Motorcyclists
Information for motorcyclists and staying safe on Scotland's roads.
On this page:
Is your motorcycle a target for thieves?
Motorcycle crashes can be serious. Motorbike riders should realise what they can and can't do and be careful.
Most road crashes can be avoided. They often involve basic mistakes by the rider.
Road safety advice
A lot of collisions and deaths in Scotland involve motorbikes.
Motorbike riders are more vulnerable on the roads than car drivers. Weather conditions changing, speeding and poor judgement in overtaking all add to that danger.
There are a number of things you can do to reduce the risk of crashing:
- Take time on bends on country roads
- Take extra care at junctions
- Take care when overtaking
- Only overtake when it is safe
- Know your motorcycle and what to do if you feel like you are losing control.
Clothing is important for you being seen and for your safety. During the day you should ensure you are wearing bright colours over your protective clothing. In the evening reflective clothing should be worn. A helmet is required by law.
Is your motorcycle a target for thieves?
Motorcycles and scooters are an easy target for thieves but theft does not have to be inevitable, a few simple steps could reduce your chances of becoming a victim.
Security tips when out and about
- Ensure your bike is fitted with a combined alarm and immobiliser
- Fit a tracker
- Attach a combination of chain, disc lock and U-lock. Do not rely on one device, the more security placed on your bike, the less attractive it is to a thief. The longer it takes to overcome the security, the more of a deterrent it is
- Try to park under street lights
- When applying your locks, ensure they are secured to a solid anchor point or a permanent piece of street furniture. Keep the lock off the ground where possible as this makes it difficult to cut off.
- Cover your motorcycle and ensure the cover is attached to the security device
- If possible use Thatcham , Sold Secure or Secured By Design approved devices. These have been industry tested and are generally agreed to be amongst the most robust security devices available.
- Ensure you always activate the steering lock
- Do not leave your helmet or other possessions on the motorcycle or in luggage space or panniers.
- Look out for car parks that are accredited to the Parkmark scheme, as they are safer places to park vehicles. Log onto parkmark.co.uk for a list of car parks on your area
- Be vigilant, ensure that you are not being followed home and check for suspicious items attached to your motorcycle or transporting vehicle/trailer that could be used to track your whereabouts
Social Media
The increase in use of Social Media and GPS Tracker apps are making it easier for criminals to plan their thefts from the comfort of their home. Think about what you share on any app. and regularly review your security settings - make sure your posts do not identify your home.
Tracking Devices
Tracking devices are an effective covert security measure. Although they may not prevent a theft, they assist Police in tracing and recovering vehicles quickly.
Marking and Identification Systems
Datatag ID - Datatag is a piece of technology which can be attached to various parts of your motorcycle. It comes in different forms, dependent on what is most appropriate and is unique to each individual.
Datatag assists Police identify the owner of the vehicle should it be stolen and later recovered even if the motorcycle has been taken apart.
For more information on this product, please visit www.datatag.co.uk
Alternatively, you can mark your motorcycle by adding your own unique markings. For example, mark your postcode or registration number on various parts of the bike.
Security Tips at Home
If you have a garage, shed or storage area consider securing your motorcycle there.
- Fit a hasp and padlock with dome headed, non-return screws to prevent tampering. Consider Sold Secure soldsecure.com or Secured by Design www.securedbydesign.com products
- Secure windows and don’t enable people to see inside with curtains or opaque film. Fit grills, heavy mesh or reinforced glass
- If you have a house alarm consider extending it to cover, garages and out buildings
- If your garage adjoins your home and there is a through door it should be external quality and kept lock
- Secure your bike within the storage area with a ground anchor and chain
If you have any information in relation to stolen motorcycles please contact Police Scotland via 101 or 999 in an emergency
Report anonymously via the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111
