Motorcycle Security Buying Guide

In today’s world, where personal transportation is both essential and a source of passion, ensuring your motorcycle’s security has never been more important. 

Motorbikes often represent a considerable investment, both financially and emotionally, making it crucial to protect them from theft and unauthorised access. 

Our buying guide aims to look in-depth at the various motorcycle security options available, from traditional bike locks and chains to more advanced electronic systems. Whether you're an experienced rider or new to the world of motorcycling, this guide will help you make informed decisions to safeguard your bike and enjoy peace of mind.

Types of Motorcycle Security

There are a range of motorcycle security options available depending on the level of security you’re looking for. From physical deterrents like locks and chains to advanced electronic solutions such as alarms and GPS tracking systems, some of which can reduce your motorbike insurance premium. 

Disc Locks

Disc locks are small, portable locks that attach to the brake disc of a motorcycle, immobilising the wheel and preventing a motorbike from being rolled away. 

Disc locks lock the brake rotor, making it impossible for the bike to move without removing the lock. They come in different sizes, some with alarm systems, and are a popular choice for quick security when parked for short periods.

Benefits

• Compact and portable: Easy to carry and store.
• Affordable: Generally cheaper than other types of security.
• Visible deterrent: A visual sign to potential thieves.
• Quick to use: Take just seconds to apply.

Downsides

• Limited coverage: Only prevents rolling, not lifting.
• No protection for other parts of the bike: Can be bypassed if the motorcycle is lifted into a van.

Best Use Cases

• Ideal for short-term parking or as an additional layer of security.
• Best suited for urban areas where theft may involve quick roll-away attempts.

Disc locks provide a lightweight, affordable solution for quick stops but should ideally be used alongside other security measures for complete protection.

Lock & Chain Sets

Lock and chain sets are heavy-duty security options that provide a robust method for securing your motorcycle to an immovable object, making theft more difficult.

These sets usually consist of a hardened steel chain and a lock, which can be wrapped around the bike and a fixed object like a lamppost or ground anchor. The strength and length of the chain can vary, offering different levels of protection.

Benefits

• High security: Provides strong, physical protection.
• Versatile: Can secure both the bike’s frame and wheel.
• Difficult to cut: High-grade steel chains are resistant to bolt cutters.
• Visible deterrent: Deters thieves due to its imposing look.

Downsides

• Heavy and bulky: Can be cumbersome to carry on a daily basis.
• Expensive: Higher quality chains and locks come at a premium.
• Vulnerable to cutting tools: While resistant, with enough time and tools, chains can be cut.

Best Use Cases

• Ideal for securing the motorcycle when parked overnight or for long periods.
• Best for high-risk areas or when locking to an immovable object is possible.

Lock and chain sets offer a high level of protection but require a fixed object and can be bulky, making them best for long-term security.

Garage Defenders

Garage defenders are security devices designed to prevent a garage door from being opened, providing a strong layer of protection for motorcycles stored indoors.

Garage defenders bolt into the ground just outside the garage door and block it from being opened by applying a physical barrier. They are designed to protect against forced entry.

Benefits

• Strong physical deterrent: Prevents thieves from accessing the garage.
• Weather-resistant: Most are built to withstand outdoor conditions.
• Simple to use: Easy to apply and remove when needed.
• Can secure multiple bikes: Protects all motorcycles stored in the garage.

Downsides

• Fixed installation: Requires installation, limiting its use to a single location.
• Visible from outside: Can alert thieves that valuable items are inside.
• Limited portability: Not suitable for use outside the home.

Best Use Cases

• Best for home garages where motorcycles are stored overnight or for long periods.
• Ideal for multi-bike households, providing security for multiple vehicles at once.

Garage defenders offer excellent security for home storage but are limited to one location and are not portable, making them suitable for garage-only security needs.

Ground Anchors

Ground anchors are fixed security devices installed into concrete or other hard surfaces, providing a secure point to attach locks or chains to prevent motorcycle theft.

Ground anchors are bolted or cemented into the ground, creating a solid anchor point for securing a motorcycle with a chain or lock. They are commonly used in garages or other secure locations.

Benefits

• High security: Provides a permanent and solid anchor point.
• Difficult to remove: Ground anchors are very hard to tamper with or break.
• Long-term solution: Provides continuous security for home or workplace parking.

Downsides

• Requires installation: Needs to be fixed into the ground, so not portable.
• Location-specific: Limited to where the anchor is installed.
• Cost of installation: Installation can be time-consuming and potentially costly.

Best Use Cases

• Ideal for long-term home parking, garages, or secure parking facilities.
• Best for high-theft risk areas or for overnight security.

Ground anchors are a solid, immovable security option for home or workplace use, providing long-term protection when paired with a good chain or lock.

GPS Tracking Systems

GPS tracking systems allow owners to monitor the location of their motorcycle in real time, offering an advanced security measure for theft recovery.

These systems use GPS technology to track the motorcycle’s location and send alerts if the bike is moved without permission. They often come with additional features like geofencing and tamper alerts.

Benefits

• Real-time tracking: Enables quick recovery of stolen motorcycles.
• Remote monitoring: You can track your bike from anywhere via a smartphone app.
• Tamper alerts: Some systems notify you if someone tampers with your bike.
• Geofencing: Sends an alert if the bike is moved outside a predefined area.

Downsides

• Ongoing costs: Requires a subscription for GPS services.
• Doesn’t prevent theft: Helps in recovery but doesn’t physically stop a theft.
• Battery dependency: Needs regular charging or may drain over time.

Best Use Cases

• Ideal for high-value motorcycles or for use in areas with high theft rates.
• Best for long-distance riders who want peace of mind when parking away from home.

GPS tracking systems are excellent for theft recovery and monitoring but should be used alongside physical deterrents for maximum protection.

Parking Your Motorcycle Safely

Parking your motorcycle securely is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to deter theft. When choosing a parking spot, it’s important to think about both the location and the environment. 

Opt for well-lit, busy areas that are visible to the public, as thieves tend to avoid high-visibility spots. 

If possible, park near CCTV cameras or in designated motorcycle bays. In addition to location, always ensure you use at least one physical security device, like a disc lock or chain, to add an extra layer of protection. 

Key Tips:

• Choose visible, well-lit areas: Park where your motorcycle is clearly visible to others, preferably near CCTV or public spaces.
• Use physical security devices: Always apply a lock, chain, or disc lock when parking your bike to prevent easy theft.
• Avoid isolated areas: Steer clear of quiet or poorly lit spots, as they are prime locations for opportunistic thefts.

Understanding Sold Secure Labels

Sold Secure labels are a trusted security rating system widely used across the UK to assess the effectiveness of locks and other security devices. 

These labels, awarded by the independent testing organisation Sold Secure, categorise products based on their resistance to theft. A product can receive a Bronze, Silver, or Gold rating, with Gold offering the highest level of protection. 

Motorcycle Security FAQs

If you're looking to secure your motorcycle, here are some frequently asked questions to help guide you towards the best security solutions.

What is the best motorcycle ground anchor?

The best motorcycle ground anchors are those with a Sold Secure Gold rating, such as the Oxford Brute Force. These are designed to withstand heavy-duty tools and provide a secure point to lock your bike.

What is the best motorcycle security chain?

A Sold Secure Gold-rated chain offers the highest level of protection, with hardened steel links resistant to cutting tools.

What is the best motorcycle d-lock?

For a motorcycle D-lock, look for Sold Secure Gold-rated options such as the Kryptonite New York M18-WL or the Abus Granit X-Plus 54. These locks are extremely tough and resistant to leverage attacks.

I can't put a decent chain through my bike's frame. What can I do?

If you can’t pass a chain through your bike's frame, secure it through the rear wheel or use a ground anchor combined with a disc lock to immobilise the bike effectively.

Which length of chain is required?

The length of the chain depends on where you’ll be securing the bike. Generally, a 1.5 to 2.5-metre chain is sufficient for securing it to fixed objects like ground anchors or lampposts.

Are motorcycle alarms effective in preventing theft?

Motorcycle alarms can be a good deterrent, but they should be used alongside physical security devices like chains or disc locks. Alarms work best in combination with other methods for maximum security.

Can motorcycle security systems lower insurance premiums?

Yes, using approved security systems like alarms, immobilisers, or tracking devices can lower your motorcycle insurance premiums, as they reduce the risk of theft and enhance recovery chances.