Why do people hide their numberplates?

In all the photos i've seen on this forum, videos on youtube, people seem to always hide their numberplates. Why is this?
I don't think it makes sense because hundreds of people see numberplates on the road...

paraniod about it getting cloned

Unless the person cloning the plate had exactly the same bike in the same colour, living in the same area then surely that wouldn't be a problem?

[jamesterror]

in case you accelerate too hard as you pass specifically spaced white lines and don't want to risk scraping it along the ground to avoid the surrounding government money makers.

[the_lone_wolf]

Originally Posted by Magnum

Unless the person cloning the plate had exactly the same bike in the same colour, living in the same area then surely that wouldn't be a problem?

there's plenty of Blue SV650s out there, if someone wants to ride around on nicked one all they need is a plate and they're ANPR proof...

Originally Posted by Magnum

Unless the person cloning the plate had exactly the same bike in the same colour, living in the same area then surely that wouldn't be a problem?

Nothing wrong with taking steps to protect your identity and veichle.

I know that anyone (with criminal intentions) who see's your bike & plate in 'your area' can do the same thing but thats not a great deal of people compared to a forum where anyone from across the world can view your photo & plate.

Just personal preference and what people feel comfty with I suppose

[Dave20046]

As said but can also make you traceable for any illegal activity's you post about on the net.

I don't hide mine, I've wondered that too.

[punyXpress]

It's all too easy ( & cheap ) for clampers & other lowlifes to get your address from DVLC

Your supposed to supply the V5 when you get plates made up now to prove that you own the vehicle the number relates to.
Theres still one or 2 places round these parts that will make them without it though.