Whether you’ve just bought a new bike or have been riding for years, bike security is a critical concern. The pain of having your bike stolen is not just about the lost transport or the replacement cost, but the emotional connection you have with your ride. So, how can you keep your bike secure? What are the best anti-theft devices available in the market? This comprehensive guide will walk you through some of the best bike locks, chains, disc locks, alarms, and apps available in the UK market to help you make an informed choice.
1. Best Bike Locks
A high-quality bike lock is a fundamental part of bike security. It forms the primary line of defence against opportunistic thieves. There are many bike lock brands in the market, but we will focus on the two most popular ones, Abus and Kryptonite.
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Abus bike locks are known for their durability and effectiveness. They use high-quality materials and advanced locking mechanisms to ensure maximum security. The Abus Granit X-Plus 540 is an excellent example of their product line. It features a patented square parabolic shackle that’s highly resistant to bolt cutters and leverage attacks. Despite its robust protection, the Granit X-Plus is lightweight and portable.
On the other hand, Kryptonite has a reputation for producing sturdy and reliable bike locks. With a wide range of products to cater for all types of bikes and security needs, Kryptonite is a brand you can rely on. The Kryptonite New York Fahgettaboudit Mini is a top-rated bike lock, featuring a 18mm hardened MAX-Performance steel shackle that resists bolt cutters and leverage attacks. Its small size makes it difficult for thieves to exploit.
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2. Best Chain Locks
While U-locks offer excellent security, they may not be versatile enough for all situations. This is where chain locks come in. Chain locks provide flexibility and higher security, making them ideal for securing your bike in various situations.
Litelok is a well-known brand when it comes to chain locks. The Litelok Gold Wearable Chain is lightweight and flexible yet offers high security. It’s made from a patented material called Boaflexicore, which is highly resistant to attacks from tools like bolt cutters and angle grinders. Its wearable design makes it easy to carry, and you can secure your bike to a wider range of objects.
Similarly, the Kryptonite New York Noose 1213 offers high security with its 12mm six-sided chain links made from 3t hardened manganese steel. The chain’s noose style means less chain length is needed, making it lighter and more portable than traditional chain locks.
3. Best Disc Locks
Disc locks are a practical security device for motorcycles. They’re compact, easy to use, and highly effective. A disc lock works by immobilizing the bike’s brake disc, making it impossible to wheel away.
The Abus Granit Detecto X-Plus 8077 is an excellent option for bike owners. It’s a sturdy disc lock with an integrated alarm, offering extra security. The lock features a 13.5mm steel bolt and a detection system that triggers an alarm if it detects any movement.
Additionally, the Kryptonite Series 4 Disc Lock is a great choice for motorcycle owners. It features a 14mm hardened MAX-Performance steel shackle that resists cutting and leverage attacks. The lock comes with three stainless steel keys, including one with a high-intensity LED bulb for nighttime use.
4. Best Alarm Systems
A bike alarm system is another great way to deter thieves. These systems trigger an alarm when they detect any movement or tampering with the bike.
Many bike owners recommend the XENA XX6 Disc-Lock Alarm for its robust build quality and high decibel alarm. It features a 6mm locking pin, a shock and motion sensor, and a 120dB alarm. The alarm is self-arming, so you don’t have to remember to set it.
The Abus Detecto 7000 RS1 Pixel Yellow is another top-rated alarm system. It’s a disc lock alarm system with a 3D detection system that triggers the alarm from any movement or shock. The lock and alarm features are powered by long-life batteries, ensuring you’re always protected.
5. Best Anti-Theft Apps
In today’s digital world, technology also offers solutions to bike security. Anti-theft apps are a smart way of keeping your bike secure. These apps can track your bike’s location in real-time, alert you if your bike is moved, and even help you recover your bike if it’s stolen.
The Sherlock Bike Tracker is a popular anti-theft app. The tracker is hidden inside the bike’s handlebars, making it undetectable to thieves. The app allows you to track your bike’s location in real-time and alerts you if your bike is moved.
Another reputable anti-theft app is the Bike Hawk GPS Tracker. This app provides real-time tracking, movement alerts, and geofence alerts. The GPS tracker is concealed inside bike parts, making it nearly impossible for thieves to detect or remove.
Bike security should never be taken lightly. Whether you choose a lock, chain, disc lock, alarm system, or an anti-theft app, ensuring your bike’s security is fundamental. Remember, the best defense is a good offense.
6. Sold Secure Rating and Insurance Offers
The Sold Secure rating is a significant factor to consider while purchasing an anti-theft device for your sportbike. Sold Secure is a UK-based independent test house for security products, and its ratings – Bronze, Silver, and Gold – indicate the level of security a lock provides. Gold-rated locks offer the highest security and are often recommended by insurance companies.
In fact, many bike insurance offers in the UK require you to secure your bike with a lock that has a certain Sold Secure rating. For instance, Abus Bordo Granit X-Plus 6500/85 is a folding lock with a Sold Secure Gold rating, indicating high resistance against methods of attack like bolt cutters and leverages. It’s compact, easy to transport and provides an excellent level of security.
Insurance offers for bikes usually cover theft and damage up to a certain amount, and might even offer add-ons like legal expenses, personal accident cover, or accessories cover. However, it’s crucial to read your policy carefully to understand what’s covered and what’s not.
7. Reasons to Avoid Cheap Locks and Buy High-Quality Anti-Theft Devices
You might be tempted to cut corners and buy a cheap bike lock, thinking it’s just as good as an expensive one. However, this is a mistake you want to avoid. Cheap locks are often poorly made and can be easily broken with tools like an angle grinder, giving thieves easy access to your beloved sport bike.
Investing in a high-quality, high-security lock is a wise decision. High-quality locks like the ones mentioned above are designed to withstand bolt cutters, leverage attacks and even sophisticated methods like an angle grinder attack.
Moreover, devices like GPS trackers and disc locks offer additional layers of security. They not only prevent theft but also help in retrieving the stolen bike.
Conclusion
In conclusion, securing your sportbike shouldn’t be an afterthought but a priority. The pain and inconvenience caused by bike theft go beyond the financial loss. Fortunately, the UK market offers an array of high-security products to keep your bike safe. Whether it’s the robust bike locks, versatile chain locks, practical disc locks, high-decibel alarm systems, or smart anti-theft apps, you have numerous options to choose from.
Remember to consider factors like the Sold Secure rating and your insurance offer while choosing an anti-theft device. While high-quality locks and devices might seem expensive, they are a small price to pay for the peace of mind they provide. As the saying goes, it’s better to be safe than sorry.
As we’ve discussed, the best defence against bike theft is a good offence consisting of informed decisions and the right anti-theft measures. Happy and safe riding!
