Powerful Motorbike Tracker: Fleet or Personal? Choose the Best

Recent crime statistics show a car or motorbike is stolen every 13 minutes in South Africa.  With incidents of motorbike theft on the rise, it’s no wonder bike owners are looking for more advanced ways to keep their wheels safe. 

If you’ve never considered a tracker for your motorbike, you’ll be surprised at the benefits these nifty devices offer regarding security and visibility. 

Join us as we dish out crucial motorbike tracker details and why you should consider getting one. 

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In this article, you will:

• Learn more about motorbike theft in South Africa

• Discover the benefits of motorbike trackers for fleet and personal bikes

• Wise up on the most common motorbike theft tactics

• Find five top tips to keep your motorbike safe

• Look at Cartrack’s advanced bike tracking features

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What is the best motorbike tracker? Choose the most powerful one for bike theft

If you don’t consider security measures for your bike, it will always be a sitting duck, especially when parking it on the street, parking lots, or other public areas. 

Taking security precautions, whether parking your bike at home or in a public area, can significantly increase your chances of avoiding rocking up to an empty parking space or driveway. So can installing a powerful bike tracker from Cartrack Philippines. 

Bikes are both popular fleet components and cherished personal playthings, but which is the most popular target for theft? Let’s take a look.

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Personal bike theft versus fleet bike theft

Fleet motorbike theft doesn't appear to be as widespread as theft targeting individual motorcycles in South Africa. However, while personal motorbike owners face an increased risk of theft, particularly in areas like commuter parking, garages, hotels, and public parking spaces, delivery bikes are slowly but surely becoming a popular target for hijackings and theft as the need for home deliveries started increasing during COVID19 and is still hugely popular today. 

In the end, it’s not about fleet versus personal; instead, it comes down to having proper security and tracking technology installed, as motorbike thieves don’t appear to have a clear favourite. Without proper protection, your bike could be next. 

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Is motorbike theft as common as car theft?

Cars may seem like more popular prey for South African thieves statistically, but that doesn't mean motorbikes are off the hook.  While car theft takes the top spot, motorbikes remain easy targets, as they’re smaller, lighter, and often lack the fancy security systems found in most cars.  Plus, the easy profit and the perceived ease of getting away with bike theft make motorbikes a tempting target.

While there are no separate theft statistics for motor vehicles and bikes in South Africa, it’s clear that both are popular targets, with recent bike thefts and hijackings peaking in areas like Boksburg and surrounds. Thankfully, technology like advanced tracking devices is helping to recover stolen bikes faster, but South African motorbike owners still need to be extra vigilant.

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The differences between motorbike theft and car theft

Stealing a car and snatching a motorbike in South Africa might seem like the same crime, but some key differences can make potential motorbike theft a bigger headache for its owners.

Accessibility: With their bright colours and bold designs, motorbikes are the pint-sized punks of the parking lot. Their compact size and lighter weight make them easier to snatch than cars. Thieves can push or ride a motorbike away silently, which is significantly more difficult to do with a car, making bikes vulnerable just about anywhere.

Motive: The reasons behind car and bike theft aren’t that different at a basic level. Both are based on someone looking to make money, and while motorbike theft often involves organised crime gangs targeting high-value bikes for resale, car theft, on the other hand, can differ slightly motive-wise, with anything from selling the whole car to stripping it for parts, taking it for a joyride, or even using it in a more serious crime like hijacking.

Security Measures: Because motorbikes have fewer built-in security measures and are easier to steal, owners need to take extra precautions.  Think steering locks, super-visible disc brake or fork locks, loud alarms, and trackers. These measures become crucial when your light and zippy pride and joy are so much easier to lose than a car weighing at least one tonne.

Both motorbikes and cars are at risk in South Africa, but motorbikes are easy targets due to their size and weight.  So, if you're a motorbike owner in South Africa, be extra vigilant and invest in robust bike security.

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Popular reasons for car and motorbike theft: are they the same?

Car theft in South Africa is a complex issue with several driving forces. Here's a quick breakdown of the most common reasons your car and bike could end up missing:

• Cash is king: In the world of car and bike theft, money talks. Stolen cars are often resold whole, stripped for parts, or used in other crimes to make a quick buck. Though bikes are less likely to be stripped and sold in parts, they are stolen for the exact same reason: money.
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• An easy getaway: Sometimes, thieves target cars simply as a getaway mode. Maybe they need a temporary set of wheels or are planning a joyride. Motorbikes are often stolen or hijacked for the exact same reason—even more so because they are smaller, lighter, and easier to take advantage of.
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• Not created equal: Some car models are easier to steal than others, and the same goes for bikes. For example, models like the infamous Nissan 1400 are a popular choice for thieves because they lack some of the more sophisticated security features now available. When it comes to bikes, older models are also more accessible to thieves for the same reason.
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• Organised crime syndicates: Many vehicle models, like the Toyota Hilux, are targeted by crime syndicates specifically for their parts, and when it comes to motorbike theft, not every case is opportunistic. Both car and bike theft are linked to organised crime, with different motives behind the theft.

The reasons behind car and bike theft are mostly similar, and it's a mix of financial gain, opportunistic crime, and even organised criminal activity. Understanding these motives can help you choose ideal security measures like a tracking device to keep your motorbike safe.

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The benefits of powerful motorbike trackers for fleet and personal bikes

For individual riders and fleet managers, GPS trackers for motorbikes are a game-changer, offering a powerful range of benefits beyond just location tracking. Let's explore how these handy devices can enhance your riding and fleet management experiences:

• Theft deterrence and recovery: Real-time tracking deters thieves and increases the chances of getting your stolen bike back. Imagine a would-be thief knowing their joyride is being broadcast live! Plus, with the help of the authorities and Cartrack’s dedicated SVR teams, stolen motorbike recovery can be a quick and efficient process with exponentially higher chances of success.
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• Emergency lifeline: A GPS tracker can be your lifeline when accidents happen. In case of a breakdown or mishap, it can send an alert, summoning help from emergency services or loved ones quickly. Some advanced trackers even detect accidents and automatically call for help, providing extra security, especially for solo riders.
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• Peace of mind perfection: GPS trackers offer peace of mind like no other. Seeing your motorcycle's location in real time lets you relax and enjoy the ride, knowing you’re in control and your prized possession is secure.

GPS trackers for motorbikes can offer a comprehensive solution for all riders by combining enhanced security and other invaluable features. Whether you're a spontaneous adventurer or a city commuter, devices like Cartrack’s GPS tracker can significantly enhance your trip experience and provide peace of mind on every journey.

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The 4 most common motorbike theft tactics

While these treasured toys and prized possessions offer freedom on the open road, they are also tempting targets for criminals. Let's explore some of the most common ways motorbikes are stolen in South Africa and how you can protect your ride:

1. Lock Bypass and Push Away

Thieves often target unlocked bikes or those with easy-to-bypass locks. They might even work in pairs, with one pushing the stolen motorcycle to a secluded spot while the other acts as a lookout. However, just by securing a strong chain around the frame and rear wheel, you can deter this type of theft tactic.

2. Opportunistic Pushing

It’s also important to keep in mind that even a locked motorcycle can be vulnerable if not secured properly. Thieves might simply push a bike away because it's parked in a deserted area, giving them enough time to do it unseen. Along with a chain, high-quality disc locks, alarms, and immobilisers can help keep opportunists at bay.

3. Organised Crime

Beware the professionals, especially if your ride is worth a hefty sum. Syndicates often target high-value motorbikes but have also recently been seen targeting fleet bikes, which means no motorcycle is safe. Depending on the situation, these criminals might use brute force to steal a bike, hotwire it, or simply push it away. Their motives and operations, however, are anything but opportunistic, so staying vigilant in high-risk areas and investing in advanced security helps keep your bike from becoming a target.

4. Garage Vulnerabilities

Don't let your guard down when you’re at home. Thieves are known to target unlocked garages or parking spaces with weaker security features. Depending on whether you have a closed garage or a gated parking area, reinforce your home parking space with alarms or sensors, strong doors, and secure windows.

These four common theft tactics are the most popular among motorbike thieves and tend to trend in specific locations or hotspots. Discover some of the motorbike theft hotspots you should be on the lookout for.

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Motorbike theft hotspots

Motorbikes can be (and are) stolen from various locations across South Africa. Some of the most common areas include:

• Commuter parking bays
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• Garages or residential parking spaces
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• Hotels and public venue parking lots
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• Public areas like roads and sidewalks

Even a secured backyard is not an impossible feat for a determined bike thief, making full visibility of your bike’s location a necessity.

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Making motorbike safety hassle-free

Whether you’re a hardcore Harley fan or a Vespa buff, make sure you’ve got your bike safety sorted the easy way—here’s how:

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Motorbike hijackings: a crime on the increase

Hitting the road on your bike can be an incredible and liberating experience, but there's also a growing concern as motorcycle hijackings start becoming more prevalent. A trend of armed criminals on bikes targeting motorcyclists has become a hard reality for bike-loving South Africans, and these ruthless thieves might resort to violence, shooting at riders or pushing them off their bikes to steal the ride. Just like carjackings, hijackers can also use firearms to threaten riders and steal their bikes in various locations, from remote areas to busy highways.

Here's the good news: you can take steps to stay proactive and protect yourself. Take a look at our five top tips to avoid becoming a motorbike hijacking statistic.

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Don’t become a statistic: four ways to avoid motorbike hijackings

Whether with a car or motorcycle, hijackings are traumatising experiences, and we need to take every precaution possible to make sure we don’t have to deal with it. Four basic tips set you up for safety success every time you and your bike hit the road:

1. Watch your back: Have you ever considered that one of the most common hijacking spots may be your own driveway? If you think you're being followed, don't go in. Instead, head straight to the nearest police station. Even if the coast is clear, avoid entering your driveway immediately. If possible, park parallel to the road while waiting for your gate to open to give yourself room to escape if a suspicious vehicle tries to follow you in.
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2. Beware the fake breakdown: Hijackers are getting creative. They might slam on their brakes on a highway exit or busy street, forcing you to stop and then approach you with weapons. Don’t fall for these tactics! Stay alert and keep a safe following distance so you can swerve when you need to.
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3. Stay focused on the road: Stuck at a traffic light? Resist the urge to check your phone or mess around with controls or mirrors if you don’t have to. Keep your eyes peeled for anything suspicious. With a ride as compact as a bike, your best bet is ensuring you have enough wiggling room to manoeuvre swiftly through traffic and away from danger if you have to.
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4. Safety First: If you're being hijacked, surrender your motorbike and belongings. Move slowly, keep your hands visible, and avoid looking directly at the hijackers. If you have passengers, help them stay calm and stay compliant. Your life is worth more than any possession, and if you have a tracker installed, there’s still a chance of it being recovered safely.

By following these tips and staying vigilant, motorbike owners and bike fleet managers can enjoy the ride with greater peace of mind. Remember, a little awareness goes a long way in keeping yourself and your bike safe.

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How to keep your motorbike safe: Our five top tips

Keeping your motorbike safe isn't just about common sense – it's about awareness. Here are five top tips to make sure your pride and joy stays right where you parked it:

1. Lock It Up Right

This might seem obvious by now, but quality security really does make a huge difference. Disc locks, chain locks, and ground anchors are your best friends. They act like flashing red lights to thieves, saying, "you’re going to struggle with this one, buddy". Locking your bike to a solid object or using a ground anchor makes it even tougher to steal. Remember, a properly secured bike is safe and gives you peace of mind knowing you've taken precautions.

2. Park smart

When choosing a parking spot, knowing your high-risk locations is key to street smart vigilance. Park in designated spaces with good lighting, CCTV, or parking security. While you may think busy areas offer good security because the more eyes there are the better, this is not necessarily a smart way to park as bustling areas can also cause people not to notice the theft. Look for designated parking security and stay alert of your surroundings at all times.

3. Cover up

Think of a motorcycle cover as a security blanket for your bike. While it should not be your primary means of security, it does hide your precious machine from prying eyes while protecting it from the elements and scratches. Think of it as a disguise – thieves are less likely to target a hidden bike. Plus, a cover makes a quick getaway tricky, giving you more time to react if someone messes with your ride.

4. Stranger danger is real

Always be wary of strangers, and in this case, if they’re hanging around your bike. They might be checking out the scene, trying to chat you up to learn about your security setup, or even waiting for a chance to distract you while an accomplice makes a move. Don't give away information about your bike or your schedule, and keep an eye on it whenever you leave it unattended. A little caution goes a long way in preventing theft.

5. Track it down

GPS trackers are like guardian angels for motorbikes. They let you track your bike's location 24/7, so if the worst happens, you can find it fast. Imagine the relief of knowing exactly where your stolen bike is! Some advanced trackers and tracking technology like Cartrack’s BikeWatch can also send alerts if your bike moves when it shouldn't, helping recovery teams get your bike back faster.

Following these tips, you can significantly reduce the risk of your motorbike becoming someone else's joyride.

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Look no further for a powerful motorbike tracker—we’ve got you covered

If you’re still wondering where you can find a bike tracker that ticks all the boxes, stop right there. Cartrack’s advanced tracking device offers a range of features that help enhance your security as a private bike owner and elevate productivity as a bike fleet manager. Here’s how:

• Bike Track

  Stay in control by getting full visibility of your motorbike’s exact location with Cartrack’s discreetly-installed GPS bike tracking device. Receive live notifications and vehicle tracking data wherever you are on our dedicated platform or mobile app.
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• SVR for bikes

  Supercharge our advanced GPS tracking technology with professional bike recovery. With air and on-the-ground recovery abilities, our telematics system will track and recover your stolen or hijacked motorbike, restoring your sense of security and bringing peace of mind.
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• BikeWatch

  Keep a constant eye on your bike and receive automatic notifications if it moves without your consent using BikeWatch, your extra pair of eyes that ensures your bike stays where you left it every single time.
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• Logbook

  Manage all of your SARS trips on the Cartrack platform to avoid tax-related admin disasters. By distinguishing between professional and personal trips and offering the option to get reports, you can stay compliant with minimal effort.

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Choose the best bike tracker: Choose Cartrack Philippines

Don’t settle for less if you know Cartrack Philippines offers you the most advanced GPS bike tracking, security, and bike recovery. Contact us today.

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Answers to the motorbike tracking questions you need to know

1. Should I put a tracker on my motorcycle?

   It is highly recommended to install a tracker on a motorcycle. Trackers have proven effective in reuniting owners with their stolen bikes, with recovery rates exceeding 90% when motorcycles are fitted with trackers
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2. What is the best tracker out there?

   When choosing the best motorbike tracker, focus on key attributes like GPS tracking, RF/VHF technology, GSM/GPRS connectivity, battery backup, resistance to tampering, and a secure operating centre (SOC).

   Consider features such as reduced false alerts, tracking accuracy, tamper resistance, alert methods, ease of installation, concealability, and adaptability to different environments. Prioritise these attributes over specific brands for an effective and reliable choice in motorbike security.
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3. What are the benefits of GPS fleet tracking?

   Depending on whether you’re using GPS tracking for a personal bike or a fleet of motorbikes, you’ll have some great features to benefit from.

   - It enhances safety by monitoring driver behaviour, enabling maintenance alerts, and providing real-time insights into driving habits.
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   - GPS tracking helps minimise fuel costs by identifying inefficient driving practices and unauthorised vehicle use and optimising routes for fuel efficiency.
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   - It lowers operational costs by providing real-time data for informed decision-making and streamlining processes.
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   - GPS tracking increases productivity by monitoring time spent at job sites, ensuring efficient routing, and digitising workflows for streamlined operations.
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   - GPS tracking aids in theft recovery by enabling real-time location monitoring and alerts for unauthorised use, helping in asset recovery and reducing replacement costs
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4. Which GPS is best for bikes?

   When looking for the best GPS tracker or fleet tracker for your bike, there are many things you need to consider, some general and some more specific to your needs. For example, if you’re looking for a tracker that will help with stolen bike recovery, you’ll want to look at a tracking company that discreetly installs tracking devices in a place where bike thieves won’t be able to find and remove them to get recovery teams off their trail. On the other hand, if you’re looking to optimise your fleet’s productivity, a tracker that offers route planning and route optimisation features is ideal for making the most of every fleet bike during working hours.
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5. How much data does a tracker use?

   A GPS vehicle tracker typically uses between a few kilobytes to a few megabytes of monthly data, depending on factors like the type of device, update frequency, and specific usage scenario. For example, personal GPS trackers can use 20 to 50 kilobytes of data per update, while fleet management GPS trackers may use 50 kilobytes to 1 megabyte of data per update. It's important to monitor data usage to avoid unexpected charges and optimise data consumption based on your specific tracking needs and device settings, but data use can differ between devices.

Contact Cartrack Philippines today and discover how to effortlessly level up your bike tracking and security, whether fleet or personal.