Riding a motorbike can be an affordable, convenient way for students to get around campus. Amidst the concerns of securing motorbikes on campus, students seeking comprehensive guidance can explore resources that not only provide practical advice but also extend assistance with requests like help me write my essay in a professional manner, ensuring a well-informed and articulate presentation of campus security measures. However, motorbikes are also frequent targets for thieves looking for an easy steal. Securing your motorbike properly while on campus is crucial to keeping it safe. Follow this advice to help deter thieves and protect your wheels.
Park in Well-Lit, High-Traffic Areas
Whenever possible, park your motorbike in locations that are visible and well-traveled by students and staff. Thieves prefer secluded spots where they can work undetected. Parking lots near dorms, the student union, and academic buildings often see constant foot traffic during the day. The more eyes on your motorbike, the less likely someone is to mess with it.
Invest in a Quality Lock or Alarm System
Using a cheap lock or chain can be an open invitation for thieves. Spend money on a heavy-duty lock like a U-lock, brake disc lock, or thick chain and padlock. You can also install alarm systems that will sound if someone tampers with your motorbike. The more difficult you can make it for someone to roll or lift your motorbike away, the better.
Always Lock Both Wheels And The Frame
Some thieves look to steal parts like seats and mirrors. Locking just one wheel still leaves the rest of your motorbike vulnerable. Be sure to lock both wheels and connect the lock to a fixed part of the frame when parked. Taking a few extra seconds can save you from returning to find parts stripped.
Park Strategically to Limit Access
When it comes to safeguarding motorbikes on campus, students can access valuable insights and recommendations through various channels, and for those looking to articulate comprehensive advice, collaborating with the best essay writing service ensures a professionally written guide that resonates with readers and promotes campus security awareness. How and where you park your locked motorbike can further boost security. If possible, try to park with the rear tire against a wall or cement barrier. This eliminates access from behind. You can also face your handlebars against a wall which makes lifting the front wheel difficult. Finally, situate your motorbike between two other vehicles, limiting the ability for thieves to maneuver.
Consider a Cover For Your Motorbike
A quality motorbike cover can be another useful deterrent against thieves. It prevents them from clearly seeing the make and model, as well as blocks access to the wheels and undercarriage. Be sure to lock your cover to your motorbike too, so it can’t simply be pulled off. Use a cover that is ventilated though, so it does not trap moisture against the motorbike finish when parked.
Properly Identify Your Motorbike
Having proper identification numbers and contact info on your motorbike helps lead to its recovery if stolen. Be sure the license plate is firmly bolted and locked on your motorbike frame. Consider engraving your driver’s license number onto the frame as well. Finally, keep photocopies of your registration paperwork, vehicle identification number, license plate number, and insurance information – this aids the police if your motorbike does go missing.
Use a GPS Tracking Device
A GPS tracking device attached to your motorbike allows you to remotely monitor its movements. If someone steals your motorbike, you can pinpoint the location for police. Basic tracking units begin around $100, and many connect to apps on your smartphone. Monthly service fees apply, but the peace of mind can be worth the cost.
Never Leave Your Keys in The Ignition
This should go without saying, but never leave your keys sitting in the ignition when parked on campus. Do not even leave them tucked somewhere on the motorbike. Thieves know all the hiding spots. Always remove your keys and keep them securely with you. Steering wheel locks provide another level of deterrent against hotwiring attempts.
Consider Comprehensive Insurance Coverage
Nothing can guarantee your motorbike will never be stolen. However, a comprehensive insurance policy can ease the financial hit if your motorbike does go missing. Comprehensive coverage helps pay for repairs or replacement if your motorbike is stolen or damaged. Review policies carefully, as deductibles, reimbursement limits, and conditions vary widely.
Use Common Sense When Parking Overnight
If you rely on your motorbike for transportation to and from campus each day, you may need to park it there overnight occasionally. Use all the security measures above, but also be realistic. Avoid leaving your motorbike in one spot every night if you can. And if parking needs mean choosing between a hidden back lot or a visible street spot, go with the street.
Securing your motorbike properly while on campus takes some time and effort up front. But those small daily actions insure you do not suffer the huge hassle of having your motorbike stolen. Follow the tips above to ride safely and keep the key to your ride where it belongs – with you.
How to Choose The Ultimate Locks and Chains
The right locks and chains help create a formidable barrier against motorbike thieves. Here are smart tips for choosing the most secure models:
- Opt for disc brake locks over cable locks for wheel locks – they attach to the brake disc and are more resistant to cutting or prying. Go with models from reputable brands like Xena or Kryptonite.
- For chain locks, look for 10mm to 16mm thickness. Manganese steel chains with square links are most resistant to bolt cutters. Measure the length to wrap through both wheels and the frame.
- U-locks with 10mm to 19mm thickness provide optimal security. Smaller U-locks are more portable but may not fit larger motorbike frames. Mounting points matter too.
- Choose U-locks and chains with gold or silver ART (Anti-Rust Technology) or epoxy coatings to prevent corrosion.
- Locks and chains using wafer locks provide less security than pin tumbler or disc detainer systems.
- Pick U-locks, chains and wheel disc locks that have insurance against theft – they will reimburse you up to a certain amount with proof of forcible removal.
How to Disable Your Motorbike When Parked
Beyond locks, additional measures to disable your motorbike will hamper thieves. Try these tips:
- Use a brake disc lock attached to the front or rear wheel. They prevent the wheel from moving.
- Keep the front wheel turned all the way left or right when parking. This makes the motorbike harder to roll away.
- Block the handlebars from turning using a secure clamp. Or turn the handlebars 180 degrees and lock them to the side of the motorbike using a padlock and chain.
- Remove small fuses from the fuse box to disable electrical systems, especially the starter circuit.
- Attach a steel-cable lock to your motorbike’s swing arm near the transmission which prevents moving the rear wheel.
- Consider a removable steering lock rod that inserts through the fork tubes and triple tree. This makes the front end immovable.
- Invest in a wheel clamp “boot” that attaches to the front forks preventing the wheel from moving at all. These are highly visible theft deterrents.
- Use a simple DIY approach and attach brackets near each wheel that allow you to insert a metal pipe through the wheel spokes to keep them from turning.
How to Choose a Good GPS Tracker
GPS trackers provide real-time location monitoring and recovery help if your motorbike gets stolen. Here are key considerations when selecting a tracker:
- Hardwired or battery-powered: Hardwired trackers tap into the motorbike battery and offer continuous operation. Battery versions recharge while the engine runs but have finite operation if stolen.
- Cellular vs. satellite connectivity: Cellular models rely on wireless networks and have lower hardware costs. Satellite-linked units cost more but work anywhere with clear skies.
- Tracking update frequency: The fastest GPS trackers provide live location updates every few seconds. Slower models may update every 2 minutes to save battery life. Frequent updates are better.
- Smartphone connectivity: Many GPS trackers link to apps on your phone for monitoring, alerts and tagging frequent locations. This functionality is useful but costs more.
- Weather resistance: Ensure the GPS tracker is fully sealed and waterproof if mounting externally.
- Ease of concealment: Small trackers hide more easily on a motorbike frame. But be sure placement does not interfere with signals.
- Security: GPS trackers should require PIN codes or keys to disable or remove – you do not want thieves finding and destroying the unit.
- Cost: Basic GPS trackers start around $100, while full-featured models with live streaming can run over $200. Also factor in monthly data fees.
