Sir, – With regard to Colin Weldon’s letter bemoaning the loss of and damage to his motorbike (Letters, December 18th), I can only sympathise and add that my motorcycle mechanic in Rathmines in Dublin very recently had in for repair (or insurance write-off) four stolen but recovered bikes. As was the case with Colin’s motorbike, these machines had been crashed and seriously damaged by wayward idiots. Worryingly, the mechanic revealed one of the best-selling Japanese makes had a device hidden under the ignition which either allowed the thieves to bypass the ignition or scan the code for the immobiliser. Manufacturers need to take note.
Meanwhile, we bikers must carry disc locks, heavy-duty chains and padlocks, even when dropping in for a coffee.
The thieves, often observed roaming around on scooters and e-bikes, without helmets (so gardaí will be reluctant to give chase) are not so encumbered. All they need is a balaclava, a backpack, a scanner and a brass neck. – Yours, etc,
LORCAN ROCHE,
Dartry,
Dublin 6.