Bicycle locks: a variety of options

Cycling has recently become very popular. And not only for young people. Buying a bicycle, you get a free, environmentally friendly vehicle. And for sure every owner of this transport thinks about how to save it and protect it from thieves. Yes, yes, criminals, as it turns out, are not only interested in cars. In a situation where you have come on a bicycle to the store, you have to leave the "iron friend" on the street, unattended. The probability that it will be stolen is quite large. And there can be no appeals for decency, but bicycle locks. They are of several types, each has its own disadvantages and advantages.

In Russia there are practically no bike parks, as in the West. Therefore it is necessary to fasten "iron horses" to trees, lanterns, columns. That is why the length of the lock loop becomes one of the main, but by no means the only criterion in its choice. It is also important to take into account both the thickness of the chain, and the diameter of the cable, and the material from which the product is made. So, bicycle locks, what they are?

1. U-shaped. It is a standard of strength and reliability. Pick up a master key to it is difficult, bite with rebar scissors, too. This is definitely an advantage. But the main drawback is a relatively small grip. You will be able to fasten your bike to an unbelievable pole, and it will need to be pressed almost. Such bicycle locks are very heavy and cumbersome. They must be made of a burglarproof alloy, and not of ordinary steel.
2. Chain locks are represented by a large number of models. How much this or that will be reliable depends on the price. The iron chain will be cut without a problem with a hacksaw. But another thing, if it is made of resistant alloy. The weak point in this case will be the castle itself. If it will not be too cheap, it will please with convenience in operation and reliability.
3. Bicycle locks with a cable - the analogue of the above. Their advantage in less weight and ease of handling. Experienced cyclists recommend models with spirally twisted ropes. But it's best to use them to connect the frame to the wheels.
4. Bicycle locks made of plates are light and compact devices. They are attached to the frame and consist of hardened steel plates . There are also drawbacks. In places where the plates are fastened, these locks often break. Their design is such that they bend only in one plane, and this is not very convenient.
5. Locks that block the wheels are fixed to the frame, they wrap around the rim when closed. As a result, the wheels do not rotate. Such locks do not fasten a bicycle. That is, a thief can easily carry it away in his arms or throw it into the back of a truck.

We should also consider a bicycle lock. It is not much more reliable than the usual design. But the convenience of the code lock is that you do not have to carry a key with you.

There are models that are mounted on a bicycle. They are convenient because you do not need to think about how to transport them with you. Not so long ago it was possible to buy a bicycle lock with alarm.

Unfortunately, there are no 100% reliable locks. Therefore, you should not leave bicycles in unoccupied places without supervision. And even if you need to step back for only 30 seconds, always fasten them.