Are Aprilia scooters a common theft target in London?

Key points

• Scooters and smaller motorcycles are a known theft target in London because they are light and easy to move.
• Popular commuter brands (Aprilia, Vespa, Yamaha and others) attract thieves because there is demand for complete bikes and parts.
• Thieves often look for “easy wins”: bikes with no chain, no lock through the wheel and nothing securing them to an immovable object.
• Layered security (disc lock, heavy chain to a ground anchor or post, alarm/immobiliser, cover, secure parking) can make an Aprilia much less appealing.
• Some insurance policies reflect security measures when setting premiums or excesses.

Short explainer

London has seen widely reported problems with scooter and motorcycle theft. Thieves tend to target:

• Light, high-value scooters that can be wheeled away quickly.
• Bikes left in the same on-street spot every day.
• Machines with no visible security devices.

An Aprilia scooter is attractive for the same reasons as any other quality commuter bike: it’s valuable, it’s in demand, and it can be stripped for parts. That doesn’t mean your scooter will definitely be stolen, but it does mean that security should be part of everyday ownership.

Strong habits that London riders often use include:

• Using a police-recommended, Sold Secure or Thatcham-approved chain and lock through the frame or wheel and attached to something solid where possible.
• Adding a disc lock and, ideally, an alarm or immobiliser so the scooter can’t just be rolled away quietly.
• Choosing busy, well-lit parking or secure bays and avoiding dark, hidden corners.
• Using a plain cover to hide the make and model and add one more barrier.

Thieves usually pick the easiest target. If your Aprilia clearly has more layers of security than the scooter next to it, you’ve already tilted the risk in your favour.