18/05/2011
By Emma Sword
People are being warned about an increase in the number of motorbike thefts in the UK.
Figures from vehicle checking company HPI show that one in five vehicles stolen are motorbikes, despite them making up just 1 per cent of traffic on the roads.
Motorbike thefts accounted for a fifth of overall vehicle thefts last year, up 17 per cent on figures from 2006.
As well as looking for the best motorbike insurance quotes, people looking at buying a second hand machine are being urged to remain cautious.
HPI urged consumers to consider using their Bike Check, which will check whether the motorbike has been stolen.
"Unfortunately while cars have become more difficult to steal, motorcycles remain an easy target for thieves," says Nicola Johnson, consumer services manager for HPI.
"Bikes are smaller and less secure than cars making them easier to steal and move on which presents a huge risk to consumers. Buying a stolen bike means consumers could lose the bike and the money they paid for it when it's returned to the owner," she added.
