What security requirements must your engine meet?
Of course, you always want to prevent theft of your motorcycle. One of the most important things you can do yourself to better secure your motorcycle is to use an approved ART lock. But which motorcycle insurance policies actually require such a lock and what risks do you run if your lock does not meet your insurer's requirements?
Mandatory lock for your motorcycle: ART 4
An ART lock is a lock with a hallmark that indicates quality. Quality is expressed in stars: from one star (low security) to five stars (locks for home storage).
When an ART lock is mandatory
Do you have a motorcycle insurance with WA limited casco or all-risk? Then the insurer imposes a security requirement. This is because with these policies, the insurer assumes the risk of theft.
Insurer's requirements for an ART lock
For your motorcycle insurance, you need at least an ART 4 lock. This level provides enough security according to the insurer's requirements. You must also have both original keys, at least one of which must show clear signs of use.
The validity of an ART lock
The approval of an ART lock may expire. The ART Foundation regularly checks whether locks still meet the requirements. Are you not using an approved lock? Then there is no coverage in case of theft. So always check if your lock is still valid according to the requirement of the insurer.
Exception with WA coverage.
Do you only have basic third-party coverage? Then there is no theft coverage and no requirement for an ART lock.
Night storage
Preferably put your motorcycle in a securely locked room at night. When doing so, always use an ART 4 approved lock.
Don't have an enclosed space? Then place the motorcycle out of sight of the public road. Attach an ART 4-approved chain lock or shackle lock to an ART-approved wall or ground anchor, or to another sturdy fixed object.
Can't place the bike out of sight or secure it to an object? Then lock it with the standard locks and an ART 4 approved lock.
SCM security
Some motorcycles have additional security requirements. This depends on the catalog value of your motorcycle. Your policy conditions or clause sheet will state whether your motorcycle must meet one of the SCM M classes listed below.
Class M1
Consisting of a system that automatically engages and prevents the motor from moving under its own power, no detection and no alarm.
- Blocking on the engine management
- Attack resistance at least 3 minutes
Class M2
Consisting of a system that automatically engages and prevents the motor from moving under its own power, alerting by emergency siren, extended with tilt detection.
- Optical signaling
- Motion Detection
- Acoustic signaling through an emergency siren
Class M3
Consisting of a class M2 system meeting the requirements of SCM regulation MF-04, supplemented by a tracking system meeting the requirements of SCM regulation TT03.
Certificate
When you purchase an SCM security system, you get a KIWA SCM (Foundation for Certification of Motor Vehicle Security ) certificate. This certificate is valid for three years. After that, you must have the security system inspected every year by a recognized company.
Only with a valid certificate can you be compensated for any damage. So the certificate is proof that your motorcycle is properly secured.
What can you do extra against theft?
The insurer's requirements are the minimum. But with a few extra tips, you can make the chances of theft even lower. Thieves often look for easy prey. So make sure your motorcycle is less attractive. Tips:
Use additional security over and above the mandatory measures.
Park the motorcycle in a place where many people go. That way, thieves have no peace to steal.
Not using the motorcycle for an extended period of time? Put it indoors in storage.
Anchor the motor to the ground or to a pole.
Engrave the license plate into the frame. This will make the bike less valuable to thieves.
Use a brake disc lock.
If things do go wrong
Even if you take all possible measures, you can never completely rule out theft. Therefore, a good motorcycle insurance is important to protect you financially. For theft coverage, you need WA + Limited Casco or WA-Casco motorcycle insurance.
Make sure your motorcycle meets the insurer's security requirements. Insurers are increasingly imposing additional security requirements. If your motorcycle does not meet these requirements, you may have to pay a higher deductible in the event of damage or theft, or even receive no compensation at all.
Premiums also vary considerably between insurers. So always compare well before making your choice. With Alpina's comparison tool, you can see multiple options at once and avoid paying too much.
Do you have questions about your lock or your motorcycle insurance? Feel free to contact us via chat or by phone at 088 688 3710.
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