Not everyone who goes to Bike Week in Daytona Beach owns a hog. Some steal them, according to the Lee County Sheriff’s Office.


Historically, the popular motorcycle event is preceded by a bump statewide in motorcycle thefts, according to sheriff’s Deputy Angelo Vaughn.


According to the Auto Theft Unit in Lee County, such an increase has been seen in recent weeks. The Daytona Beach event this year starts today and continues through March 11. Sport bike and Metric owners are the most frequent victims, according to Vaughn.


Deputies made the following suggestions to bike owners:


  • Lock your ignition and remove the key. Most bike thefts occur when the ignition is shut off, but not locked.
  • Lock forks or disc brakes with locks with large, bright tags.
  • If traveling with others, lock motorcycles together.
  • If riding alone, lock your bike to a secure, stationary object.
  • Install a motorcycle alarm and tracking device.
  • When spending the night at a hotel, park the bike near a security camera or your room.
  • If parking in a garage, block the bike with automobiles and lock the garage door.
  • Leave the title at home, not in a compartment or saddle bag. Keep the registration and insurance on you.
  • Uniquely mark the bike and carry a photo of the mark to show police in the event of theft.