The armored bike: Bike Locks to deter even the most ardent thief
by: Stephen Surgener
Posted on: Thursday, January 3rd, 2008 at 11:00 am by: Stephen Surgener
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Today’s bikes appeal to a broader group of riders. Consequently, bike theft now appeals to a broader range of criminals. Protecting your investment has become as much a priority as proper riding gear.
Being aware of the area your bike will be parked in is your first line of defense against theft. National crime reports show college campuses, and parks, to be among the highest risk areas for theft. Securing your bike in high traffic, high visibility places, is an excellent deterrent, and when used with a proven lock system, can mean the difference between riding home, and walking.
The grandfather of bike security, a lock and chain, is one tried and true method of securing your bike. It is a very versatile system, but is only as effective as the lock and chain you use. General consensus among individuals in the law enforcement community is that one must use at least a 3/8″ thick-keyed lock, with a 3/8″ thick chain. Though this thickness reduces the number of thieves who carry tools strong enough to cut them, the additional weight that has to be carried is a major drawback.
Less versatile, but easier to carry and more rugged, is the “D” bike lock. The “D” lock is made up of a curved, solid steel bar which locks into a cross piece at the open end. These locks generally come complete with mounting bracket so it can be carried right on the frame, using existing water bottle cage bolts. There is a drawback however; unless your destination is equipped with bicycle racks, it may be very challenging to find anything secure the 12 inch long lock will fit around.
Enter Lockjaw and the Bone Lock , both products of Bike Guard . These locks have successfully combined the versatility of chain and lock systems, with the higher level of tamper resistance found in “D” locks. They come in two models, oval with a single folding point, or circular with four folding points. These locks are able to fit around larger objects (up to 41in. in circumference), and claim to be 25% lighter than traditional “D” locks. In addition, both models come with a frame mount-carrying bag, letting the bike carry the weight instead of you.
But regardless of which locking system you choose, locking up your bike properly is key to achieving maximum levels of security. Today’s bicycles are often equipped with a variety of quick release equipment, but the most commonly stolen items are the wheels. By securing both wheels, and the frame to a bike rack, or pole, you are reducing the number of easy grab items for a would-be thief.
A final security consideration is the remaining components of your bike which cannot be looped in with the wheels and frame. In keeping pace with evolving security needs of the cycling community, Bike Guard has developed the world’s first, and only remote activated, bicycle specific, alarm system. Complete with panic feature, the Bike Guard bike alarm is a motion sensor that mounts under the seat, and is activated by remote key fob. Fully adjustable sensitivity levels, and an ear piercing 110 decibel siren, make this product a must in putting together a complete security system for your bike. Check it out online, at BikeGuardLock.com .
