With the recession leading to an increase in the number of bike thefts, even motorcyclists with cheaper vehicles are being urged to ensure they secure their bikes after research found that motorbike thieves are now targeting the "low value vehicles."

Although during the crisis it may seem expensive to ensure you have a good security over the vehicle, those who fail to secure their bike may end up falling victim to motorcycle theft, and may find that they will have to fork out even more costs to get it back.

Paying to recover your bike

Another man has been left feeling "disgusted" after being told he has to pay £150 to get back his stolen motorbike. The man had his Honda CD175 motorbike stolen from outside his home in Wrexham three weeks ago. The North of Wales Police recovered the vehicle in some woods near Ysgol Morgan Llwyd.

The bike was then taken to a recovery garage where crime scene investigators tested the vehicle for fingerprints and DNA. However, the man has now been told he has to pay £150 or more to get it back unless the bike thief has been prosecuted.

The man, who was left "disgusted" said: "As a victim of a crime I think it's disgraceful. If I can't pick the bike up in a week I would have to pay even more for storage."

A spokesperson from the North Wales Police stated that it does "not pay for the recovery of stolen vehicles" unless the vehicle is recovered "solely as evidence."

"If the police use their powers to recover a vehicle because it is illegally, dangerously or obstructively parked or abandoned or broken down, the owner will have to pay," she said.

However, she added that "The owner can recover these costs from their insurance company providing they have the relevant cover on their policy."

Commenting on the North Wales Police policy, the motorcyclist said: "I can't believe they can treat victims of crime like this."

Burden on biker

He stated that the price of the vehicle has reduced as a result of it being hotwired, and that he would also have to pay extra to repair the damage. He pointed out the regardless of having the vehicle covered, his bike insurance firm will not pay for the costs as he has third party insurance.

"I only have third party insurance so the argument that insurance would pay is certainly not a valid one."

In recent months, another man was left angered after being told he would have to pay a bill of £260 to recover his Yamaha SR125. He was told he could have the costs reimbursed by his insurer but would need to pay an excess fee of £250.

He said: "I can't afford to pay the excess on my insurance, and even if I could it would mean I would lose my no claims bonus."

Another man who had his scooter stolen from his home was ordered to pay £190 to get it back after it was recovered by Herts Police.

His claim was also denied as he had third party bike insurance which does not cover theft. As a result, motorcyclists are being urged to take adequate steps ensure their vehicles are secure if they want to avoid falling victim to motorcycle theft.