| | Biker News - Regularly updated
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- Challenger brands from China were at a proportionally higher risk of motorcycle theft than established makes during 2024
- Analysis of DVLA data compares reported thefts with registered bikes to assess each model’s relative risk of being stolen
- 1-in-8 owners of Tianying bikes were the victim of theft in 2024
- Honda PCX the most stolen overall, but Honda SH350 statistically more likely to go missing, with 1-in-9 examples stolen last year
- Suzuki, Kawasaki and Triumph the volume brands least likely to be stolen
- BSA the least stolen brand overall, with just 1-in-3217 reported missing
- Triumph Rocket III, the world’s largest-capacity production motorcycle, is proportionally the least stolen bike in the UK
Challenger motorcycle brands entering the market from China and elsewhere were at a proportionally higher risk of being stolen last year than more established makes, analysis of DVLA data has shown. By contrast, owners of large-capacity and classic bikes were statistically the least likely to fall victim to motorcycle theft, with the Triumph Rocket III – once the world’s largest-capacity motorcycle – proportionally the least stolen bike in the UK.
The Honda PCX (WW125) was the UK’s most stolen motorcycle of 2024, with 1,866 thefts reported to the DVLA. In fact, more Hondas were stolen last year than any other brand, with 6,573 thefts recorded – 50% more than second-placed Yamaha. However, Honda is by far the most popular brand with British bikers, with more than 550,000 in the country.
Riders of high-performance machinery such as Honda Fireblades and Yamaha R1s may feel more of a target given their sky-high insurance premiums, but in reality the top ten most stolen bikes are nearly all A1 licence-friendly 125cc models.
“Motorcycle thieves continue to target scooters and 125s far more than high-performance sports bikes,” said Alex Kefford, Head of Editorial at automotive PR agency loop. “The Honda PCX may be unlucky to find itself at the top of the charts, but then it is Britain’s fourth most-popular bike*. When we look at the figures in proportion, a very different picture emerges.”
Challenger brands proportionally most likely to be stolen
By assessing thefts as a proportion of the number of each make on our roads, it’s the challenger brands that left their owners facing a greater risk of having their bike stolen. Honda drops from 1st to 36th place as popular new entrants such as Lexmoto and Sinnis rank above it. Tianying is a relatively unknown name on these shores, but worryingly 1-in-8 of their bikes were stolen in the last year alone.
Three Honda models most at risk
At the individual model level, the top 10 motorcycles proportionally most at risk include three bikes from Honda. Topping this list is the Honda SH350 with 1-in-9 examples stolen last year, followed by budget-friendly scooters such as the Sinnis Connect, Keeway Cityblade and Motorini SXi – all of which are available for around £2,000.
“Owners of these bikes might think their low price makes them less of a target in comparison to more exotic machinery. However, the evidence suggests they are the most at risk of becoming an unfortunate statistic. Their light weight and twist-and-go convenience makes them popular with commuters, but also makes them easy to hustle away or lift into the back of a van.”
Triumph, Kawasaki, and Suzuki the volume brands least likely to be stolen
At the opposite end of the scale, Triumph, Kawasaki and Suzuki were the volume brands least likely to subject their owners to the anguish of opening the garage door to find an empty space where their bike used to be. In fact, despite being the third most popular brand in the UK with nearly 263,000 on our roads, Suzuki owners faced only a 1-in-284 chance of having their bike nicked last year, versus 1-in-84 for Honda. Triumph fared even better, with only 1-in-480 bikes stolen.
“This is perhaps more due to the bikes that each brand typically sells, rather than the result of any specific security measures. For instance, Honda offers a broad range of scooters and 125s, with the PCX being a big seller. By comparison, Triumph thrives in the adventure bike market with their Tiger range, while Suzuki and Kawasaki both predominantly sell 600-1000cc bikes that are less popular with motorcycle thieves.”
World’s largest capacity bike also the least stolen
Our analysis confirms this, with large-capacity bikes left relatively untroubled by the criminal fraternity. As if to underline this point, the Triumph Rocket III – featuring the world’s largest production motorcycle engine until Triumph usurped it with the Rocket 3 – finds itself the holder of another record, this time as the proportionally least stolen bike in the UK.
Classic motorcycles are also largely untargeted by bike thieves, with Royal Enfield and Lambretta featuring highly on the list of infrequently-stolen marques. BSA takes the prize for the least stolen brand overall, with only 1-in-3217 reported missing last year.
“Go big or go old seems to be the advice if you want a bike that stands a good chance of still being where you left it when you return.”
“That said, there are plenty of bikes that weren’t stolen at all last year and therefore don’t make it into these figures, despite being incredibly popular. Top of that list is the Kawasaki ZX750, of which there are nearly 5,000 in the UK, yet none were reported stolen last year. The XL650 Transalp was Honda’s most theft-resistant bike of 2024, while Harley-Davidson has more zero-theft models than anyone else. When it comes to security, bigger really is better.”
| Most stolen motorcycles of 2024 |
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| HONDA PCX (WW 125) |
1,866 |
| YAMAHA GPD 125 |
1,222 |
| HONDA NSC 110 |
933 |
| HONDA SH 125 |
429 |
| HONDA CBF 125 |
398 |
| YAMAHA MT-07 |
253 |
| YAMAHA YBR 125 |
247 |
| YAMAHA MT 125 |
240 |
| KTM 125 DUKE |
229 |
| SYM JET |
211 |
| Source: loop analysis of DVLA data |
| Most stolen motorcycle brands of 2024 |
| HONDA |
6,573 |
| YAMAHA |
4,332 |
| LEXMOTO |
1,313 |
| SUZUKI |
923 |
| KTM |
885 |
| BMW |
253 |
| PIAGGIO |
592 |
| KAWASAKI |
553 |
| SYM |
533 |
| TRIUMPH |
439 |
| Source: loop analysis of DVLA data |
| Proportionally most stolen brands |
| TIANYING |
1-in-8 |
| JIAJUE |
1-in-18 |
| MGB |
1-in-20 |
| TALARIA |
1-in-24 |
| SUR-RON |
1-in-28 |
| SINNIS |
1-in-31 |
| MOTORINI |
1-in-31 |
| ASKOLL |
1-in-32 |
| ZHONGNENG |
1-in-32 |
| NECO |
1-in-35 |
| Source: loop analysis of DVLA data |
| Proportionally least stolen brands |
| SUZUKI |
1-in-284 |
| GILERA |
1-in-359 |
| ROYAL ENFIELD |
1-in-374 |
| KAWASAKI |
1-in-376 |
| DUCATI |
1-in-418 |
| TRIUMPH |
1-in-480 |
| LAMBRETTA |
1-in-1052 |
| HARLEY-DAVIDSON |
1-in-1537 |
| MOTO GUZZI |
1-in-1673 |
| BSA |
1-in-3217 |
| Source: loop analysis of DVLA data |
| Proportionally most stolen models |
| HONDA SH 350 |
1-in-9 |
| KYMCO DOWNTOWN 125 |
1-in-11 |
| SINNIS CONNECT |
1-in-11 |
| KEEWAY CITYBLADE |
1-in-12 |
| HONDA ANC 125 |
1-in-12 |
| SINNIS AKUMA |
1-in-12 |
| YAMAHA XP 560 |
1-in-12 |
| SINNIS MATRIX |
1-in-14 |
| HONDA PCX (WW 125) |
1-in-14 |
| MOTORINI SXI |
1-in-15 |
| Source: loop analysis of DVLA data |
| Proportionally least stolen models |
| HONDA CB 1300 |
1-in-876 |
| SUZUKI GSX 1400 |
1-in-877 |
| HONDA CBR 1100 |
1-in-939 |
| KAWASAKI ZX 1400 |
1-in-983 |
| KAWASAKI VN 900 |
1-in-999 |
| HONDA VTR 1000 |
1-in-1006 |
| TRIUMPH THRUXTON |
1-in-1018 |
| HONDA VFR 750 |
1-in-1059 |
| BMW R 1200 RT |
1-in-1219 |
| TRIUMPH ROCKET III |
1-in-1569 |
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Source: loop analysis of DVLA data
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article supplied
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Ask any biker, the first sport they're watching is, you guessed it: motorsports. For them, it's riveting to attend track days, racing meets, or large-scale festivals. Audiences and bikers enjoy the buzz of engines and thrill of speed felt in the wind as it flicks through your hair. Everyone has a shared passion that is so palpable it can be felt among those who live for life on two wheels. A revolution in technology has begun to change the way bikers view these events.
Apps Making Race Days Easier
Trackside excitement for fellow bikers have been revolutionised by the introduction of motorsport apps. These apps provide riders with faster access to alarms, race information, and ticket scanning. These apps are currently included in event packages at many racetracks in the UK. They provide more than just racing schedules. They include interactive maps, session notifications, and Bluetooth monitoring for group rides.
According to Matt Bastock, there is easier access to new betting platforms for UK self excluded players. The platform offers fast payouts, real-time odds tracking, and simpler onboarding processes for fans who still wish to bet within their self-imposed betting limits. They offer easy accessibility with a list of benefits such as welcome bonuses and loyalty rewards while providing secure payment methods and customised wallets.
These tools simplify group preparations by replacing printed schedules. Riders can also pre-book parking, register for paddock tours, and get directions to their stands. Some apps even suggest routes based on bike type, helping avoid traffic and plan scenic arrivals.
Paymentech Bringing Speed to the Fore
Most large motorsport festivals are already making the switch to contactless payment methods. Bikers who attend events while on the go, carrying cash or standing in queue feel increasingly out of step with their lifestyle. Tap-to-pay wristbands and fast wallet top-ups make it possible to get food, merchandise and ticket upgrades without having to rummage through a backpack or worry about card skimmer.
Organisers have begun collaborating with financial developers to enable location-based payments. This implies that the same bracelet that allows you to purchase a burger from the food truck can also be used to record your attendance for future discounts or to check you in at a restricted paddock zone.
Onboard Cameras and Live Streaming
The use of compact action cameras is not new in the biking world, but their application at motorsport events is growing in clever ways. Some race organisers have started enabling fans to tune into live feeds not just from professional broadcast cameras but also from cameras mounted on amateur riders during practice laps or track experiences.
These user-controlled feeds provide a more immersive view of the event, creating a perspective closer to that of a rider. Bikers attending events can sync their helmet cams with event apps, upload footage, and even share clips with others on-site. For biker groups, this opens up the option of creating ride-in footage montages or trackside reaction videos.
Smart Wearables for Biker Safety and Feedback
These days, wearable technology is being employed at motorsport events to increase rider awareness and safety. Weariness, heart rate, and crash data are tracked using biometric patches, bright vests, and gloves. To evaluate rider performance, UK circuits offer safety programs. The session ends with feedback on the bikers' speed and safety.
Community Platforms Strengthening Event Connections
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Traditional motorcycle forums and club meets are being expanded by tech-driven platforms, which also bring real-time interaction to events.
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Riders can join chat groups, participate in surveys, and access exclusive content from race teams or organisers by wearing app-linked wristbands and QR-code badges.
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These platforms are the only way to access the post-race Q&A sessions and behind-the-scenes garage visits of several UK venues.
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Riders can check in, earn points, and unlock event privileges by engaging actively, turning spectating into participation.
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These apps, which feature encrypted chat and authenticated access to ensure safety and connectivity, help lone riders find group rides, locate meet-up locations, and adhere to club-specific timetables.
Onboard Cameras Creating New Fan Perspectives
Onboard cameras and live feeds have completely changed how motorsport fans view events. Viewers may get a close-up look at the action from this footage, and riders can utilise the useful movies to assess and enhance their performance in the future. Riders can now rewatch their runs from multiple different camera angles, whether it's a demo lap or a club competition.
A few circuits have even begun to charge riders for packages that include individualised video editing and uploading soon after the competition concludes. Fans watching from home now feel more connected to the action than ever, thanks to the move to onboard content.
Future Procedure, Voice-Activated Help and Augmented Reality
The integration of augmented reality into motorsports is still relatively new. Information-projecting helmet visors were on display at tech showcases related to significant events. Information that is directly in the rider's field of vision, such as track maps or pit stop information, is being tested. Additionally, augmented reality overlays that display rider positions, overtaking alerts, or lap times to spectators in the grandstand are being developed.
Voice-activated technologies are becoming increasingly popular among bikers.
Virtual assistant-connected intercom systems allow riders to receive instructions. They can access safety alerts, and weather updates without removing their hands from the bike's handlebars. This is very helpful to club leaders, volunteers, and marshals who oversee groups during important events. Rather than taking the place of racing, technology is making it more exciting. Every new advancement makes riding more connected and convenient.
Image - Man riding on motorcycle - Unsplash License, Karthegan Padmanaban
article supplied
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The British Motor Museum will host five classic motoring shows in July. These will include the Wythall Busfest on 5 July, MGF 30th Anniversary celebration on 6 July, the BMC & Leyland Show supported by Peter James Insurance on 13 July, the Old Ford Rally supported by Peter James Insurance and Rootes Heritage Day, both on 20 July.
The Wythall Busfest is arranged in partnership with the Transport Museum Wythall, and will feature over 100 restored, vintage, and modern buses and coaches. There will even be a display for post-2000 buses, including the more recent hybrid and electric buses, creating a diverse show that all bus fans can enjoy. Visitors can also enjoy free heritage bus rides around local routes and the Museum’s internal road network.
The MGF Register 30th Anniversary event promises to be a highlight event for MGF or MG TF owners and admirers alike. Visitors can see hundreds of MGF and MG TF cars including some special vehicles and a whole variety of MG cars coming from across the UK and Europe. Plus, there will be special guest talks, live music, trade stands and a crafts village.
The BMC & Leyland Show supported by Peter James Insurance, will feature a wide range of British marques produced by the British Motor Corporation, British Leyland and The Rover Group. Hundreds of vehicles will be lined up outside the Museum, from Minis and Morris Minors to the larger Rover 800s, Montegos and Maestros, as well as a variety of vans and lorries. This year the show will celebrate the 70th anniversary of the founding of the British Motor Corporation Competitions Department at Abingdon on Thames. Visitors can see a display of 100 cars to recognise the success of BMC and British Leyland rally and sports cars across three decades.
The Old Ford Rally supported by Peter James Insurance, will enable fans to see around 400 classic Fords, aged between 50 – 100 years old. A huge range of cars are expected to be on display, from Model Ts to the cars of the pre-war austerity years, as well as the more luxurious post-war Zephyrs, Zodiacs, and Granadas, plus the fan-favourite Anglias, Mk1 and Mk2 Cortinas, Capris, Escorts, and Fiestas.
Taking place alongside the Old Ford Rally, the Rootes Archive Centre Trust will be holding their Rootes Heritage Day, celebrating all kinds of Rootes classics, from earlier Hillmans, Humbers, Sunbeams and Singers to the later Chryslers, Simcas and Talbots. Ticket holders on the 20 July will be able to enjoy both the Old Ford and Rootes shows, as well as entry to the Museum and Collections Centre, all with one ticket.
On the day, the Museum will also be playing host to a Meccano exhibition, in partnership with the Midlands Meccano Guild. This regular fixture of the show day has grown from 25 tables in the beginning to over 50 tables this year, holding an impressive collection of Meccano models from all over the country. This unique addition is a must-see for modelling fans, who may even find some inspiration for their next great projects!
Tom Caren, Show Manager at the British Motor Museum, stated, “We have a fantastic range of classic motoring shows for our visitors and enthusiasts to enjoy throughout July! These five shows literally sit at the heart of our shows season and really reflect the values of the British Motor Museum!”
Advance ticket prices are £17 per adult, £9 per child (5-16 years), Under 5 free, £15 per concession and £46 for a family. Anyone wishing to enter a vehicle into a show can do so online. Camping is also available at some of the shows. For more information about the shows, please visit the website at https://www.britishmotormuseum.co.uk/whats-on
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ALEX MARQUEZ #73
“We tried, especially at the beginning when I saw that it was possible. Marc was very smart, as he attacked when the tyre was not performing enough to respond. Good on him. Today is another great placement, I tried in every lap but when I saw I didn’t have more, I defended what was a great second place finish.”
FERMIN ALDEGUER #54
“It went well, I’m happy. Yesterday things didn’t come out the way we wanted, but I found something this morning. I made a mistake in Q2 otherwise we would have started much closer to the front. In the race I was able to unlock the front device only at turn ten… and despite that we finished in the points. We have the pace tomorrow to do really well.”
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Watch the UK’s fastest hill climb motorcycles tackle the thrilling course
- Dick Shepherd’s legendary Triumphs in live action
- Lansdowne Classic Series British Championship debuts at Shelsley
- NEW: Charity ride-in supporting Midlands Air Ambulance Charity
Get ready for a thrilling day of motorcycle action as Bike Bonanza returns to the iconic Shelsley Walsh Hill Climb on Saturday 5 July 2025. This high-octane event promises everything from classic motorcycles to fiercely contested roadgoing classes, all taking on the narrow, fast and challenging 1000-yard, 1:6 gradient course.
More than 100 bikes are set to compete, with classes for 250cc, 350cc, 750cc, and 1400cc machines, plus exhilarating sidecars and Morgan 3-Wheelers. Be sure to stay for the end-of-day run-offs, as the fastest 10 riders go head-to-head for top honours.
Alongside the full programme of competitive hill climb action, the day features star bike demonstrations, a new charity motorcycle ride-in, and plenty of off-track entertainment including live music, a ‘George Formby’ tribute, interviews and more.
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