Best Motorcycle Security System | Top 8 to Beat the Thief (2024)

Several factors may limit the use of specific security systems on your bike, but a lock and chain are pretty universal.

That’s why I chose the Abus Granit Extreme lock and chain combo as my ‘Best Overall’ for its rock-solid performance and ease of use. It’s not the only way to deter thieves from stealing your ride, though. And it’s up to you to decide upon the best motorcycle security system to suit your needs.

Related post: Best Motorcycle Disc Locks

Best Motorcycle Security System

Best Overall – ABUS Granit Extreme Plus 59/12HKS170 Lock and Chain Combo

Big solid and German engineering at its best, the ABUS Granit Extreme Plus 59 Chain and Lock is packed full of features and hefty enough to know your pride and joy in safe hands.

ABUS is the biggest name in high-end locks in Europe, and the Granit Extreme is the company’s top-shelf motorcycle lock and chain combo. As part of their quality assurance procedure, ABUS takes pride in the fact that they source every stage of the design, production, and materials in-house.

What does this mean to you and me? By keeping everything under one roof, ABUS can guarantee the quality, which means a lot when it comes down to the security of your motorcycle.

The chain is a monster and uses 13-mm hexagonal links of heat-treated/hardened steel. An anti-corrosion coating means it won’t ever look gnarly even when putting in a winter-time shift. A heavy-duty textile sleeve covers the chain, protecting your bike’s paint and framework.

Let’s move on to the motorcycle lock where just one look, will tell you a lot is going on beneath the surface. To begin with, and in keeping with the chain, the rectangular lock is massive. One end is fixed, and the moveable link or ‘power link’ resembles an elongated horseshoe, so the locking mechanism slides into place on both sides.

The locking cylinder is anti-drill and pull, and with 1.4 million combinations from the laser cut key, you can forget about it being picked. The lock features a temperature range of minus 80, so it will resist freeze and smash attempts.

Well Thought Out

You get two keys, one of which comes fitted with a blue dot light. The purpose of the light is to help you find the keyhole easily. Unfortunately, it’s simply not bright enough.

ABUS, if you’re reading this, replace it with white light. Blue doesn’t work, and this is my only criticism of the whole rig.

Something that draws no complaints whatsoever though is the lock’s ‘comfort plus’ feature. This feature operates by retaining the chain in the lock when you open it with the key. It means you have to pull the chain out of the lock to free it.

Have you ever opened your bike lock, and one end of the chain immediately drops and smacks into your paintwork? If that’s a yes, you’ll know that this is a really well thought out feature, especially combined with such a hefty chain.

And hefty it is, the hexagonal links are huge and have a total length of 59-ins. Add to this monster lock, and the whole deal comes in over 10-lbs. Carrying it around on your motorcycle will result in a strong and well-secured bag.

As mentioned before, the lock comes with two keys, and in case you mislay them, a code card unique to your set of keys. The ABUS lock and chain combo have a security rating of 20 (the highest)!

Best Cover Alarm – Dowco Integrated Motorcycle Cover Security Alarm

The tiny motorcycle alarm system is more versatile and powerful than it looks. And with 130 decibels of squawking sound, it’s going to give bike thieves a real wake up call.

As the product description says, the Dowco Guardian Integrated Motorcycle Cover Security Alarm System is designed explicitly for yup, you guessed it, Dowco motorcycle covers. However, this little unit is so versatile, it’s the best budget option hands down.

Also, it’s not rocket science to just have an hidden pocket sewn on the inside of any bike cover, and pop the device in it.

Used in conjunction with a Dowco cover, the Guardian fits inside one of the covers inside pockets. When triggered, the alarm kicks off a 130-decibel caterwaul, and that’s definitely worth having. But what if you don’t own this specific make of cover?

Many decent bike covers have integral pockets to take such devices. If yours doesn’t, it isn’t rocket science to duct tape on a square of nylon and make your own internal pocket.

Is it worth the bother? Most definitely, and here’s why. If someone is up to no good and lifts your motorcycle cover up to check what’s underneath, the action triggers the Guardian with a 130-decibel alarm. If you’re wondering how loud that is, stand next to a police siren then add another 10 decibels!

Simple to Use

The alarm is triggered when the pin is pulled from the alarm body. It’s as simple as that: no installation or additional wiring and zero tools. A lanyard attaches to the pin and is fitted with a spring-loaded clasp. Fix the end of the lanyard to your bike, alarm box to your cover, and the moment the cover is lifted – BAM. The pin is pulled, and it’s hasta la vista bike bandit.

Such is the simplicity of this device; it’s possible to use it without a cover. Secure the lanyard and use a zip tie through the belt loop on the back of the alarm box to fix it somewhere that isn’t easily visible. Think fork leg, side stand, or wheel; just remember where you’ve installed it. If it goes off, you’ll want to get that pin back in double time.

The alarm box measures 3-ins high, has an alarm test switch, operates from a single 9v battery, and has a two-year defect warranty.

Best Secure Anchor Solution – Kryptonite Stronghold Anchor Bike Lock

If you have no permanent secure fixing to lock your bike to, a ground anchor is the perfect solution. The Kryptonite 16mm Stronghold Anchor Bike Lock will give you a super solid base to attach to and it’s easy on your toes.

Chances are, your motorcycle is going to spend most of its time locked up outside your home. If you’re lucky, you may have a garage. If not, your two-wheeled best bud will live in front or at the side of your building.

Either way, if you don’t have something fixed strongly in position to secure it to, you’re making it a whole lot easier for a criminal to relieve you of your bike. A ground anchor is the answer and having researched a host of different types, the Kryptonite Stronghold looks like it would give Superman a workout.

On the subject of superheroes, back in 1971, company founder Michael Zane traveled around the US wearing a Kryptonite Man outfit. Zane did this to promote his new invention, the first U-bolt bike lock. Anyway, enough of the history, let’s take a look at what makes the Stronghold so good.

To start with, the Kryptonite is reassuringly big at 7.5-ins in diameter and almost 1.75-ins deep. The anchor is a lot larger and more substantial than its photos suggest. Unpacking it reveals everything you need for installation, including all the fixings and two masonry bits. These include one for the pilot hole and a larger drill for the plug.

The base of the anchor is forge-hardened steel and keeps the 16-mm carbon alloy steel shackle in place. The shackle moves freely in a 90-degree arc, allowing it to either sit upright to thread your chain through or lie flat in the mounting plate.

Three anchor plugs and metal fixing bolts secure the plate, which is tightened by the supplied hex key. Once the plate is bolted firmly to the ground, you’ve got the option of hammering in the supplied steel balls into the hex heads. By carrying out this procedure, you’re deforming the hex heads, which means the plate is going to be seriously challenging to remove.

Get Creative

You can get a bit creative with the anchor’s placement, attaching it to a wall or even a truck bed. Make sure whatever it’s attached to is stable enough. 

A composite dome shell fits over the whole setup and has two chrome plugs that attach the dome to the base. Once in place, the shackle lies flush in the domed cover. Apart from the bulletproof build of the plate and shackle, the innovative dome is why the Kryptonite gets my vote.

Some other ground anchors offer similar grade steel or comparable design strength. Yet they spoil it all by using a fixed position eye bolt sticking almost 2-ins out the ground. If you’ve ever accidentally kicked or tried to roll your bike over one, you’ll know it’s a real pain in the butt.

With the stronghold anchor, its domed footprint makes it easy to see, and your wheel will just roll on over. Add to this the manufacturer’s lifetime warranty, and it’s a pretty hard-to-beat deal.  

Best Portable Solution – Xena XX10 Disc Lock Alarm

Disc locks are light, highly portable, and you can stash them under your seat. They also offer a great practical deterrent and especially when they include an alarm as part of the deal.

As motorcycle locks go, the Xena lock is tough. It’s made from a high grade 304 stainless steel and machined from a solid block, which gives the construction added strength. The lock, being stainless steel, is weighty without being cumbersome, weighing in at just over one pound.

The disc lock features a 10-mm carbide reinforced locking pin as part of the company’s High-Security range. The key and barrel guarantee maximum security with a double locking system, and the whole deal is corrosion and freeze spray resistant.

At 3.4-ins long by 2.5-ins high, the lock will fit in the palm of your hand, making it easy to maneuver and compact enough to live under the seat or in a pocket.

As a disc lock, the Xena XX10 has plenty going for it, but we haven’t even got to the best part yet. As you know, intelligent motorcycle security is all about combinations. Having multiple motorcycle security systems in place gives you the best chance of keeping it safe. The XX10 combines two thief-busters in one product.

Thieves hate noise, and Xena’s built-in motorcycle alarm system has noise in bucketfuls. Twist the key, and the cylinder pops up, ready to fit the lock snugly over your disc. Lock in place, and a single warning chirp tells you the alarm is automatically armed.

Warning Chirp

Fitted with a shock and motion sensor, once armed, anyone attempting to move your pride and joy is in for a shock. Five warning chirps may lull the thief into a false sense of security before 120 decibels of ear-piercing mayhem kicks off.

You can turn off the alarm by opening the lock with the key, but it will also re-arm in 15 seconds. The auto re-arm is a practical feature as it saves the CR2 lithium battery from premature draining.

The Xena XX10 is available in two finishes, brushed steel, and canary yellow. I personally favor the yellow; when I fit a disc lock, I want people to notice it’s there.

Disc locks, being so well designed and snug-fitting, can be all too easy to forget. So it’s a good idea to spend a couple of extra bucks on a safety cable. The reminder cable is generally a coiled lanyard and loops through the lock before attaching to your handlebars. Purchase one; forgetting to remove the lock and riding off while it’s still attached is not a good move.

One final accessory that is also worth a mention is the double lock adaptor. This horseshoe-shaped extended link is made from the same high-grade stainless steel as the lock and locates inside the secured disk lock.

Wrap your chain around a fixed post, place the end links over the double lock adaptor, then slide it into the XX10 disk lock. The result is a disc and chain lock in one!

Best for Visibility – Urban UR6 Alarm Disc Lock

I am not exactly an admirer of the bright yellow color, but it serves a purpose here. The color makes sure that the lock doesn’t become invisible for more forgetful riders like me.

More importantly, if I can’t help noticing it, a potential thief will darn well notice it too!

The Urban UR6 is a combination of a universal 6 mm locking shaft and a 120 dB audible alarm based on a shock and motion sensor that ensures maximum security for your motorcycle. It provides the dual combination of a mechanical and an electrical security system.

When it comes to build quality, the lock feels robust. It has a durable ABS plastic cover over a solid metal frame. The lock feels like a solid block that can easily handle abuse. Besides, it comes with a security rating of 10.

On the inside, there’s the patented UR24MA module which is airtight and hermetically sealed to prevent water entry. Besides, the entire module can be replaced if needed.

An added advantage is that the unit uses a CR2 lithium battery, that will easily last for 2 to 3 years. The battery also delivers excellent performance in cold conditions- a big advantage over other batteries.

Additionally, the alarm also comes with an extra warning mechanism. It has a powerful red LED light that blinks in addition to the alarm. That adds to the overall effectiveness in dark environments.

The UR6 measures 3.15 x 2.36 inches and weighs 0.93 lbs. If you’re looking for portability and reliability, it doesn’t get any better than this.

In case you need a more reliable locking mechanism. You can also check out the Urban UR10 which comes with a 10 mm locking shaft.

Alarm Mechanism

The lock is fitted with a shock and motion sensor, and once armed, anyone attempting to move your beloved ride is in for a shock. It starts with six warning beeps and escalates into 120 decibels of ear-piercing mayhem if the attack doesn’t stop. 

The alarm comes with a A+ sensitivity rating that enhances the overall performance. As per the users, the sensitivity setting is perfectly balanced.

The alarm mechanism has optimized sensitivity to detect attacks from accidental bumps. Now, disc locks, being so compact and snug-fitting, can be all too easy to forget. Since the UR6 comes with a warning function, you don’t need a reminder cable.

The device has a super convenient SEK click lock mechanism that allows you to close the lock without using the key

And the best aspect of the UR6 is, it can be used with or without the alarm. All you need to do is not to press the top button to activate the alarm.

Admittedly, the UR6 isn’t a cheap option. But if you want to invest in a top-grade motorcycle alarm it’s a great option. 

Best GPS on a Budget – Spytec GPS GL300 Real-Time GPS Tracker

It goes without saying that one of the most practical features of modern technology is tracking. The GPS GL300 from Spytec is one of the best security apps to determine the location of a motorcycle should it be moved.

It basically does the same like the above Monimoto, but at a much lower price tag.

So what makes it special?

Actually, there are quite a few reasons that made it our top pick. In a nutshell, this battery-powered GPS tracker delivers a solid combination of accurate tracking capabilities, ease of use, and geat value.

For example, you get real-time GPS tracking supported by 4G LTE technology. That allows you to track anything, anytime.

Moreover, Spytec mentions that its cloud-based technology offers 99.99% uptime and a super-fast 0.256 millisecond processing time. Quite simply that makes it much faster than its competitors.

The accuracy of the device is spot on. More than often, locations can be zeroed in within a few yards. On top of that, the device has an SOS button during emergencies

In addition, you can also set up virtual geographical borders that Spytec calls geofence or boundaries. This will deliver you an alert if the tracker enters or exits the boundary.

Since the tracking data is delivered via concise newsfeeds, you can say goodbye to the annoying app alerts.

Coming to the design, the new GL300 remains compact and portable like its predecessors. As it’s just an inch thick and weighs only 0.32 oz, the portability is excellent. The IPX5-rated water resistance adds to the ruggedness. It can also withstand extreme temperature variations

The good news is Spytec has a bigger 2600 mAH, Lithium polymer battery in the new GL300. The battery can last for more than a week with around 2 hours of daily use. 

In reality, battery life will vary based on the frequency of movement and signal availability.  Overall, it’s a good choice for long-term use.

In terms of price, we think that the GL 300 offers excellent value. Admittedly, it delivers what it claims.

Talking of service providers, we finally come to the elephant in the room when it comes to trackers – the SIM card. All trackers need one for mobile coverage, and it is here that some sellers try to hide the monthly fee. 

So, keep it in mind that you need to pay for a monthly or annual subscription to use the Spytec software. We have to say, the Spytec service fees are on the higher side. For users looking for an affordable option, this can be a deal breaker.

The good news is, Spytec offers a lifetime warranty on the device. Add to that the excellent customer support and you have a real winner.

Ease of Use

For any rider who is a tech dinosaur, the GL 300 is the right tracker to pick. The system is easy to use and the Spytec app is extremely user friendly.

The tracking process can be viewed through the Spytec app and web portal. The app is available on both Android and Apple app stores

Spytech also mentions that their technology is smart enough and uses machine learning to understand your preferences. That means the notifications get customized based on your schedule and activity. 

In case you enter a dead zone, the signal will get disconnected. But the device will auto-reconnect whenever the system gets back on line. That said some users found setting up the app somewhat complicated. 

Hardwiring the device to a motorcycle is possible. However, the magnetic case accompanying the device can be an issue in such a scenario. 

All in all, I think the GL300 GPS Tracker is an excellent investment for any motorcycle owner needing additional security. It gives you peace of mind and the potential to quickly recover your precious ride if it’s stolen.

Motorcycle Security is a State of Mind

We’ve looked very carefully at the best motorcycle security systems on the market and come up with some great products to help keep your two-wheeled pride and joy safe. Security is a state of mind, so being observant and parking your bike wisely is the first step.

Thieves love bikes outside apartment blocks as they figure that if they trip an alarm, they will have enough time to get away before anyone gets to the ground floor. Don’t be tempted to park them around the back of the building unless it’s lit 24/7, has CCTV and is gated.

If you have to park your bike out front, find a well-lit area, and secure it to some heavy-duty street furniture. Park outside your house and, at the very least, install a trip light or, even better, a dummy camera. In both circumstances, buy a cover that encloses your bike down to the floor. Remember, out of sight is out of mind.

It may sound obvious, but if you’ve got a steering lock, use it every time you park. It will provide yet another layer of security, and a lot of OEM locks are pretty good. Don’t be tempted to leave a spare key or any paperwork relating to the bike ‘hidden’ in luggage. 

Despite what some manufacturers may claim, no single motorcycle safety system is infallible. The best chance of keeping your wheels safe is by taking notice of where you park and using a combination of security measures. The longer it takes a thief to overcome your security, the more chances there are of him walking away and finding an easier target.

The Pluses and Minuses of Each Security System Discussed

Lock and Chain

The lock and chain are a great combination and arguably the most versatile. Buy the best quality you can afford and investigate the security the lock and chain offer and the features they boast. A lock and chain are only as good as its owner, so follow some basic rules to maximize their usefulness.

Loop one end of the chain through the swingarm and the other to a street light or railings. Keep the chain as taut as possible or, at the very least, off the floor. Doing this stops the thief from giving your lock some ground and pound.

If you park in the same spot every day, don’t be tempted to leave your combo locked to the fence or post. If someone has been casing your wheels, all they have to do is put glue in the lock, and the chances are you’ll have to leave your bike unsecured.

Ground Anchor

Even with the best lock and chain in the world, if you have nothing to secure it to, you’re reducing its effectiveness, and this is where the ground anchor comes into play. When possible, park your motorcycle close to a wall and fix the ground anchor under it to make it harder for someone to get a swing at it.  

Make sure the fittings are hardened steel, and the fixings look strong enough to hold it in position. A concrete floor is the best option to bolt it to, but if you have to use a wall, just make sure it’s substantial enough for the job. In other words, no cinder block dividers.

Cover Alarm

This tiny gizmo is probably the best bang for the buck out there. Thieves hate noise as it attracts attention to their skulduggery, and the right cover alarm will hit their eardrums with more noise than they can cope with.

If you’ve got a cover with a pocket, great. If you haven’t, make one. Such is the simplicity of these devices, even without a cover, it’s possible to rig one up on your bike to make sure you get those important scumbag alerts.

Disc Lock

The disc lock is another excellent and versatile piece of kit that is highly portable as it can be stashed under a seat or pocketed. Disc locks, however, are best used as a second line of defense whenever possible.

If that’s all you’ve got, put the bike’s steering lock on and use the disc lock on the back disc brake rather than the front. Better yet, get an alarmed version. Remember, noise is your friend, and last but not least, never forget your reminder cable.

GPS Tracker

A GPS tracking device will not prevent your bike from being stolen, but it will alert you that it’s being moved. If you can respond quickly enough, you may be in time to halt the proceedings.

Most stolen motorcycles aren’t ever recovered, so if the knowledge that you may be able to follow a thief back to his HQ floats your boat, then a tracker is a good investment.

A tracker should not be used as your primary source of security, and as these devices require a monthly payment plan for the data connection, always read the small print.

The best form of motorcycle security is to adopt a multi-layered approach. Using at least two methods of securing your bike is a must, even if one is the OEM steering lock.

Keeping your Motorcycle Where it Belongs

Finding a big, fat, empty space where your pride and joy once stood is heartbreaking. There is only one thing worse than the stomach-churning sense of loss, and that is an all-consuming sense of anger.

Unless someone has specifically targeted your bike, most motorcycle thieves are simply opportunistic and will search for the path of least resistance. Don’t make it easy for them to hit their mark. By using a combination of the following motorcycle security systems, you will significantly increase your bike’s chances of still being where you parked-up on your return.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are disc locks effective?

Yes, they are, but if one is good, two are even better. This is especially so if you fit the locks either side of your caliper, preventing the bike from rolling forward or backward. Always use a reminder cable.

Are motorcycle alarms worth it?

Yes they are, thieves hate noise and the louder, the better. Hardwired alarm systems have to be fitted by an expert, and on a new bike may void your warranty. Thanks to lithium batteries and inertia sensors, wireless alarm systems are very effective and easy to use.

Why do I need to keep my lock and chain off the ground when I secure my motorcycle with it?

Motorcycle thieves are resourceful. This means if your lock is in contact with the ground, they’ll likely use the floor like a workbench.

Is there one single item of motorcycle security that will stop my motorcycle from being stolen?

Realistically, no. There are great products specifically designed to help stop your bike from being stolen, but your best possible chance is to use a number of them in conjunction with one other. A great combination is one that offers a physical barrier, plus gives an audible warning.

I live in a friendly neighborhood, do I really need to secure my motorcycle?

I’m sorry to break this to you, but friendly neighborhoods are visited by not so nice people all the time. Lock it or lose it, it’s that simple.

Last update on 2023-06-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API