Maidstone’s motorcycle community is revving up its engines in frustration after a recent spate of thefts. In just one week, eight bikes were stolen from sheds and garages across the town.
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The biggest hit came between Sunday, November 24th, and Tuesday, November 26th, when five bikes – including Honda, KTM, and Husqvarna models – were swiped from an outbuilding on Grove Green Road, Weavering.
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Just days earlier, on Sunday, November 17th, three more bikes – BMW, Ducati, and KTM models – were stolen from a barn near Bearsted Road.
If you’ve seen any of these bikes or have any information about these thefts, Kent Police want to hear from you. Call them on 01622 604100, quoting reference 46/200720/24 and 46/196646/24. You can also tip off Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or online.
Advice to reduce your risk of becoming a victim and to protect your motorcycle:
- Garage and shed alarms as well as low level dusk to dawn lighting will enhance security.
- Using a chain lock through the back wheel to secure your bike, with the lock taut, to a ground anchor also provides extra security.
- A disc lock will help secure the front brake disc and a grip lock will also secure the brake and throttle controls.
- A cover can make bikes less attractive to thieves and also prove a time-consuming obstacle.
- Consider fitting a Thatcham-rated 1 or 2 alarm system with tracking, immobilisation, anti-grab and movement sensors.
- Property marking will make it more difficult for criminals to sell parts on, and less attractive to steal. It will also help police identify parts and return recovered stolen bikes.