Lock it or lose it: bike locking methods that truly work

I can say with diploma of certainty that bike theft in public areas is unfortunately pretty commonplace, and though Yellow Jersey Insurance coverage covers bicycles locked in public areas, we can’t cowl the shock and sinking feeling one feels when returning to the place their bike was as soon as left, to search out it stolen. With that stated, though insurance coverage is a superb security web, we predict prevention is at all times higher than the remedy. To place a optimistic spin on issues, we all know that plenty of thefts are avoidable, offered the fitting locking methods are employed. On this article, we check out what works greatest based mostly on what our claims workforce see day in, day trip.

Use a offered safe Gold or Diamond rated lock

Let’s begin with the fundamentals: your lock issues. A weak lock is pretty much as good as no lock in any respect.

Solely use locks rated Bought Safe Gold or Diamond*. These locks are examined in opposition to the instruments thieves truly use. Many insurance policies (together with ours) require this stage of safety to validate a declare, however extra importantly, it really works. Keep in mind, at all times maintain the lock’s receipt and take a photograph of your bike locked up correctly, it’d assist in case you ever want to say.

*For bicycles valued below £1500, you should use a Bought Safe Silver rated lock, however when you’ve got the choice and your finances permits, go for a Gold or Diamond rated lock !

All the time lock to one thing immovable, like actually immovable!

It sounds apparent, however we nonetheless see claims the place the bike was locked to one thing like a wood fence or an affordable railing that might be lifted in and out some circumstances, locked to a different bike. Select a strong metallic publish, bike rack, or floor anchor. Ideally, no matter you’re locking to is bolted down and thicker than your wrist.

Use two several types of lock

Thieves typically carry instruments for one sort of lock,normally D-locks or cables, not each. Utilizing a sequence lock + D-lock combo massively will increase the time and effort required to steal your bike. Insurance coverage be aware: Each locks should meet the minimal commonplace your coverage requires, so don’t simply throw on a café cable as your second layer.

Be good about location and routine

Thieves look ahead to patterns. Don’t at all times lock up in the very same place. Select well-lit, high-footfall areas, particularly in cities or cities. In case your bike is value lots, think about protecting a less expensive “pub bike” for on a regular basis use.

Lock the body and each wheels

Too many individuals nonetheless simply loop their lock by the entrance wheel. This makes it simple for thieves to take the remainder of the bike. Use a D-lock by the rear triangle and wheel. Sure, it’s a bit extra effort, however it’s value it in the long term.  When locking by the wheel, guarantee your lock goes across the wheel rim versus by the spokes. Have a guess what occurred right here…

Use Hex Locks

Wheels and saddles with quick-release skewers are a magnet for opportunistic thieves.

Hex-lock skewers (or safety bolts) exchange quick-release levers with bolts that require a novel or non-standard key, making it a lot tougher to take away components with out instruments.

They’re gentle, inexpensive, and excellent for: Wheels (particularly entrance wheels left outdoors locks) Saddle clamps, Headsets and seat posts

Don’t make it simple at dwelling

Over half of motorcycle thefts occur from the proprietor’s dwelling. Whether or not it’s a storage, shed, or hallway, deal with it like a public place.

Set up a wall or floor anchor, and lock your bike to it. Don’t overlook to at all times lock your door as we’ve had claims denied just because thieves walked into an unlocked and open storage! Use a sensible alarm or digital camera, it may not cease them, however it helps with police stories and proof.

Use a tracker just like the Knog Scout or Apple AirTag

Even with the very best locks, decided thieves can generally get away with a motorbike. That’s the place a discreet monitoring gadget could make the distinction. The Knog Scout (which we promote at checkout) combines a loud alarm with GPS monitoring, and it mounts securely to your bike body. Like an Apple AirTag, when hidden cleverly below a bottle cage or saddle, can silently broadcast your bike’s location by the Discover My community. These gained’t stop a theft, however they vastly enhance your possibilities of restoration and have even helped police return bikes to house owners in hours.