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Photo by Hendi Kaf, in Cambodia

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Photo by Hendi Kaf,
in Cambodia



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  #1  
Old 13 Sep 2005
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Bike Security
Hi,

Was just wondering about how safe it is for bikes and gear in south and central america? Do I need a big chain and lock for the bike?

Boz
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  #2  
Old 13 Sep 2005
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Nick
More important then your bike here in the south is your luggage!Never leave at hand loose bags or smal items like watches,GPS,etc.
I think that taken the smal U lock from kryptonite will improve your psicological feeling of being safe!
It is very dificult to sell a foreign bike,more if its even stolen.
But everyone is riding at own risk.
KH
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  #3  
Old 13 Sep 2005
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Nik,

We haven't had any problems so far through central america.

We have the following security, because we REALLY don't want to lose the bikes or the gear, and secondly in order to be able to sleep better at night. Peace of mind really counts.

We have:
A big (heavy) chain, and tough JCB lock which we wrap round the back wheels.
A cheap but effective alarm (M&P Catalogue).
Bike covers (They take up little room and really reduce the attention the bikes get)

I've heard of another guy that hasn't used any security in 120 000 miles, and has never had an issue.

Best of luck,

Will
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  #4  
Old 13 Sep 2005
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Wether i am at home here in London or travelling abroad, the big chain and lock comes with me. Motorbike security is an issue in most countrys of the world its not unique to south america, purely because they are so stealable. They can be lifted or wheeled buy a few men and thrown or wheeled into the back of a van, even with alarms blaring. Always try to lock you bike to something preferably something thats immovable.

And a cover is a good idea as well
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  #5  
Old 13 Sep 2005
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Hey,
we had an little chainlock with us but usually did not use it. Well, we just did not leave our bikes alone as lond as bagage was on them. And we always tried to park them in a safe place for example back yard, garage or similar.
The only thing, which was stolen directly from the bike, was a 2lt. gasoline tank at the border from Bolivia to Peru near the lake titicaca (near Puno). Little boys always wanted to help us to get through the costums. Well since we did that many times before we did not need their help. So they grapped that tank and run off.
So be careful in that way and have look for safe places everywhere.

Have a nice ride.
Burnout1
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  #6  
Old 19 May 2008
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Similar concerns
Hi Nik. Myself and a mate are planning a trip through South America next year and we have similar security concerns. We are planning on doing the trip on F800GS'. Some people have suggested that we don't use these bikes and rather use something that will draw less attention and be less of a target. Does anyone with experience agree with this?
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  #7  
Old 19 May 2008
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I have a cover, a small disk lock and a larger lock with a thick steelwire cable. I feel that if you cant lock both wheels it is pointless. If one wheel can roll, then they can really easily get away with it if they are two people.
If you lock both wheels they need maybe 3-4 to carry it.
Best is to lock it to something, as this forces them to work on the bike on site. This will deter many.
Putting a cover over the bike is extremely effective! You can park it in the middle of a very busy place and the cover really makes people ignore it. My best security measure.


ezpunter:

people are doing it all the time on 1200gs, goldwing, hayabusa, whatever.

That said you decide how rich you want to look. Personally I like to look a bit scruffy since I travel alone, but the number of people who have had serious problems is next to nothing.

Go with whatever bike you want and take the apropriate measures. Never take more than you can afford to lose.

The biggest problem with your new 800s' is that parts may be really hard to come by!

I think the 800 would be very nice for south america though, so if I had one I would take it. hehe, so much for reason.
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  #8  
Old 19 May 2008
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Thx Peter. That helps. Was in your home town of Copenhagen in March. Fantastic city - just a little colder than I am used to
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  #9  
Old 19 May 2008
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You are welcome Ezpunter

Why do you think I am in South America now?

Denmark is terrible in the winter!
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