I am getting things ready for my ride from CO to Austin TX for MotoGP next week and I started thinking about how to secure the bike. My primary worry are the nights I will be staying in Amarillo on the way out and the way back, as the bike will be outside in the hotel parking lot, and Amarillo is not known as a bastion of safety and security.
Before everyone answers with "just use the steering lock", just know that it is not an option. Ever since my last trip home from Austin when the steering lock would not release, resulting in a very expensive tow from Amarillo to Albuquerque, I have not had that option. Even though the lock/keyless mechanism was replaced, it no longer works, and I would not trust in to release in any case.
So, the question remains; without the use of the steering lock, how would you secure the bike? I am interested in all opinions and experiences!