Moto Guardian - Issue 3

MOTO GUARDIAN I S S U E _ 3

F e a t u r e _ 1

NEWS SECTION F e a t u r e _ 2

INSURANCE FEATURE F e a t u r e _ 3

FEATURE ON LOCKS IN ASSOCIATION WITH SQUIRE F e a t u r e _ 4

SOLD SECURE, WHO DOES THE TESTING F e a t u r e _ 5

OUR STORY SOLD SECURE

F e a t u r e _ 1

NEWS SECTION BikeTrac, the pioneers of dedicated motorcycle tracking technology, has joined forces with the Mental Health Motorbike Charity, with the firm’s Business Development Manager, Julie Emmitt completing the charity’s course to become a Mental Health First Aider.

A registered charity, Mental Health Motorbike, support anyone in the biking community who may be in need of support or advice, with their primary aim to reduce suicide in the UK through events and gatherings, peer support groups, training activities, as well as partnerships and collaborations with other organisations and clubs.

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Julie commented, “Like many of us, I have found that time out riding my bike has helped me through some of the tougher times in life. I always say my bike is my therapy, so I jumped at the chance to become a Mental Health First Aider, to allow me to give something back and support others in the biking community who may be having a tough time.

“The course was brilliant, I learnt so much, and it has helped me to be more confident to help others who need it. I really urge anyone that feels they need support, to reach out to the team at Mental Health Motorbike either via the website or at any event where you see one of us wearing the green badge.”

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Mental Health Motorbike is a not for profit organisation run by volunteers who do not take any wage or fee. The charity relies on donations and offers of goodwill. The team offers both emergency help and training via their website.

For more information on Mental Health Motorbike, to reach out for help or to become a Mental Health First Aider like Julie, please visit mhmotorbike.com or go to their facebook page facebook.com/mhmotorbike

F e a t u r e _ 2

INSURANCE FEATURE When buying any security for your bike – from a disc lock to a fully-monitored tracker – the last question you should be asking is how much discount you’ll get on your insurance. Insurance is a complex beast, with every variable affecting policy prices in different ways, so it’s almost impossible to say with any certainty how adding a security device to your bike might affect the price you pay.

When buying motorcycle insurance in the UK, you’ll likely be dealing with a broker (or a broker via a price comparison website) who will take the details you give them and try to find their best policy to suit your needs from underwriters that they work with. These underwriters all have different views and opinions and – most importantly – different attitudes to risk based on their experiences, knowledge and financial constraints. The underwriters will have agreements and terms in place specific to that broker, and each underwriter will probably be more suitable for one customer than another : ∙ Live in a higher risk area? That might mean some of the underwriters don’t want to quote. ∙ Got more than one bike? Not all underwriters will offer a multibike policy. ∙ Have you made a claim in the past? Each underwriter will consider that risk in different ways – some will allow one or two claims, others none. ∙ Under the age of 30? Not all underwriters cater for younger riders. ∙ Got a provisional licence? Again, not all underwriters want to write that risk. ∙ No garage? Same deal applies – some underwriters will offer a price, some won’t. ∙ Own a bike over £20,000? That is not something every underwriter is up for insuring. ∙ Got an electric bike? That’s a whole new ball game, and not every underwriter is ready to play in that space.

The point is, while brokers may have several underwriters available to them, the choice will be determined by the customer’s own circumstances, and all underwriters consider security devices differently.

The cold, hard fact is that a total-loss motorcycle theft means an awful lot to you and me, whereas, to some very large underwriters, the expense of even a £20,000 theft is fairly small when compared to car and home claims, or the millions involved in personal injury settlements, for instance. To most underwriters, motorcycling is a tiny part of their total insurance business, so these companies have to put their resources to best use. Bikes typically have a relatively small impact on the bottom line for most underwriters, so deep-dives into the effectiveness of the latest security devices isn’t money well spent for them.

Why motorcycle security is so important to you Electronic security – like trackers, alarms and immobilisers – are often tested and certified by Thatcham, while hard security – chains, locks and ground anchors – are assessed by Sold Secure. Look for these accreditations when buying, for the confidence that it’s a device that’s proven to offer a certain level of protection.

Unfortunately though, the lines of communication between Thatcham or Sold Secure, brokers, price comparison websites and the motorcycle insurance underwriters are far from perfect, meaning the list of security products you see when looking for a quote can be missing many new – and provably good – devices.

Some discounts are out there, but they can’t be promised. What is certain is that locking your bike up significantly reduces the chances of it being stolen, and using a tracker can make it very likely you’ll have it back very quickly if the worst does happen.

A layered approach to security – as much as you can of a disc lock, a chain and lock, a cover, an alarm, an immobiliser and a tracker – can make your bike less likely to be stolen than the average car, based on data I collected from Bennetts customers. It might not provide you with an immediate discount on your policy, but it can be a lifetime investment that reduces the chances of having to make a claim, hence protecting your noclaims-discount and keeping your future policy prices as low as possible.

John Milbank, Consumer Editor, Bennetts BikeSocial

F e a t u r e _ 3

FEATURE ON LOCKS IN ASSOCIATION WITH squirelocks.co.uk Some other security brands include : mobil.abus.com/uk litelok.com oxfordlocks.co.uk Buyers Guide to Motorcycle Locks. Choosing the right lock for your motorbike is an essential element of your armoury against theft. Different types of locks offer various advantages and disadvantages, and the choice depends on your specific needs and circumstances. Here’s our guide to help you make an informed decision.

Shackle Locks A shackle lock, often referred to as a D-lock or U-lock, is a widely utilised security device designed to safeguard bicycles, motorcycles, and other valuable possessions from theft. This type of lock consists of a U-shaped shackle made from hardened steel or other robust materials, which is closed at one end and secured with a locking mechanism at the other.

IN CONCLUSION Shackle locks are a compelling option due to their cost-effectiveness, strong security features like angle grinder resistance, and user-friendly design, though some riders may find their rigid shape and limited portability a challenge. Chain locks offer versatility and ease of use, but they are best suited for fixed locations due to their weight. Disc brake locks, on the other hand, offer portability and high security but require an additional lock for full protection. Wall/floor anchors, when combined with chain locks, provide excellent security but may pose challenges with their size and fitting requirements. Ultimately, the choice depends on your specific preferences and the level of security you seek.

The beauty of shackle locks is their ease of use, thanks to their simple and straightforward locking mechanism.

However, their biggest advantage over other lock options is their high security-to-cost ratio. For motorbike owners seeking a simple, affordable yet effective solution, shackle locks are certainly worth considering.

Recent advancements in shackle lock technology are their resistance to angle grinders, a common tool used by thieves to cut through locks swiftly. New-generation shackle locks have been engineered to withstand such attacks, providing an additional layer of defence against determined criminals.

Shackle locks do have some drawbacks that should be considered. Their rigid shape can occasionally make locking challenging, especially when trying to secure the bike to various objects or structures. This could be a minor inconvenience, but it’s worth keeping in mind.

Additionally, shackle locks are not the most portable option for riders on the go. Their design and weight might prove cumbersome to carry during rides, particularly for those looking for a lock they can easily take along on their journeys.

Chain Locks When it comes to safeguarding your motorbike, a chain lock presents itself as a versatile and reliable option that can provide both security and peace of mind.

Comprising of a sturdy chain made of hardened steel links which can be wrapped around various components, the

WHAT TO CONSIDER WHEN CHOOSING A LOCK Investing in Quality When it comes to protecting your motorbike from potential theft, investing in a quality lock is paramount. The old adage holds true: you get what you pay for. While it may be tempting to opt for a cheaper lock to save some money, compromising on security is a risk not worth taking.

A high-quality lock, though it may cost more initially, offers superior protection and peace of mind. It serves as a strong deterrent to potential thieves and can significantly reduce the likelihood of your motorbike being stolen. Remember, your motorcycle is an investment, and investing in a top-notch lock is an essential step in protecting it.

The importance of quality materials cannot be overstated. A lock is only as strong as the materials used to construct it. Choosing

lock’s ends are attached, creating a secure barrier against unauthorised access.

One of the key advantages of chain locks is their ability to lock the frame and chassis of your motorbike to an immovable object. This feature ensures that your bike remains firmly secured, deterring potential thieves from attempting to snatch it. Moreover, chain locks are incredibly user-friendly, making them quick, and easy to use.

For those with multiple bikes or looking to secure their bike alongside a friend’s, long chains offer the convenience of securing multiple bikes together, providing a cost-effective and efficient solution.

However, chain locks do have some limitations, most notably that they are primarily suitable for use in one fixed location, such as your home or workplace. Due to their weight and bulkiness, carrying them around during rides can be impractical, making them less suited for on-the-go security needs.

Some disc brake locks are engineered to be angle grinder resistant, providing added protection against cutting tools commonly used by thieves. Additionally, certain models come equipped with built-in alarms, acting as an additional deterrent to potential thieves.

The biggest drawback of disc brake locks is that they only immobilise the bike, which means you’ll need an additional lock or security measure to fix the bike to an immovable object for full protection.

Wall/Floor Anchors When combined with a chain lock, wall/floor anchors offer a high level of security, anchoring your bike to a stationary object. This combination creates a formidable barrier against theft attempts.

Disc Brake Locks Disc brake locks provide a high level of security whilst their compact size and light weight allow for easy portability during rides, offering a quick and convenient security measure. This type of lock is designed to be attached to a motorcycle’s brake disk or depending on the design through the sprocket, preventing the wheel from turning and making it extremely difficult for potential thieves to ride or roll the bike away.

Some anchors can be conveniently fitted to the wall as well as the floor, providing versatile mounting options. Additionally, certain anchors allow enough space for multiple chains, making them suitable for securing multiple bikes at once.

On the downside, some wall/floor anchors can be bulky, which may create a trip or roll-over hazard in certain spaces.

Additionally, they require a concrete floor or masonry wall for secure fitting, and they are only as secure as the fixings used to mount them. Check that the supplied fixings are of high quality and suitable dimension.

a lock made from high-quality and durable materials ensures that it not only withstands the rigors of potential theft attempts but also our damp UK, corrosive environment.

Sturdy materials like hardened steel or super-hard alloys provide the necessary strength and resistance against cutting, grinding, drilling, tampering, and the elements.

Convenience

Security Standards

An alarm lock is a great and inexpensive way to add an additional layer of security to a mechanical product.

However, many cheaper alarm locks are unreliable and alarms that constantly trigger due to wind and unintended movement will quickly drain batteries and fray tempers.

Look for locks accredited by multiple testing bodies such as ART (Holland), SBSC (Sweden), SRA (France), and Sold Secure (UK). The more tests a lock passes, the stronger its security.

Technology Choose locks with innovative features and clever design features to protect against various attack types, including battery-cutting tools. Consider materials like super-hard alloys or ceramic components to thwart power tool attacks.

Opt for lock brands that offer customisation, allowing one key to operate multiple locks, making it more convenient for owners of multiple bikes.

Reliable Alarm Systems

Sustainability Support products made in Europe to reduce emissions and ensure adherence to environmental regulations. Avoid locks made with harmful materials that could impact human health and the environment, watch out for the small print on the packaging which should alert you to such products.

F e a t u r e _ 4

SOLD SECURE, WHO DOES THE TESTING Sold Secure – an independent test & certification body dedicated to reducing the risk of theft by the assessment of security products.

Testing, Assessment and Approval Third party testing provides evidential proof of security and gives the consumer peace of mind that a product is of an appropriate security level for the application, rather than merely relying on the claims of the manufacturer.

Many insurance companies recommend that their customers use Sold Secure approved products by giving discounts on policies, or in some instances insisting that Sold Secure approved products are used.

Secured by Design – the accreditation company from The National Police Chiefs Council (formerly ACPO) – recognise the benefits of Sold Secure testing and use our approval as part of their accreditation process, giving confirmation of the integrity of the product.

The Police, particularly Crime Prevention Officers, also recommend the use of Sold Secure approved products.

Manufacturers and suppliers submit products to Sold Secure for testing and products which have met or exceeded the test requirements will display the Sold Secure logo.

Approval Categories There are multiple specifications that we test to, and each specification uses one of four grades of theft-resistance: Bronze, Silver, Gold and Diamond. Please note however, not all specifications have all four grades.

The test specifications vary in the types of attack and tools used in the test: For example: caravan thieves operate differently to bicycle thieves, so caravan security products will need to withstand attacks using a heavier and more intensive tool list than the tool list for bicycle security products, with each attack also lasting longer. Below are some of the most common categories.

Powered Cycle This category covers all powered cycle types, including motorcycles, motor scooters, e-bikes, and cargo e-bikes.

Sold Secure has 2 grades of Powered Cycle security: Gold & Diamond.

Using a tool list based on police and insurance information, products are tested to prove security for your motorcycle at a grade based on the risk of theft; i.e. the higher the risk, the higher the grade required. There are a number of options for motorcycle & motor scooter security for use at home and when parked away from home.

Sold Secure Cyc le Grades Helping you choose the right lock for your cycle.

The tests are performed to test specifications written in with

Find your Sold Secure input from relevant parties, such as insurers, police forces approved products at and industry specific organisations (such as the Caravan & soldsecure.com >>

Motorhome Club and National Caravan Council for leisure sector related standards for example).

Sold Secure It is important to note that the relevant parties do not include Pedal Cycle manufacturers, as Sold Secure is completely independent.

Sold Secure Diamond Cycle The testing is carried out in-house Pedal with a team of specialist Sold Secure Our highest grade Gold test engineers, all ofCycle whom are either Master Locksmiths aimed in Pedal at very high Best if you have a Silver their own right or are experts in their field. value pedal cycles Sold Secure high value pedal kept in very highPedal Cycle Ideal for lower cycle that you keep Bronze Using this highly risk areas. valueexperienced pedal cycles team of test engineers ensures in a high-risk area.

a medium consistency left andinacts as a “worse case” scenario, due to This grade of risk area like your the of attack Ideal if you leave significant product knowledge andTypically knowledge approval is local town centre. your pedal cycle minimum grade methods. designed to resist for a short time in insurers ask for determined cycle Often the a low risk area like when insuring thieves. minimum grade Testing is performed to our own Sold Secure Test a café. higher value pedal insurers ask for Specifications, but we also test to acycles. range of British and when insuring a Typically European Standards, such as BS EN 14450 for secure safe lower value cycle. lightweight and cabinets. easy to carry.

Furthermore, some Sold Secure specifications refer to British and European Standards such as BS EN 12209, BS EN 12320 & BS EN 1303.

Sold Secure Powered Cycle Gold A high level of protection for your powered cycle (e-bike etc.)

Robust locks with a high level of resistance.

Sold Secure Powered Cycle Diamond Our highest level of security for powered cycles.

Great if you're looking for an extra level of security.

Tested with angle grinders.

How to lock your bike

when parking at home.

Use a chain lock and ground anchor with a D-Lock and a Disc Lock.

Lock your bike in a garage or similar building where you can.

Lock your bike in a well-lit area and use a cover if leaving it outside.

PROTECT

YOUR RIDE

F e a t u r e _ 5

OUR STORY - SOLD SECURE In 1992, as the epidemic of vehicle theft took hold in the UK, two Police forces jointly decided to take action in a bid to turn the tide and set some kind of benchmark for security products.

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A GUIDE TO KEEPING YOUR BIKE SECURE

Sold Secure’s Guy McCaffery, commented, “A large part of our current focus is on raising awareness of what we do, why we do it, and fundamentally, why the

With the backing of the Home Office, Northumbria and

consumer should always choose an approved

Essex Police combined two initiatives: Sold Secure and the

product, over one that is not approved. As we all know,

Partnership Against Car Theft (PACT), ultimately forming

no security product is ever 100% theft proof, but Sold

Sold Secure as an independent test and certification body

Secure approved products have been proven to reduce

for aftermarket vehicle security products.

the chances, for two main reasons.

But as vehicle technology and security improved

“Firstly as a deterrent; thieves know their stuff, so

throughout the mid-late 90s, one of Sold Secure’s key

when they see a Sold Secure Approved product they

remit, hard security product testing of devices such as

know it’s not easy pickings and often move to an

steering locks, became less relevant in the market and so

easier target. …But secondly, and most importantly,

by the end of the decade Sold Secure’s crucial role had all

this deterrent factor is because all products approved

but disappeared.

by us undergo an aggressive and rigorous attack test annually, in a highly accurate replication of what thieves do”

an opportunity to reinvigorate what Sold Secure could offer and bought the entity to develop a new extensive range of

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But in 1999, the Master Locksmiths Association (MLA) saw

test specifications to cover all areas of physical security,

Another key factor is Sold Secure’s advice to use multiple

such as locks, chains, disc locks.

approved security devices, wherever practicable. Again, acting as a great deterrent, thieves who may be prepared

Since that acquisition, Sold Secure has grown and

to attack a single secure lock, will often be deterred by the

evolved, now operating out of a purpose-built test facility

concept of attacking multiple secure locks. Of course, even

at the MLA’s Head Office in Rugby, Warwickshire.

if they do, the time required to steal the bike means they will likely either abandon the attack, or be caught in the act.

The core work covered by the team, means they regularly update test specifications, working very closely with the

Sold Secure’s dedication to crime prevention through

police, to ensure that all test methods are aligned as

third party independent testing, means that when you buy

closely as possible with what thieves are doing in the real

a security product that they have certified, you can be

world; and when there is a need, new test specifications

confident that you have done your utmost to prevent theft,

are written to address new threats identified by the police.

by purchasing the right security product for the job.

LOVE IT LOCK IT BE ITS BE SURE SURE IT’S

SOLD

SECURE soldsecure.com

To learn more about Sold Secure, or to find a Sold Secure Approved product, please visit: www.soldsecure.com or follow us on social media:

facebook.com/soldsecure instagram.com/sold_secure twitter.com/soldsecure

Revolutionising Motorcycle Security A discreet motorcycle tracker that monitors the movements of your pride and joy in real-time, allowing you to view status and journey history 24/7 with notification of unauthorised movements.

KEY

FEATURES:

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

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REAL-TIME MONITORING

24-7 OPERATION CENTER

BIKE DOWN ALERTS

STEALTH INSTALLATION

SELF MAINTAINING

Theft Response Team BikeTrac is able to offer a ‘Response Service’, in the event of Police being unable to attend. This nationwide service, enables an SIA operative to visit the location to secure the machine.

Affordable Two Wheel Tracking An affordable tracking solution designed to focus primarily on security, BikeTrac Lite offers alerts for unauthorised movements with a 24/7 theft response team operated by our Secure Operating Centre. For BikeTrac Lite information visit www.biketraclite.co.uk

B i k eTr a c i s e n d o r s e d b y

BikeTrac Finance BikeTrac 0% finance offer. spread the cost of the device, fitting and your first years subscription over 12 months. Just £39 per month for 12 months with a £52 deposit. Including BikeTrac unit, 1 Years subs & installation. Visit biketrac.co.uk

BIKETRAC LITE FINANCE AVAILABLE Just £27 per month for 12 months with a £46 deposit Including BikeTrac Lite unit, 1 Years subs & installation. Visit biketraclite.co.uk

Whatever you ride keep it safe with our Hard Security range Ground Anchor Kit

COLOUR OPTIONS

BOLT CU T

T

R RESISTAN TE T

BOLT CU T

Grab Bag & Chain

R RESISTAN TE

For more information visit biketrac.co.uk / biketraclite.co.uk or call +44 (0) 1327 317 980