Listening to our motorcycling community: working together to tackle bike theft  

Earlier this week, I had the privilege of meeting around 70 members of the motorcycling community at BAWA Leisure Centre in Bristol. It was a powerful reminder of what happens when people come together with a shared purpose: to make our communities safer and protect the things we care about. 

Motorcycles are more than just a mode of transport — for many, they represent a livelihood, a passion, and a cherished freedom. That’s why the rise in motorcycle theft and motorcycle-enabled crime across Avon and Somerset has been so deeply felt. Hearing these experiences directly from riders reaffirmed for me that tackling this issue must remain one of the policing priorities. 

What we heard 

This meeting wasn’t about simply presenting information — it was about listening. And the messages were clear: 

• Real stories of repeat thefts. 

• Concerns about stolen motorcycles being used to commit further offences. 

• A call for better communication from the police when bikes are stolen or recovered. 

• A desire to be actively involved in building solutions and sharing information. 

• Riders want to feel safe doing what they love. 

There was frustration in the room — but also a huge amount of commitment. The community is ready to work with the police and my office to bring about change. That gives me real hope. 

The current picture 

Senior officers shared the latest figures. While thefts have fallen from a peak of 1,499 stolen bikes in 2023 (peak year), the trend shows this challenge is persisting. We also need more reliable data to better target resources and measure progress. So, while there has been progress, we all know it’s nowhere near enough. 

Why engagement matters 

One of the most valuable parts of my role as Police and Crime Commissioner is creating spaces like this — where those impacted by crime can shape the response to it. When we involve people with lived experience and practical insight, we achieve better outcomes. 

This meeting came from a commitment I made at my Public Forum in South Gloucestershire in September. Riders asked me to continue the conversation — and I’m determined that this will be the first of many opportunities to work together. 

What happens next 

I left the meeting encouraged. Yes, the challenges are real — but so is our shared determination to tackle them. The meeting agreed to have a volunteer group to improve communication between the bikers community and the police. It’s vital to put all their ideas raised at the meeting into the system of policing. Having a trusted means of communication between the police and communities is important. 

Thank you to everyone who gave their time, thoughts, and experiences so openly. 

If you couldn’t attend, your voice is still very welcome. Please contact my office if you would like to share your experience or be involved in future discussions.