Sadly, a huge number of used motorcycle for sale and used scooter for sale are stolen in the UK every year, of which 80% are from the owner’s home and 85% are never recovered. This not so surprising when it is revealed that about half of these owners did not lock up their bikes.

If it is discovered that your bike or scooter was stolen when it wasn’t locked then your motorcycle insurance will probably not pay up, leaving you with no bike and no money to buy a new one. If you don’t already have bike insurance, contact any motor insurance provider as many UK car insurance companies also offer excellent rates on motorcycle insurance.

According to police, scooters are usually taken by opportunist thieves, while motorcycles are stolen by professionals who break them down for their spares.

Protect your precious bike from theft, and dismantling, with some of these useful hints.

Park your bike out of sight when at home, preferably in a garage. Consider carrying a bike cover which covers the whole bike, even the wheels. Thieves often steal to order, and will move on quickly if they can’t easily identify your motorcycle.

Never leave your keys with your bike, not even for a moment.

Only buy used motorcycle parts if you know exactly where they came from. A lack of demand will lead to a decrease in bike theft across the UK.

Motorcycle security devices are available so consider installing one of these devices on your bike for sale. A combination of marking, electronic and mechanical devices is the best option, as it not only protects your bike for sale should someone try to steal it, but it also deters thieves in the first place. These devices can even qualify you for a drop in your premium costs.

A real deterrent to the professional thief, proprietary part marking systems improve the chance of getting your bike back if it’s stolen.