility is ever-present. But doing everything you can to secure your ride may prevent the heartache of losing it. Here are some handy hints for reducing the risk of motorcycle theft.
- Make your bike inconspicuous. This is one of the most effective ways to prevent theft. When possible, store your motorcycle inside. In a garage preferably, but an outdoor shed will do if you don’t have one. At the very least, put a cover over it.
- Chain your bike up. Chains designed specifically to prevent motorcycle theft are readily available. Thread the chain through the motorcycle’s frame (this is the strongest part of the bike) and wrap it around a fixed object such as a signpost or parking meter.
- Get a motorcycle lock. There are several types of locks that can be attached to different parts of the bike to stop it from moving. Disk locks, wheel locks and U-locks can all make your motorcycle more secure.
- Use your fork lock. Your motorcycle should have a fork lock. Locking your forks prevents the front end from turning, so any would-be thieves could only really push it in circles.
- Install an alarm. A motorcycle alarm senses movement and can make a deafening noise when triggered.
Reducing the risk of your bike being stolen may qualify you for a discount on your California motorcycle insurance, so don’t forget to mention security features when arranging your policy.