How You Can Prevent Electric Scooter Theft
How to Prevent Electric Scooter Theft
An electric scooter is an investment, and whether you spend a few hundred or a few thousand on your ride, you want to take every precaution to protect it from theft. Scooters are becoming targets for thieves because of more increasing opportunities for theft and increasingly high resale value.
In this article, we will discuss the risks associated with electric scooter theft and point you toward essential security features, best practices for locking & best locks for electric scooters, tips for choosing the right location for scooter storage, and using anti-theft technology and GPS tracking to keep your scooter safe.
Ultimately the best way to keep your scooter safe is to bring it inside with you wherever you go, but when that’s not an option, high security locks are a must, along with additional security features and aftermarket technology that can provide even more peace of mind and theft deterrence.
Understand Electric Scooter Theft: Why Scooters are Targeted
Electric scooters are often targeted by thieves due to their high demand in the secondary market. Scooters stolen in one location are whisked away other cities and sold before they can be found. Thieves can easily sell stolen scooters online or dismantle them for valuable parts.
Most scooters are lightweight and portable, making them an attractive target for opportunistic thieves. Even big performance scooters can be thrown into a truck without too much trouble. A lack of standardized identification and registration for electric scooters makes it challenging to track and recover stolen vehicles.
Unlike cars or motorcycles that have license plates and VIN numbers for identification, most electric scooters lack unique identifying markings, making them easier for thieves to resell without detection.
Built-In Security Features to Look for in an Electric Scooter
When buying an electric scooter, look for built-in security features. Some models incorporate integrated locks or reinforced frames that allow you to secure your scooter to a fixed object.
Some electric scooters, for example, have electronic locking and unlocking functionality. This feature allows you to lock or unlock your scooter using a remote control, a smartphone app or even a biometric scanner on the scooter itself.
Another security feature to look for in an electric scooter is GPS tracking capability. Some high-end models are equipped with GPS trackers that allow you to locate your scooter in real-time using a mobile app. If you can’t stop a theft, you can help police locate and recover your scooter.
Some scooters also come with alarms and other anti-theft systems that can deter potential thieves. As we’ll note below, electronic security features are not replacements for high-quality locks, chains, and other electric scooter anti-theft locks that physically secure the scooter to a fixed object.
Top: How You Can Prevent Electric Scooter TheftBest Practices for Locking Your Scooter Safely
Properly locking your electric scooter is essential to deterring theft. Whenever possible, park your scooter in well-lit areas with high foot traffic. Thieves are less likely to target scooters that are visible to the public. If parking on the street, use designated scooter parking areas whenever available.
When parking, make sure to lock your scooter securely to immovable objects such as bike racks or lampposts. Avoid locking your scooter to flimsy structures that can easily be cut or removed. Do not rely solely on electronic scooter anti-theft systems to protect your vehicle.
Even if thieves can’t turn on and ride off with your scooter, they can still lift it up and carry it away. That’s why it’s worth buying a high-quality, reinforced lock specifically designed for securing bikes, motorcycles, or scooters outdoors. The best scooter locks are typically made of hardened steel and resist handsaws, power tools, and lock picks.
Also consider removing valuable accessories or components from your scooter when parking it for an extended period. Items such as phone holders, added lights, or bags can be easily detached and stolen, so it’s best to take them with you or store them in a secure place.
Related at Rider Guide: How to Lock an Electric Scooter
The Importance of Using High-Quality Locks and Chains
Choose locks with thick, reinforced shackles and chains with hardened steel links that are difficult to impossible for thieves to cut through. Some locks also come with weather-resistant coatings to protect them from rust and corrosion, ensuring long-lasting security for your scooter.
While premium, hardened steel U-locks and/or bicycle or motorcycle chains can be expensive and feel bulky to carry at first, they are, hands-down, the best way to secure your scooter. If you need something lighter and less expensive, consider using multiple locks to secure different parts of your scooter, like the wheels and frame, to make sure thieves can’t remove one part of the scooter and make off with the rest.
Remember to lock your scooter properly, ensuring that the lock or chain is tightly secured to both the scooter and the fixed object.
Related: Comparing the Best Anti-Theft Locks for Electric Scooters
Our Favorite Locks for Electric Scooters
There are many different types of locks that you can purchase, and not every one is going to meet your needs. You might not feel like you need the maximum level of security. On the other hand, if you park your scooter in a higher crime area, you might want to spring for the most secure lock you can find.
While hardened steel U-locks are the most secure, they can be heavy and awkward to carry. Folding locks are also a good solution, provided they have reinforced bars and hinges that can’t be easily be defeated by drills or other tools. There are also several smart locks on the market, with Bluetooth connectivity and biometric security. Below, find some of our favorite locks to use for electric scooters.
Maximum Security
Kryptonite New York Standard
Kryptonite makes the toughest U-locks and chains on the market, and the New York Standard is their highest security standard size lock, offering the ultimate security against bolt cutters and power tools.
Kryptonite New York Long Shackle
A long shackle U-lock can be a great choice for electric scooters that don’t have easily accessible locations for standard locks.
Kryptonite New York Mini
If your scooter has an easily accessible locking point on the frame, or if you plan to use your U-lock in combination with a chain, you might want to go with the mini version of the New York.
Kryptonite New York Lock & Chain
If you’re ultra serious about security and don’t mind carrying a massive hardened steel chain with you, the New York FAHGETTTABOUTIT lock and chain is the system to beat.
High Security
Voro Motors Fingerprint U-lock
Voro Motors fingerprint U-lock is an easy way to lock/unlock your scooter without ever worrying about losing keys or forgetting codes. No one can ever open this lock but you.
ETOOK Folding Lock
The ETOOK folding lock from Apollo uses 5mm steel links that resist drills and bolt cutters. Includes a bracket to mount the lock to your scooter.
How to Choose the Right Location for Scooter Storage
When storing your electric scooter for an extended period, it’s important to choose the right location. Opt for a secure and dry environment, such as a garage or a locked shed. Avoid leaving your scooter outdoors for extended periods, as exposure to the elements can lead to damage or make it more vulnerable to theft.
If you live in an apartment building, consider storing your scooter inside your unit or in designated storage areas. Always make sure to lock your scooter, even when leaving it in the building.
Extreme temperatures can impact the battery life and overall performance of your scooter. Choose a storage space that is not subject to drastic temperature fluctuations to ensure the longevity of your scooter’s components.
If you’re storing your scooter for a season or more, consider getting a cover or protective tarp to hide your scooter and protect it from dust, debris, and potential damage.
Use GPS Tracking for Added Security
GPS tracking technology can be a valuable tool in increasing the security of your electric scooter. Many scooters now come with built-in GPS tracking systems or offer aftermarket options.
By enabling GPS tracking on your scooter, you can monitor its location in real-time and be notified if it moves without your authorization. This can assist law enforcement in recovering a stolen scooter and increase the chances of apprehending the thief.
Furthermore, GPS tracking can provide additional benefits beyond security. It can help you keep track of your scooter’s usage patterns, such as distance traveled and routes taken. This data can be valuable for maintenance purposes, allowing you to schedule timely servicing and ensure optimal performance.
Moreover, some GPS tracking systems offer geofencing capabilities, allowing you to set virtual boundaries for your scooter. If the scooter travels outside of the designated area, you can receive alerts, providing peace of mind when lending your scooter to others or parking it in public spaces.
Top: How You Can Prevent Electric Scooter Theft
