Bicycle lock

The owners of bicycles are firsthand about the dangers that lie in wait for their "iron horses". And the point here is not only in the risk of getting into an accident. A bicycle can easily be stolen by an intruder when you for a moment went into the store and left it unattended. Hijacking bicycles, unfortunately, today is not uncommon, so the first thing you need to buy a new bicycle owner is, of course, a bike lock. Our article will tell you about which lock to choose for a bicycle in order to protect yourself from theft as much as possible.

How to choose a reliable lock for a bicycle?

There are several types of such locks. They differ from each other in design, price and, most importantly, degree of reliability:

1. U-shaped lock (U-Lock) is considered one of the most reliable in the middle price category. Its shape in the form of a horse horseshoe makes hacking difficult for the attacker, since it severely limits the space where you can insert scrap or another tool. With the help of small deputies of this variety, usually a bicycle is fastened for the rear wheel and frame, and large models allow fixing both wheels and frame near the fixed object.
2. Velozamzki in the form of a cable (cable) are more versatile and flexible. They have a stylish design and are available in different colors, but this does not make them more reliable. Therefore, the cable lock is best used either in a low crime area where bicycles steal rarely, or used in conjunction with a U-shaped model.
3. The chain lock for a bicycle is much more reliable than a cable lock. It is a massive chain, the links of which are connected in a special way, not allowing them to be disconnected with a hacksaw or a chisel. Buying such a model, you should choose a thick chain, because a thin, regardless of its strength, the hijacker will be easier to "snack". The reverse side of the reliability of chain locks is their heavy weight.
4. O-shaped lock is a small device that is attached to the wheel and does not allow it to rotate freely. This prevents the hijacker from leaving on the stolen bike after hacking a normal lock (or in the absence of one). O-shaped models are attracted by their miniature dimensions, but they are much more vulnerable. They are recommended to be used only in combination with another type of lock.
5. Locks in the form of handcuffs allow you to easily fasten your cycling to a pole or other small object. The hinge in the interval between the two parts of these handcuffs is very durable and withstands heavy loads, because of what these locks are quite expensive.

As for the keys for bike lockers, they are flat and cylindrical. On sale there is also a combination lock for a bicycle - it is convenient in that you do not have to carry a key with you at all times, at the risk of losing it. It will be enough to remember the code you invented. In modern models of locks, these three varieties are equally reliable, and there is no fundamental difference between them.

In addition to the locks themselves, other devices can be used to protect against hijackers. For example, a locking rod for the wheel, which allows you to secure one of the most expensive parts of the bike from removal using a conventional screwdriver. Usually, a special key is included with this accessory, allowing the owner to install and remove the locking rod.

And be sure to remember the important rule: try as rarely as possible to leave your transport unattended. No, even the best and most expensive bike lock will not save, if a professional thief pozaritsya on your bike.