Bermudians may have a new option for preventing bike theft in the near future with an electronic Datatag.

The Datatag is a "transponder", a means of electronically identifying a bike or bike parts with technology that responds to a portable, hand-held scanner.

Each is programmed with a secure and unique Datatag code number which is also recorded on the Datatag database, and can be installed on anything from laptops to bikes to motorboats.

Developed by Yamaha, once the Datatag is installed, claim manufacturers, it is virtually impossible to remove. A decal warning potential thieves of Datatag is attached to the bike.

Datatags to fit Honda and Kawasaki motorbikes have also been designed.

"Datatag has invested in one of the most sophisticated databases in civilian use in the UK," said Andrew Finlay, who has been to Bermuda twice in the past year to present on his company's product to the Commissioner of Police as well as major insurance companies.

"The traffic police realise that it will save them time and money as they would be able to identify either complete or parts of bikes and it will cut down on crime," said Mr. Finlay.

"What makes Datatag work so well? Following many years of use in the UK it has been established that thieves are far more likely to leave property alone if they believe it to be covertly marked. Datatag is recognised by the judiciary both here and in Bermuda therefore enabling the police to obtain successful prosecutions.

"I know we have a very unique, well tested and financially very well supported service to offer Bermuda that, if it is supported, will help dramatically reduce all areas of crime on the island. I know that there is no other company anywhere that can offer such a professional and diverse high net worth marking service that has our combined experience."

World Distributors Limited has agreed to bring the product, which would possibly cost around $150, to Bermuda, he said. Now the company is just awaiting backing from insurance companies and other major players to go ahead with the product.

"I would like to point out that everyone I presented to in Bermuda was very complimentary about the what we are trying to do but I feel everyone is waiting for someone else to make the first move," said Mr. Finlay.