BIKERS are urged to protect their vehicles following a flurry of thefts in Runcorn.

Officers are reminding residents to protect their motorbikes from theft in the wake of the thefts in the area.

Detective Inspector Clare Coleman said: “While we continue to investigate the thefts we would urge residents to be vigilant and to take some simple steps to make it more difficult for thieves.”

While security measures can’t guarantee a bike won’t be stolen, by using multiple security measures, it can make it harder and less attractive for thieves to target a bike.

Police have issued a number of tips people can take to keep thieves from motorbikes:

• Use a disc lock to help secure the front brake disc, or a grip lock to secure the brake and throttle controls.

• Thieves often steal a bike by breaking the steering lock and wheeling it away. Use a chain lock through the back wheel (the front wheel can be removed). Secure your bike, with the lock taut to an immovable object such as a ground anchor or street furniture. This will stop thieves from cutting a lock trailing on the ground using an angle grinder. If this isn’t possible, thread the chain through your bike frame and back wheel.

• Thieves often ‘shop’ for particular bike models. Using a cover instantly makes it less attractive to them. A cover also provides another time consuming obstacle for the thief.

• Remove the keys

Fitting an alarm can be a deterrent to thieves.

• Consider fitting a Thatcham-rated 1 or 2 alarm system with tracking, immobilisation, anti-grab and movement sensors can help protect and trace your vehicle.
Property mark the parts

• Marking as much of your bike as possible will make it more difficult for criminals to sell parts on, and therefore less attractive to steal. It will also help police identify parts and return recovered stolen bikes.

When at home the best place to keep your motorcycle, moped or scooter is in your garage or shed.

• Fit a garage door defender or upgrade garage door locks.

• Garage and shed alarms as well as low level dusk to dawn lighting will also enhance security.

• Motorcycle lockers are also available to store your bike at home.

• If you don’t have an outbuilding or shed, park it in an area near to your home where it’s well overlooked with good lighting.

If you see suspicious activity call police on 101.

Alternatively information can be given anonymously by contacting Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.