We've talked a lot about skyrocketing vehicle thefts over the past few years - and it's not just cars, SUVs and trucks. Motorcycle theft is up as well, and for the 3rd straight year.
Motorcycle Thefts Up 7 Percent
The National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) reports that according to its 2022 Vehicle Type Theft Report, motorcycle thefts increased seven percent from 2021 to 2022.
In 2022, an average of 4,561 motorcycles were reported stolen each month. Thefts climbed steadily from a low of 2,879 in February, peaking in July at 6,394 and surpassed the monthly average during the warmer season from May through October.
"While we witness the rise in vehicle thefts year after year, we are encouraging all owners, and especially motorcycle riders to take great care in protecting their property," said David J. Glawe, president and CEO of NICB. "Even though you can't completely control when criminals target you or your vehicle, you can help deter would-be thieves by taking proactive, easy, and effective steps to prevent these thefts."
The state with the most motorcycle thefts is, once again, California, with 9,838 motorcycles reported stolen in 2022. This accounts for 30 percent of all motorcycle thefts in the United States. Reporting less than half of California's total thefts, Florida's and Texas' riders experienced the second and third most motorcycle thefts during the same period with 4,563 and 4,145 reports, respectively.
Top 3 States With Most Motorcycle Thefts
- California - 9,838
- Florida - 4,563
- Texas - 4,145
The top 10 states for motorcycle thefts made up 60 percent of the 54,736 motorcycle theft reports in the U.S. in 2022.
As you'll see in the NICB graphic below, the most stolen brand is Honda, followed by Yamaha and Harley-Davidson.
The NICB says more than 40 percent of motorcycles are recovered thanks to the efforts of law enforcement agencies. The NICB says it works with state and federal law enforcement agencies to target criminal organizations engaged in insurance fraud.
Preventing Motorcycle Theft
Here are some NICB tips to help protect your motorcycle from thefts:
- Be cautious when parting with your ride; park in well-lit areas, lock your ignition and remove your keys.
- Lock your bike even when stored in a garage. Investing in an alarm system can significantly deter potential thieves.
- Keep your title secure. Don't store it in your motorcycle's storage compartment.
- By placing unique markings on your motorcycle and documenting them, if your bike is ever stolen, you can use these markings to identify your property.
- Always keep an eye on your vehicle while leaving it idle. Riderless, running motorcycles are prime targets for thieves.
If your motorcycle is stolen, call law enforcement and your insurer immediately. Doing so increases the chance of recovery.
Photo Credit: Tsuguliev/Shutterstock.com.