Hello All, I just watched a video compilation on youtube of filthy pricks stealing bikes all over the world. Whilst a lot of them could have been avoided by using more than a steering lock, or locking the bike long term to a large object nearby, I did see some that actually got the bikes running. Has anyone had any success installing a security system? Not just one that flashes and makes noise but one that stops the bike running. My 2012 Kawa has a special key, but i'm sure that someone could hotwire it with some experience And if not a security system does anyone else have any advice for parking in public when there is no other option. Discuss....
Seen a video of an S1000R nearly being stolen... big screwdriver and a hammer into the ignition barrel to start the bike. Disc locks and chains through the frame, plus an alarm wired to battery that goes off in someone sits on the bike etc. Bottom line is you will only deter the opportunists... if a pro thief wants your bike they will get it.
I'm no expert on security systems on bikes but many of the locksmiths I've talked to recently have praised modern electronic security systems, especially factory fitted ones for being very, very difficult to remove. So much so that most people just target older or well know vulnerable bikes to steal. In your Kawa's case your special key (assuming you have a factory immobilizer) is more technical than just getting the cut of the key right. Most modern immobilizing systems use a small microcircuit that detects a chip inside the key and then unlocks the electronic immobilization. Even if someone cuts an identical key that is able to turn the ignition lock the bike should not start. They would have to also have a copy of the chip, which unless they have a copy of your unique one is pretty much impossible. To hot wire a system like this you cant just remove equipment associated with the immobilizer, the ignition simply would not work without it. You would have to hack into the bike's immobilizer chip and decoding it. All of this generally means more cost than a stolen bike is worth or you've been robbed by a professional thief. Anyway technical stuff aside I've always worried about parking my ZXR anywhere and leaving it alone. Exactly because of this If you have to park in public insurance is the safest bet for securing your bike
Insurance that includes any modification(s) plus a disc lock - probably the best security you can get, the rest is common sense and not leaving your bike where you are making it easy for them.