Advice on moped crime

How to keep yourself safe from thieves riding bikes or mopeds, and how to secure your moped from being stolen.

Street crime using mopeds

Don't become a victim of thieves riding mopeds. Keep yourself safe by:

• Always being aware of your surroundings
• Going hands-free to make a call on your mobile phone
• Being discreet when using your phone outdoors, or keep it out of sight
• Trying not to text or use apps while walking along
• Being extra vigilant at the curb side, bus stops or outside train stations – the edge of the road is the thieves’ favourite spot
• Standing away from the roadside, close to a building or wall and hold your phone in the hand closest to the wall so it’s harder to grab

See the Metropolitan Police’s tips on how to protect yourself from street robbery.

Moped theft

Don't become a victim by having your moped stolen.

Parking

Choose designated parking with a stand and security loop, or if not available, park in areas with lots of people, good lighting and CCTV.

Locks

Use more than one lock, focusing on disc locks and chain locks, fitted tight and through difficult-to-remove parts.

Time

When leaving your bike or scooter for long period or overnight, lock it to something secure and use a motorbike cover. At home, consider using fitted anchors to secure it.

Attention

Use audible alarms where possible to draw unwanted attention to the thieves.

Marking

Mark bike or parts with the vehicle identification number (VIN) number, your postcode or registration number using an ultraviolet marker pen or property marking kit.

Insurance

Some companies will offer discounts on your insurance if you invest in certain security measures, so ask before you buy motorbike or scooter insurance.

Further information

• Home Office - Steer Clear of Bike Crime (pdf, 1.4 MB)
• Metropolitan Police - Preventing motorcycle and moped theft (pdf, 156 KB)
• Lambeth Council - scooter crime news
• Secure by Design - advice on protecting your moped
• Sold Secure is dedicated to reducing the risk of crime by the assessment of security products. Established in 1992 by Northumbria and Essex Police with the Home Office, Sold Secure is now owned and administered by the Master Locksmiths Association.
• Thatcham Research works in close collaboration with car makers, law enforcement agencies and insurers.