theft deterrent?

[LidoCA]

The other day, I rode my scooter to the grocery store and did some shopping. While I was in there, it occurred to me that my little scooter was all alone in the parking lot. The only protection was the steering lock to save her from being kidnapped. I live in a small suburb, surrounded by 10 million people within a 50 mile radius. It is entirely possible that a few of those people may be of dubious character.
 What type of lock/chain/pit bull do people use for some sort of piece of mind? My ride is stored in my garage, so I am not worried about the night stalkers.
 

[TroutBum]

Besides the steering lock I just use a disc brake lock. Mine is bright red with a bright red reminder cord. Other than that make sure you have a good insurance policy.

Others may use chains and cables, but I figure why bother I have insurance. Everyone has their own comfort and risk level so do what makes you feel comfortable.

[DMblues01]

Well, since I have a house with no garage, I just have a 6' Kryptonite cable lock that I use to lock the scoot to my back porch.
At work, I cable it to a huge metal light pole. Plus, I use the steering lock all the time.

The rest of the time, if I'm just out at the store or hanging out somewhere, I don't worry about locking it up. I just lock the steering.  I only use the cable lock if it's parked for several hours, i.e.-at work or when I'm home sleeping.

[245luigi]

Ive had my bike stolen before and it succcccccccccks.

I have a kryptonite chain for storage at home (Live in Baltimore no garage)

and Disk lock + alarm for when Im out and about (Xena).

Also having a cover on the scooter can be a theft deterrent as well. Out of site out of mind.

[Porkie]

Park it next to a Harley and you'll be safe---you know which one they will steal:)

Regardless of the forks being locked, a thief can just pull up with a small tow truck, van or pickup and your scoot is gone in a heartbeat.

I used to use a 6 ft braided steel cable and an armored padlock and ran the cable around an immovable object or another bike if we were riding together.

I don't use anything Kryptonite as it could make Superman sick if He's in the area:)

Sam:)

[08087]

I have a 10' cable for when I'm parking for long periods in an unprotected area, but lucky for me my job now provides us with enclosed parking and my house is as safe as you could want.

[kingkymco125]

I know the feeling of having your bike stolen. Mine was almost stolen in my condo complex by a bunch of teenagers. What saved me was my steering lock. They just left the bike alone. Now I use a 20foot construction chain lock when it is at home. When I go out, I use my master big cable lock. I do have fire and theft protection for my bike. I also use a motorcycle cover. A cover does not hurt since most thieves will look for a much easier target to steal.

[zombie]

Cables are easy to bend, and break. All locks are susceptible to freezing, and smashing ie: freon, ect. As stated most thefts are smash, and grab types using a van or pick up so chaining to a pole or other stationary object is best. The chain should be one you can barley lift let alone cut w/ bolt cutters. Thru both wheels, and around whatever.
This leaves the lock... http://www.popsci.com/diy/article/2012-08/gray-matter-how-science-helps-bike-thieves
No metal lock is freeze proof but a motion sensor alarm on a second battery installed under the cowling will deter almost all would be wanna be thieves. Most are lazy, and none like attention. Make it easier for them to move along.

An alarm can be set up for under 40.00. Use the bike horn or get a siren.
http://www.amazon.com/Rechargeable-12V-7AH-Sealed-Battery/dp/B003S1RQ2S

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Mercury-Tilt-Switch-Pin-Alarm-Door-Trunk-Hood-for-Car-Auto-Motorcycle-NEW-/110782756227

http://www.ebay.com/itm/2-way-12V-latching-relay-modules-touch-bistable-switch-/111335950583?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item19ec23c8f7

[Stig / Major Tom]

I use this Bully lock downtown when I have to leave my scoot in a parking lot across from my dentist, or outside my therapist's office, or when I go to my Burmuda Triangle/BigFoot Zumba classes at the Dew Drop Inn. It has a pretty loud and piercing alarm, a motion sensor and a pager to get me out of the dentist's chair if a bird lands on my scoot. VERY heavy to carry though. And half the time I set it off trying to set it or when I come back to get it off. Pretty cool, if you like attention.(@$90)
When I pop into the grocer's I use the Grip-Lock. Nice and bright colors on some of them....no squatting involved - which I like.(@$55)

My scoot is garaged at home and in a heated warehouse at work, near my desk. I am very lucky to have such good security - but the stupid ins. co.'s never even ask 'where' it lives.

If anybody did steal it - the cops could just message out > "stop any scooter you see!" It would be mine ....
Not a lot of scoots around here - though I did see a red Vespa yesterday - 78 degrees and sunny brought it out.

Stig

[zombie]

I like the look of that Bully lock. All in one minus "that guy named Vinny".