The best bike locks and padlocks
There are numerous types of bike locks and padlocks one can choose from. Each lock has its strengths and its appropriateness will vary based on individual need. Of course the underlying factor will be how much security you ultimately need. But there is no doubt that bike locks and padlocks are more necessary today than they have ever been. Did you know that over 60,000 bikes are stolen annually in New York City alone? A good bike lock and padlock can help prevent you from being just another statistic in this huge figure.
There are certain factors you must consider when choosing a bike lock. You may wish to buy a lock or a chain made with tool-hardened steel. The reason is that if someone tries to use cutting, sawing or drilling tools to break the lock, they are meeting metal of similar hardness which will make it more difficult to penetrate than ordinary steel. Always go for quality. Cheap locks use brittle steel that will be easily broken. Look for shatterproof steel that won’t break under strain.
As far as actual locks go, one of the popular type is the U lock. These are considered by many locksmiths as one of the more effective devices you can use to secure your bike. The U lock is designed in such a way that it is resilient to hacksaws, bolt cutters and hammers. A good U lock is very difficult to pick – so much so that even an experienced locksmith would sometimes struggle to unlock one. The only downsides to U locks are that they are heavier than certain other types of lock (e.g. cable locks) and there is often a limited amount of space for you to be able to properly secure your bike to a fixed object using a U lock.
Chain and Cable locks are the other often used bike lock type. They are light, flexible and easy to wrap around slender stationary objects such as lamp posts. Good quality chain and cable locks are made from many thin braided wires which make cutting the cable more difficult than if the wire were thicker and not braided. The better quality chain and cable locks are made from thick steel which again makes it much tougher to cut.
Another type of bike lock is the loop lock. These are heavy duty cable locks. They have a padlock that attaches straight onto the frame of the bike. All you do is detach one end of the loop and wrap it around the spokes of the wheel and you will have immobilised the bike. This type of lock is a good short term deterrent (for instance, if you are nipping into a supermarket for a few minutes).
If in doubt of which lock best fits your security needs, contact a professional locksmith company. One such company that offers a quality all round service is Arties Hardware and Locksmith store in New York. Having served a satisfied and loyal clientele for over 85 years, Arties is the place to go to if you are looking for quality service you can bank on.
For any locksmith assistance and more information on emergency locksmith NY, visit locksmithnyc.com now.
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