Types of Bicycle Locks
– U-locks and D-locks
– Chain locks
– Cable locks
– Wheel locks
– Smart locks
U-locks and D-locks
– U-locks are rigid metal rings in the shape of the letter U
– Also known as D-locks
– Provide more security than other locking mechanisms
– Resistant to cutting with high-leverage hand tools
– Can be vulnerable to brute force methods like twisting with a long pipe
Chain locks
– Consist of a chain with a lock
– Can pass through both wheels, the frame, and attach to an immovable object
– Chains vary in security level, with hardware store chains being easily cut
– Bike-specific chains are case hardened and have surfaces resistant to hand tools
– The lock used with a case-hardened chain should be specialized and high-quality
Cable locks
– Similar to chain locks but made of cables
– Can come with integrated locking mechanisms or as a separate cable with loops
– Easy to transport
– Simple cable locks are only suitable for low-risk areas
– More robust cable locks have overlapping steel jackets to resist cutting
Wheel locks
– Also known as O-locks, ring-locks, or frame locks
– Immobilize the rear wheel by moving a steel bolt through the spokes
– Do not secure the bicycle to a stationary object on their own
– Effective for securing a bike against opportunistic theft
– Can be used in addition to a U-lock for added security
Smart locks
– Use Bluetooth technology for unlocking with a smartphone
– Can send notifications if breached
– Crowdfunded smart locks are available as consumer products
– Some bicycle-sharing systems use smart locks
– Introduce security risks due to the possibility of hacking
Effectiveness
– Bicycle locks are effective when used on secure objects
– Sucker poles give a false sense of security and are easily dismantled
– Bicycle thieves may target bicycles connected to sucker poles
– Effectiveness of a bicycle lock depends on the security of the object it is connected to
– Using a secure object increases the effectiveness of a bicycle lockSources: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bicycle_lock
