Warning for moped and motorbike owners in Lincoln

We are warning moped and motorbike owners about a rise in thefts over the past four days in Lincoln city centre.

We have received reports of 10 different thefts from the residential areas of the city centre since Tuesday this week (20 December). The thefts have included mopeds as well as lower-powered motorcycles.

We have recovered several mopeds while other bikes are still outstanding.

At this point we are keeping an open mind about the circumstances and the people responsible, but we are considering the possibility that they are linked.

We believe that someone in our local community will know who is carrying out these thefts and we would ask that anyone who has information to come forward.

We have security advice on our website to help you reduce your risk of becoming a victim which includes taking steps to layer your security through the lock, chain and cover method:

• Lock

Use a disc lock to help secure the front brake disc, or a grip lock to secure the brake and throttle controls. You could also use a D lock on the front wheel to stop it being wheeled away.

• Chain

Thieves often steal a bike by breaking the steering lock and wheeling it away. Use a chain lock through the back wheel (the front wheel can be removed). Secure your bike, with the lock taut to an immovable object such as a ground anchor or street furniture. This will stop thieves from cutting a lock trailing on the ground using an angle grinder. If this isn’t possible, thread the chain through your bike frame and back wheel.

• Cover

Thieves often ‘shop’ for particular bike models. Using a cover instantly makes it less attractive to them. A cover also provides another time consuming obstacle for the thief.

Unfortunately security measures can’t guarantee your bike won’t be stolen but, by using multiple security measures, you can make it harder and less attractive for thieves.

You can also take other steps such as removing the keys, using a steering lock, fitting a quality Thatchcam approved, professionally fitted alarm, property marking as much of your bike as possible and where possible storing it in a garage or shed.