Are bike locks easy to break?

Every bike lock can be defeated if a thief has the right tools and enough time. The strongest bike locks just need more advanced tools and more time to break. So when you buy the most secure bike lock you’re just reducing the number of thieves who’ll have the tools and the time to steal your bike.

Are bike locks secure?

U-locks are regarded as the most secure, but chain locks can be just as secure—if the chain and lock shackle are both made from hardened steel. Using an old gym locker combo lock with a chain from the hardware store is a losing proposition, liable to be defeated by a pair of bolt cutters.

Are bike locks useless?

Other than providing security, bike locks act as theft deterrents. While it easy to think that this will suffice, the harsh reality is that for a determined thief, a cable lock is neither a security device nor a deterrent. At best, it’s just an annoyance.

Do bike locks prevent theft?

Be wary of cable locks, which are easily chopped with wire cutters. They might be enough to deter passing theft and opportunists, but they are ineffective against seasoned thieves. The more difficult you can make it look to steal your bike, the less a thief will want to hassle with it. Never lock your bike to a tree.

How do bike thieves steal bikes?

There are a variety of methods of stealing bikes. If the bike is locked to an insecure structure such as a small sign or tree, the thief is able to lift the bike along with its lock off of the structure. A thief may use a bolt cutter, hacksaw, or angle grinder to cut through the bicycle lock.

How can I protect my bike from theft?

Ten ways to protect your bike

1. Double lock it. Using two locks slows thieves down and makes your bike less of a target.
2. Lock the lot. Lock the frame and both wheels to a secure cycle stand.
3. Secure it.
4. Take removable parts with you.
5. Park securely.
6. Register it.
7. Mark it.
8. Remember safety begins at home.

What part of the bike do you lock?

The first lock should go around the back wheel, the frame and the bike rack. The second should go around the front wheel, the frame and preferably the bike rack as well. This means the frame is secured in two places and both wheels are secured to the frame and the bike rack.