SIMPLE TIPS TO PROTECT YOUR RIDE

Millions of dollars’ worth of motorcycles, scooters and parts are stolen in Virginia each year. The National Insurance Crime Bureau reported 871 motorcycle thefts and 255 recoveries in Virginia in 2019.

The keys to theft prevention are similar for all vehicles. Here are a few tips to help you protect your ride.

FREE VIN STICKER SHEETS

Since 1954, each vehicle offered for sale in the United States is required to have a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) assigned—and this includes motorcycles and scooters. (To learn more about VIN click here.)

If you own a motorcycle or scooter, we would like to send you a free Theft Prevention Packet that includes a custom, engraved VIN sticker sheet for your ride along with instructions on how and where to apply your stickers. VIN stickers act as a deterrent for thieves as well as helping to identify the bike parts if they are stolen.

Simply fill out the form below to request your free theft prevention packet..

Once the request is received, your free sticker sheet and Theft Prevention Packet will be processed and mailed to you within a few weeks.

Owner Name*
Email
Phone Number*
Address*
Street Address Address Line 2 City State / Province / Region ZIP / Postal Code
Motorcycle Year*
Make**
Model**
License Plate**
Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)*
I am the owner of the above-listed vehicle, hereby give permission to have my vehicle’s Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) printed on permanent labels to be applied to the motorcycle surfaces at my discretion. I agree to release and hold harmless the Virginia State Police, its officers, employees, volunteers, assignees and agents, and all other participants from any and all claims, including but not limited to claims for personal injury or property damage arising from the glass etching or label application.
Untitled*
- *I agree to the above
Name
This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

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Common Sense

Common sense and good habits are essential to preventing theft.

Take your keys or take your chances

Always lock your handlebars and take your ignition keys with you. Control access to your keys so unapproved copies can’t be made. Be sure you have a copy of the ID for anyone test riding a motorcycle you are trying to sell.

PARK IN A PROTECTED AREA

Avoid parking in dark, secluded area. Whenever possible, park near a street lamp or store front. A garage is even better. And check on your motorcycle periodically.

Don’t leave valuables in plain sight

Remove all valuables from your motorcycle. If you must leave a helmet or jacket, secure them with a lock. Use a cover to make your bike less visible. Every effort you take to protect your vehicle is an obstacle a potential thief would have to overcome.

DETERRENTS

Thieves prefer an easy target. Here are some steps you can take to make stealing your ride a little tougher.

VIN STICKERS

HEAT offers free, custom engraved VIN stickers to make your motorcycle or scooter identifiable and therefore less appealing to a theft.
Click here to request a VIN Sticker

Locks

Physically lock your bike to a stationary, immovable object. Physical barriers such as brake disc locks are great theft deterrents for motorcycles ad scooters.

Alarms

There are alarms on the market that are specifically designed for motorcycles.

Technology

GPS TRACKERS

There are several aftermarket companies make subscription-based, hardwired GPS trackers for motorcycles and scooters.

KILL SWITCHES

Although they are uncommon, kill switches and immobilizers are an option for motorcycles

Prevent Motorcycle & Scooter Theft