Motorcycling bodies launch ten-point plan to tackle theft

The National Motorcyclists Council (NMC) has launched a ten-point action plan to tackle motorcycle theft, anti-social riding, and the use of motorcycles in wider criminal activities. The plan seeks to unify police, government, manufacturers, retailers, and rider organisations in a coordinated effort.

Thousands of motorcycles, scooters, and mopeds are stolen in the UK each year, according to the NMC. The organisation states that some of these stolen machines are subsequently used in crimes ranging from theft from pedestrians and shops to county lines drug operations. Anti-social and illegal riding is also a core concern, with the NMC highlighting issues around dangerous use and the misidentification of high-powered e-bikes.

Impact on riders and communities

The problems extend beyond direct victims. The NMC argues that motorcycle theft and anti-social behaviour negatively impact local communities, businesses, and police resources. Also, these activities can damage the broader reputation of motorcycling. This reputational harm can have knock-on effects for legitimate riders, particularly where concerns lead to calls for restrictions on motorcycle access in both urban and rural areas.

A coordinated framework

The new plan proposes a framework that goes beyond simple theft prevention. It calls for greater use of technology and intelligence, improved analysis and targeting of offenders, vehicle registration measures, stronger enforcement, and rider education. A key aim is better coordination between the various organisations involved in tackling motorcycle crime. The NMC contends that previous anti-theft campaigns have failed to produce a fundamental change in theft levels.

There are, however, some positive signs. The Motorcycle Industry Association (MCIA), which supports the plan, reports that motorcycle theft figures for 2025 were almost 15 percent lower than in 2022. The MCIA attributes this reduction to industry investment, riders paying greater attention to security, and stronger police enforcement.

Implementation and industry support

NMC Executive Director Craig Carey-Clinch said the plan is not something that can be delivered immediately. He noted that some measures are already being progressed, while others will require longer-term investment and partnership. Some elements of the framework remain aspirational for now.

The MCIA released a statement endorsing the initiative. Motorcycle theft remains a serious issue for riders, retailers and the wider industry, and we will always support measures, like this action plan, that help reduce it further, the association said. It added, "There is always more to do, and this ten-point plan is a helpful start to help drive theft down further."

The wider goal is to reduce theft and anti-social behaviour while disrupting criminal networks that use motorcycles. For the industry, a practical motivation exists: reducing criminal and anti-social activity linked to motorcycles could help remove a barrier to wider public acceptance of motorcycling as a legitimate form of transport. The NMC and MCIA will now work with government and police to develop the proposals further.