Bike industry launches new initiative to combat theft epidemic
New security rating scheme helps bike buyers choose wisely
The Motorcycle Industry Association have launched a new scheme to help bike buyers more easily see what level of security a new bike has before they buy. The scheme is an attempt to help buyers make more of a conscious effort to think about bike security at the time of purchase to help combat the recent increase in motorcycle theft. The vast majority of bikes on sale come with some form of security but there’s often no easy way to see what type it is at a glance – this is where the new scheme steps in. Called MCIA Secured, it’s a rating system that awards stars for each recognised security feature up to a maximum of five (or three for sub-125cc machines). A star is awarded for each security feature, including: an ECE standard steering lock, ignition immobiliser, forensic marking system, alarm and a vehicle tracker – so to receive five stars a bike would need to have all the items fitted. No bikes listed on the scheme currently achieve a 5-star rating. The items can be factory or dealer fitted but the items must be standard across every example for it to gain the star – an optional tracker, for example, cannot be counted. The list of manufacturers signed up includes many of the major players including BMW, Ducati, Kawasaki, Suzuki, Triumph and Yamaha. The MCIA say that they will enhance the scheme as the nature of security evolves. It’s also worth noting that the MCIA does not test the quality of the items – there is no theft test or equivalent like Thatcham ratings for example – it is just a guide as to what is fitted as standard.
The MCIA also hope that, by helping owners choose bikes with increased security as standard, it will not only help to reduce theft in the short term but also encourage manufacturers to improve the quality of security as standard in order to rise up the reported ratings.
A common complaint that has emerged from the increase in bike theft is that many standard ignition locks can be defeated in seconds – often with just a firm twist of the handlebars. If buyers begin to vote with their wallets and avoid bikes will poor security, then it may just prompt the manufacturers into becoming more proactive about security.
‘It will help buyers compare security devices’ MCIA SPOKESMAN
‘The MCIA hope it will reduce theft’