Austin Police Offer Tips To Prevent Theft Ahead Of Massive Weekend Motorcycle Rally

AUSTIN, TX — Thousands of motorcyclists descending on Austin for the Republic of Texas Rally this weekend will be in town to show off their bikes while engaging in camaraderie with their fellow enthusiasts. But lurking among them will be thieves eager to steal their prized vehicles, police warn.

"The Austin Police Department’s Auto Theft Interdiction Program would like to remind everyone that thousands of motorcyclists will be in Austin attending the Republic of Texas (ROT) Rally June 8-11," police said in a statement on Thursday. "During the rally, criminals will be looking for opportunities to steal motorcycles. Do not assume your motorcycle is safe."

Criminals intent on such theft are out to make a quick profit off the stolen bikes, police noted: "Criminals ride away on easy targets or lift them into trucks or vans if they are not secured to a stationary object," officials said. "Stolen motorcycles are often sold to unsuspecting buyers online or stripped of easy to sell parts."

Related story: Republic of Texas Biker Rally Means Congress Avenue Will Be Closed This Weekend

But such theft is preventable if motorcycle owners take just a few extra moments to reduce their risk of becoming crime victims. Police suggest the following tip to make a motorcycle less of a target:

• Lock your ignition and remove the key, many thefts occur when the ignition is off but left unlocked;
• Lock the forks and disc brakes;
• Lock your motorcycle to a fixed object or to another motorcycle when traveling with others;
• Do not store the title, registration or insurance information in your motorcycle;
• Choose a well-lighted, secure area to park and check on your motorcycle periodically;
• If you see an outdoor security camera, park your motorcycle within the camera’s view.

The Austin Police Department also advises motorists in the area to be be patient and use extra precaution when driving given the added motorcycle traffic this weekend. Drivers also should note Congress Avenue will be closed during the motorcycle rally, and towing of cars belonging to parking violators will begin at 4 p.m. this Friday, June 9 (see related story above).

"Make sure not to drive distracted, watch out for pedestrians and obey traffic laws," police advise motorists who happen to be in the area.

For more information, please contact APD’s Auto Theft Interdiction Program at at (512) 974-5265. Stay informed with APD’s new app, Austin PD. Download it today for Android and IOS.

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