Norway has a well-earned reputation for being one of the safest countries in the world.
That reputation can make it very easy to relax.
It certainly did for us.
During our 2,700-mile motorcycle tour, we stopped in a town to have a look around. Like many riders, we left some of our riding gear strapped to the bike, assuming it would be fine.
When we returned, it had gone.
It was an expensive lesson, and one we’ll never repeat.
How can you keep your motorcycle riding gear safe while touring?
Quick Tips
- Don’t leave riding gear strapped to the outside of your bike.
- Keep some space free inside your panniers for jackets and waterproofs.
- Consider carrying a lightweight security cable.
- Low crime doesn’t mean no crime.
- Think about your gear before you walk away from the bike.
Safe Doesn’t Mean Risk-Free
One thing we learnt is that there’s an important difference between a country having low crime and there being no opportunistic theft.
Most people you’ll meet in Norway are incredibly friendly and welcoming.
But busy tourist areas still attract lots of visitors, and an expensive motorcycle jacket left unsecured can be tempting for the wrong person.
It only takes a few seconds for someone to walk away with it.
MotoKind Field Note
We weren’t careless.
We simply assumed the environment was enough to protect our gear.
Looking back, we’d have done things differently.
Leave Room in Your Luggage
One small habit can make a big difference.
Rather than packing every pannier completely full, try leaving enough room for the riding gear you’ll remove during the day.
That way, jackets, waterproofs or heated clothing can be locked away rather than left on display.
It’s something we now plan for before every tour.
A Small Security Cable Can Help
If you don’t have room inside your luggage, a lightweight security cable is worth carrying.
It won’t stop a determined thief with tools.
But it does make it much harder for someone to simply pick up a jacket or helmet and walk away.
Sometimes that’s all the deterrent you need.
If the Worst Happens
Losing riding gear abroad is frustrating, but it doesn’t have to end your trip.
If you’re unable to find a motorcycle clothing shop nearby, don’t overlook local workwear suppliers or agricultural stores.
We found that many stock waterproof clothing designed for people working outdoors in challenging conditions.
It might not look like motorcycle gear, but it can help keep you warm and dry until you’re able to replace your equipment properly.
What We’d Do Differently
If we rode the same trip again, we’d never leave expensive riding gear attached to the outside of the bike, even for a short stop.
Not because Norway is unsafe.
Simply because replacing gear halfway through a tour is expensive, time-consuming and completely avoidable.
Sometimes the best touring lessons are the ones you learn the hard way.
Help Improve This Guide
Have you found accommodation, cafés or attractions that offer particularly secure parking for motorcycles?
Perhaps you’ve discovered somewhere with lockers, covered parking or somewhere you could comfortably leave your riding gear while exploring.
Contact MotoKind and share your experience and help us build trusted knowledge that makes touring easier for the next rider.
Continue Your Norway Tour
- Motorcycle Ferry Crossings: A Rider’s Guide to Stress-Free Sea Travel
- Hytte or Tent? What We Learned About Motorcycle Camping in Norway
- Fuel Stops in Norway: What Every Motorcycle Rider Should Know
- Riding Through Norway’s Mountain Tunnels
- Don’t Make the Same Mistake We Did: Keeping Your Riding Gear Safe in Norway
- Looking After Your Chain on a Long Motorcycle Tour