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More locking advice!

Posted: Jan 31 2011 in Commentary

To follow up on Vancouver's blog on locking up bikes, we have some more info for you!

Bike locks are a conundrum. How much should you spend, what type should you get, will my bike still be stolen?

Unfortunately there are no certainties with bike locks, no promises that can be kept. Thieves are very resourceful and use various techniques to get by even the most expensive locks. The best defence is to make your bike less desirable than the one you lock it up beside. Here are some tips for when you lock up your bike, along with some advise on buying the right lock for your needs. 

Which lock is best for you?

The U-Lock: Probably the most widely used lock on the market today. When purchasing this type of lock you want to make sure that you do not buy one that allows too much space in the “u” portion while locking the bike. The smallest one you can use is the best one. The bulky size of the lock allows it to withstand hammers and chisels. 

Chain: A high quality chain lock will resist saws, hacksaws and chisels. The only thing to keep in mind is that the padlock be as strong as the chain you are attaching too. You also want to make sure that you have a protective coating over the chain to keep your bike frame from damage. 

Cable: Probably best used as an addition to a sturdier lock, or for a quick coffee stop. These are not the strongest, nor the most deterring. They are great for quick errands while on a ride, as they are light weight and simple to use. 

Now that you have selected a lock, here are some tips on using the lock. It is critical that you use the lock the right way, other wise your mode of transportation may no longer be yours.

These are taken from the following webpage: http://www.kryptonitelock.com/techlab/howtosecure.aspx

1. Always lock your bike, especially at home. This means in your garage, in your apartment building and your college residence hall. If you have a sense of security and become a little lax, that's when a thief will take advantage.

2. Lock to a fixed, immovable object like a parking meter or permanent bike rack. Be careful not to lock to items that can be easily cut, broken or removed like a chain link fence (yes, thieves are that creative). Be careful that your bike can't be lifted over the top of the object you've locked it to, like a sign.

3. Lock in a well-lit area with a lot of foot traffic.

4. Lock in a location where there are other bikes. The chances are pretty good that there will be a bike with less security, or no security, right near yours. Thieves will go for the easiest target every time.

5. When using a U-lock, position your bike frame and wheels so that you fill or take up as much of the open space within the U-portion of the lock as possible. The tighter the lock up the harder it is for a thief to use tools to attack and twist your lock.

6. Always position your U-lock with the keyway facing down towards the ground, but not close to the ground. Locks on the ground are more easily leveraged for attack.

7. Always secure your components and accessories with a secondary cable lock. This includes quick-release components.

8. For the greatest theft protection use two locks such as a U-lock and a locking cable. The longer a thief will have to work, the less likely your bike will be stolen.

9. Don't lock your bike to itself by simply locking the front wheel to the frame. A bike 'locked' like this can easily be lifted and carried away.

10. A thief may notice a pattern and target your bike if you lock in the same location all the time. Mix up the locations a little bit, especially if you are a commuter.

11. Check with area law enforcement agencies and read all signs in the area before locking your bike. Don't lock to anything illegal.

12. Always check your lock before leaving your bike to be sure you have secured it properly.

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