Prevent motorcycle theft effectively and insure it properly
13.06.25
6
Minutes
Katrin Straub
Managing Director at nextsure
A stolen motorbike is a nightmare for any rider and can quickly cause financial loss of several thousand euros. Find out how to effectively protect your motorbike and which insurance will cover you in the worst case.
The topic in brief and concise terms
A combination of high-quality mechanical locks and electronic security devices such as GPS trackers offers the best protection against motorcycle theft.
Partial comprehensive insurance usually covers the replacement value of the stolen motorcycle; for new vehicles, often the new price.
In the event of theft, immediately reporting it to the police and the insurance company is crucial for claims handling.
Understanding the current theft situation in Germany
The number of motorcycle thefts in Germany is a serious problem for riders. In 2022, according to the Police Crime Statistics (PKS), around 23,700 thefts of mopeds and motorcycles were recorded, an increase of more than a third compared with the previous year’s approximately 17,600 cases. Large cities are particularly affected: in 2022, Berlin topped the statistics with 2,367 reported thefts. Relative to its population, Freiburg im Breisgau had the highest theft rate, with almost 178 offences per 100,000 inhabitants. The clearance rate stands at just 18.3 per cent on the national average, which underlines the need for good prevention and insurance. These figures make it clear that comprehensive theft protection is essential. The regional differences and low clearance rate make it clear how important it is to act proactively.
Quick Facts: The key points on motorcycle theft at a glance
For quick orientation, we have compiled the most important points on motorcycle theft. These facts give you an initial overview of prevention and insurance:
Theft risk: Owing to their lighter weight and compact size, motorcycles are a popular target for thieves; they are often simply carried away or loaded onto vans.
Regional hotspots: Major cities such as Berlin, Hamburg and Cologne have high theft figures in absolute terms; Freiburg im Breisgau has a high rate per capita.
Insurance cover: Partial comprehensive insurance usually covers the financial loss caused by motorcycle theft and reimburses the replacement value.
Prevention is crucial: A combination of mechanical and electronic security measures significantly increases protection.
Immediate steps after theft: Prompt reporting to the police and your insurer is essential for claims settlement.
Replacement value: The insurer usually reimburses the value that an equivalent model has on the used market; for new vehicles, often the purchase price.
These key points show that both precaution and knowing the correct course of action in the event of a claim are crucial. Next, we look at practical examples and calculation methods.
Practical section: Effective securing methods and keeping costs in view
To protect your motorcycle effectively against theft, a combination of different security measures is recommended. Simply parking it in a well-lit and busy place can already act as a deterrent; a private garage offers the best protection. High-quality locks are essential – look for tested quality, for example from VdS Schadenverhütung. A cover not only protects against the weather, but also from the curious eyes of potential thieves. The costs of motorcycle insurance with theft cover vary, but partial cover is often available for a modest monthly amount. For example, partial cover with a €150 excess can reduce the premium. Investing in good security technology, which may cost €100 to €300, quickly pays for itself compared with the loss of a motorcycle worth several thousand euros. Bear in mind that thieves are often specialised in certain types of lock; two different systems increase security. Below, we go into the insurance-related aspects in more detail.
Insurance law basics: What does partial cover provide?
Partial comprehensive insurance is the key component in protecting yourself against the financial consequences of motorcycle theft. It usually covers the replacement value of the stolen vehicle at the time of the theft. For newer motorcycles, many insurers even reimburse the new price within the first six to 24 months after first registration. It is important to note that parts permanently fitted to the motorcycle, such as pannier systems, are often included, whereas mobile sat navs or luggage rolls are usually not. Please pay attention to the exact terms in your policy, as there may be differences between providers. An excess, usually between 150 and 300 euros, reduces the premium but must be paid by you in the event of a claim. The no-claims class plays no role in partial comprehensive insurance. More comprehensive cover, which also includes vandalism, is provided by fully comprehensive insurance. Next, we will look at what to do in the event of a claim.
Immediate measures in the event of a claim: explained step by step
If your motorbike has been stolen, quick and correct action is crucial. Here is a guide to the first important steps:
Keep calm and contact the police: Report the theft to the police immediately on emergency number 110. This is the first and most important step.
File a theft report: Go to the nearest police station to make a formal report. You will receive a reference number, which is required for the insurance company.
Inform your insurer: Report the theft to your motorbike insurer immediately. Many insurers have dedicated hotlines or online forms for this.
Gather the necessary documents: The insurer usually requires the police theft report (or the reference number), the vehicle registration documents, parts one and two, as well as proof of the number of vehicle keys.
Deregister the vehicle: After a certain period (often four weeks, during which the vehicle may be recovered), the motorbike must be deregistered at the vehicle registration office.
Immediate reporting to the police and insurer is crucial for smooth claims handling. If the motorbike was stolen abroad, inform both the local police there and the German police. Now on to the expert tips for optimum protection.
In-depth expertise: legal aspects and optimisation tips
In insurance law, there are a few subtleties when it comes to motorcycle theft. Under Section 286 of the German Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO), the policyholder must make the theft plausible, in other words, prove that the vehicle was parked at a certain place at a certain time and was later not found again. A knowingly false statement to the police or the insurer can result in the insurer being released from its obligation to pay. Our expert tip: document the condition and security of your motorcycle regularly with photos. This can be helpful in the event of a dispute. Make sure you fulfil all obligations under the insurance contract, such as reporting the incident without delay and answering questions truthfully. The choice of parking location is also relevant; leaving the vehicle parked permanently in poorly visible, high-risk locations can, in individual cases, be regarded as gross negligence, which could reduce the benefit payable. Find out about recent court rulings on motorcycle theft to stay up to date. Good advice can help you avoid pitfalls.
Unfortunately, 100% theft protection does not exist, but you can make life as difficult as possible for thieves. The police recommend a combination of mechanical and electronic security devices. Here is a selection of tried-and-tested methods:
Mechanical security: Heavy-duty U-locks or armoured cable locks made of hardened special steel are essential. Disc brake locks, ideally with an alarm function, block the wheel and are difficult to overcome. Always secure your motorcycle to a fixed object (lamp post, fence).
Electronic security: An alarm system (DWA) deters with loud signals and reports unauthorised movement. GPS trackers make it possible to locate the stolen vehicle and significantly increase the chances of recovery. An electronic immobiliser, standard on many newer models, prevents unauthorised starting.
Our expert tip: Invest in VdS-approved Class B locks for motorcycles. The combination of at least two high-quality lock types of different designs considerably increases the effort required for thieves. Also remember to secure valuable accessories. With these measures, you are well prepared.
Your next step towards optimal protection
Protecting your motorcycle from theft requires a considered strategy of prevention and suitable insurance. With the information presented here, you are already well informed. Bear in mind that every minute it takes a thief longer to steal your motorcycle increases the chances that he will give up. A solid motorcycle insurance gives you additional peace of mind. We at nextsure will be happy to help you find the cover best suited to your needs. Make use of our expertise for carefree riding enjoyment.
Request an individual risk assessment now: Have your insurance situation reviewed free of charge and receive specific recommendations for optimisation.
More useful links
Statista provides detailed statistics on the development of the police clearance rate for motor vehicle thefts in Germany since 2000.
The Police Advice service provides valuable tips and recommendations on vehicle security and theft prevention.
The Berlin Police publishes press releases that provide insights into current theft figures and police measures in the capital.
The Tagesschau reports on current developments and BKA crime statistics on car theft.
FAQ
Does the insurance pay the new price of my motorcycle in the event of theft?
Many comprehensive insurance policies reimburse the new price in the event of theft of a new vehicle within a certain period (often six to 24 months after initial registration). Otherwise, the replacement value is paid.
Are accessories such as cases or helmets also covered?
Parts permanently attached to the motorcycle, such as pannier systems, are often included in partial comprehensive insurance. A helmet may be insured if it was secured to the motorcycle with a lock. Mobile devices such as sat navs are usually not covered. Check your policy terms.
What role does the excess play in partial comprehensive cover?
An agreed excess (e.g. EUR 150 or EUR 300) lowers the insurance premium. In the event of a claim, you must cover this amount yourself before the insurance pays out.
What happens if my motorcycle is stolen abroad?
Report the theft both to the police in the relevant country and to the German police. Also inform your insurance company. Partial comprehensive cover usually also applies in other European countries.
How can I lower my insurance premium for motorbike insurance?
In addition to choosing an appropriate excess, factors such as a secure parking space (garage), low annual mileage or a seasonal registration plate can also affect the premium. An insurance comparison helps to find the best tariff.
Is a GPS tracker worth it for my motorbike?
Yes, a GPS tracker can be very useful. It does not prevent theft directly, but it significantly increases the chance of finding the motorcycle again after a theft. Many systems send an alert to your smartphone when movement is detected.
