Going to the spot where your bike was and seeing nothing but an empty space is one of the worst feelings. The chances are it has been stolen but all is not lost.
If you keep a cool head and follow some basic steps you’ll greatly increase the chances of getting your bike back.
The folks over at BikerRated.com have written a great and detailed post showing you the steps you need to take when your motorbike or scooter has been stolen.
We’ve summarised their post into the seven main steps:
1. Call the police
If your motorcycle or scooter is in the process of being stolen, call 999. If you have found your bike has been stolen, call the non-emergency number 101 to report it and get a crime reference number.
2. List your bike on BikersUnited.co.uk
Posting on Bikers United ensures your bike is shared on social media, ranks well in Google and gets in front of an audience of bikers who want to help you get your bike back. Bikers United has 1000s of visitors every week.
3. Have a good look around your area
A common tactic for bike thieves is to steal your bike, move it a short distance away and leave it (often under a cover and locked) for 24-48 hours. If it is still there, they assume it doesn’t have a tracker fitted and will then take it to a ‘safe’ location. Scour your local area, you might just find it.
4. Call your insurance company
It’s important to keep your insurance company in the loop if you are going to put a claim in. You will be able to give them details of the theft and the crime reference number.
5. Put up some flyers
We’ve all seen flyers for lost cats and dogs. A few flyers close to where your bike was stolen might give you a useful lead. We’re creates of habit and that daily dog walker might have spotted some activity prior to your bike being stolen or seen your bike being moved.
6. Spread the (digital) word
Grab your Bikers United listing link and share it on your social media channels. Search Facebook for a local motorcycle theft group, like ‘Sussex Stolen Motorcycles’ for example and post your Bikers United link there for people to keep an eye out.
7. Review your security measures
You might get your motorcycle or scooter back but it’s clearly at risk. What are you going to do to stop it being stolen again? This post details the simple security measures that criminals hate. Review your security, work out what went wrong and improve it.
A final word
When it comes to recovering your stolen bike, you can make a difference. Expect the best, plan for the worst, and prepare to be surprised.
You can click this link to read the full detailed article on what to do when your bike is stolen.
Amazing, this is so helpful. Thank you <3