Silver Wing Theft Risk?

Since my used silver wing is new to me I am paranoid it might get stolen.

Are my fears un founded. Any simple ways to discourage theft?

I am taking to to work this week end on the grave yard shift in the Hospital ER. We have a roving security guard and it's in a 55,000 mid size town in North Central Idaho.

Unless they are knowledgeable about what it is I wouldn't be too worried. Maybe a nice cable lock would be enought to discourage them. Most bike theives are looking for something they can part out for good money. SW parts are usually not on their radar. But, I will add this disclaimer, some people will steal anything and a little caution is always good.
Where in Idaho?

Bob

I suggest you lock the forks and park in a well lit area of your parking area, near the guardhouse if there is one. That should keep anyone away that is not absolutely determined to steal your bike. If you want that extra level of protection, you can buy such things like a disc brake lock that, when locked in place, keeps the wheel from rotating. It will not keep someone from putting it into the back of a pickup truck and hauling it away... that's why you park in a well lit area.

I don't ever remember seeing a forum post about someone stealing a silverwing, so I don't think it is a real common occurance. You'll just have to decide where your comfort level is in terms of protection.

I wouldn't worry----get full coverage insurance---should be about $200 a year from Geico.

SilverWing is probably not valued by stealers....sometimes outside of motels I would/will lock steering head.

I've been doing this for 56 years---over 75 new bikes, never had one stolen. I generally buy bikes that aren't popular for crooks. My new NT Honda did not fly off showroom floors----don't think it is desired on the hot market.

x

Speaking of Insurence, I am with Gico and I called them about the Silverwing, I was quoted over 300 dollars for full coverage! I backed right off to liability fast. I was just thinking about it today that I pay 344.00 every 6 months for my SUV. There has to be a mistake.

How about bringing the security people a plate of cookies? Disclaimer: I work night security and might be a little biased. Yum....cookies!!! :lol!:

We got three security people. A gay and a gal and a part time alternate guy. They all like me. And would take notice or anyone messing with my bike but they are not always outside.

Mike

x

SilverwingInIdaho wrote:

We got three security people. A gay and a gal and a part time alternate guy. They all like me.

Mike

SilverwingInIdaho wrote:

Speaking of Insurance, I am with Gico and I called them about the Silverwing, I was quoted over 300 dollars for full coverage! I backed right off to liability fast. I was just thinking about it today that I pay 344.00 every 6 months for my SUV. There has to be a mistake.

Nope! I have full coverage with Geico as well, but im paying 265 per YEAR. 4 Payments of like 66-68 bucks, +5 for splitting up payments.

Heres the kicker, 1 of my GSXR;s would be 5300 for 6 months with Geico! No kidding! really! So farm bureau servises gets those!

A couple thoughts...

First, for the insurance, you might want to contact an independent insurance agent. They'll find you the best deal around, since they can represent more than one company. I pay about $115 a year for full coverage...the same coverage I have on my cars.

Regarding the bike...just take a look at how easy it is to sell a Silverwing...or any maxi-scooter. We love them. But the general public that is interested in a motorcycle doesn't even have them on their radar. So there's no market for your "hot" scooter. They'll pass it by. Especially if you park next to a Hayabusa.

And how heavy is it? If they want to steal a bike, they can find lighter bikes that are easier to turn over on the black market.

So relax. Just park it near where a lot of people are going by. Vandalism would be more my worry.

Chris

I thought most insurence places won't cover a bike. Other then GICO who else will cover a bike?

Mike

Progressive, Allstate to name 2.

Allied Insurance. They don't advertise...and don't have a cute gecko or nice looking lady on the payroll...and they have much cheaper rates.

It doesn't hurt that I have a relative in the insurance business who steers me to the best policies.

Chris

Daboo wrote:

A couple thoughts...

First, for the insurance, you might want to contact an independent insurance agent. They'll find you the best deal around, since they can represent more than one company. I pay about $115 a year for full coverage...the same coverage I have on my cars.

Regarding the bike...just take a look at how easy it is to sell a Silverwing...or any maxi-scooter. We love them. But the general public that is interested in a motorcycle doesn't even have them on their radar. So there's no market for your "hot" scooter. They'll pass it by. Especially if you park next to a Hayabusa.

And how heavy is it? If they want to steal a bike, they can find lighter bikes that are easier to turn over on the black market.

So relax. Just park it near where a lot of people are going by. Vandalism would be more my worry.

Chris

+1 Around here they love stealing scooters seemingly just to have a ride, or something to steal. But im like the OP, im paranoid about getting it stolen sometimes

Hospital I work at is two blocks from a big State college so someone might think it's cute to move it a block or two on me some night. Or we might have some inner city kids in town with hot wire skills who might need some transpo for a few days.

I'll call Allstate monday about rates. Thanks for the suggestion.

Mike

Don't you guys over the pond have "Go compare or Compare the market" websites like we do here? I pay $150 a year , fully comprehensive.

Ian

goldwinger wrote:

Don't you guys over the pond have "Go compare or Compare the market" websites like we do here? I pay $150 a year , fully comprehensive.

Ian

Hey, we're in the colonies mate, just say it. I was already with Gico and it was cheap so I just naturally called then when I got my Silverwing.

Mike

Back on thread, I assume you guys Stateside don't have the HISS system fitted!

It's all I use. That and insurance what else does a rider need???

I really must find out how to use that.

MikeO wrote:

I really must find out how to use that.

Mike, assuming you're not joking............
Press the right-hand button on the dash, hold it until the red light comes on. If you're locking the steering, do that, then take the key out. The light will start to flash - job done! Light goes out when you put the key in again.

MikeO wrote:

I really must find out how to use that.

Mike, it's sooooo easy. I use it every time. I never bother with the ignition barrel lock now.

Here's how.

Ignition 'On.'

Ensure you have total mileage set on Ode.

Press and hold the right button on the consul.

The red HISS light should then illuminate, it will then flash every few seconds for 24 hours then stop. The system will still be active.

Thanks, Doug.
I suppose I should read the handbook.

I have Liberty Mutual and have full coverage inccluding towing on both the cage and the swing. I pull the full back off in about November when I'm done riding for the season and just leave storage on it ... still full coverage for damage, theft, etc, just no collision (can't collide what ain't moving!) So that cuts yearly costs down some. I just make a phone call in the spring when it's time for Big Red to hit the road again. No problems!!

I have been fiddling with the ignition lock with no luck too. I'll try the right hand button. Don't drain the battery does it?

Mike

SilverwingInIdaho wrote:

I have been fiddling with the ignition lock with no luck too. I'll try the right hand button. Don't drain the battery does it?

HISS was only available in the European models.

MikeO wrote:

Thanks, Doug.
I suppose I should read the handbook.

+1

Well, I learn something new every day here.

On my Goldwings, the HISS activated every time I switched off and I presumed the Swing was the same. DOH.
HISS will now be activated as described........

Thanks guys.

Ian

I think that the HISS does activate every time the ignition key is removed, it's just the red flashing light that you activate by fiddling with the buttons.

I still can't even get the front steering to lock. I can do it on my Silver wing copy.

Mike

honda_silver wrote:

SilverwingInIdaho wrote:

I have been fiddling with the ignition lock with no luck too. I'll try the right hand button. Don't drain the battery does it?

HISS was only available in the European models.

I used to worry about my little 150cc scooter. Two people could pick it up and throw it in the back of a truck and zoom off, so I used to lock it to a post or something. Not fool proof but it would take a little time and maybe discourage someone.

Swing is so much heavier BUT so much more valuable so it has full replacement coverage. Sometimes people don't want to steal to use or resale, they just want to take for the purpose of taking and trashing. I love my 'swing and couldn't stand to see it abused. Also replacing without full coverage insurance would not be feasible for me.

I try to park it in a clearly visible place and usually don't drive at night so I don't worry a lot. I do still carry a cable and lock, just in case I can't get a good parking place and I just hope I can make a thief think twice and walk away.

I alway use the parking break, not easy to see the handle and might fool the uneducated.

spike wrote:

I alway use the parking break, not easy to see the handle and might fool the uneducated.

Great idea! Never thought of that but anything that takes time is a deterrant to a thief

I find that a good bit of cracks, scrapes and damage to the plastics makes the Swing so much less desirable to thieves!

If it really is a problem perhaps go back to a less expensive ride!

Insurance is peace of mind. The bike is metal, plastic and rubber. You are the important element.

Stop worrying about theft. Big locks, bright, busy locations and secure your machine to something solid.

Life is too short to be worrying about inanimate objects.

matthew wrote:

I find that a good bit of cracks, scrapes and damage to the plastics makes the Swing so much less desirable to thieves!

One advantage of keeping the thing for a long while and using it as it was intended.

:flower:

spike wrote:

I alway use the parking break, not easy to see the handle and might fool the uneducated.

That is among the things I do, including using the kill switch to shut the bike off. I was always taught that the stupid thief would forget about this one element. But I sure wish we had something similar to the locking ignition "door" that the Burgmans have.

I park my scooter with the parking brake on, and the fork locked. It only takes a few seconds and would make the bike difficult even for two guys to get it onto a pickup. I doubt anyone who didn't know about it wouldn't find the parking brake, it's not very obvious. With the fork lock on you could only push it in circles with difficulty and that's assuming the thieves knew about the parking brake. They'd probably think it was in gear and wouldn't move.

Add to that the fact that a majority of motorcycle riders in this country would think it would be 'sissy' to be seen on a scooter. Most of them think a scooter is a scooter and that you don't need a motorcycle endorsement to ride these 50cc bikes. I really can't imagine one being stolen, they aren't popular, there's no black market selling parts since there's no market for the scooters themselves in most of the US.

exavid wrote:

I park my scooter with the parking brake on, and the fork locked. It only takes a few seconds and would make the bike difficult even for two guys to get it onto a pickup. I doubt anyone who didn't know about it wouldn't find the parking brake, it's not very obvious. With the fork lock on you could only push it in circles with difficulty and that's assuming the thieves knew about the parking brake. They'd probably think it was in gear and wouldn't move.

Add to that the fact that a majority of motorcycle riders in this country would think it would be 'sissy' to be seen on a scooter. Most of them think a scooter is a scooter and that you don't need a motorcycle endorsement to ride these 50cc bikes. I really can't imagine one being stolen, they aren't popular, there's no black market selling parts since there's no market for the scooters themselves in most of the US.

Maybe they just want to do some joy riding. Boy wait till they squeeze the left clutch lever. Won't they be surprised!

I've used my handlebar lock once or twice through 3 Silver Wings. Who's going to steal one of those? My BMW 650 GT locks in place when the side stand is down. I figure any potential thief isn't going to figure that out, and if they do, they won't get far pushing a 575-lb. machine with a cumbersome floorboard impeding every step. South Florida isn't exactly a low crime area, but I've never been worried (Allstate insurance for $103 a year is very calming). On the other hand, 50cc scooters are stolen every day.

"Add to that the fact that a majority of motorcycle riders in this country would think it would be 'sissy' to be seen on a scooter."

Truth. The "great" American heritage of Brando and "The Wild Ones" and Hell's Angels says the bigger and louder your motorcycle, the more of a manly man you are. Hogwash.

I often smile to myself when a big suburban yacht bike bike rolls by with its rider's nose in the air, not about to deign recognition upon a lowly scooter. Fact is, my reaction time in an urgent situation is WAY faster than his, because I don't have to figure out a shifting response. I stop. I go. Instant options. In any quick reaction situation, my fingers are already curled over the brake levers, and you have a lot more control of your hands than your feet. I'm also riding with ABS, traction control, live tire pressure readings, etc.

I'm riding the future and Mr. six shifts out of every red light is stuck in the mud of the past.

Ofcourse all the locks in the world won't stop a determined scooter thief or thieves who come equipped for the job and can spirit it away in the back of a van. To any passerby it's just a broken down scooter being pushed into a van on it's way for repairs.

Or an opportunist thief frustrated by his attempts to steal your scooter can still damage it, vandalise it, or simply just push it over off it's stand.

Then of course if he does manage to start the scooter and ride off somewhere that has no mandatory helmet laws and riders normally wear shorts and T shirts, he blends right in and doesn’t draw much attention to himself. Or he might wear a helmet simply to avoid facial recognition on security cameras.

Scooters are stolen to order, and to carry out smash and grab jewellery raids and other crimes, they can later be sold on, or broken down for parts. How would you ever know if that the Silver Wing rear wheel you bought off eBay or through online ads came from a scooter stolen for just that purpose.

I have a tracker fitted to my Forza, and 24 hour control room surveillance monitoring it's location, I can look at aerial photos of it's current location from my iPad or iPhone, and get calls or text alert from the controllers monitoring it's movement.

I had one early last month because they'd tracked the Forza it to a North Sea ferry I'd boarded. But I still use always use the steering lock, turn off the ignition Smart key , and use one of a couple of ABUS chains I have.

My tuppence worth. Use the steering lock, put a heavy duty chain through one of the wheels and if possible loop it around a lamp post or something like it. Use a disc lock.

Most bike thefts are done by 'lifting' the bike into a van anyhow and the thieves now have heavy duty mini grinders to cut through chains.

If they want it, they'll take it. As mentioned above the SW is not greatly sought after and if you're parked next to a top of the range sports bike, chances are they'll prefer that one!

5 words
Center Stand Anti Theft Device


http://malaguti-spidermax.blogspot.com/2010/08/center-stand-anti-theft-device.html

I had one of those center stand locks on my Vespa P200E. The wheels did not have openings for a locking device. But looking back, I dont think anyone could have figured out how to ride it IF they managed to even start the Vespa.

sc00ter
And to work out the gear changes Still love riding my PX (totally opposite to everything on the Swing.

I've got one of these, and it seems to work. The best things about it is that you don't get dirty when you lock it, like running a chain through a wheel or putting on a disk lock, and it's very easy to do from the side of the bike. You can lock a jacket or helmet to the bike as well and lock it to an object with a cable. So it gets used a lot more than a disk lock that I had to convince myself to use. I haven't had my Silverwing stolen. Then again, it wasn't stolen before I got this. My ex-wife has had a lot of scooters stolen, and she put one of these on her Majesty, and that's the only bike she's managed to keep. Of course, it helps if you remove the keys.  I've seen a lot of these on bikes left overnight on the sidewalks in Italy.

That's different never saw that kind of lock before. Whats it locked to under the seat? Helmet holder? or ???? Most anything that discourages an easy theft will be left alone.

Center stand lock is new to me also. Good idea.

Piaggio makes one of those seat to grip locks for my Liberty but I ended up with a disc lock with a reminder cable. My wife might pick one of those seat to grip locks for her Silverwing though, and if she does I'll post a review of it. Oh, and GoonerKev! Whats more fun than a vintage Lammy or Vespa with grip shift? Column shift on old cars! I owned a few 60's era Chevy vans and all of them had 3 on the tree, one even had 4 on the tree, a highway 4th gear! A friend wanted to borrow one of my vans once. I tossed him the key not thinking anything of it. I hear it start, then grind-grind! I go outside and ask whats up. He "cant get it in drive"? He thought it was a automatic, because every time he was in it with me driving he just assumed I was shifting thru the 1 to 3 automatic, and I never missed a gear or had it hop around at start. I had to take him around the block to explain it. He drove it like a pro after driving class!

sc00ter
Love the grip shift, bought my PX in 2010 (2nd hand) had not ridden one in 39 years) but it all came back in minutes. I have to remind myself on how to change gears when I pick one bike to go out and have a ride out, whether it's the PX, Yamaha Virago 535, Scomadi 200TL (auto) or the good old Silverwing those bar cable locks are on most scooters when there's a meet up in Brighton, loads of people use them, simple and useful.

I have this small sticker attached on a visible place. Metrak system is a service with many good benefits, so please read what's behind the link. The gps protection is just one surplus among the others.  https://www.metatrak.co.uk/motorcycle--scooter.html