Get to Know the Different Types of Bike Locks

While any type of bike lock can be broken with enough determination, there are some that are certain to provide much more security than others.

Here’s a brief overview of some of the most common types of bike locks and their various advantages. Come down to our bike shop to browse our bike accessories in Naples, FL when you’ve decided which type of lock you’d like to get for yourself!

• U locks: This extremely popular style of bike lock makes an outstanding deterrent for thieves. It is bulky and highly resistant to hammers, chisels and other brute force theft tools. The horseshoe shape also limits the ability for a potential thief to use leverage to remove it from its locked area by reducing the area in which a thief can apply a crowbar. These locks come in various sizes—you should get a size that gives you enough room to lock around what you are locking with as little gap remaining as possible. Large models are available to lock wheels and the frame together to a fixed object.
• Cable locks: Also popular and a more versatile option than U locks, cable locks can be used in a wide variety of situations, but do not have quite the same anti-theft protection. Thieves can use bolt cutters to get through cable locks. Still, these are a good option for low-crime areas, or can be used to supplement U locks to secure other parts of the bike that could otherwise easily be removed, such as the seat. Unlocking may involve the use of a key or combination.
• Chain locks: Chain locks are ideal for high-crime areas because of their toughness and ability to resist saws and chisels. You’ll often need to get your own padlock, so you should make sure the padlock you choose is also tough. The downside of using a chain is that it is both heavy and bulky, so it might be a pain to transport them.
• Keyed locks: Keyed locks will use either cylindrical or flat keys. Newer models of cylindrical keys are much more secure than those of previous years, which could be picked simply with the use of a ballpoint pen. Now the style is quite effective and safe. Usually keyed locks will come with at least two keys so you always have a backup. If you lose the key, you’ll usually be able to get it replaced.
• Combination locks: Combination locks don’t require you to remember or keep track of a key. You’ll need to remember a four-digit code, but this shouldn’t be difficult. Combination locks are common on cable locks, but are also available in other forms.
• Locking wheels and seats: Wheels and seats are common targets for thieves, especially in high-crime areas, so you can get locking skewers that disable quick-release features on bikes or seats.

For more information about some of the most common types of bike locks, we encourage you to contact us with your questions about bicycle accessories in Naples, FL.

Categorised in: Bike Accessories