Bike Locks Information, Buyer’s Guide & Reviews
Bike Locks are stolen every day in the UK alone – about 444,000 a year – so it’s essential to invest in a decent lock if you want to keep your prized ride safe. There are three main things to bear in mind when buying bike locks.
First, you get what you pay for. Bike Locks offer cheap security; most are little more than a visual deterrent. A cheap lock is still better than no lock, but if a dedicated bike thief takes an interest in your bike, say goodbye to it.
Second, cable locks that are light enough to be portable are also light enough to be broken – easily. Only use them in conjunction with a good U-lock to secure extra bits of the bike or stuff like your helmet.
Third, less is NOT more. Unlike most other bike accessories, the performance of a cycle security device increases in proportion to its weight. So when it comes to portable locks, it’s a trade-off between how much peace of mind you want and how much metal you are prepared to lug around.
Given enough time and the right tools, thieves will find a way to force pretty much any lock open. But the harder you can make it for them, the more likely they are to give up and move on to an easier target.
Bike Locks Reviews
What to consider when buying a lock
D-lock vs chain and padlock
The D-shaped shackle lock (also known as a U-lock) is now a classic design. It was introduced by lock manufacturer Kryptonite in 1972 and widely copied soon after. In effect, it’s a scaled up padlock: your bike and a railing, lamp-post, etc, all fit inside the hoop.
Well-designed D-locks, with good lock mechanisms, armoured shackles and heat-treated U-sections, are tough enough that they will slow a thief down enough to make him think about picking an easier target.
However, their rigidity and bulk can make D-locks hard to carry and use. Some riders therefore prefer a loop of high-strength chain and a padlock. This combination is usually heavier than a D-lock and a little more vulnerable to attack as chain is generally easier to cut than solid bar.
Shackle
The U-shaped section of a D-lock that slots into the barrel. Examine a lock for weak points before you buy. If the machined slot the lock mechanisms slide into is square-cut it can be a potential weakness. Also check how much of the lock barrel swings into place when it’s locked – this should be more than 5mm. If not, this could potentially be prised open.
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