Bicycle lock. Overview of the best anti-theft tools. DIY simple bicycle anti-theft lock Homemade bicycle lock

Are you fastening your bike securely? No matter how expensive or not very expensive it is, you will feel uncomfortable if one day you do not find it in the place where you recently left it. Reliable protection of the bike is of great importance, at least you need to make it as difficult as possible for a thief to steal your bike.

Check out the tips in the article for options and secrets to protect your bike.

Method 1: A reliable way to protect your bike

1. Remove the front wheel. If a bicycle wheel can be removed quickly, remove it. Place the front wheel next to the rear and lock both wheels. Very often, thieves remove the front wheel of a bicycle if it is equipped with a quick-release mechanism.

If the front wheel won't come off without a key, or if your U-lock is too small to buckle both wheels, read the following tips.

2. Fasten the front wheel and frame with a lock to fixed metal objects. Also use the U-Lock to secure the back of the bike with the wheel to another object.

If your lock is small enough to wrap around an object, then only attach the rear wheel to a stationary object. Please note that the lock only needs to be attached inside the frame triangle. In this case, it is not possible to separate the bicycle frame from the rear wheel. Usually this action is enough to stop the thief, because he will need to break the valuable rear wheel in order to steal the bike.
Do not attach a U-Lock to the top tube of a bicycle frame. This way of attaching the lock will help a thief steal your bike, because you can use the bicycle frame as a lever to break such a lock.

3. Secure the front wheel against theft if it does not come off. Front wheel less valuable than the rear, but it also needs to be secured.

4. Before leaving your bike unattended, it is advisable to take or hide removable parts and personal items with you. Bag, flashlight, reflectors, bike computer and other things must be taken with you or, if possible, secured with a separate lock.

Method 2: Using Expensive Bike Locks

1. Buy good bike locks. Cheap locks can be easily broken or opened. Good bike locks are available from specialty bike shops or the bike department of a sporting goods store.

2. Use small and strong steel U-locks. These inflexible rings securely fasten a bicycle frame or bicycle wheels to metal objects. The smaller the U-lock, the more difficult it is for a thief to break it with tools.

For better protection Choose a size U-Lock that will only fit around the rear wheel, the frame, and the item it's attached to.
The free space between the lock and the bike should be as small as possible. The material of the lock must be strong.

3. Use heavy chains to fasten your bike. Sufficiently thick chains (15 mm or more) are an excellent tool against bicycle thieves.

4. Use the cable lock only as additional security. You can use a lock with a thick cable (20mm) which is harder to snap. But this type of lock is best used with a U-lock.

Such locks are mainly used to protect less important parts and accessories of a bicycle, for example, a bicycle basket.

Method 3: Choosing the best secure parking spot

1. Find out the area where you will leave your bike. Try not to leave your bike in neighborhoods with a high theft rate.

2. Try not to park near a place where suspicious persons or loafers, homeless people gather.

3. Do not leave your bicycle near railway and other stations. Thieves know where people who live outside the city limits leave their bikes unattended all day long. In such places, they can afford to spend more time stealing your bike.

4. Use well-lit areas, as well as where there are many passers-by. It is more difficult for a thief to steal your bike in such places.

Try to park your bike next to a building that has a security camera. In the event of a theft, you will have a video recording that will help you find the thief.

5. Find immovable preferably metal objects to attach the bike to. Not every bike rack will provide reliable protection. When parking, select the following items:

Hard and strong objects. Do not choose thin iron objects, wooden fences, and do not fasten bicycles to objects that are easy to cut.
Fasten the bike to non-separable objects. A collapsible bike rack can be quickly dismantled by a skilled thief.
Choose a structure that is firmly attached to the ground. Several strong thieves can pull such a structure off the ground. If you fasten your bike to road signs, then also check how firmly they are fixed on the sidewalk.
Fasten your bike to large heavy objects, otherwise a thief can take away the bike along with a small bike rack and unfasten your bike in a secluded place.

6. If possible, try to secure your bike between other bikes. First of all, the thief will try to steal the extreme bikes, as they are more easily accessible.

Method 4: Scaring off bike thieves.

1. Replace bicycle cams (most often on wheels) with conventional bicycle wrench nuts. Often bicycles are equipped with quick-release wheels and seats that are easy to remove. Often it is these bicycle items that are the objects of theft.

Bicycle shops sell special anti-vandal eccentrics, which are removed with a special key. Remove the usual eccentrics and insert anti-vandal ones into the same hole.
Some cheap quick releases are attached to the bike frame with a hex nut. They can be unscrewed with a hex wrench, but this method of fastening will keep your bike safe from accidental thieves.

2. Secure your bike saddle from theft. If the saddle is not attached to the frame with an anti-theft cam or additional protection, use the length bicycle chain to attach the saddle to the frame.

3. Write with a marker or scrawl your name on the bike. Then your bike will be harder to sell. Leave identifying initials on the frame and tires on both sides.

Cover the lettering on the frame with several layers of tape for more protection. A thief can rip it off, of course, but this deterrent will help shift the criminal's attention to an easier target.

4. The appearance of the bike should not be too defiant. Wrap the frame, seat, handlebars with insulating tape that can be easily removed. This type of bike will not attract the attention of thieves much, who will think that some damage is hidden in this way.

If your bike has an expensive, beautiful seat, then it's better to take it with you. If you use your bike for daily short commutes, you can attach an old or less expensive one instead of an expensive seat.

5. Have proof of ownership of your bike. The easiest way is to take a picture of yourself with a bike at home, while holding paper with its serial number in your hands.

The serial number is stamped on the bike frame or applied to a tag attached to the frame. If you don't know where to find it, ask knowledgeable friends to help you.

6. Attach the GPS controller to the bike. If your bike is very expensive, then buy a GPS controller. It is firmly attached to the bike frame and will help you find it if it is stolen.

Method 5: What to do if your bike is stolen.

1. Write a statement to the police as soon as possible. Grab documents for a bicycle when going to the police. It is important to include the bike's serial number on the application for identification purposes.

Be sure to indicate the presence of a GPS controller if you have installed one.

2. Tell your friends about the bike theft, spread the word to in social networks, notify all people at the place where the bicycle was lost (workers of offices, shops at the place of loss). How more people aware of your bike being stolen, the more likely it is that someone saw the theft and will help you find the thief.

Leave your contact details and detailed description bike.

3. Post stolen bike ads on bulletin boards and internet boards. If you receive any information about the theft, immediately report the details to the police.

4. If possible, ask for video from CCTV cameras. Ask the owners of video cameras to watch the video for the police. This will help identify the bike thief.

5. Keep an eye out for ads online on bulletin boards and social media to see if they sell a bike similar to yours. One of the bikes for sale could be yours. If you find a bike similar to yours, contact the authorities and inform the site owner.

6. Visit local markets, as well as other places where used bikes and bike parts can be sold. Find out where these bikes are usually served. If you see your bike and make sure it's definitely yours, contact law enforcement.

7. Claim an insurance claim if your bike was insured. You need to file a bike theft report as soon as possible so that the insured event is recorded.

8. Do not try to return the bike yourself. As soon as you find your bike somewhere, contact law enforcement immediately. Don't take the risk of figuring it out on your own.

Adviсe

Make it harder for thieves to steal your bike. Then the thief will choose another bike.
If possible, fasten your bike so that you can see it from the window.
Use secure bike locks whenever possible famous brands(Kryptonite, Abus, Trelock, etc.).
Attach the seat and handlebars to the frame, if possible, using a cable lock.

Warnings

Try not to let the castle touch the ground. This will prevent a thief from using a hammer and other heavy objects when picking the lock.
Never leave your bicycle in places where it is not allowed to park bicycles, or in places where it will interfere with other road users.

What you need

At least 2 bike locks, preferably U-locks, but at least one U-lock.
Bicycle chain (optional).
Items that repel bike thieves. For example, duct tape or patches to disguise your bike.

In conclusion, watch an interesting video on how to make a reliable bike lock with your own hands:

Using a bike lock is a way to keep your bike safe if you occasionally have to leave it somewhere. Unfortunately, there are people for whom theft is the norm. They will not be ashamed to steal your bike when given the opportunity. Therefore, be careful about choosing the means of protecting your vehicle so that no one even thinks of stealing it.

There are several types of castles. Let's talk about each separately.

It is the most common, due to its low cost, small size, low weight. With it, it is easy to attach the bike to a pole, a tree, you can pass the cable through both wheels, the frame and still it will be enough (of course, in the latter case, the cable must be at least 2 meters long). Cable locks differ from each other in length, thickness and opening method (coded or turnkey).

Unfortunately, all its advantages are more than outweighed by many disadvantages. The main one is that cable locks are the most unreliable in terms of breaking. “Intellectual hacking” is not yet very common, so they are simply snacked or torn in a second. On inexpensive locks, the fixation point is so unreliable that the closed lock can be unhooked by hand. Even with household wire cutters, it can be opened in 1-2 minutes, so it is completely unsuitable for more or less long-term storage. If you store your bike in the entrance with such a lock, then sooner or later you will need the advice from our article. Remember one simple thought: a cable lock is foolproof. It will only save you from those who decided to take your bike for a ride during your visit to the store (do not believe it, there are such people, mostly teenagers and drunk companies). It can also be used to protect the wheels from being removed from the bike. Everything. He's no good for anything else. One cannot hope for such a castle in any case.

You can partially rely on such a lock if it is equipped with an alarm. Yes, no one likes to hear this unbearable squeal in close proximity, so faced with such a surprise, an inexperienced thief is likely to rush to hide. Such locks can be triggered by the slightest touch, which also complicates their operation. At a bike rack, for example, someone will definitely touch him while he is untying his bike. In addition, loud sound eats up batteries very quickly, so the effectiveness of such devices is still in question.

There are no questions about efficiency. Especially if the chain is from more or less famous brand. Unlike a cable, which is an interlacing of thin metal threads in a sheath, a chain consists of relatively thick metal links which require a special tool to crack. The higher the quality of the metal, the more expensive the chain lock, but also more reliable. There are carbide chains that do not lend themselves to the tools used by thieves. The main problem with chain locks is their weight - carrying them with you in a backpack, for example, is very inconvenient. Alternatively, wind the chain around the frame or seatpost, but then you need to take care of soft material over the links so as not to damage the frame coating. The minus in the form of a high price is compensated by the reliability of such locks. Agree, it is better to spend money on protecting your bike than on new bike- it will be much cheaper.

Something in between cable and chain is. He wins, first of all, in size. It takes up even less space than a cable lock, and in terms of reliability it strives for chain locks, but still loses.

U-bracket

Very reliable lock in the form. This name stuck because of its shape. It is a relatively thick metal bar with a fairly strong fixation. Depending on the manufacturer, the price, the thickness of the bar, and the material of manufacture change. In addition to weight, the narrowness of its application causes inconvenience. Such a lock cannot wrap around a tree or a pole - at most a road sign, and ideally a bicycle parking or a non-continuous fence. It is also not very convenient to transport such a lock - it is hard in a backpack, and for the most part it cannot be attached to the frames. It's good for "static" use, like if you keep it at work and the bike needs to be secured during the work day. In extreme cases, a bicycle can also be attached to such a lock in the entrance.

A very exotic way to prevent theft is a wheel lock. It is mounted on the wheel and does not allow the bike to move. At a minimum, an unlucky thief will not be able to leave on it, but if the thief is experienced, then he can simply drag him into a prepared van.

Not exactly a castle, but good remedy when the bike is stolen. The module is compact, it hides easily in the fork stem or in the seat tube, using special program on a computer or smartphone, you can track its movements and final destination. Of course, in the process of surveillance, you need to write a statement to the police, explain the principle of operation of your device and, as soon as possible, go to the place whose coordinates are reported by the module.

If none of the options offered by the manufacturers suits you, you can easily make a lock with your own hands. You just buy a chain of the required length and thickness, a strong padlock and that's it - you already have a fairly reliable design in your hands.

Remember that it is impossible to protect your bike as much as possible with one type of bicycle lock. It is important to use them in combination. For example, carry a chain to secure the frame and the rear wheel and a cable to secure the front wheel to the frame.

Watch the video on how to make your own secure lock.

And to finally discard the illusions about the cable lock, check out this video (from 1:03).

www.dvride.ru

Nothing could stop him, no longer than a minute later he was already stealing a bike. Finally, the authors of this video decided to puzzle the hero with a chain made of a particularly strong alloy, two fingers thick. Then the thief simply brought a meter-long bolt cutter, bit the chain, put one handle on the pavement, pressed the other with all his weight, and that's it - the bike is free.

Alas, just old and inexpensive bikes are the main prey of bicycle thieves. The reason is that it is cheap bikes that make up the bulk of those that are parked near supermarkets. The cost of such devices is low, so thieves feel at ease - they understand that there will be no criminal prosecution, and the former owner, most likely, will not be persistent in capturing a dashing person.

A very dangerous delusion is to rely on the supervision of a stranger. Even if the guard agrees to your request, this does not guarantee anything at all. First, he does not owe you anything, he can go to the toilet, or just ignore your bike.

Video cameras are also no problem for thieves. They wear a baseball cap and a hood, which, combined with the low resolution of the device, makes them completely unrecognizable. One can only helplessly watch on the recording how, through your own stupidity, you lose an expensive toy. Therefore, if you park your bike near the entrance of the supermarket, closer to the cameras, then be sure that this will not confuse the villains at all.

Such thefts are often committed on a tip, and if the thieves find out that there is something valuable in the basement, then breaking into it will no longer be a problem. The common vestibule is a foreign territory, and I strongly do not recommend leaving a bicycle there.

Good neighbors can forget to close their doors, bad neighbors can call on thieves. Drug addicts sometimes carry out raids on vestibules, as it is very easy to get there, and to run away in case of danger is even easier. Again, from the experience of real acquaintances, I can say that this is not some kind of theoretical opportunity to part with the bike, but very real. At least those people will definitely not put the bike in either the vestibule or the basement.

This advice has a double meaning. First, dealing with two locks is at least twice as long. Secondly, drug addicts often “undress” fastened bikes, two locks will save the wheels.

this is the castle

Everything is clear here: you need to remove the bike computer, flashlight, handbag, everything that you have hung there. If you have to leave your bike strapped in, ditch the quick releases. The first thing that is removed from the bikes is the wheels and the seat. If it is easy for you to shoot, it will be even easier for others. Therefore, replace the eccentrics on the axis and the screws for the internal hexagon, and even better - for the torx

exotic

That's about all I can tell you about bike theft and how to prevent it. Unfortunately, there is only one way to protect a bicycle from theft - to keep it always in front of your eyes. Go to the store together, park only in the apartment.

If this option is completely unacceptable, then there is an alternative - folding bikes. Such a device can be taken with you to the supermarket, and at home it can easily fit under the sofa. I'm going to write a post about folding bikes, where I will review the most interesting models and compare them in terms of prices. I advise you to subscribe to updates of my site in order to receive the article by e-mail.

kotovski.net

There are several types of castles. Let's talk about each separately.

1. Rope

2. Rope with alarm

3. Chain

4. Plate

5. U-bracket

6. Wheel lock

8. Homemade

The cable lock is the most common, due to its low cost, small size, low weight. With it, it is easy to attach the bike to a pole, a tree, you can pass the cable through both wheels, the frame and still it will be enough (of course, in the latter case, the cable must be at least 2 meters long). Cable locks differ from each other in length, thickness and opening method (coded or turnkey).

Unfortunately, all its advantages are more than outweighed by many disadvantages. The main one is that cable locks are the most unreliable in terms of breaking. “Intellectual hacking” is not yet very common, so they are simply snacked or torn in a second. On inexpensive locks, the fixation point is so unreliable that the closed lock can be unhooked by hand. Even with household wire cutters, it can be opened in 1-2 minutes, so it is completely unsuitable for more or less long-term storage. If you store your bike in the entrance with such a lock, then sooner or later you will need advice from our article “What to do if your bike is stolen”. Remember one simple thought: a cable lock is foolproof. It will only save you from those who decided to take your bike for a ride during your visit to the store (do not believe it, there are such people, mostly teenagers and drunk companies). It can also be used to protect the wheels from being removed from the bike. Everything. He's no good for anything else. One cannot hope for such a castle in any case.

There are no questions about the effectiveness of chain locks. Especially if the chain is from a more or less well-known brand. Unlike a cable, which is an interlacing of thin metal threads in a sheath, a chain consists of relatively thick metal links that require a special tool to break. The higher the quality of the metal, the more expensive the chain lock, but also more reliable. There are carbide chains that do not lend themselves to the tools used by thieves. The main problem with chain locks is their weight - carrying them with you in a backpack, for example, is very inconvenient. Alternatively, wind the chain around the frame or seatpost, but then you need to take care of soft material over the links so as not to damage the frame coating. The minus in the form of a high price is compensated by the reliability of such locks. Agree, it's better to spend money on protecting your bike than on a new bike - it will be much cheaper.

Something between a cable and a chain is a plate lock. He wins, first of all, in size. It takes up even less space than a cable lock, and in terms of reliability it strives for chain locks, but still loses.

U-bracket

The lock in the form of a U-bracket is very reliable. This name stuck because of its shape. It is a relatively thick metal bar with a fairly strong fixation. Depending on the manufacturer, the price, the thickness of the bar, and the material of manufacture change. In addition to weight, the narrowness of its application causes inconvenience. Such a lock cannot wrap around a tree or a pole - at most a road sign, and ideally a bicycle parking or a non-continuous fence. It is also not very convenient to transport such a lock - it is hard in a backpack, and for the most part it cannot be attached to the frames. It's good for "static" use, like if you keep it at work and the bike needs to be secured during the work day. In extreme cases, a bicycle can also be attached to such a lock in the entrance.

Not exactly a lock, but a good remedy for bike theft. The module is compact, easily hidden in the fork stem or seat tube, using a special program on a computer or smartphone, you can track its movements and the final point of arrival. Of course, in the process of surveillance, you need to write a statement to the police, explain the principle of operation of your device and, as soon as possible, go to the place whose coordinates are reported by the module.

Watch the video on how to make your own secure lock.

And to finally discard the illusions about the cable lock, check out this video (from 1:03).

bb30.ru

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videosmotret.ru

What is useful to know about castles?

Which is better - a lock with a key or a combination mechanism?

D- and U-locks

However, the main disadvantage of D- and U-locks is their low grip capacity. Therefore, during their operation, cyclists often have to face the dilemma of what is better to fasten - a wheel or a frame. The design features manifest themselves in the most negative way when it is necessary to fasten the bicycle to wide posts and pipes.

chain lock

Quite a different matter - locks with chains made of improved metal alloys. The use of high-quality manufacturing materials, along with the special shape of the links, makes hacking much more difficult. However, such a lock for a bicycle will cost much more.

Cable lock for bicycle

Chain and wheel lock

www.syl.ru

Check out the tips in the article for options and secrets to protect your bike.

Method 1: A reliable way to protect your bike

If the front wheel won't come off without a key, or if your U-lock is too small to buckle both wheels, read the following tips.

2. Fasten the front wheel and frame with a lock to fixed metal objects. Also use the U-Lock to secure the back of the bike with the wheel to another object.

If your lock is small enough to wrap around an object, then only attach the rear wheel to a stationary object. Please note that the lock only needs to be attached inside the frame triangle. In this case, it is not possible to separate the bicycle frame from the rear wheel. Usually this action is enough to stop the thief, because he will need to break the valuable rear wheel in order to steal the bike.
Do not attach a U-Lock to the top tube of a bicycle frame. This way of attaching the lock will help a thief steal your bike, because you can use the bicycle frame as a lever to break such a lock.

3. Secure the front wheel against theft if it does not come off. The front wheel is less valuable than the rear, but it also needs to be secured.

Method 2: Using Expensive Bike Locks

1. Buy good bike locks. Cheap locks can be easily broken or opened. Good bike locks are available from specialty bike shops or the bike department of a sporting goods store.

For the best protection, choose a size U-lock that can only fit around the rear wheel, the frame, and the item it's attached to.
The free space between the lock and the bike should be as small as possible. The material of the lock must be strong.

3. Use heavy chains to fasten your bike. Sufficiently thick chains (15 mm or more) are an excellent tool against bicycle thieves.

4. Use the cable lock only as additional security. You can use a lock with a thick cable (20mm) which is harder to snap. But this type of lock is best used with a U-lock.

Such locks are mainly used to protect less important parts and accessories of a bicycle, for example, a bicycle basket.

Method 3: Choosing the best secure parking spot

1. Find out the area where you will leave your bike. Try not to leave your bike in neighborhoods with a high theft rate.

2. Try not to park near a place where suspicious persons or loafers, homeless people gather.

4. Use well-lit areas, as well as where there are many passers-by. It is more difficult for a thief to steal your bike in such places.

Try to park your bike next to a building that has a security camera. In the event of a theft, you will have a video recording that will help you find the thief.

5. Find immovable preferably metal objects to attach the bike to. Not every bike rack will provide reliable protection. When parking, select the following items:

Hard and strong objects. Do not choose thin iron objects, wooden fences, and do not fasten bicycles to objects that are easy to cut.
Fasten the bike to non-separable objects. A collapsible bike rack can be quickly dismantled by a skilled thief.
Choose a structure that is firmly attached to the ground. Several strong thieves can pull such a structure off the ground. If you fasten your bike to road signs, then also check how firmly they are fixed on the sidewalk.
Fasten your bike to large heavy objects, otherwise a thief can take away the bike along with a small bike rack and unfasten your bike in a secluded place.

6. If possible, try to secure your bike between other bikes. First of all, the thief will try to steal the extreme bikes, as they are more easily accessible.

Method 5: What to do if your bike is stolen.

Be sure to indicate the presence of a GPS controller if you have installed one.

2. Tell your friends about the theft of the bike, spread this information on social networks, notify all people at the place where the bike was lost (office workers, shops at the place of loss). The more people who know about your bike being stolen, the more likely it is that someone saw the theft and will help you find the thief.

Leave your contact details and a detailed description of the bike.

3. Post stolen bike ads on bulletin boards and internet boards. If you receive any information about the theft, immediately report the details to the police.

4. If possible, ask for video from CCTV cameras. Ask the owners of video cameras to watch the video for the police. This will help identify the bike thief.

7. Claim an insurance claim if your bike was insured. You need to file a bike theft report as soon as possible so that the insured event is recorded.

8. Do not try to return the bike yourself. As soon as you find your bike somewhere, contact law enforcement immediately. Don't take the risk of figuring it out on your own.

Adviсe

Make it harder for thieves to steal your bike. Then the thief will choose another bike.
If possible, fasten your bike so that you can see it from the window.
Use reputable bike locks whenever possible (Kryptonite, Abus, Trelock, etc.).
Attach the seat and handlebars to the frame, if possible, using a cable lock.

Warnings

Try not to let the castle touch the ground. This will prevent a thief from using a hammer and other heavy objects when picking the lock.
Never leave your bicycle in places where it is not allowed to park bicycles, or in places where it will interfere with other road users.

What you need

velo-tur.net

Bicycle locks are of several types:

By type of locking device, bicycle locks are of two types.

Full construction
With code block.

Here everyone decides for himself what is easier for him - to remember the code or to carry the key with him. There are ways to open both those and other locks. Key locks are opened with master keys, and codes are simply selected. If you choose a code, then take at least four digits.

It is impossible to unequivocally answer the question of which bicycle lock is better and more reliable. Each of all types has its pros and cons. You can forget the code, and lose the key, you can bite the cable, and cut the arc with a grinder. There are no unlockable locks. The question is the time it takes. In the end, there were cases when they broke the fence and took the bike away by car. One thief sawed a tree for five hours to steal a bicycle.

If you use a bike rack, do not put your iron horse on the last. Thieves most often try to steal the extreme ones, since they have more free access. Try to squeeze yours between the others.
The use of bicycle cams, especially on wheels and seatposts, makes them easier to steal. Although there are special anti-vandal eccentrics. Learn it. If you do not use eccentrics, tighten the bolts on the wheel axles very tightly. This is useful both for driving safety and as an anti-theft measure. There is another original, but rather difficult idea to implement: order personalized nuts and bolts with unique keys. They will be quite difficult to unwind.
Another unusual and controversial way is to not wash your bike too clean. Some cyclists believe that dirty bikes are less likely to be stolen. True, you still ride it, and how comfortable it will be depends on you.
There is another original way. Just leave the bike and attach it with a good lock, remove the saddle and take it with you. Stealing a bike without a saddle is somewhat problematic - you won’t go anywhere on it, and it’s more difficult to sell it without a saddle. If the seatpost is attached with an eccentric, it is easy to remove it. And if it is not very long and the saddle is not wide, then carrying this set with you is not too difficult. You can also remove the pedals - you won't ride much without them. True, they are not always clean, and it takes longer to twist them.
Do not be afraid to look like an eccentric - a barn lock and a strong chain are much more difficult to bite than a thin cable. As mentioned above, when choosing chains, it is better to take not an ordinary chain from a hardware store, but cargo chains made of thick hardened steel. In the end, the cyclist may simply not have enough time to open these locks and saw through or bite the chain with bolt cutters.
When attaching the bike, fix all easily removable parts - wheels, saddle. Remove expensive accessories - bike computers, GPS-navigators and other bells and whistles.
Write down your frame number. Where is the frame serial number on the bike? It is stamped on the bottom of the frame under the hub or on the front of the head tube. The bike frame number can be in the form of numbers or letters and numbers. This will help prove that the bike is really yours. It is best that it be registered in the warranty card when buying in a store. It's not bad to have a photo of you along with the bike. Firstly, this will be proof that this is your bike, and secondly, the police will clearly see what to look for, and she, “quitting everything, will immediately announce a plan to intercept in search of” your iron friend.
There is another little trick. Put a piece of paper inside the handlebar, under the grips or inside the seatpost, on which write down your data. It will serve as additional proof that you are the real owner. You can also write or scratch your name on it. A marked bike is harder to sell, and it will be easier to prove that it is yours.
The appearance of the bike should not be very defiant. Tape the steering wheel or part of the frame. The goal is to show a potential thief that this bike is not the best one to sell. Sometimes a slightly rusty handlebar or seatpost will drastically reduce the value of the entire bike.
By the way, the more original your bike is painted, the more difficult it will be to sell it and to identify it faster in case of theft. It's the same with motorists.
You can use a bike alarm. She will attract attention with her squeak and scare inexperienced thieves. And the experienced ones, realizing that there is an alarm on the bike, most likely will not contact it. The alarm is most often triggered by movement.
Another purely psychological moment. Most stores or office centers do not allow bicycles to be brought inside. However, "an attempt is not torture" - try to go with him. If they don't let you in, at this point ask the guard to look after the bike. At least a responsible person is already appearing and the bike is under supervision, and this is already good.
Try to insure your bike against theft, theft and damage.

There are several rather original solutions for protecting bicycles from theft:

Chinese engineers came up with V.Y. handle lock. This is a strong, flexible cable, which during the trip is in the handlebars of the bicycle, and in the parking lot it closes on the right grip, which plays the role of a lock. True, he still will not save from a bolt cutter.

www.sportek.in.ua

Types of bike locks

Anti-theft cable

The most popular and cheapest type. It is a steel cable in a rubber sheath, at one end of which there is a lock, on which the cable closes. Cables are long, short, different diameters, mounted on the seat tube, with a combination lock or key.

It is best to take as long as possible so that it is possible to hook the bike not only to the frame, but also to grab the wheels. If you cling only to the frame, then they will steal by no means cheap, and if only by the wheels, then everything else. In addition, in this way you can fasten several bicycles at once, which is very convenient.

It is also better to take a larger diameter (more than 15 mm). In no case do not take thin Chinese anti-theft cables - they bite in a matter of seconds.

Also inspect the castle itself carefully, at least visually it should inspire confidence. The lock on the key in theory should be more reliable, but in practice it opens with a master key or breaks with a hammer in a few seconds, and there is also a risk of losing the key. In this case, you will be able to check the quality of the bike lock in practice.

chain lock

A more reliable option. Unlike a cable, a chain has a higher strength and it will not be so easy to bite it. I would even say it is extremely difficult, but sometimes thieves even use a grinder.

The best thing, I think, is to buy yourself a really thick, hardened chain, and an equally good lock. But there are also special bicycle chain locks on sale, which are wrapped in a cover (fabric) so as not to scratch the frame, and in general they look more aesthetically pleasing.

U-shaped bike lock

A very secure lock indeed. The hardened steel frame is made in the shape of the letter U. The weight can sometimes reach one and a half kilograms, which additionally tells us about the strength. The price of some copies reaches up to 100 Euros, which hints to us even more about reliability.

However, I see one significant disadvantage - attaching a bicycle will not be such an easy task. It is necessary that both the frame and the fastener object are on the same level. In addition, you cannot additionally grab the wheel, this is also a considerable risk.

An improved version of the U-lock. It consists of 5 mm thick hardened steel plates that are conveniently folded. Thus, such a bicycle lock is much more compact, but at the same time durable.

Some cyclists complain about the poor quality of the Trelock FS 455 plate lock, they say that it breaks with just one hand in no more than a minute. Therefore, if you have already chosen an expensive lock, try to find reviews on it on the Internet.

Bike lock blocking the wheel

A rather original, but ineffective means of protecting a bicycle from theft. Trite to block the wheel, but who cares when the bike can be quickly loaded into the car.

There are some. It is an analogue of an anti-theft cable, with the only difference being that an alarm is implanted into the lock itself. When a thief tries to cut a cable or pick a lock, an alarm sounds for 15 seconds with a sound level of about 90 decibels. In general, a good decision.

Best bike lock

If I put the question point-blank, then I think the best option for a bike lock is a U-shaped or made of plates. Among the U-shaped bike locks of Kryptonit and Kensington, they are the undisputed leaders in this segment. It is only advisable to fix the wheels separately if they are dear to you.

It will be great to use a bicycle alarm together with a bicycle lock. It clings to the frame, several sensitivity modes are selected, and in which case, reacting to movement, the alarm is triggered for 15 seconds.

An experienced thief, seeing the installed bicycle alarm, most likely will pass by. The inexperienced, having heard a piercing squeak, will run away in panic. Plus, the attention of passers-by is guaranteed, and you yourself can quickly run out of the store. It's cheap, under $10.

However, more than 50% percent of the stolen bikes were strapped in, which is kind of a hint. Therefore, once again I recommend that you familiarize yourself with how to protect a bicycle from theft and watch this video:

Don't buy cheap Chinese junk, ride your favorite bike as much as possible, and stay with the site.

You can buy a bike lock in Russia.

How to choose the best bike lock? There is a whole mass of individual varieties of anti-theft agents. Let's try together to figure out which product will best protect the bike from the actions of intruders.

What is useful to know about castles?

To choose the most effective means to protect a bicycle, you need to understand the types of locks, have information about the advantages and disadvantages of certain models.

When choosing a lock for a bicycle, it is necessary to take into account possible parking places. Most of the products are designed to protect two-wheeled vehicles, which are left in special parking lots in front of buildings. However, if you wish, you can choose a reliable means for securing a bicycle to a lamppost, pipe or bench.

Whatever type of lock is suitable for a cyclist, whether it is a metal cable product, a bicycle chain lock or a U-lock system, you should always remember that the miser pays twice.

Which is better - a lock with a key or a combination mechanism?

Bicycle locks can be closed with a key or using a code cipher. The combination lock for a bicycle, according to the level of reliability, is approximately the same efficiency as the model on the key.

The choice in this case depends on the convenience of the user. Some cyclists find it difficult to keep the lock code in mind, while others feel uncomfortable when looking for the key. Be that as it may, in both cases, the main role is played by the convenience of transporting a rather bulky product with a lock.

D- and U-locks

As practice shows, this category of bicycle locks is one of the most reliable in everyday use. A bicycle lock of such a specific shape is difficult to bite or open with a master key. Be that as it may, to achieve the goal, the attacker will need to spend a lot of time and effort.

However, the main disadvantage of D- and U-locks is their low grip capacity. Therefore, in the course of their operation, cyclists often have to face the dilemma of whether it is better to fasten the wheel or the frame. The design features manifest themselves in the most negative way when it is necessary to fasten the bicycle to wide posts and pipes.

chain lock

Due to the special variety of the model range and individual parameters, the security qualities of bicycle locks with a chain vary significantly. Often, the reliability, ease of use and quality of such a lock directly depend on the cost.

A bicycle lock with a thin metal chain can only protect against a child who does not have any tools at hand. As for a trained attacker, cutting the chain with good wire cutters will not be difficult for him.

A completely different matter is locks with chains made of improved metal alloys. The use of high-quality manufacturing materials, along with the special shape of the links, makes hacking much more difficult. However, such a lock for a bicycle will cost much more.

As for the length of the chain locks, in most cases it turns out to be quite enough to chain the desired part of the two-wheeled vehicle to any suitable object without any problems.

Cable lock for bicycle

Systems in this category practically do not differ from products with a chain. However, they are lighter and more compact. Especially convenient can be a product in the form of a spiral, which wraps around the seat post during transportation.

Despite the compact size in the assembled position, the spiral is able to unwind to an impressive length. Thanks to this, with the help of a cable, several elements of the bicycle structure can be fixed at the same time.

Chain and wheel lock

Convenient to use can be a lock for a bicycle chain and wheel lock. Naturally, such protective equipment should only be used in conjunction with other types of locks.

The mechanism of action of systems for blocking the chain and wheels is based on fixing these elements in a static position, which prevents the rotation of the mechanisms. It is recommended to fasten the bicycle with such locks for a short time. Indeed, in case of theft, the attacker, at best, will have to carry the bike on his own shoulders.

To reduce the likelihood of theft, as well as causing any damage to two-wheeled vehicles, it is recommended to adhere to the following recommendations:

It is better to fasten the bike in the most crowded places. Naturally, this will not be able to stop a skilled cracker, but it will certainly make beginners think.
It is worth using several locks at the same time. Hacking them will definitely take more time from the attacker. In addition, fixing individual parts of the bike will protect against those who hunt, for example, for the wheels or the trunk of a vehicle.
When using multiple anti-theft tools, it is desirable that one bicycle lock be a U- or D-shaped, because it is not so easy to quickly break a thick metal arc.
Switching bike systems to low gears helps to catch up with a burglar. Even by pedaling furiously, an attacker will not be able to move faster than a walking pace. Naturally, this option is effective only if the bike is constantly in the owner's mind.

Today I want to touch on a topic that is very relevant for any cyclist. Beginners, and even those who have already started, often ask what kind of bike lock to choose so that the bike is not stolen.

Believe me, friends, the most best advice, which you can get from me: never leave your bike unattended.

If you decide to buy a bike lock, start saving up for a new bike as well, because now losing the old one is only a matter of time. Why? It's simple: leaving the bike fastened a couple of times, you will believe in the effectiveness of the lock, and you will park it all for a longer time. And sooner or later it will be cut.

For some reason, novice Catalans categorically do not accept this point of view. The forums constantly flare up disputes on this topic, discussing different kinds bicycle locks, the most reliable places for parking bikes are offered ... The result, unfortunately, is predictable. Don't believe? Think you can find the perfect bike lock that thieves can't handle?

I have collected four main myths that cyclists believe when they leave the iron horse under the protection of the chain.

I fasten my bike with an expensive bike lock

This myth is the most tenacious. Cyclists believe that there is some perfect lock that can definitely protect their toy. Like, let him stand big money, but it is an ironclad guarantee. Unfortunately, no such locks exist.

There is a saying: “locks are made from honest people”, and this is perfectly applicable to this area. Ordinary cable locks cut and break so easily that even drug addicts with trembling hands can get rid of them in a matter of seconds. More expensive ones are disabled by master keys or broken by crowbars.

There is a direct correlation here: an expensive lock guards an expensive bicycle, so thieves will use more sophisticated and brazen methods in this case. I watched a video on the Internet where a former professional bicycle thief opened bicycle locks for a while.

Nothing could stop him, no longer than a minute later he was already stealing a bike. Finally, the authors of this video decided to puzzle the hero with a chain made of a particularly strong alloy, two fingers thick. Then the thief simply brought a meter-long bolt cutter, bit the chain, put one handle on the asphalt, pressed the other with all his weight, and that's it - the bike is free.

If you hope that passers-by will immediately call the police at the sight of a wielding thief, loudly indignant and impede his activities in every way, then you are deeply mistaken. Firstly, no one cares, and secondly, the thieves act very quickly and brazenly, so that passers-by do not really realize what is happening. If you still don't believe me, then watch the video at the end of the article. Although the case takes place in New York, I strongly doubt that we will have it any other way.

My bike is old and cheap, no one needs it

However, even old bikes are easily sold for $30-$50, which is a reliable and safe source of income for a thief. Again, a cheap bike is unlikely to have a good lock, and it is not difficult or risky to take it away.

Consider what this means to you. You think that if you stole a bike for a couple of thousand rubles, then it's not scary. But after losing this bike, you are likely to buy the same rubbish for trips to the store.

This means that the expenses will already amount to four thousand, and this is only until the next time. What's the point of feeding thieves? How many times do you need to repeat this procedure to understand that it is better to buy a good bike right away and never leave it fastened.

I park the bike next to the guard, in the area of the security cameras

Secondly, it happened more than once that the guards themselves led the thieves to the abandoned expensive bicycles, getting their percentage. It also happens when the bike is parked in a secure building, and disappears without a trace, despite all the precautions.

Such an unpleasant story happened to a girl from our cycling club: a good bike was pulled from the office building where she worked. The guard did not see anything, and there were no eyewitnesses either. Obviously someone from his own stole, since there is no free entrance to this building.

My bike is stored in a secure basement or shared vestibule

Also a popular way to get your bike into the right hands. I don't understand how much you have to dislike the bike to send him to spend the night in the basement. There are no reliable basements, which is proved by the statistics of bicycles stolen from there.

If you still stubbornly do not believe that a fastened bike can change its owner one fine day, then so be it, you will have to give advice on how to minimize the danger.

Buckle up your bike in a public place

Do not look for a place under the video cameras, but park the bike in the most accessible place. This will by no means confuse professionals, but at least it will cut off beginners. And yet, there is at least some hope that one of the passers-by will be indifferent.

Use at least two locks

This advice has a double meaning. First, dealing with two locks is at least twice as long. Secondly, drug addicts often “undress” fastened bikes, two locks will save the wheels.

Be sure one of the locks must be U-shaped, since a thick metal shackle is more difficult to bite / saw through with simple means. However, thieves do not try to “bite” inexpensive U-shaped locks, they easily break the larva itself.

Of the expensive ones, it is considered very reliable among cyclists this is the castle, at least it’s not so easy to bite him with a bolt cutter.

Leave your strapped bike in low gears.

This is, of course, ridiculous advice, but I heard that he helped someone save the bike. If you put the lowest gear, both front and rear, then even pedaling furiously, the thief will not go faster than five kilometers per hour. There is a vanishingly small chance that you will show up at the climax and he will not have time to shift into high gear in confusion.

When leaving, remove everything valuable from the bike, do not use eccentrics

Everything is clear here: you need to remove the bike computer, flashlight, handbag, everything that you have hung there. If you have to leave your bike strapped in, ditch the quick releases. The first thing that is removed from bicycles is the wheels and the seat. If it is easy for you to shoot, it will be even easier for others. Therefore, replace the eccentrics on the axis and the screws for the internal hexagon, and even better - for the torx

Do not tell anyone the real price of the bike

No one, except for colleagues at the bike forum, of course, it’s great there and they know the price. But acquaintances who are not very familiar with bicycles should not be told that they paid forty thousand for a bike.

Information spread by an impressionable friend that you are crazy and spent a lot of money on a bent piece of iron may fall into the wrong ears. Oddly enough, but many thefts occur on the involuntary tip of friends. So your bike is worth ten thousand to them. So calmer.

Record the serial number before, write a statement after

If yours is already in the risk zone, then write down its serial number, it is knocked out from the bottom of the carriage assembly (the lowest point of the frame). This will help claim the bike if the police somehow find it. Of course, you need to immediately report the theft. Although the chances are small, but still

exotic

This includes various exotic devices, such as multi-decibel howler monkeys, alarms and gps trackers. All this can be installed on a bicycle, however, this is already reminiscent of military operations for the sake of war itself.

Hanging your favorite bike with a ton of incomprehensible stray, just for the sake of leaving it at the supermarket ... the scale seems to be small. In addition, as practice shows, thieves successfully cope with electronic protection.

Promised video, see how easy it is to steal a bike on a street full of passers-by.

A cyclist who decides to use his vehicle for practical purposes will sooner or later have to deal with parking his bike on the street. Leaving the bike in a “free” state is not safe: even after 5 minutes of absence, the owner runs the risk of not finding his faithful servant in place.

Bicycle parking locks will help prevent theft. These devices allow you to fasten the bike to an immovable object and thus prevent an attacker from taking the bike and leaving on it. There are a large number of different anti-theft devices on the market, it is important to choose the right one, know the types of bicycle locks, their pros and cons, and, of course, focus on banknotes in your wallet.

List of types of bicycle locks

According to the type of fastening, anti-theft locks are divided into the following groups:

wheel locks;
cable;
chain;
u-shaped;
lamellar;
homemade.

Wheel locks are small rings that firmly attach the rim to the bike frame. To provide anti-theft protection, it is enough to block only the rear wheel, however, two locks are sold at once in the kit. The meaning of protection is not to allow the thief to ride off on a bike, but to make him carry on his shoulders. And there the owner will catch up.

A common version of a bicycle lock is a metal cable with a polymer sheath. The cables are low in price, have several length options: from 10 - 15 cm to 1 meter. Short cables can be used as blockers, long ones will allow you to park the bike against a tree, pole, road sign, pipe and so on.

Cables are familiar to every cyclist.

The bike chain lock is a heavy and angry protector. It is represented by a thick metal chain, covered with a dense fabric or polymer coating. From frequent parking, the outer layer wears out, so you can often find a bare chain. The length is large enough that allows you to fasten the frame to objects of impressive size.

But U-shaped locks for bicycles do not shine with length: short elongated arcs with a locking device. In shape, they resemble old door locks, only elongated. The bicycle can only be fastened to a narrow pipe, such as a traffic sign.

U-lock anti-theft protection from Onguard

Lamellar bicycle locks are a kind of chain made not of links, but of plates. The material in them is durable hardened steel, which is also used to fasten the links. As a rule, bicycle locks of this type are supplied with an outer shell - a dense fabric or polypropylene.

And finally, let's touch on the anti-theft devices made by ourselves. This is usually done by older cyclists riding Soviet Kamas and Salyuts. Making your own fastening is very simple: just connect an ordinary door lock with a steel chain.

Comparison of types of anti-theft accessories

It is convenient and simple - block the wheels, put the bike on and go about your business. Block locks are inexpensive, simple and easy to use. Significant drawback blockers - there is no protection as such. A thief who sets out to steal a bicycle will take it away, even if dragged or carried on his shoulders. It is recommended to use the wheel lock for short-term parking, 5 minutes, no more.

"Handcuffs" for bicycle wheels

Cable locks for bicycles are simple and inexpensive. Some of them, for example, from the manufacturer Bulat, also differ in durability. But, like the most common locks, they are the most vulnerable to bike robbers. It is quite easy to bite or break the connection of a metal cable with a lock block, as long as the tool is nearby.

Another disadvantage of such locks for bicycles is “freezing”: the polypropylene shell has low cold resistance, which is why even at +5 the lock becomes a stake and it becomes problematic to roll it up.

Chain and plate - reliable locks, unlike the cable, their competitor. Naturally, such devices will cost more, and they are not so common on sale. Here, the quality directly depends on the original production technology of the product: poor quality material can easily be succumbed to wire cutters, hammers and crowbars. Plate mounts are weak points, so their steel must be as strong and impact resistant as possible.

The chain in the casing with the keyhole for parking is large

U-lock locks are even more reliable and durable than all the previous ones, but the cost will be significantly higher. Of the manufacturing companies, we note Abus, recommended specifically in the manufacture of such accessories.

Their limited use is due to their short length: the bike cannot be attached to thick pipes, trees, lampposts, etc. We'll have to look for something narrow and small. Advice for cyclists with U-locks: It is better to have an additional chain or cable anti-theft.

Probably homemade anti-thefts are the best: a proven lock and a thick iron chain. Of course, it does not protect 100%, however, thieves prefer not to mess with such "guards".

Self-made "grandfather's" castle

Code or key - which is safer for a cyclist?

According to the method of closing, the anti-theft system is divided into key and code. Several keys are attached to the locks of the first type; the packaging of the combination locks contains a unique combination of numbers that opens the lock. There are types of code anti-thefts that require code closure.

The division into code and key is relevant for cable locks, to a lesser extent, the code can be found on chains and plates. Manufacturers also prefer to cut a hole for a key in U-shaped fastenings. Let's figure out which lock is preferable: a code or a key.

The main disadvantage of key locks is the ability to pick up master keys for them. It is not uncommon for a key to break right in the lock and not be pulled out. This is the fault of small keys, which gently and accurately break in half. And, of course, you can accidentally lose the keys, and then you yourself will have to become a cracker on your bike.

In terms of ease of handling, anti-theft with a code is much better, but it is easier for a thief to pick up a combination of numbers than a combination. Three-digit cheap fixtures are especially dangerous in this regard. "Hit the jackpot" on such locks is easier than it seems. In extreme cases, you can simply cut the cable with a special tool. Normal anti-theft cables on codes are produced by the manufacturer Cyclotech, but they will cost more than their key counterparts.

For an inexpensive bike, the code option is also suitable, attackers usually look askance at super-fast bikes with disc brakes and shock absorbers. If the bike has to be left for a long time, it is advisable to fasten it not with one, but with several locks. So, good option will use a key chain, code cable and block locks on the wheels. Remember, however, the shortcomings of key representatives: it is better to choose more expensive locks and keep an eye on the keys.

Bike alarm - is it worth it?

In addition to lock fasteners, another type of “Anti-theft” type of protection has appeared in the cycling environment - anti-theft systems with alarms. Until this device was released to the masses, it is used only on very expensive bikes. Perhaps in the future, the signaling will replace the old methods of fixing, so it’s worth talking a little about it.

Let's consider the principle of operation of the alarm using the example of a three-mode JX:

A - setting a unique digital code to unlock the bike;
B - blocking the wheels;
С – change of sound alarm level.

The signaling beeps rather unpleasantly, the sound strength can exceed 100 dB. This sound alone will make an intruder change his mind about stealing this bike. It is also worth noting the level of high sensitivity, the device responds even to touch. It is better to install a bike with an alarm away from a large crowd of people, otherwise the bike will continuously honk and scare people.

Bicycle alarm kit

The anti-theft alarm system has its drawbacks:

high current consumption and frequent battery replacement;
false alarm due to ultra-sensitive vibration probe;
price.

The first negative is especially unpleasant. In one hour, this device eats up a huge amount of energy. If the bike has to be left for half a day, then most likely the battery will fail. Wouldn't it be better to attach the bike to something in the standard way?

On the contrary, frequent signals from the bicycle will annoy both the owner and passers-by. The same unjustified consumption of battery power will force you to remove the device from the bike and use the usual anti-theft. With a price tag that won't be justified for most bikes, that's understandable. In general, the alarm is an interesting accessory, but not yet in great demand.

Protecting your bike on the street is just as important as the ride itself. Choosing the best protective accessory for your bike, weighing all its pros and cons and making an informed choice, the cyclist will definitely provide his two-wheeled friend with a calm and long parking.

The bike is the most protected against theft of any other vehicle: even if it fails to be stolen, nothing will prevent the thief from removing everything that is not welded from the frame. However, few people will bother with disassembling the bike. If you often leave it on the street and don’t either, a bicycle lock will help reduce the likelihood of theft: which one is better to choose from existing options protection?

The anti-theft lock for a bicycle is designed to fasten a vehicle to a fixed support - a pole, a road sign, a fence. When choosing a bike lock, remember that they are different design features, strength, ease of use, cost.

U-shaped

U-lock bicycle lock made in the form of a rigid steel arc. High durability - you will need a tool to hack, and even with it, theft will take a long time. The U-shaped lock looks like a classic padlock with an elongated shackle. Due to this shape and rigidity, they cannot fasten the bike to a large diameter support. In addition, the thick U-lock has a noticeable weight, which can be a minus.

Depending on the width of the arc, such a lock can be used for different purposes:

small - for fastening the front or;
medium - for bicycles with thin frames (mainly sports models);
large - for thick frames () or fastening several parts of the bike at once.

Good to know! Locks of small sizes, although they limit the choice of support, do not allow the thief to tear the arc out of the lock with the force of the lever - in any case, you will have to bite through the thick latch with a bolt cutter (the saw will not take hardened steel).

Rope

A cable lock for a bicycle is the most common and economical option. The steel cable is covered with a polymer sheath, which protects the lock from corrosion and biting (it is not easy to cut), but makes operation less convenient. Polymer is not flexible and hardens in cold weather.

However, overall it is easy to use. It has a length of up to one meter, which allows you to fasten the bike to a variety of designs. But cable protects against theft- You can bite it with wire cutters if you manage to remove the plastic casing. The effectiveness of protection depends on the thickness of the lock. In any case, this option should be supplemented with other anti-theft devices.

Chain

If the bicycle cable lock is not satisfied with low efficiency, good choice becomes a chain. It comes in different versions:

closed with a fabric cover;
protected by a polymer casing;
naked.

In the latter case, it is less protected from corrosion, but more mobile. The advantage of the chain is obvious: hardened links are difficult to bite, and it is impossible to cut at all. Its length can be any, so it is allowed to fasten the bike to objects of different diameters. If desired, you can wrap the chain at least the entire frame along with the wheels.

lamellar

A plate lock is a type of bicycle chain lock that uses links in the form of hardened steel plates instead of rings. They are fastened in the same way as parts of handcuffs - with strong rivets that cannot be knocked out by force. Link junctions are the vulnerable part lock, so you need to pay special attention to its quality. Additionally, the bike lock is protected by a casing.

Important! Lamellar locks are reliable, but expensive and hard to find.

How to choose a bicycle lock?

When choosing, the following factors are taken into account:

length. It is difficult to find specially equipped bike racks in our country, so you will have to fasten your bike to what is available on the spot. In order not to have to circle around the area in search of a thin enough tree, it is better to buy a long castle;
Advice! U-lock is a situational device, as the main lock can rarely be used, it is better to block the wheels with it.
thickness. The thicker the lock, the more difficult it is to crack;
steel quality and strength;
price.

In addition, you need to decide on the method of closing - variations are found with cables. The devices on the key have disadvantages: the possibility of opening with a master key, the key sometimes breaks or is lost. A combination lock on a bicycle is more reliable - the main thing is not to forget the combination. Otherwise, you will have to think about how to open code lock improvised means. For more security it is worth choosing a product with a 4-digit code.

Important! You can make a lock with your own hands, but its reliability in this case will be in question.

Manufacturers

When choosing which bike lock to buy, you should rely on the reputation of certain manufacturers. The most reliable locks are produced by the following companies:

To reduce the possibility of theft or removal of wheels from the bike, bike locks need to be combined- especially if the bike is left in a sparsely populated place for a long time. Great option in this case, it will become a lock with an alarm that will tell you if they want to rob you.

Price

When choosing a bicycle lock, price is one of the most important parameters. It varies widely depending on its type.

As the number of bicycles increases, so does the number of bicycle thefts. To secure their property, owners use bike locks. However, cheap models are not reliable, and buying more durable options can hit your pocket hard. How to make a bike lock with your own hands will be described later.

Advantages and disadvantages

Like any other anti-theft device, a homemade bike lock has its pros and cons. Here are its main benefits:

When using a thick steel chain, it is almost impossible to cut through.
Low manufacturing cost (most materials are on the farm).
You can independently make a lock of any appearance and configuration. The owner can choose the color and size of the product. Therefore, each bike lock will be unique in its own way.

However, a self-made device has its drawbacks:

Building a castle takes time and effort.

The lock itself can be opened by a fairly quickly trained bike thief (this problem is solved by purchasing a more expensive and reliable lock, but in this case manufacturing costs will increase significantly). Therefore, it is still not recommended to leave the bike unattended for a long time.

Important! Another significant disadvantage of homemade is its heavy weight. This problem can be partially solved by competent selection of a chain and a padlock.

Necessary materials

Before you start making a bike lock, you will need to stock up on some equipment and materials.

Iron chain about 60-70 cm long. Any will do option. But the stronger (in this regard, steel is significantly ahead of aluminum) and thicker the chain, the more difficult it will be to bite it. Too bulky bike lock will also not be very convenient, so here you need to look for a middle ground. The chain can be purchased at a nearby hardware or hardware store.
Textile. Any type of fabric can be used for the cover. But dense and durable materials that repel moisture are best suited. Alternatively, you can sew a cover from old jeans. Perfect for this purpose and raincoat fabric.
Thread and needle. Required for stitching fabric. For convenience, it is better to use a sewing machine.
The padlock. It is with his help that the chain will close. You should choose a medium-sized lock so that it does not take up much space, but at the same time it is sufficiently reliable.
Dye. If desired, you can paint the parts of the chain that are not covered with a cloth.

Necessary materials for the manufacture of a bike lock

The cost of a padlock is 100-150 rubles. An old chain can often be found on the farm, as well as fabric. But even if you buy them, the cost of manufacturing will not exceed 300-400 rubles. And this is significantly lower than the price of a good bike lock in a sporting goods store. At the same time, the quality of the product does not suffer at all.

Manufacturing

Creating a bike lock with your own hands can be divided into several steps:

First step

If an old chain is used for manufacturing, it must be cleaned of rust. To do this, you can use white vinegar or a specialized solvent. However, the best effect is brought by metal processing with abrasives. After that, you can paint the extreme links (this is not a prerequisite for a new chain, but it is better to process the old metal further - this will prevent rusting and improve appearance). Acrylic paint can be used here (it is advisable to choose a coloring matter based on metal).

Second step

Next, you need to prepare a fabric cover. When creating it, various types of materials can be used, but it is better to choose a water-repellent or breathable option (this is necessary so that the chain under the cover does not rust). It is also desirable that the fabric stretch. In this case, the cover is sewn exactly to the thickness of the chain and a few centimeters shorter (the stretchy fabric will eliminate the knocking of the chain during trips). If the material is not capable of strong stretching, the cover must be made somewhat wider. The main thing is that it does not hamper the movement of the chain. Also, some types of fabric require processing so that the edge does not “crumble”. When the case is ready, it can be put on the chain.

Third step

Now you need to connect the extreme links of the chain with a lock. It can also be purchased at a hardware or hardware store. Almost any lock will do. The main thing is that it securely fastens the entire structure. It is also better to choose a model whose shackle thickness is equal to the thickness of the chain link (otherwise it makes no sense to buy a thick chain, because the lock will become the weak point of the product).

DIY Combination Lock

Important! It is most convenient to use a snap lock. The main thing is not to leave the key at home.

This completes the manufacture of the bicycle lock. Now you can test it in action.

Spectacular pumping of the body - Health Portal

Method 1: A reliable way to protect your bike

Method 2: Using Expensive Bike Locks

Method 3: Choosing the best secure parking spot

Method 4: Scaring off bike thieves.

Method 5: What to do if your bike is stolen.

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22 PRODUCTS WITH ALIEXPRESS FOR BIKE. CONTEST

What is useful to know about castles?

Which is better - a lock with a key or a combination mechanism?

D- and U-locks

chain lock

Cable lock for bicycle

Chain and wheel lock

Method 1: A reliable way to protect your bike

Method 2: Using Expensive Bike Locks

Method 3: Choosing the best secure parking spot

Method 5: What to do if your bike is stolen.

Bicycle locks are of several types:

By type of locking device, bicycle locks are of two types.

There are several rather original solutions for protecting bicycles from theft:

Types of bike locks

Anti-theft cable

chain lock

U-shaped bike lock

Bike lock blocking the wheel

Best bike lock

What is useful to know about castles?

Which is better - a lock with a key or a combination mechanism?

D- and U-locks

chain lock

Cable lock for bicycle

Chain and wheel lock

I fasten my bike with an expensive bike lock

My bike is old and cheap, no one needs it

I park the bike next to the guard, in the area of ​​​​the security cameras

My bike is stored in a secure basement or shared vestibule

Buckle up your bike in a public place

Use at least two locks

Leave your strapped bike in low gears.

When leaving, remove everything valuable from the bike, do not use eccentrics

Do not tell anyone the real price of the bike

Record the serial number before, write a statement after

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List of types of bicycle locks

Comparison of types of anti-theft accessories

Code or key - which is safer for a cyclist?

Bike alarm - is it worth it?

U-shaped

Rope

Chain

lamellar

How to choose a bicycle lock?

Manufacturers

Price

Advantages and disadvantages

Necessary materials

Manufacturing

First step

Second step

Third step

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I park the bike next to the guard, in the area of the security cameras