Bedfordshire Police is warning motorcycle owners to take extra precautions to secure their vehicles after recording a rise in the theft of scooters, mopeds and low powered motorbikes.
Eighty-four vehicles of this type have been stolen throughout the county with two thirds of them being taken from areas in Luton such as Stopsley and Round Green.
The bikes taken have included brands such as Piaggio, Yamaha, Gilera, Kawasaki and Honda.
Most of the thefts have taken place during the hours of darkness and on some occasions the vehicles have been located having been abandoned after possibly being used by joy riders.
Here is some security advice to help motorbike owners keep their vehicles safe: Don’t make it easy for thieves - make sure you secure your bike with a strong, good quality security device and make sure this is also attached to a well anchored point.
Thieves don’t like to be seen - if you park on a road make sure you do so in a well-lit area.
Don’t leave your ignition key where thieves can gain access to it – keep all keys out of sight and never leave them with your vehicle.
Keep your vehicle out of sight – if you have a garage use it and secure it with a good quality locking system.
Fit your vehicle with an alarm and use it.
If anyone would like further crime reduction advice they can contact Bedfordshire Police on 101. Anyone with information about those who are involved in this type of crime can also contact Bedfordshire Police, in confidence, on 101 or text information to 07786 200011.
Alternatively, you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.