Incidents of motorcycle theft are 26% higher than they were in 2019, according to the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB), which reported that 51,129 motorcycles were stolen in the U.S. in 2021. August saw the most thefts, with around 6,000 reported incidents. The rise comes as rates of motorcycle theft were dropping, with NICB data showing a 3% decline in incidents from 2020-2021. "We've seen surges in thefts of all types of motor vehicles throughout 2021, and motorcycle thefts are no exception, especially in the summer months," David Glawe, president and CEO of NICB, said in a release. "The economy, supply chain issues, and the value of precious metals and vehicle parts has certainly played a consequential role with skyrocketing crime during the year. Motorcycles are expensive and more difficult to secure than other vehicles, making them prime targets for thieves. We continue to urge all riders to take steps to protect their property." The above slideshow details the motorcycle brands that are most commonly stolen in the U.S. as well as the states that see the most incidents of motorcycle theft, according to the NICB. To prevent motorcycle theft, the NICB recommends the following: |

• Use common sense; park in well-lit areas, lock your ignition and remove your keys.
• Lock your cycle even when stored in a garage. Consider investing in an alarm system.
• Don't store your title in your motorcycle's storage compartment.
• Place unique markings on your motorcycle and take photos of them. If your bike is ever stolen, you can use these markings to identify your property.
• Don't walk off while leaving it idle as this will make it a prime target for thieves.

Related: |

• Executive Insights: Insurance & the art of motorcycle repair
• 10 most expensive U.S. states for insuring motorcycles
• States with the greatest increase in auto thefts