Bicycle Locks
Types of Bicycle locks
There are many types of bike locks available. Some are more secure than others. There are the chain locks, the D locks ( U locks) and the cable locks. Kryptonite locks come in many varieties and are the most secure. Otherwise, if you don’t really need the highest security, there are the chain locks and the cable locks. Kryptonite locks are the best and most secure but are hard to remove if you’ve forgotten the combination or lost the key.
How to use a Bicycle locks, properly
Ideally, you would like to find a bike rack or a railing to lock you bike to. Also, try to lock up your bike where there are people coming regularily by. Furthermore, positioning the bike lock correctly, is best! If you will be locking you bike up for a long period of time or overnight, find a spot where there are other bikes and it is well lit. Make sure your bike can’t be lifted up and over and removed. The best advise is to use 2 locks. One lock on the front wheel and frame and the other on the back wheel and frame.
Bicycle locks maintenance
Lubricant for your bike lock that is best is Finish Line with Teflon. Finish Line for bike locks is waxed base and will not dry out your bike lock. Another great bike lock lubricant is AXA bicycle lock spray. How often you would need to spray your bike lock would depend on where your bike is stored and whether it is out in the elements.
Remove a jammed Bicycle locks
In the event of a jammed bicycle lock, your success to unjamming it, will depend on the type of lock. Kryptonite locks are notorious for being extremely hard to open and may require a locksmith.
Keeping your bike lock lubricated and in working shape, is ideal. Although, your may have forgotten the combination or lost the key. In the case of these events, a bolt cutter may work for you with the cable and the chain style of locks.
Forgot your lock?
There are a couple of ways to secure your bike if you forgot to bring your lock. They are tricky and not guaranteed but if necessary, they are good to know.
- Take your front bike wheel with you, if it has a quick release.
- Remove your bike seat.
- Drop your chain off your bike.
- Put your bike in high gear.
- Use your helmet strap to jam the chain.
- Keep your bike in a high traffic pedestrian area.
- You should keep your bike in a well lit area.
