Ground Anchors / Security Plates for Motocross Bikes
Keeping your motocross bike secure is just as important as keeping it running. A decent ground anchor provides a fixed point that makes it far harder for thieves to remove a bike from a garage, shed, van or trailer. When combined with a quality chain and lock, an anchor is one of the most effective deterrents you can buy.
Why use a ground anchor?
Motocross bikes are light enough for two people to lift into a van and disappear in seconds. Standard locks and steering bars help, but without anchoring the bike to the floor or wall it’s still possible to carry it away. Installing a ground anchor means your machine is attached to the building or vehicle structure, raising the effort and noise required for a thief to succeed.
Types of ground anchors
There are several designs available, each suited to different spaces:
Floor-mounted bolt-down anchors – fixed to a concrete base with expansion bolts, ideal for garages and sheds.
Concrete-in anchors – set into freshly poured concrete, giving a permanent and extremely tough fixing.
Wall anchors – fixed into solid brick or block walls, often used in tight garages or vans.
Portable anchors and plates – lighter units that can be carried and used on the move, useful for vans and trailers.
Choosing the right type depends on where you normally store your bike and how permanent you want the installation to be.
Materials and build quality
Most anchors are made from hardened steel designed to resist cutting and drilling. Look for:
Thick steel plate or bar – at least 10–12mm is common.
Anti-tamper bolts – heads designed to snap off once tightened.
Protective coating – powder coating or galvanising to resist rust.
Rounded shackle or bridge – makes it difficult to attack with cutters.
A heavier, well-finished anchor usually equals better protection.
Installation considerations
The effectiveness of an anchor depends on how it’s fixed:
Surface preparation – anchors should be mounted on solid concrete at least 100mm thick.
Drilling – use a hammer drill with masonry bits to create precise holes for expansion bolts.
Bolting – fit the anchor with supplied bolts, tighten securely, then hammer in the ball bearings or covers that prevent removal.
Positioning – place the anchor where it allows easy chain access but keeps the bike close to walls or other obstacles, reducing leverage for attacks.
For wall anchors, make sure the bricks are solid and not lightweight blocks. In vans or trailers, bolt through the floor and use large washers or backing plates.
Security features to look for
Anti-drill bolt covers
Hardened shackles that swivel (harder to attack)
Chains compatibility – check internal diameter suits your existing lock/chain
Security certifications – some anchors are independently tested to Sold Secure or similar standards.
These features help you compare models beyond just price.
Maintenance and durability
Ground anchors need little care once installed, but a quick check every few months is wise:
Spray moving parts with light oil.
Inspect coatings for rust spots.
Ensure bolts remain tight.
Clean away dirt or oil that might reduce grip.
A well-maintained anchor should last for years and continue to deter opportunist thieves.
Buying guide
When deciding which ground anchor suits you:
Budget vs. security – cheaper anchors provide basic protection; heavy-duty models give more peace of mind.
Portability – if you move bikes frequently, a portable plate may be worth adding alongside a fixed unit.
Space – small garages may favour wall anchors, while larger sheds suit floor plates.
Insurance – some insurers prefer or require Sold Secure-rated products.
Think about your typical storage situation before purchasing.
Examples of use
Garage storage – a floor anchor set in concrete with a 16mm chain is a strong, permanent option.
Vans and trailers – bolt-through plates provide security when travelling to races.
Shared spaces – in club lock-ups or barns, multiple bikes can be secured to one large anchor.
Each scenario benefits from a slightly different approach, but all share the principle of creating an immovable point for your lock.