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As soon as this daily rain pattern in the deep south breaks, I'm thinking about taking my first short road trip - maybe lasting three or four days. Any general tips about Spyder security while staying in motels, or anything else I might need to know or plan for? Thanks, Jack.
I try to choose a well-lighted place with visibility from the room and the street. And a decent neighborhood. No guarantees in life, though.Quote:
Originally Posted by USMMAN
If you can get a ground floor room and park just outside your door that's about the best.
Ground floor, park under a street light as close to room as you can. I just did about 1300 miles in 3 days stayed at a few Comfort Inn's , worked well.
After hearing about glove box thefts at a recent group event, either keep it empty or make sure you lock your bars over to lock the glove box.
Even if it's not going to rain, I recommend using a half cover to keep things covered and out of sight. Also make sure that lock all compartments and the steering column. Do not leave anything that you can't live without on the bike. Last thing-don't worry! just ride and have an awesome trip! You can only control so much!
Just as UtahPete said, lights......the more, the better......,proximity to the building.......maybe as close to and in view of the office, a good neighborhood. You can get crime statistics for areas you'll be traveling to or through it you're concerned.
I've stayed at some less than stellar places for work and have never experienced any problems but that was with my truck. We've only stayed overnight three times with our Spyder and haven't had problems with it either. But the places we stayed were in nicer areas than where I stayed while working.
If you see a sign in the parking lot saying the motel is not responsible for loss to guests vehicles, look for another place. We went to Texas last month (in a cage:mad:) and were at a very well known and well regarded chain in a very nice neighborhood. I asked at the front desk if they had problems very often. They said the area was nice but that sometimes that attracted people who werent.
I lock my handlebars but that's about it. Covers take up valuable space so I don't carry one with me.
I've been ripped off several times at motels which are right next to a major highway. They make a good getaway for the thieves. I would recommend stay at a place a few miles removed from highways for that reason. Sometimes those smaller places will let you leave your bike out in front of the office where the night clerk can keep an eye on it.
I also have a vicious Pomeranian I can lend you for the trip. He's only 7 lbs and doesn't have a tooth in his head but he has a bark that will wake the dead. Hey, you never know. He could run up the bad guys legs and trip them until the cops get there. :)
Some of the nicer Motel/Hotels have allowed motorcycles to park under the canopy right outside the office where someone is on duty 24/7.Quote:
Originally Posted by USMMAN
you planning on the Natchez trace parkway ? a very nice ride from what I hear , wanting to make that ride from way up here sometime ... { would be really cool if you had other spyder riders in an area you were riding to, that could help out in , hotel locations , and points of interest at the same area ... you could swing by south haven Mississippi and help tim out with his trunk and seat latches :coffee:Quote:
Originally Posted by USMMAN
What a great idea!Quote:
Originally Posted by youngers
I agree with other posters and carry a half cover. My Kradellock is only for head calls and food stops. The basic rule: if you value it, don't leave it on/in the bike.
Don't leave anything with the :ani29: that you don't want lost. A screwdriver will break open the front trunk, bags, and storage compartment instantly.
The suggestions about parking are also on. Don't forget to pull your key. I left the key in one in Fairbanks overnight. Fortunately, the bike was there in the AM. :thumbup:
Find a larger rubber snake. Coil it up and leave it in the trunk box unlocked.
Great information! Thanks to all.