Imagine the fear of having your bike or motorcycle stolen and not knowing where it went. With a GPS tracker, you can keep an eye on your vehicle at all times and recover it quickly if it's stolen. Installing a GPS tracker on your bike or motorcycle is one of the best ways to protect your ride from theft and even monitor its location in real-time.

In this guide, we’ll explain how to install and hide a GPS tracker on your bike, bicycle, or motorcycle, so you can take control of your vehicle’s security.

Why Install a GPS Tracker?

Before knowing why could you install a GPS tracker on your Bike or Motorcycle? First, you must know and understand the bike and motorcycle theft cases.

Bike theft is a major issue in the U.S. According to data from the FBI's 2019 crime records, about 175,200 bikes are reported stolen each year. This number is an average from the last five years of data. However, many thefts go unreported, so the actual number is likely higher. 

In August 2023, the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) shared an important warning for motorcycle riders. Because between 2021 and 2022, motorcycle thefts increased by 7 percent. The NICB’s report for 2022 showed that an average of 4,561 motorcycles were stolen each month. 

By using GPS trackers all the theft of bike or motorcycle is going down. Because you always keep an eye on your valuables and also, law enforcement can easily track your bike or motorcycle and find those.

What is a GPS Tracker?

A GPS tracker gives you peace of mind by letting you know exactly where your bike, bicycle or motorcycle is, whether parked or on the move. These small GPS tracking devices can send you alerts if your vehicle is moved without permission, helping prevent theft. They’re also useful if you just want to keep track of where your vehicle is at all times.

Benefits of Installing GPS Trackers on Bike or Motorcycles

If you own a bicycle or motorcycle, keeping it safe from theft is always a top concern. Installing a GPS tracker on your bike or motorcycle can give you peace of mind by providing real-time tracking and an extra layer of protection.

Here are some key benefits of using a GPS tracker:

• Theft Prevention: A GPS tracker is one of the best ways to prevent theft of your bicycle or motorcycle. With a tracker installed, you can monitor its location at all times. If someone tries to steal it, you'll know exactly where your bike or motorcycle is, making it easier to recover.
• Real-Time Tracking: One of the biggest advantages of GPS trackers is that they allow real-time tracking. This means you can always see where your vehicle is using your smartphone or computer. Whether you parked your bike somewhere or let someone else borrow your motorcycle, you’ll know its exact location.
• Easy to Install: Most GPS trackers are designed to be easy to install on smaller vehicles like bicycles and motorcycles. They come with instructions on how to fix or hide the GPS tracker in your bike. There are many affordable options, so you don’t need to worry about spending too much money.
• Covert Protection: You can easily hide the GPS tracker in your bike or motorcycle so that thieves won’t know it’s there. This adds another layer of security, making it harder for anyone to find or remove the tracker. Even if your vehicle gets stolen, the hidden tracker will keep working.
• Track Vehicle Usage: GPS trackers not only help with theft protection but also let you track how your bicycle or motorcycle is being used. This is great if someone else borrows your vehicle. You can make sure they are riding safely and responsibly.

Types of GPS Trackers for Bike and Motorcycles

If you own a bicycle or motorcycle, you probably want to keep it safe from theft and have a way to track it in real-time. A GPS tracker is a great way to do that. There are different types of GPS trackers for bicycles and motorcycles, each with its benefits.

Let's look at two main types: battery-powered GPS trackers and wired GPS trackers.

1. Battery-Powered GPS Trackers

A battery-powered GPS tracker is portable and doesn’t need to be connected to your bikes or motorcycle’s battery. This makes it easy to hide and move around. These trackers are ideal for bicycles because they don't need any wiring. You can place them anywhere on your bike, such as inside the frame or under the seat, where they won’t be easily seen.

• Portable: Since it's not connected to the bike, you can move it around or even use it for other items.
• Easy to Install: You can simply hide it in a small space like a pouch or bag on your bike or motorcycle.
• Hidden Placement: Common places to hide include under the seat or inside the handlebar of your bicycle or motorcycle.

2. Wired GPS Trackers

A wired GPS tracker is connected to your motorcycle's battery, making it ideal for motorbikes. Since it’s powered by the bike’s battery, you won’t need to worry about charging it. This type is perfect for those who want to track their motorcycle all the time without worrying about battery life.

• Long-Lasting: Since it’s powered by your motorcycle, it doesn’t need recharging.
• Permanent: Once installed, it stays in place and constantly tracks your vehicle.
• Best for Motorcycles: Wired trackers work better for motorcycles because they can draw power from the bike’s battery.

How to Choose a GPS Tracker for Bike or Motorcycles

Choosing the right GPS trackers for your bike or motorcycle is important for keeping it safe from theft and for tracking it in real-time. There are many options available, so here are some tips to help you pick the best GPS tracker for your bike or motorcycle.

• Ease of Installation: When selecting a GPS tracker, look for one that’s easy to install. Some trackers can be placed on your bike or motorcycle without any wiring, making them very simple to set up. Wireless trackers are a good option because they don't require professional help.
• Battery Power: Another factor to consider is the battery life of the GPS tracker. Some trackers need to be charged often, while others can last for weeks or even months without needing a recharge. Choose a tracker that suits your needs based on how frequently you plan to use it.
• Tracking Features: Look for a GPS tracker that provides important real-time tracking. This feature lets you monitor your bike or motorcycle from your phone. Look for alerts in case of unauthorized movement and consider geofencing, which notifies you if your vehicle leaves a set area.
• Size and Design: A compact and lightweight GPS tracker is ideal for bikes and motorcycles because it’s easy to hide. Small GPS trackers are less noticeable, so they can be hidden in different parts of your vehicle, making them harder for thieves to find.
• Affordability: If you’re on a budget, look for affordable options that still offer good features. Many affordable GPS trackers come with basic but useful features like real-time tracking, motion alerts, and long battery life. These affordable options are great for people who want to secure their vehicles without spending too much.

How to Hide and Install a GPS Tracker on Bike or Motorcycles: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you’re looking to protect your bike or motorcycle from theft, installing a GPS tracker is a great solution. Not only does it provide real-time location tracking, but it also adds an extra layer of security and safety for your motorcycle. Here are the simple steps to install a GPS tracker on bikes, bicycles and motorcycles.

Installing a GPS Tracker on a Bike or Bicycle

Follow these steps to install a GPS tracker on your bike or bicycle:

• Look for a small, lightweight, waterproof GPS tracker that is easy to hide on your bike.
• Make sure it has good battery life and is easy to recharge.

• Before installing, ensure the tracker is fully charged. Most trackers come with rechargeable batteries.

• Hide the GPS tracker in a place that is not easily visible but still allows it to work properly.
• Popular hiding spots include the seat post, handlebars, or inside a water bottle cage.

• Use strong adhesive tape, zip ties, or small screws to secure the tracker to your bike.
• Make sure it is firmly attached so it won’t fall off when riding.

• After installation, check the tracker’s app to ensure it’s working and can track your bike's location in real time.

Installing a GPS Tracker on a Motorcycle

Motorcycles can be prime targets for theft, but a GPS tracker can help you monitor its location at all times. Here’s how you can install one on your motorcycle:

• Make sure the tracker is compact and waterproof, with a long battery life or an option to connect it to the motorcycle's battery.

• Most motorcycle GPS trackers connect to the battery for power. Locate your motorcycle’s battery, which is often under the seat or a side panel.

• Follow the instructions that come with your GPS tracker to connect the wires properly.
• Usually, this means attaching the red wire to the positive terminal and the black wire to the negative terminal.

• Find a secure, hidden spot on your motorcycle to hide the tracker. Good locations include under the seat, inside the side panels, or near the headlights.
• Make sure it is hidden well enough to avoid tampering.

• Once the installation is complete, turn on the motorcycle and check if the tracker is working.
• Use the mobile app or website to see if you can track your motorcycle in real-time.

Do You Need a Professional to Install Your GPS Tracker? DIY vs Professional Installation

If you’re thinking about getting a GPS tracker for your bike or motorcycle, you may wonder whether you need professional help for installation. The answer depends on how comfortable you are with tools, wiring, and some basic technical skills. Here are some points to know more about DIY vs professional installation:

DIY GPS Tracker Installation

For those who like to do things themselves, installing a GPS tracker on your bike or motorcycle can be a simple task. Many GPS trackers are designed for easy installation, and some even come with step-by-step instructions. Here's what to consider:

• Plug-and-Play GPS Trackers: These are the easiest to install. You don’t need to deal with wires. Just attach the tracker to your bike or motorcycle, and you’re good to go. This is perfect for people who aren’t too familiar with technical work.
• Battery-Powered GPS Trackers: These trackers run on batteries, making them easy to install. You simply hide the tracker in a safe spot on your vehicle, like under the seat or inside the frame, and you’re done.
• Tools You’ll Need: For most DIY installations, basic tools like screwdrivers and zip ties are enough.

When to Get Professional Help

Sometimes, it's better to seek help from a professional, especially if the GPS tracker requires wiring or connecting to your vehicle's power system. This is common with more advanced trackers for motorcycles. Here are some reasons to consider a professional installation:

• Wiring Required: If your GPS tracker needs to be connected to your bike or motorcycle's battery, you may want a professional to handle it. Wiring mistakes can lead to issues with your tracker or even damage your vehicle.
• Hiding the GPS Tracker: If you're concerned about theft and want to hide the GPS tracker on your motorcycle or bike, a professional can do this in a secure, discreet way, making it harder for thieves to find and remove.
• Complex Trackers: Some advanced trackers come with additional features like real-time monitoring, which might need special configuration. In these cases, a professional can ensure everything works smoothly.

Conclusion 

Installing a GPS tracker on your bike or motorcycle is a smart way to protect your vehicle from theft and always know where it is. Whether you choose a battery-powered or wired GPS tracker, the benefits of real-time tracking and added security make it worth the effort. By following the simple steps in this guide, you can easily install and hide a GPS tracker on your bike or motorcycle. If you’re not comfortable doing it yourself, don’t hesitate to ask a professional for help. Stay safe and keep your ride secure with a GPS tracker!