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These
give you maximum security and may
even grant you a reduction in insurance
premiums, depending on your insurance
provider and the type of lock; but
they may be too bulky or expensive
for the average user.
The Silver and Bronze
levels may be lighter and cheaper
but still offer defence against the
opportunist thief.
It’s generally advised to spend
at least 10% of the value of
your bike on a lock, and, if you can,
to use two different types of lock
to deter thieves.
Locks are generally sold with two
keys; always keep your spare key in
a safe place in case your key is lost
or stolen, and keep a note of your
key number (this should be on the
key itself or come with the lock when
you buy it) so you can replace it
if all else fails.
Some lock manufacturers offer warranties
to replace the lock if your cycle
is stolen while locked with their
lock. You may have to register and/or
pay for the service.
Always take good care of your lock
and key – treatment such as leaving
your lock outdoors for prolonged periods
can take its toll and if your lock
breaks, you may find it very difficult
to rescue your bike.
TYPES OF LOCK
D locks
These are rigid steel locks in a D
or U shape, generally very heavy and
tough-looking. The more you pay, the
stronger and more secure it will be.
D locks range from around £20-£80.
They can be heavy (often over 1kg),
although many come with a mounting
bracket so that you can attach your
lock to your frame whilst riding.
They can be limiting in that they
will not fit around all street furniture,
for example lamp posts.
When you lock up, try to fit the stand,
the rim of one of the wheels and the
frame in the D. By securing your wheel
as well you’ll not only make
it harder for thieves to take, but
there’ll also be less space in
the D which will prevent thieves from
inserting bars or jacks into the space
to lever the lock open. It’s
best to angle the lock so that the
opening is facing down. This prevents
thieves from pouring in substances
such as glue to prevent the owner
from being able to retrieve the bike,
giving them the chance to force the
lock open later.
Cable locks
Cable locks can vary enormously in
weight and strength. They are more
flexible so can be used in situations
where a D lock might not fit, but
thinner, cheaper versions are very
easily cut through. However, thicker
cable locks can be very secure.
Thinner cables are useful in combination
with other locks to secure parts like
wheels or your saddle so that you
don’t need to remove them every
time you leave your bike.
Chains and padlocks
These can be very heavy and impractical
to cart around, but they are very
tough and a good quality hardened
heavy-duty chain combined with a couple
of very good hardened padlocks may
be the strongest option available.
If you need to leave your cycle locked
up outside somewhere regularly you
might consider leaving your chain
locked there permanently (though please
keep in mind inconvenience to other
users).
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