All new Aussie Yamaha motorcycles to come with free DataDot theft protection

In a forward-thinking anti-theft initiative, Yamaha Motor Australia is currently supplying all motorcycles, scooters and ATVs with DataDotDNA theft protection.

DataDotDNA is a unique theft protection system consisting of tiny microdots bearing identifying code numbers. These dots have been sprayed onto all Yamahas since 1 February 2007 enabling units and their component parts to be easily identified.

The owner, police or insurance companies can cross reference the PIN number on the microdot of any stolen unit with the VIN number of that unit. Warning decals alerting potential thieves that the unit is “Protected by DataDotDNA” complete the protection picture.

This anti-theft initiative offers every Yamaha customer a very real benefit. No-one wants their pride and joy stolen and the DataDotDNA system is an effective deterrent that highlights Yamaha’s customer focused approach, says YMA Director and General Manager Steven Cotterell.

Each Yamaha dealer has been supplied with free DataDotDNA kits featuring aerosol pressure packs enabling microdots to be easily sprayed onto any unit. Each pack of microdots has a unique PIN number that is placed onto the customer warranty booklet and also entered onto an online warranty registration form. The PIN number is then registered onto the DataDotDNA National Security Register. This register is accessible by police authorities and insurance companies.

YMA covers the cost for DataDotDNA, there is nothing for Yamaha customers to pay. Each set of dots is valued at AUS$199.95, so there is a measurable benefit in addition to the intangible bonus of theft protection.

In addition to the anti-theft benefit, the DataDotDNA system is also recognized by insurance companies. For example, Yamaha’s own brand Flexirider insurance (underwritten by Swann) offers 5 per cent discount on policies for DataDotted units.

Currently the recovery rate of stolen motorcycles varies from 11 per cent to 29 per cent - depending on brand - according to the National Motor Vehicle Theft Reduction Council (NMVTRC). Yamaha aims to prevent theft AND substantially increase this recovery rate in conjunction with DataDotDNA, an initiative that will give Yamaha customers a very real advantage over owners of other brands.

DataDotDNA are making similar arrangements with motor companies worldwide, its major clients including Audi, Subaru, Mitsubishi, Mini, Ford, Nissan, Porsche, Volkswagen and BMW. The Australian company is becoming a de facto world standard in vehicle identification.