I am headed out on a cross country trip this summer and I suddenly realized that I live in such a remote place that I don't even lock the ignition. Just to start the trip I am going to have to barge my bike to Seattle and then back in the fall. It was brought up to me that many places have high rates of bike theft and that I should get a lock. Does anyone have any suggestions?

 

Xenon disc lock with motion alarm, and/or a stout cable long enough to go through the frame and lock to a tree or pole. 99% of thieves will look somewhere else.

 

I'd just carry good insurance and enjoy the trip. If a thief wants your bike, a lock just briefly slows them down. If you could carry a lock strong enough to prevent theft, it would be too large and heavy to carry on the trip. If you are staying in motels, get a room on the ground floor with exterior doors. Park your bike right outside your door and leave the room curtain slightly open at night. When parking at restaurants, park in such a way you can glance at it while eating. If you can't keep an eye on it, park near the front door of the business. Situational awareness is essential to crime prevention. You need to think like a criminal to predict what they will do.

 

Locks, security systems and such are to deter your average goofball thief. And it usually will. It's your career thief that won't let those things stop them. If they want it, they won't be alone and more than likely, they'll take it.

 

In the old days, we would sleep with one toe in the spokes.

 

I think common sense and insurance is your best bet. Park it in the safest place you can, lock the ignition and front fork.


. . . and at night, cover it with a Honda cover.

 

I love my bike, but I protect it with insurance.

 

I stay at Best Western motels- they have a deal with H-D and they'll let you park your bike at the entrance and watch it while you party Applebee style!
http://www.harley-davidson.com/conte...n-rewards.html

 

NY Lock& Chain.

 

I have one of these. On sale now too for 50% off.

http://www.cyclegear.com/STOCKTON-TO...Chain-And-Lock