Leaving gear on bikes in Central America
 

Just after some advice on the likelyhood of theft when leaving gear (tent + sleeping bag) attached to your bike. Have got lockable pannieres but these bulky things just are not going to fit.
Cheers.

What do you mean by leaving gear.. leaving them while going to relieve yourself, leaving them while going to see some tourist attractions, or leaving them for the night?

Some very remote areas excluded, I wouldnt leave them on for the two latter options, and not even the 1st one, if the place is very crowded, and a thief can disappear quickly. Border stations all around the world seem to attract the scum of the earth, and all valuables seem to grow legs very quickly if your not careful...

If I really had to leave them, Id strap them up thoroughly so you cant take them off in an eyeblink.. and if going to see some attractions, Id try to park the bike close to some place, where theres somebody working, like park authorities, ticket sellers, etc. Maybe even ask them to kindly keep an eye on the bike (and then, naturally, at least offer to pay something, while your leaving).

my philosophy is simple does not matter what country you are in thieves are everywhere.. so if you want it to continue being yours.. lock it up.. (in fact I have been robed only in first world countries::nono: boston/hobart... hmmmm)

for the big fluffy stuff
get one of these..
water proof and lockable.. what else could you want
Pacsafe


Edit: in fairness this will not stop a determined thief but what will, and most thefts are snatch and grab..this is enough of a hindrance to make them look at the next punter...

when we travel we even put our jackets in one when we are going to leave the bike out of sight for a whiles (if only for a few minutes we carry the jackets.) ...

you would not leave your house or car unlocked.. and your bike is you house and car and kitchen and life line... :funmeterno::mchappy:

A bike cover works wonders -- Easy to use and easy to carry. An old beat up one is best. IMHO

stuff left on bike
 

I wouldn't worry too much ,in 30 years never have had anything ripped off a bike in Mexico and CA . Take the simple precautions, : tie and bungee stuff down , don't expose any items which are obviously pricy ( for which purpose I try not to buy anything ostentatious or with famous brand logos to attract attention) park in conspicuous areas where any security at the attraction has a view line to your bike and wave at the security people. In towns maybe park in front of a small restaurant or shop, by something and make friends with the owners who can keep an eye on the bike for you. Stay at inexpensive hotels with off street parking and leave the bike there saf e for the duration of your walkabout.If needed you can hire the pesky kid to actually watch your bike- but payment only to happen when you return.