What have worked for me are three things:
1.- At my local mc dealer I bought a small alarm box with a 6 ft retractable steel cable that pulls out from it then it locks back into the same box. It is powered by a 9v battery inside. When I stop somewhere I will feed the cable through the jacket sleeves, helmet rings, etc., then I lock it to the bike frame. If the cable is cut or if the box is wiggled a loud alarm will sound. Hey, at least it might scare away the thief and get your attention.
2.- And this is probably the most effective thing: carry a lightweight bike cover, and cover your bike when you need to walk away out of sight from it. Out of sight: out of mind and no temptation. Remember that you are simply a target of opportunity for these petty thieves. So don't tempt them by leaving stuff in plain view. Best to hide them as much as possible.
Another benefit of the bike cover: In South America, people have a different concept of private property. The teens (and some past their teens) will think nothing of sitting on your bike and work the controls while it is parked. To them it is perfectly OK to try it out. A bike cover will prevent this.
3.- Recruit some local to watch over your bike for a few bucks. Most of them will be happy to do it.
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Attila
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Ride On!
A.T.
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