One of the most important factors in securing your push bike is the use of a bike lock and it can be very important to get the correct one when making your choice.
One aspect of purchasing a new cycle lock is to see if it has been tested and subsequently recommended by a testing company such as Sold Secure. Sold secure was initially set up by the Police to offer a service in association with the various insurance companies to collect information on the latest techniques used by criminals. Sold Secure along with the assistance of the Master Locksmith Association who maintains the operation the information is passed onto the security device manufacturers to allow them to be able to produce more effective products. Only the very best Bike lock products then receive the Sold Secure seal of approval. Push bike insurers such as Cycleguard will often insist on a specific level of security on the cycle and so all recommended locks are usually ones that have been tested in this way. If the insurance company feel happy that these products offer the best level of protection against theft then it’s certainly advisable to look into buying one.
Requirements on the level of security you place on your pushbike while not in use will depend on the location that it is kept in. If you keep your bike in a communal residence then the cycle must be kept inside and the security device used also. The only time that the push bike needs to be secured to an immovable object will be if it is kept in a communal hallway or outbuilding. If you keep your bike in a shed or private garage then some insurers will insist on a specific level of security such as a 5 lever mortice lock/padlock or if not available then it will require the bike to again be locked to an immovable object.If the pushbike is parked up when at work or outside a shop you will always need to ensure that it has been secured to an immovable object with one of the approved bike lock products.
