4 ways to boost your security for next to nothing

● Don’t make it obvious

Thieves have to know there’s a bike on your property in order to nick it, so don’t make it obvious. Keep road-facing garages closed, wash it around the back, and don’t make a big deal of warming it up with loads of revs. Think of the little things too – that VR46 on the back of your car only means one thing to sharp-eyed crooks: you’re worth scoping out.

● Make it tough

The best thefts are quick, quiet and easy, so the more you put between your bike and a means of escape, the better. Park cars tight to gates. Use bins to block passageways. Place kids’ bikes and other garage clutter between the bike and the door – make that stuff work for its place in your shed. Thinking outside the box, if you can isolate your garage power supply, turn it off when you’re not in there. If someone wants to get bikes out, they’ll have to do it in the dark and without power tools.

● Neighbourhood watch

We’re all much friendly and neighbourly in these midpandemic times, so why not capitalise on that community spirit and have your neighbours keep a look out for you? Ask them to be vigilant whilst you’re not around and let you know if they see anything suspicious.

● Locks away

When fitting a ground anchor, don’t just place it for convenience. If you can get at it easily, so can crooks. Corners are best – especially if the bike is then chained down over it. No lock or chain is undefeatable, but effective attack relies on access with tools. If you’re locking bikes together, park them tightly on paddock stands or centrestands. Loop the chain through so the lock isn’t easily accessed with anything larger than a hand.