June 8th, 2018.


The Motorcycle Industry Association (MCIA), working with the support of the major motorcycle manufacturers, has announced news of a new ‘star rating’ programme.

Designed to recognise, and highlight to buyers, which anti-theft devices are fitted or supplied as standard on new motorcycles and scooters, the proposals have been presented to the Home Office.

The new initiative has been developed in response to the rise in motorcycle and scooter theft and the significant increase in scooters being used to enable further crime, which has been a particular problem in London.

The new rating scheme will be known as ‘MCIA Secured’, and all participating manufacturers will have each model within its range scored against the programme criteria and awarded a star for each layer of security fitted as standard. A maximum of five stars will be awarded, covering the following device categories;

• Steering lock
• Immobiliser
• Alarm
• Tracker
• MASTER Security System

This programme incorporates the MASTER Security Scheme launched in 2013. Since the introduction of the MASTER Scheme, large capacity machines fitted with its forensic technology are now six times less likely to be stolen compared to machines that are not included on the MASTER programme.

Locks and other types of physical security will not be included within the programme, although participating manufacturers will be required to ensure their franchised retailers offer locks and other types of security devices at the point of sale as an inclusive part of this initiative.

Through its board of directors, the MCIA has worked closely to create the programme and anticipates that all major manufacturers will join the scheme. The MCIA represents those companies that account for over 94 per cent of the new motorcycle and scooter market in the UK.

Commenting on the initiative, the MCIA’s CEO Tony Campbell said; “The market has suffered damage, especially in London, where many riders have chosen to give up on using a motorcycle or scooter due to repeated theft. MCIA Secured will recognise the efforts manufacturers have made up until now but also encourage the inclusion and further development of new technologies as they become available.

“As an industry, we have been working closely with the Home Office and all other stakeholders in order to reduce crime involving motorcycles and scooters, adding additional security in layers and raising awareness to the riders will help but, we are calling for local government to improve secure parking and more recognition for the users of powered two wheelers within planning and transport policy.

“Even considering the increase in theft and crime, the number of people opting to use a motorcycle and scooter has been rising over the past 20 years. We believe by introducing this new scheme highlighting which anti-theft devices are fitted as standard will help the customer make more informed choices and raise awareness of the importance of protecting their motorcycle or scooter from criminals.”

Minister for Crime, Safeguarding and Vulnerability, Victoria Atkins added; “I welcome the MCIA Secured programme, which demonstrates that our industry partners are playing their part in tackling crimes involving motorcycles, mopeds and scooters.

“The Home Office recognises that this is a complex issue with no one quick fix, which is why last September we brought together government departments, the police, industry and civil partners to work together to develop a plan to prevent these crimes and keep the public safe.

“I would urge everyone buying a motorcycle, moped or scooter to consult the MCIA Secured programme when purchasing their vehicles.”