An unattended bicycle can attract the attention of thieves, so make sure you have adequate security for it. Specialized retail shops carry a wide variety of locks, but not all locks are reliable. It’s a good idea to glance at the level of security marked on good quality locks. The standard rule usually applies: a good thing can’t be very cheap.
Bicycle locks can be of the following types:
- steel cable;
- steel U-lock;
- chain;
- steel locking skewer;
- steel O-lock (wheel lock);
- lock with alarm system.
Lithuania’s cyclists tend to favour steel cables; however experts say thieves cut through them quite easily. The steel U-lock is a reliable security lock for bicycles. These locks are strong and difficult to overcome. Steel U-locks can even withstand several tons of tension and require a fair amount of time to cut through.
In order to provide your bicycle with maximum security:
- Don’t lock your bicycle up in the same location regularly – don’t let thieves learn your routine.
- Never leave your bicycle in secluded locations or very crowded areas.
- It’s best to leave your bicycle in areas monitored by security cameras: near banks, cafes, hotels or shops.
- Lock your bicycle to stationary or hard to move objects (i.e. post, railing).
