Sadly, one of the stark realities of owning a scooter means that you now own a vehicle that is fairly easy to steal. I never thought scooter theft was a concern where I live, but I’ve had two attempts at my home, and both times the scooter survived, but the cover was stolen. The second time a cover was stolen, I kicked myself because I knew better (I should have locked the cover and I didn’t). Ironically, before the first robbery, there were many times I would park my scooter in the driveway overnight, unlocked and uncovered, without a worry or care. I’m really one of the lucky ones.

There is no guarantee that even with every protective measure taken that your scooter will be completely safe. If a thief knows what they are doing, and is determined to get your scooter, they will get it. Anything you can do to slow them down is another reason they might look elsewhere for an easier target.

First of all, if you have a garage, use it. But don’t stop there.

Heavy-duty chain locks - I’m a big fan of Kryptonite locks, and the Kryptonite Fahgettabouditis my chain of choice. Most are pricey, but still a lot cheaper than a new scooter. Bullyis another popular brand of heavy duty chain.

Alarm system - The day after my first robbery, I ordered an alarm. The best thing about alarms is that they are easily installable - at least the basic part of it is. If you want your lights to flash and horn to beep, you might need a mechanic’s help if you don’t know which wires to splice. Popular models include the Gorilla alarm.

Lock to a secure item - Whether you park your scooter in a garage or not, it’s imperative to lock your scooter to something that can’t be moved. If you’re pouring a new garage floor, include a Kryptonite Stronghold in-ground anchorright in the cement.

Cover - If you don’t have a garage, at least cover up your scooter to make it less conspicuous. If you’ve got room, try a Bike Barn - pull up, and it simply folds up over your scooter, or get a garden shed (one with a floor and lockable doors is best). I like Dowco scooter coversbecause they have grommets. Simply put a cable lock through one or two of the grommet holes to both help secure it from potential thieves, and to keep it on the scooter when it gets windy. Next, I’m considering a cover alarmthat will go off if the cover is removed.

Cow bells - that’s right, you heard me - cow bells. If you can’t afford an alarm, at the very least, go to your closest farm supply store and purchase a couple of cow bells. They are inexpensive, and very loud.

Be sure that the loop on top of the bell is big enough for you to put a cable lock through it. Attach it loosely in a place that is hidden (if the thief can see it, they can grab the clapper and keep the bell silent), but easily disturbed if your scooter is moved - to the edge of your cover or to your kick stand, for example. If you have specific fashion needs, try a custom cow bell.

Insurance - consider comprehensive insurance that includes coverage against robbery and vandalism. Don’t count on your homeowners policy to cover your scooter - it might cover it, it might not, so check with your agent.

Take photos - have plenty of photos of your scooter on hand just in case something happens to it. It will help tremendously to show the police or others when trying to recover your scooter. Also post it at the Stolen Scooter Registry at scoot.net.

When you need to park your scooter away from home, haul your chain locks with you. Some people wrap a chain around the floorboard of their scooter and then lock another chain onto that chain, then that chain on to something solid. Turn on your alarm ::weep weep!:: and rest assured that your baby is a little bit safer.