Are High Gas Prices to Blame for Motorcycle Thefts?

Voicesofsandiego.org suggests renewed interest in bikes have led to a recent climb in motorcycle theft, and that high gas prices are fanning the flames of thievery. According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau, motorcycle theft already increased 135% nationally between 2000 and 2005, but bikes have become more coveted than ever because of their fuel efficiency.

The article cites one source who thinks that word of mouth among criminals has spread the perception that "that there is an unlimited supply of these bikes and that it's easy money." While their fuel-sipping ways make them attractive in the face of nearly $5/gallon gas, I wonder if there are also other forces at play. Has your motorcycle ever been swiped, and if so, do you think it ended up in the grubby hands of somebody hoping to save a few bucks on gas?

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