How Does a Bike Lock Work?
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"U" or "D" Bike Locks
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A "U" bike lock, also known as a "D" bike lock because of its shape, is one method of locking up a bike. This lock bends in the shape of a "U" and fastens to a straight bar. The U-shaped curve is slid through the rear wheel of the bike and around the rim. It is then slid around something sturdy, such as a bike stand, and locked into place. The lock itself is opened using a small key inserted into a hole in the "U" lock. Often this hole is at one end of the lock. Sturdier locks have a hole in the center, and both ends of the "U" snap to the bar to lock. This makes it harder to pick. "U" locks are an advantage because they are harder to cut through than most chain or cable locks.
Cable Bike Locks
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Cable locks are popular among cyclists because they are easy to transport and use. The cable is made of several wires twisted together to give it strength and extra protection against thieves. The cable is often covered by a layer of plastic. The cable can be wound around any part of the bike and the object the bike is being attached to. Then the ends are pushed together to lock the bike. Cable locks feature a pin and barrel lock. To open this lock, a combination, usually of numbers, must be put in. Tiny dials spin around, and the numbers must be perfectly aligned in the right order before it can open. Flaws of the cable lock are its weak defense against heavy tools cutting through it, and the problem of people forgetting their number lock combination.
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Chain Bike Locks
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Chain locks are slightly harder to carry around than cable locks, but they provide better protection and don't require a code to be opened. A chain lock is made out of steel rings linked together to form a chain. It is wound around the bicycle and whatever the bike is being attached to--much like the cable lock--and then fastened with a padlock. To open the chain, a key is inserted into the padlock and, once turned, it clicks open. This works faster than a cable lock. The chains are also typically stronger than the cable lock, and are harder to cut through.
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Resources
- Photo Credit bicycleaccessories.us
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Comments
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Feb 19, 2011
Do not lock a u-lock or any lock just through your rear wheel. Locking up your bicycle by just one wheel means one can simply remove the wheel from the frame, take most of the bike, and buy a replacement wheel, letting the thief get a brand new complete bike for the cost of a replacement wheel.
