Police urge motorcycle owners to take precautions after theft reports in Milton Keynes

Police are urging motorcycle owners in Milton Keynes to strengthen their security following a number of reports of bike thefts in the area.

Officers say a few straightforward precautions can make a motorcycle less attractive to thieves. Owners are advised to use a quality chain, disc lock or ground anchor where possible, and to secure their bike to a fixed object when parked.

An approved tracker, alarm or immobiliser can add another layer of protection. Police also recommend parking in well-lit, busy places or secure parking areas, and using a cover to hide a motorcycle’s make and model.

Owners should never leave keys in the ignition or an engine running unattended. Those with keyless motorcycles are advised to store their keys in a signal-blocking pouch when not in use.

Keeping a record of the registration, VIN and frame numbers, along with recent photographs, could help identify a motorcycle if it is stolen.

Police are asking people to report anyone interfering with a motorcycle, behaving suspiciously near motorcycle parking areas or loading a bike into a vehicle in unusual circumstances. Suspicious activity can be reported via 101 or online; anyone witnessing a crime in progress should call 999.

“Working together helps keep our communities safe and makes it harder for criminals to operate,” a spokesperson said.