If your leaving your bike unattended, a good bike lock can be the difference between riding your bike home again, or having to replace it. When buying your bike lock there are three factors to consider before making your purchase, the type of lock, size and weight and its security rating.
Type of Bike Lock
Generally speaking there are two main types of bike lock. Firstly the shackle lock, or ‘D’ lock, this type of lock has often been regarded as the most secure type of lock available. If your going to choose a D lock then you should also use an additional security cable or flex to secure all your wheels and components. The second type of lock is the coil or chain lock, in more recent times this type of lock has become the D locks equal in terms of durability with the added benefit of being more flexible for transportation. Some chain locks now come with straps so that they can be worn around the body, they are known as hip locks.
Security Rating
Different manufacturers usually have their own grading systems for their own brand of locks. Sold Secure are independent testing a certification house for security products. Sold Secure test the security performance of bike locks and grade them within a three tiered system of gold silver and bronze. The Gold rated locking devices offer the highest level of security. The next level down Silver offers a compromise between security and cost, whilst the Bronze level typically offers defence against the opportunist thief.
Size and Weight
The size and weight of your bike lock should be a major consideration when making your purchase. If you need to transport your lock between your home and place of work a very large and heavy lock may be a hindrance to your commute. But, you should never compromise on security rating for size and weight.
How to Lock Your Bike, CORRECTLY!
You could invest in the best lock on the market, but unless you use it correctly then your bike will still be at risk. The video below outlines the best way to lock your your bike, and also throws in some additional bike security tips.
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