Owners of motorbikes are being urged to increase the security of their vehicles.
It comes after a number of motorbikes were recently reported stolen in the city centre, Worksop, Bulwell and Beeston.
One distinct motorbike – a BMW R1250GS – was taken from Coventry Road, Bulwell, around 2.10pm on 23 April.
The motorbike, with the registration FJ73 UUT, has red, white and blue stickers on the front mudguard and front fairings.
Whilst an investigation into what happened is ongoing, police are issuing key advice to ensure motorcycles are as secure as possible.
Riders are advised to:
- Lock – Use a disc lock to help secure the front brake disc, or a grip lock to secure the brake and throttle controls. You could also use a D-lock on the front wheel to stop it being wheeled away.
- Chain – Secure your bike by using a chain lock through the back wheel (the front wheel can be removed). Secure your bike, with the lock taut to an immovable object such as a ground anchor or street furniture. If this isn’t possible, thread the chain through your bike frame and back wheel.
- Cover – Thieves often ‘shop’ for particular bike models. Using a cover instantly makes it less attractive to them. A cover also provides another time-consuming obstacle for the thief.
- Remove the keys – Thieves are often opportunists and so they will look for bikes that are quick and easy to steal first. Remove the ignition keys, even if you are close by or away for a few minutes. It only takes a few seconds for a thief so don’t make it easy for them. Never rely on just using your steering lock to secure your bike as thieves can break the steering lock and simply wheel the bike away.
Inspector John Meanwell, of Nottinghamshire Police, said:
“Thieves only need a matter of seconds to steal a motorcycle, and we know just how distressing incidents of this nature can cause to victims.
“That’s why you can reduce your risk of becoming a victim by taking steps to layer your security, which can also include fitting an alarm, or property marking the bike.
“We will always investigate such reports thoroughly and I would encourage anyone who sees bikes being ridden in an anti-social manner, or riding without numberplates displayed for example, to get in touch.
“As such, we’d be keen to hear from anyone in the area who has any information, saw what happened, or knows where the BMW motorbike is.
“If you have information that could be valuable to the investigation, please call 101 quoting the occurrence number 26*234292, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.“
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