The Nightmare of a Stolen Motorcycle Helmet

You're out for a long motorcycle road trip, enjoying the freedom of the open road. You stop to take a break, park your bike, and take off your helmet to get some air. Then when you turn around - it's gone. Some opportunistic thief has snatched your helmet and now you're stuck. No helmet means you can't legally or safely continue your ride. It's every motorcyclist's nightmare scenario.

If you find yourself helmetless and stranded, don't panic. While hugely inconvenient, the situation is manageable if you keep a cool head. Follow this advice on how to deal with a stolen lid when traveling far from the comforts of home.

File a Police Report

The very first thing you should do is notify the local police that your helmet was stolen. Provide them details on where it happened, the make/model of the missing gear, and anything noteworthy about its looks. Getting an official report created starts a paper trail in recovering or replacing your equipment. It also alerts cops to a theft that may aid other riders in the area.

Check Area Businesses For Security Footage

Canvass nearby buildings, gas stations, shops, etc to ask if security cameras potentially caught footage of the culprit. Seeing the incident on video can assist police in catching the criminal. Review tapes yourself for any identifying details. Be sure to get copies of useful recordings.

Inform Your Insurance Provider

If the helmet was insured under homeowners, renters or motorcycle-specific policies, start the claim process right away. Provide all details needed and the police report case number. See what compensation your insurer provides for stolen riding gear - it may help pay for a replacement. Just don't expect coverage equal to the helmet's original value.  

Ask Social Media For Sightings

Post on regional riding groups and forums on sites like Facebook asking fellow riders to keep an eye out for your lid. Share the make, model, graphics and any custom details to identify it. Also watch resale sites like Craigslist and eBay yourself in case the thief tries selling it online. Getting the word out to the motorcycle community taps into a huge network of eyes.

Replace Your Helmet ASAP

While insurance and police investigations proceed, your top priority needs to be replacing your helmet so you can safely ride. Find the nearest motorcycle gear shop to buy a new lid. Getting the exact same helmet would be ideal so you don't need to re-break-in an unused model. Choose the most comparable one if your previous brand/type is unavailable in the area. Don't ride without head protection - it poses substantial injury risks.

Consider a Helmet Locking Device

Once you're equipped with a new helmet, invest in a helmet lock to deter future thefts. Companies like Bandit offer rear wheel locks that attach to your helmet's D-rings with thick steel cable. This secures your lid under the bike seat or to saddlebags while stopped. Though not foolproof, it keeps opportunists from grabbing unsecured gear. Prevent the headache upfront.

Remain Vigilant On The Road

While continuing your travels, keep an eagle eye on your helmet anytime you park. Take it with you when going inside businesses rather than leaving it on the bike. Never let it out of your sight. Report suspicious activity near motorcycles. Caution and attentiveness will help avoid yet another stolen lid incident.  

Getting your helmet stolen away from home is hugely disruptive to your ride. But following these tips helps get you back on the open highway safely. Ride prepared for anything by insuring gear, locking helmets, and staying aware so your two-wheeled adventures won't get derailed again!