Bike Insurance

Riders have been warned to make sure their bike insurance covers them for theft - because GPS systems cannot guarantee the recovery of stolen vehicles.

According to vehicle recovery expert Tracker, thieves are turning to a European technique called jamming to prevent vehicles being traced.

Criminals can use the jammers to block the satellite signal to the GPS receiver, making it "impossible" to trace a stolen vehicle, warned the organisation.

Tracker's Mark Walls said that the devices were "frighteningly easy" to build and readily available on the internet, providing even more reason for riders to ensure they are covered by their bike insurance.

"Whilst GPS/GSM devices have their place in stolen vehicle recovery, there really shouldn't be sole reliance on this technology," he warned.

Paul Lambotte, head of the Vehicle Crime Intelligence Service, said that it was constantly working with the industry and partners to produce "innovative solutions" to stop thieves in their tracks.

Riders were warned last week not to try and cut costs by ditching their bike insurance policies in light of the recent financial crisis, with the British Insurance Brokers' Association warning that cover against theft and accidents should be considered a "priority".

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