Bicycle Security
But It’s Only An Old Bike.
Maybe you don’t have the vary latest, state of the art cycle, but, consider the inconvenience that losing it would cause you. Not to mention the cost of having to replace it, and, anything that you lose with it too.
Haven’t bought a bike yet? Don’t forget to budget for good quality security products, as well as any safety gear and tools that you might need.
Out And About
Even if you’re just popping into the newsagents to grab a paper, always, always lock your cycle up.
Make sure that it is firmly locked to something immovable. There is no point securely locking it to something, if the whole thing can simply be lifted over it and carried away. Always check this!
Metal railings, lampposts, and other street furniture are ideal, not to mention proper cycle stands
Storage When At Home.
Just because you got your cycle safely home, you shouldn’t let your guard down. It could still be pinched. Many cycle thefts occur from peoples homes.
Lock it safely inside a garage or shed if you can. Preferably, lock it to something secure. Special anchor points can be used with security chains and padlocks to give an extra level of security.
Make sure that the garage or shed door is firmly locked when you leave.
Another option is to bring the bike indoors, and leave it in the hallway. Beware, this may not make you very popular with other occupants of the house!
If you have to leave your cycle outside, then, keep it out of sight of passers by, but in sight from the house. As with sheds and garages, high security anchor points can be fitted so that you can chain the bike to them. Anchor points should be bolted to brickwork or concrete for best effect.
Remember to remove any items that could be stolen from the bike, such as lamps etc.
What Locks To Use?
There are many, many variations of bicycle locks. There are two main types though.
“D” Locks
“D” locks. These are a little bit like huge padlocks. They feature a large, rigid,”U” shaped shackle.
Security Chain Locks
The other popular choice is the locking security chain. This should be made of hardened steel, and, may feature a built in lock, or may be used with a separate padlock. The chain will normally have a plastic or fabric sleeve to protect your bikes paintwork.
If it isn’t supplied with a padlock, then, it is important that you choose one that is equal to, or greater than the security value of the chain.
Cable locks
There are many cheaper cable locks in use, but we really don’t recommend these. The lock cylinders are normally quite easy to pick open with special keys.
If you can, aim to have a couple of bike locks, preferably two different types,
How To Lock
Marking
Marking your bicycle increases the chance of you getting it back if it is stolen.
You can have the frame engraved, or marked with an invisible marker pen that will show up under ultra violet light. Adding stickers that advertise the fact that your cycle has been security marked, will help to make your bike less enticing to thieves.
Take photographs of your bicycle just in case it is stolen. This will increse the chances of you getting it back, and may help with making insurance claims.
Finally.
Aside from security, don’t forget safety too. Make sure that you have, and use, an appropriate helmet. Don’t just put it on your head, always fasten the chin strap. If you should fall off, there’s no point having a helmet if it hits the ground long before you do!
Always be seen. High visibility vests make it much easier for you to be noticed. Always use your lights, even during the day.
