Try to use disc locks on all 3 discs, the rear especially as it's harder to get to. Also use 2 disc locks on each front disc, 1 against the leading edge of the forks, and 1 up underneath the caliper. This means the wheel cannot be rotated, and if you've done the same on the rear disc the bike cannot be rolled at all. This helps to prevent the skateboard trick of lifting one end of the bike onto a skateboard or sack barrow and rolling the bike away. Chain the back wheel up through luggage/top box racking. There's also chaining the front wheel to the centre stand, chain pulled tight so the bike cannot be dropped off the centre stand. There's plenty of ways to secure a bike if you are willing to take the time to do it, after all it's just got to be more of a pain to steal than the bike that's next to yours.
None of that stops 2 blokes pulling up and lifting it into a van though.. your methods will stop the teenagers yeah but most bike thieves throw it in a stolen van and fuck off never to be seen again lol
Chain suggestions For home use Make sure the chain is 16mm+ Almax Pragmasis Oxford beast Squire ABUS Milenco And for taking out with you make sure the chain is 12mm+ ABUS Granit Extreme X-plus 59 Milenco Coleraine ABUS Granit 58 loop lock-chain ABUS Platinum chain 34 recommended.
I think the most important point you touched on was the idea of putting the lowlives off of an attempt on your bike in the first place. A premeditated and planned theft will succeed 99% of the time, but make it as unattractive and griefy as possible and they’ll pick another bike that’s easier... thieves are lazy... So I use two Oxford XL chains, one round the front wheel and forks, the other round the back wheel and through the frame, each attached to a ground anchor, and bike is covered - I think covering a bike has a huge positive effect - if they can’t see it, they will pick one that stands out over it... again thieves are lazy, that’s why they are thieves! Front chain attached to disc/padlock also. It’s hassle when I go out, but if it’s annoying for me, it must be hassle for lowlives as well!
I'd add to this and say that I use my old knackered cover over the top of a much nicer one, extra layer of water resistance but also its looks shite! Nobody is going to expect anything decent being under there
Locking the cover on is an easy extra deterrent too and if your chain isn't positioned to secure your cover you can use a bicycle style cable lock extension to secure the cover.
Spot on Russ, very well advised. As an ex police officer you've explained this all perfectly! Some good info on the testing of so called secure devices. Much appreciated once again!
I really think the clipped on bike cover is the real deterrent. The Scummers might know the type of bike but can't really come properly prepared because the bike might have 3 or 4 layers of security underneath. And lets face it they are fundamentally lazy bstds.
Im glad you said how poor the brake lever lock is, even easier is undo the bleed nipple, releases the pressure on the pads, literally 1 second and that device is null and void, but what really gets my goat up is so many reviewers who say how great that product is just because they got sent one and its a paid review, some people would literally sell their soul for a few views
I bought an Asgard shed, which yes are rather expensive but are well worth it. I then bought 2 Abus Granit London U shackles which I put 1 on each wheel and then I bought a kryptonite New York 13 mm chain with a Squire stronghold padlock and to top it off I bought an Oxford 10mm chain with Master lock Pro series Bouron shackle. Oh yes 😆 I also bought an alarm for the shed and one for the bike, fitted CCTV and have a 10 stone Saint Bernard who sleep right next to the door and lets you know the moment anybody goes near the side gate. The joys of OCD.
I don’t lock mine and leave the keys in the ignition, I live in a Avenue with no way through, I sleep above the garage and my ex military Alsatian sleeps next to my bike, savage will alert me if some one enters the top of the Avenue 100 yards away with 4 barks , if they come closer the bark will become more frequent, if they come closer it turn to snarling and ramming the door to get to them, I can open my door remotely from my bed, after I have identified who it is from my cctv.👊👍
Covers are very underrated, if you could get one preferably all black with the holes near the wheels so a cable lock or chain can fit through it’s a good start.
Good advice, thanks. As you suggest yourself, I was advised very early on that what you're basically aiming to do is cause them hassle, and consider that another target might be a better option (for them). I use chains myself - but knowing that they can all be potentially cut by someone tooled up and determined, I make sure that there isn't a convenient slack loop that they can (easily) get the bolt-croppers (or power tool) to. Or at least, that's what I hope and think I'm doing! Additional tip. Just nipping in the shop for a minute? Then that's about 10 seconds more than the time they need to bundle it into a van. I've also seen video of people lifting up and removing chained/disc-locked/shackled bikes with a small lorry plus crane (like builders use to get bricks and bags of sand delivered) - think about that when you leave yours, and maybe slot into between a couple of cars, behind a lamp-post - use whatever cover and inconvenience you can. Thanks for the tips and info, Russ.
Also for the: It wont happen to me, I live in a safe neighbourhood crowd. There was a Honda SP2 stolen recently in a sleepy village in the middle of nowhere near where I live. The village had barely 100 people maximum, and the only way you'd know its there is if you are driving through and saw it. Yours might be a safe neighbourhood, but thieves have vans to travel there.
Superb mate, the voice of impartial reason! Seen folk on here pushing and sponsored by a particular ‘lite weight’ lock which is dead easy to angle grind through (battery powered grinder). They wouldn’t want your bike nicked would they for the sake of their own commercial and financial interests?
I've always carried a padlock instead of a disc lock, for my 'convenient to carry' deterrent. Basically because you can get a padlock with a hexagonal shackle, so you'd have to cut it twice to get it off. Twice the time, twice the hassle. Can also easily be used with a chain and/or put through the disc or sprocket...
Great video Russ, with plenty of practical advice. If it has spark plugs (and in a addition to locks), just lift the plug caps and put a small, none conductive piece of wood between the the plug cap and the plug. Most thieves are pond life and will never figure it out. A gravel driveway is cheap and noisy.
Of course, this only works if you have quick acces to the plugs I don't feel like propping up the tank and removing the airbox to 'unsabotage' my sparkplugs every morning before I (can) go to work
Thank you all good tips and I fully agree it’s about moving the slide hammer crew along. I think it also involves thinking where you leave your bike. I think motorbike covers as you suggested are great ideal as for the Disk-locks, yes been there done that but I now place the hiv viz springy cable from handlebar lever to handlerbar then I’ll never forget it’s on and makes people see it
Great video. I find an Alarm Disc Lock and Handlebar Lock to be imo the perfect combination for lightweight security when going to shops and most people(where I’m from) tend to only use fork lock so you’ll be at a better chance of being safe than most. If I’m going to be somewhere a bit longer I take a chain too personally
I had my scooter eyed up and touched out the back of my house. Only knew this, as I have a blink camera on my washing line pole facing the bike lol if I didn't have that my scooter would probably have been stolen. After seeing the footage I posted to the towns Facebook group and contacted the police and they identified the person in the footage. I have since put a big fence up now. Amazon Blink cameras are amazing :)
Συγχαρητήρια για την ενημέρωση ονομάζομαι lazaros ,από την Ελλάδα αγόρασα καινούργιο scuter και άκουσα με μεγάλη προσοχή αυτά που είπατε Μpravo Mpravo cogratsilation
You don't need the best lock. Just a better lock than the guy next to you, or a better than average lock. Best is a mix of stuff to slow them down. When parked, by bike is in a parking garage below the building where I live. I know that parking a bike inside is deemed to be safer, but I think the contrary is true. When it's inside, thieves can work undisturbed as opposed to outside. When my alarm goes off in a garage, nobody can tell where it's coming from. Apart from a couple of locks (I have a heavy chain and an anchor in the wall, and a disc lock), a motorcycle cover is also a good idea. Thieves hate those things, because when there's an alarm, they can't see it directly and they also don't know what they will find under the cover. So they can't really plan anything. When I'm on the road, I just use the disc lock, the BMW alarm and steering lock. Obviously all of that can be broken, but I've fulfilled the demands of the insurance. Both the disc lock and the alarm are approved by the insurance. And I also have good protection against thieves that operate out of vans where they lift your bike in the van and work on the locks eleswhere: my bike weighs 340kg... 🤣🤣🤣
Thanks for sharing these tips. I used to rely on blocking the bike in with the car (cage) but in a spate of thefts at the time the vermin were cutting brake cables and moving cars to remove people's pride joy and Transport. Frustrates me that we have to do so much but as said, let's not make it easy for the scumbags
that nicely summed everything up! I fully agree with your comment on the steering lock, its unbelievable how weak security such a thing provides and how much damage it causes (in cash) when you try to repair it afterwards - if you are lucky and you dont lose your pride and joy all together. Also, the existence of CCTV by itself is no deterrent, lowlifes dont care. Unfortunately, in some cases cameras provide a fake feeling of security to the owner (ask me how i know) .. Just saying..
The only disc lock I've not seen London bike thieves get past is the Xena XX series. They're alarmed disc locks and can be fitted either between the fork and brake calliper meaning they cannot get at the disc to cut it (I've seen Xena's removed in this way) or I put mine on the rear disc between the calliper and swingarm. Defo recommend giving them a look although mines the slightly older model without bluetooth but that hasn't been an issue.
I use a sold secure gold Oxford disc lock (no alarm) because that's what I said I was using on my insurance. I also have the luxury of keeping the bike in the garage with an electric door with no external handle.
My last road trip was on a Harley 2018 Fat Bob FXFBS. I never worried about it getting stolen it never did get stolen and I never used alarms or tracking devices. I now own a triumph tiger 900 GT pro and I'm going to take it on a West Coast trip. For some reason I'm more concerned about this motorcycle so I put a tracker on it and I'll be using two disc brake lock one on the front and rear.
I only started riding 2 years ago and was given the advice that you can't prevent bike thieves, only delay them and inconvenience them, so layer up on security. At home, my bike is out in the front garden, so I use a ground anchor, Abus granite chain, Abus granite U-lock, the same disc alarm as in your video, noise disabled unfortunately, too sensitive and cover it with a stormX cover. I also have motion sensor lights. If someone were to nick my bike, they'd bloody deserve it! When out & about I carry the U-lock & chain.
Whether it's a motorbike or a bicycle you need a security system and not just a security lock. There are now also u-locks available that are angle grinder resistant so for my e-bike I'm using a Litelok X3 which is on pre-order for next month + I also use two motion alarmed disc locks which sound off a warning before they go off fully as well as a Samsung Galaxy smart tag.
Iv always been a fan on the xena disk locks. I think its the shape of them, in my mind woukd make it more difficult to break off. They also come on some hefty sizes
I use 99% of what you covered at once ever since my first bike (ZX6R) got stolen. The only thing I don't use is chaining it to an immovable object. Although I am thinking about linking it through the bumper of my car where they have little tow hook. So at least at home it'll be anchored to something.
Keep it out of sight, cover on the bike, locked with chain to a solid object and disc lock. Got tracking as well which is cool but I like to think I’m keeping it semi safe... like you said, if they really want it- they will find a way of stealing it.
I agree about the cover, being locked with a chain to a solid object and the disc lock, however I would rather have it somewhere were there are lots of people about. Keeping it out of sight only means that a thief will be able to get to work stealing your bike pretty much undisturbed.
@@Seagull-Matthames out of sight like not out in the sunshine and in clear view. a main road but you park it behind a car, on a busy high street but keeping it covered, or in a car park with cctv rather than an alley way behind Morrison’s.
If its inconvenient for you then it will be more inconvenient for the thief dont just put one lock on it use a few with different brands even if it takes you 10mins getting it all off if someones going to steal your stuff then make them work very hard for it either they will give up half way or somebody's going to notice cutting through locks and chains makes alot of sound specially multiple locks added alarms as well.
Only addition i would make is pick resistance. A lot of locks may look beefy but have easily or moderately easily bypassable cores. I like lockpickinglawyer for illuminating that aspect.
One thing I don't see mentioned here which I've used for a long time and which is dirt cheap, is a baby monitor. Last attempt at getting into my garage the thieves had woken me up poking about before they'd even started.
Bloody scummers. Mates in the US are shocked at how bad it is here for theft. All the police do is hand out crime numbers like it’s a sort of attendance voucher.
Tracker wise, automatricks M-track is a good option. Similar price to the smaller ones but with a massive battery and RF finding capabilities. You pay a monthly fee (15 quid) but they go and recover the bike for you, phone the police and everything. The best option I've found by far when it comes to trackers. Otherwise agree with the entire video. Almax chains and Squire locks. Keep them off the ground and use a cover if you can. Not much else you can do. Oh actually, bicycle alarms ! Hide them under the front of the bike and if anybody moves the bike it will beep, super cheap and quite effective !
Great upload, thanks. I agree, more locks the better. Best to avoid the Oxford Screamer, it doesn't like cold weather, a few hours outside and the alarm will go off or if reactivating it, it will continuously go off at a different pitch. In those cases, I have to bring it indoors to heat up, which defeats the purpose lol
Agreed, for the money the Screamer goes for I think the Oxford big boss alarm style disc locks, especially the 16mm version are much better value and more reliable.
First bike I had after the 125 was stolen/recovered but still had a broken steering lock. I never used one and never will. Those hiplock and litelok things look great
I Like This Video..I had My Scooter Stolen Some Time Ago..And I Got it Back..Now I Have An Alarm Disk Break Lock For The Front Wheel And and A Back Wheel Lock
Of course, I always put my steering lock on. But, if I was another person, I would keep my bike locked up in my garage with a massive lock (and tracker), and just leave the steering lock off so that when that person who is not me's bike was to be found, there would be - hopefully - less damage to repair. But of course, always keep the lock on when parked up on the street. I use the Abus 8077, I watched a video of someone angle grinding one off and it took them about 5 minutes - with a plugged in angle grinder, so that gave me confidence. I also use Automatrics tracker, it's a self contained unit that lasts 18 months on one charge, and it has GPS, GSM and RF tracking with it, so if it's in a metal box or something the chaps come out to the last location of the GPS and then track it themselves with a RF scanner. They have a youtube channel and the dedication to getting customer's stuff back is admirable, they go all over the country, cross the channel even, and stake out waiting for police for as long as it takes. Unbelievable service, the bonus is they are based very close to where I live so I would imagine they would be on scene very quickly if my bike were to be stolen. Personally, I do not put any stickers on my bike saying it's being tracked; I'd rather they didn't go looking for the unit, but if they did it is rather well hidden - and has a tamper plate that sends out a special alert. I have felt a lot more at ease since having that tracker!
I liked the idea of ensuring the chain doesn't drag on the ground thus enabling easy bolt-cutter action. That could easily make the difference between success and failure. I can't imagine how the perps would manage with the chain in the air.
If they move the bike away from what it’s locked to, causing the chain to have a tight strain in the air, it’s basically the same as being on the floor unfortunately
Made me laugh when you said ask me how I know about forgetting to remove the disc lock 😂😂 I had an embarrassing incident in Asda carpark on a Honda Silverwing....it only happened the once 😂😂
Check out the monimoto device - if you move the bike without the bluetooth dongle being nearby then it alerts you via text/mobile app. It also allows you to track the bike and battery life is probably fine for 12 months.
Almax rusts like crazy, a few years of outdoor use leaves it looking like it spent 50 years in the sea. When I took the sleeve off my 2M Almax III I got about 700ml of rust scale out of it, and that's before any wire brushing or whatever. I fear this may have compromised the case hardening. By comparison, an Oxford used in exactly the same location has slight surface rust, and another I believe is "English Chain" has none. The Squire SS65 locks used on both the Almax and the "English" have a tiny bit of cosmetic surface corrosion, the Oxford Boss alarm lock used on the Oxford chain had just enough corrosion inside to make it difficult to withdraw the battery holder, I had to push it out using a pick in the shackle hole. Worth noting the only thing on the bike that's rotted at a similar rate is the the bolts in the cheap chinese bar-ends.
My method for "not-forgetting-to-remove-your-bloody-disk-lock". I have a piece of velcro that goes across the keyhole of the disc lock. When I place the disc lock the piece of velcro moves from covering the keyhole on the lock to the ignition key hole of the bike. So when I want to ride away I can't insert the bike key without removing the strip of velcro that goes back to living on the disc lock when not in use.
alarms are great if you keep your bike within earshot. Mine is in the garage next to my groundfloor bedroom, I also got a cheap battery powered bump-alarm thingy on the garage door....which i forget to disarm about half the time.
Got 2 bikes chained up through the back wheels to a proper buried in concrete ground anchor with a pragmasis 19mm chain and Squire lock, then an additional pragmasis 13mm chain and squire lock each on the front wheels, plus disc locks, plus covers that the chains also go through to lock them to the bikes at each end.. Only downside the ground anchor makes it rather difficult to keep the 19mm chain off the floor! I think probably getting on for £1k in security, worth every penny if only to help me sleep at night!
12 gauge shotgun on a rotating system with a sensor lol and a moat full of crocodiles lol. You forgot them lol. I have a few things on my Michigan. I think the more items you put on is better than nothing. Like you said make it hard for them. 🙂
I agree Russ, a ‘layered’ approach to security is the best way to make the scumbags move onto another target. The Litelock would seem to be a solution for heavy/ bulky chains, however, I’ve only seen sponsored reviews. Have you (or any of your subscribers who might read this) any real experience of this product?
I've seen the lite lock hacked through in 16 seconds. That's what's made me do this upload. You tubers saying it's great when they're given one free ruclips.net/video/D-On0DGcDlc/видео.html
I don’t use my steering lock ! The chances are it’s something I will have to repair after some scab has tried taking my bike. Also, have you noticed that bike covers don’t fit right when the steering is turned to one side ? My main security is a heavy chain & a mini D lock. The chain is long enough to go around a solid object & the mini D lock is just the right size to go through the brake disk making it very hard to remove from the bike without causing a lot of damage. The chain obviously goes through the wheel as well meaning many cuts would be needed to remove the combination. I also have an alarmed disk lock with a reminder cord. At home on the driveway I have a chain anchor point.
You forgot the most important,an Insurance company that will pay out with the smallest amount of excess so Your getting most of the value of the bike back from them.
I wouldn't trust any theif who wears double denim.......🤣 Great commentary on security, I even use strong cable locks on my soft luggage when touring to be extra safe 👍
Hi Russ interesting video you have put up never seen how easy it is to break the steering lock, These type of people that seem to believe that they have the right to take what does not belong to them, Can one obtain a steel wire that is not very easy to cut with bolt cutters or grinder, Kind regards, Steph
Trying to drive off with the disc lock still in eh? Shame on you, that most certainly couldn't have been me at any point in time, no sir, not at all... :) thanks for the vid!
Theres a popular personality on YT named the Lockpicking Lawyer and he does reviews on various locks and chains. However, its worth noting that he's the god of lock picking and has special tools.
I fitted a theatrical sound grenade on a trip wire in my garage. But after setting it of accidentally I went back to a battery powered alarm. Three years later my hearing is almost back to normal. On the upside it killed every spider in the place.
If you use a disc lock, try getting one with an alarm. Not just to deter thieves but also so you don't accidentally ride off with it still on your bike. If that's not an option, put it in a way that *if* you drive off, it'll lock your wheel up instantly before it can do any real damage
I use a Lite-Lok to secure my bike. The best thing about it is that I actually use it (in combination with other things too). I was finding heavy chains often stayed at home.
I'm just worried I saw a lite lock cut through in 16 seconds and some you tubers recommend it because they were given one. Using with other security is definitely the way to go. ruclips.net/video/D-On0DGcDlc/видео.html
@@RoadcraftNottingham Thanks. As you rightly said nothing is going to stop someone who is determined and equipped but bolt cutters, jemmy bar and disc cutters, which are the usual tools thieves use, should be resisted by a Lite-Lok. If it doesn't I might lose the lock but the other stuff should be enough to put casual thieves off.
I park my electric scooter with 2 disc locks with alarms one in front wheel and one in back wheel 120 decibels 2x 2 would be so noisy....and one chain lock to a pole and nfc with gps tracker.....last but not least i cover it with motorcycle cover so it would not attract attention to thieves. and lastly where i work has a cctv pointing to it. yeah i agree with you even small cheap locks at least its a good deterant to thieves...even thou they can still go thru it but at least it buys u time to call a police and get to them them.
For security, I use an Oxford Boss alarmed lock and an immobiliser with alarm and always park it in bike specific parking spaces that are close to where I'm going or say "bugger it" and park it on the pavement outside wherever I'm in. If I'm going into the city, I have a chain that'll go through the frame as well. Tempted to change over my lock to an alarmed Abus disc lock and to get a Milenco chain, since I will trust more dedicated security companies than Oxford's "jack of all trades but good at jack shit" approach
Ive just brought a TC Max Electric motorbike, i can take the battery out and leave it indoors, the battery is £1500 new, so makes the bike worthless and not worth stealing, i do still use my disc locks and bike cover though, but make your bike not worth stealing in the first place is just another deterrent.
A little bit simplistic but when my girl is in the garage I park my car right up against the door. In order to get to her they'd have to move my car first which is an automatic so left in gear with an electronic parking brake. Personally I'd like to hide a hand grenade under the seat since I'm unlikely to get her back anyway might as well take something of theirs in return eh? But my other girl (my long suffering wife) says that's a bit extreme 🤔
Steering lock I don’t use - it’s not even a seconds deterrent to a thief. I had two bikes stolen in a burglary seven years ago - both with Almax chains and a ground anchor. They also stole the chains. I told the insurers I’d not used the steering lock and why and they were fine.
Ive tried to get a Almax chain a few times. Mailed them about shipping 2 or 3 times at this stage but never hear anything back. I do think they are the best chain out there, but their customer service is poor.
Any device or bracking system that locks the brakes in brake locked position like hand brake when ignition off and oem key removed then bike wheels can't spin until bike turn on or braking system cut off or removed. Its some difficult to ride a bike without brake for thieves they are in hurry and end up in accident. It doesn't help when the bike carried by van but it will help most of the time. Hidden fuel pump cut off switch or only be working with nfc then if the rider away from bike fuel pump stop working so the bike can't be bikejacked.
Try to use disc locks on all 3 discs, the rear especially as it's harder to get to.
Also use 2 disc locks on each front disc, 1 against the leading edge of the forks, and 1 up underneath the caliper. This means the wheel cannot be rotated, and if you've done the same on the rear disc the bike cannot be rolled at all.
This helps to prevent the skateboard trick of lifting one end of the bike onto a skateboard or sack barrow and rolling the bike away.
Chain the back wheel up through luggage/top box racking.
There's also chaining the front wheel to the centre stand, chain pulled tight so the bike cannot be dropped off the centre stand.
There's plenty of ways to secure a bike if you are willing to take the time to do it, after all it's just got to be more of a pain to steal than the bike that's next to yours.
None of that stops 2 blokes pulling up and lifting it into a van though.. your methods will stop the teenagers yeah but most bike thieves throw it in a stolen van and fuck off never to be seen again lol
That’s an awful lot of time to lock up just to grab a loaf of bread though.
@@nlmaster9811 Clown!
Chain suggestions
For home use
Make sure the chain is 16mm+
Almax
Pragmasis
Oxford beast
Squire
ABUS
Milenco
And for taking out with you make sure the chain is 12mm+
ABUS Granit Extreme X-plus 59
Milenco Coleraine
ABUS Granit 58 loop lock-chain
ABUS Platinum chain 34
recommended.
I think the most important point you touched on was the idea of putting the lowlives off of an attempt on your bike in the first place. A premeditated and planned theft will succeed 99% of the time, but make it as unattractive and griefy as possible and they’ll pick another bike that’s easier... thieves are lazy...
So I use two Oxford XL chains, one round the front wheel and forks, the other round the back wheel and through the frame, each attached to a ground anchor, and bike is covered - I think covering a bike has a huge positive effect - if they can’t see it, they will pick one that stands out over it... again thieves are lazy, that’s why they are thieves!
Front chain attached to disc/padlock also.
It’s hassle when I go out, but if it’s annoying for me, it must be hassle for lowlives as well!
I'd add to this and say that I use my old knackered cover over the top of a much nicer one, extra layer of water resistance but also its looks shite! Nobody is going to expect anything decent being under there
Locking the cover on is an easy extra deterrent too and if your chain isn't positioned to secure your cover you can use a bicycle style cable lock extension to secure the cover.
Spot on Russ, very well advised. As an ex police officer you've explained this all perfectly! Some good info on the testing of so called secure devices. Much appreciated once again!
Praise indeed, thanks for the feedback. ☺
I really think the clipped on bike cover is the real deterrent. The Scummers might know the type of bike but can't really come properly prepared because the bike might have 3 or 4 layers of security underneath. And lets face it they are fundamentally lazy bstds.
They steal the cover first. Watch for that.
Im glad you said how poor the brake lever lock is, even easier is undo the bleed nipple, releases the pressure on the pads, literally 1 second and that device is null and void, but what really gets my goat up is so many reviewers who say how great that product is just because they got sent one and its a paid review, some people would literally sell their soul for a few views
Yep, there's a few big subscriber vloggers who I've unsubbed from for this reason. Clapping like seals because they have a freebie.
I bought an Asgard shed, which yes are rather expensive but are well worth it. I then bought 2 Abus Granit London U shackles which I put 1 on each wheel and then I bought a kryptonite New York 13 mm chain with a Squire stronghold padlock and to top it off I bought an Oxford 10mm chain with Master lock Pro series Bouron shackle. Oh yes 😆 I also bought an alarm for the shed and one for the bike, fitted CCTV and have a 10 stone Saint Bernard who sleep right next to the door and lets you know the moment anybody goes near the side gate. The joys of OCD.
I don’t lock mine and leave the keys in the ignition, I live in a Avenue with no way through, I sleep above the garage and my ex military Alsatian sleeps next to my bike, savage will alert me if some one enters the top of the Avenue 100 yards away with 4 barks , if they come closer the bark will become more frequent, if they come closer it turn to snarling and ramming the door to get to them, I can open my door remotely from my bed, after I have identified who it is from my cctv.👊👍
You’ve got to love an intelligent security system. Nice one.
I would bring a bag of raw meat and toss it to your dog then ride away on your bike 5 seconds later.
Covers are very underrated, if you could get one preferably all black with the holes near the wheels so a cable lock or chain can fit through it’s a good start.
Good advice, thanks. As you suggest yourself, I was advised very early on that what you're basically aiming to do is cause them hassle, and consider that another target might be a better option (for them). I use chains myself - but knowing that they can all be potentially cut by someone tooled up and determined, I make sure that there isn't a convenient slack loop that they can (easily) get the bolt-croppers (or power tool) to. Or at least, that's what I hope and think I'm doing!
Additional tip. Just nipping in the shop for a minute? Then that's about 10 seconds more than the time they need to bundle it into a van. I've also seen video of people lifting up and removing chained/disc-locked/shackled bikes with a small lorry plus crane (like builders use to get bricks and bags of sand delivered) - think about that when you leave yours, and maybe slot into between a couple of cars, behind a lamp-post - use whatever cover and inconvenience you can. Thanks for the tips and info, Russ.
Any extra info is very welcome. Thanks.
All of this is still relevant and useful information 2 years later.
Thanks for watching. ☺
Also for the: It wont happen to me, I live in a safe neighbourhood crowd. There was a Honda SP2 stolen recently in a sleepy village in the middle of nowhere near where I live. The village had barely 100 people maximum, and the only way you'd know its there is if you are driving through and saw it. Yours might be a safe neighbourhood, but thieves have vans to travel there.
Never be complacent about this kind of thing for sure.
@@alexmorgan3435 I'm always aware of people following and forgot to mention it here.
The best bike security video on RUclips by far
Superb mate, the voice of impartial reason! Seen folk on here pushing and sponsored by a particular ‘lite weight’ lock which is dead easy to angle grind through (battery powered grinder). They wouldn’t want your bike nicked would they for the sake of their own commercial and financial interests?
I've always carried a padlock instead of a disc lock, for my 'convenient to carry' deterrent. Basically because you can get a padlock with a hexagonal shackle, so you'd have to cut it twice to get it off. Twice the time, twice the hassle. Can also easily be used with a chain and/or put through the disc or sprocket...
Great video Russ, with plenty of practical advice. If it has spark plugs (and in a addition to locks), just lift the plug caps and put a small, none conductive piece of wood between the the plug cap and the plug. Most thieves are pond life and will never figure it out. A gravel driveway is cheap and noisy.
Of course, this only works if you have quick acces to the plugs
I don't feel like propping up the tank and removing the airbox to 'unsabotage' my sparkplugs every morning before I (can) go to work
@@Nightdare lol!!!
Thank you all good tips and I fully agree it’s about moving the slide hammer crew along. I think it also involves thinking where you leave your bike. I think motorbike covers as you suggested are great ideal as for the Disk-locks, yes been there done that but I now place the hiv viz springy cable from handlebar lever to handlerbar then I’ll never forget it’s on and makes people see it
Great advice as always. Bike security is all about layers. Just make it more hassle for them.
Exactly. ☺
Very helpful thanks for that. A combination of security features will help all but the most determined tea leaf.
Cheers!
Great video. I find an Alarm Disc Lock and Handlebar Lock to be imo the perfect combination for lightweight security when going to shops and most people(where I’m from) tend to only use fork lock so you’ll be at a better chance of being safe than most. If I’m going to be somewhere a bit longer I take a chain too personally
Great video! Thank you for sharing 👍🏽
Great video, no bs, not trying to sell something and straight facts!
I had my scooter eyed up and touched out the back of my house.
Only knew this, as I have a blink camera on my washing line pole facing the bike lol
if I didn't have that my scooter would probably have been stolen.
After seeing the footage I posted to the towns Facebook group and contacted the police and they identified the person in the footage.
I have since put a big fence up now.
Amazon Blink cameras are amazing :)
Awesome video. Great impartial advice.
Solid advice straight to the point. Thanks
I didn't know that bikes can be stolen easily....now i know....good info, thanks.
You're welcome.
Συγχαρητήρια για την ενημέρωση ονομάζομαι lazaros ,από την Ελλάδα αγόρασα καινούργιο scuter και άκουσα με μεγάλη προσοχή αυτά που είπατε
Μpravo Mpravo cogratsilation
You don't need the best lock. Just a better lock than the guy next to you, or a better than average lock. Best is a mix of stuff to slow them down. When parked, by bike is in a parking garage below the building where I live. I know that parking a bike inside is deemed to be safer, but I think the contrary is true. When it's inside, thieves can work undisturbed as opposed to outside. When my alarm goes off in a garage, nobody can tell where it's coming from. Apart from a couple of locks (I have a heavy chain and an anchor in the wall, and a disc lock), a motorcycle cover is also a good idea. Thieves hate those things, because when there's an alarm, they can't see it directly and they also don't know what they will find under the cover. So they can't really plan anything.
When I'm on the road, I just use the disc lock, the BMW alarm and steering lock. Obviously all of that can be broken, but I've fulfilled the demands of the insurance. Both the disc lock and the alarm are approved by the insurance. And I also have good protection against thieves that operate out of vans where they lift your bike in the van and work on the locks eleswhere: my bike weighs 340kg... 🤣🤣🤣
Thanks for sharing these tips. I used to rely on blocking the bike in with the car (cage) but in a spate of thefts at the time the vermin were cutting brake cables and moving cars to remove people's pride joy and Transport. Frustrates me that we have to do so much but as said, let's not make it easy for the scumbags
Hi Shane…it really makes you think that a Star Chamber might be the only deterrent….very low re offending….seriously though it’s such an awful thing….
that nicely summed everything up!
I fully agree with your comment on the steering lock, its unbelievable how weak security such a thing provides and how much damage it causes (in cash) when you try to repair it afterwards - if you are lucky and you dont lose your pride and joy all together.
Also, the existence of CCTV by itself is no deterrent, lowlifes dont care. Unfortunately, in some cases cameras provide a fake feeling of security to the owner (ask me how i know) .. Just saying..
Excellent commentary
Great advice
The only disc lock I've not seen London bike thieves get past is the Xena XX series. They're alarmed disc locks and can be fitted either between the fork and brake calliper meaning they cannot get at the disc to cut it (I've seen Xena's removed in this way) or I put mine on the rear disc between the calliper and swingarm. Defo recommend giving them a look although mines the slightly older model without bluetooth but that hasn't been an issue.
I use a sold secure gold Oxford disc lock (no alarm) because that's what I said I was using on my insurance. I also have the luxury of keeping the bike in the garage with an electric door with no external handle.
Thank you for the videos you make ...great information and safety tips ...
Glad you like them!
Great I learned something thanks Russ.
My last road trip was on a Harley 2018 Fat Bob FXFBS. I never worried about it getting stolen it never did get stolen and I never used alarms or tracking devices. I now own a triumph tiger 900 GT pro and I'm going to take it on a West Coast trip. For some reason I'm more concerned about this motorcycle so I put a tracker on it and I'll be using two disc brake lock one on the front and rear.
Thanks for a great video!
I only started riding 2 years ago and was given the advice that you can't prevent bike thieves, only delay them and inconvenience them, so layer up on security.
At home, my bike is out in the front garden, so I use a ground anchor, Abus granite chain, Abus granite U-lock, the same disc alarm as in your video, noise disabled unfortunately, too sensitive and cover it with a stormX cover. I also have motion sensor lights. If someone were to nick my bike, they'd bloody deserve it!
When out & about I carry the U-lock & chain.
thanks very much great video
Hey Ian. How are you getting on with your u-turns now
Whether it's a motorbike or a bicycle you need a security system and not just a security lock. There are now also u-locks available that are angle grinder resistant so for my e-bike I'm using a Litelok X3 which is on pre-order for next month + I also use two motion alarmed disc locks which sound off a warning before they go off fully as well as a Samsung Galaxy smart tag.
Iv always been a fan on the xena disk locks. I think its the shape of them, in my mind woukd make it more difficult to break off. They also come on some hefty sizes
I use 99% of what you covered at once ever since my first bike (ZX6R) got stolen. The only thing I don't use is chaining it to an immovable object. Although I am thinking about linking it through the bumper of my car where they have little tow hook. So at least at home it'll be anchored to something.
Best alarm system; gravel and gooses near your bike shed :)
@@alexmorgan3435 brush off tyres? Lol
Keep it out of sight, cover on the bike, locked with chain to a solid object and disc lock. Got tracking as well which is cool but I like to think I’m keeping it semi safe... like you said, if they really want it- they will find a way of stealing it.
I agree about the cover, being locked with a chain to a solid object and the disc lock, however I would rather have it somewhere were there are lots of people about. Keeping it out of sight only means that a thief will be able to get to work stealing your bike pretty much undisturbed.
@@Seagull-Matthames out of sight like not out in the sunshine and in clear view. a main road but you park it behind a car, on a busy high street but keeping it covered, or in a car park with cctv rather than an alley way behind Morrison’s.
If its inconvenient for you then it will be more inconvenient for the thief dont just put one lock on it use a few with different brands even if it takes you 10mins getting it all off if someones going to steal your stuff then make them work very hard for it either they will give up half way or somebody's going to notice cutting through locks and chains makes alot of sound specially multiple locks added alarms as well.
Found it very useful thanks Ron
u mean russ
Only addition i would make is pick resistance. A lot of locks may look beefy but have easily or moderately easily bypassable cores. I like lockpickinglawyer for illuminating that aspect.
Lockpicking lawyer is awesome
One thing I don't see mentioned here which I've used for a long time and which is dirt cheap, is a baby monitor. Last attempt at getting into my garage the thieves had woken me up poking about before they'd even started.
Good call.
Don't forget the baseball bat accessory.
Bloody scummers. Mates in the US are shocked at how bad it is here for theft. All the police do is hand out crime numbers like it’s a sort of attendance voucher.
AK 47
Get Mr browning to help aswell
Great video!
Tracker wise, automatricks M-track is a good option. Similar price to the smaller ones but with a massive battery and RF finding capabilities.
You pay a monthly fee (15 quid) but they go and recover the bike for you, phone the police and everything. The best option I've found by far when it comes to trackers.
Otherwise agree with the entire video.
Almax chains and Squire locks. Keep them off the ground and use a cover if you can. Not much else you can do.
Oh actually, bicycle alarms ! Hide them under the front of the bike and if anybody moves the bike it will beep, super cheap and quite effective !
Thanks for the info. The more the merrier. Sounds like a good service.
@@RoadcraftNottingham They have a youtube channel showing their whole operation. Sold me. ruclips.net/channel/UCWRXwGwCL8VqRaDSqmCnxaw
Great upload, thanks. I agree, more locks the better. Best to avoid the Oxford Screamer, it doesn't like cold weather, a few hours outside and the alarm will go off or if reactivating it, it will continuously go off at a different pitch. In those cases, I have to bring it indoors to heat up, which defeats the purpose lol
Thanks for the feedback.
Agreed, for the money the Screamer goes for I think the Oxford big boss alarm style disc locks, especially the 16mm version are much better value and more reliable.
Mines been fine, down to minus temps 🤷🏻♂️
Awesome thank you!
That bike that was locked and lifted into the van would have been much more difficult for the two people if the rear wheel had a lockl too.
Really interesting, thank you
You're welcome
Great and informative video
I use Almax, really good thick chains
2 Dobermans that live in the garage with my bike adds to the other security features incorporated.
Useful information, I have a mix of various devices I use, also have CCTV in the garage just in case
You can never be paranoid where your pride and joy is concerned.
Great video, what trackers do you recommend?
Thanks for the good tips mate
No worries buddy
What a video to come across when my Varadero got stolen about a month ago. PTSD setting in lol.
Thanks, you're a gent.
First bike I had after the 125 was stolen/recovered but still had a broken steering lock. I never used one and never will. Those hiplock and litelok things look great
I Like This Video..I had My Scooter Stolen Some Time Ago..And I Got it Back..Now I Have An Alarm Disk Break Lock For The Front Wheel And and A Back Wheel Lock
Brilliant commentary
I will often leave a tenner on my bike to bribe the thieves away from it
Of course, I always put my steering lock on. But, if I was another person, I would keep my bike locked up in my garage with a massive lock (and tracker), and just leave the steering lock off so that when that person who is not me's bike was to be found, there would be - hopefully - less damage to repair. But of course, always keep the lock on when parked up on the street.
I use the Abus 8077, I watched a video of someone angle grinding one off and it took them about 5 minutes - with a plugged in angle grinder, so that gave me confidence. I also use Automatrics tracker, it's a self contained unit that lasts 18 months on one charge, and it has GPS, GSM and RF tracking with it, so if it's in a metal box or something the chaps come out to the last location of the GPS and then track it themselves with a RF scanner. They have a youtube channel and the dedication to getting customer's stuff back is admirable, they go all over the country, cross the channel even, and stake out waiting for police for as long as it takes. Unbelievable service, the bonus is they are based very close to where I live so I would imagine they would be on scene very quickly if my bike were to be stolen. Personally, I do not put any stickers on my bike saying it's being tracked; I'd rather they didn't go looking for the unit, but if they did it is rather well hidden - and has a tamper plate that sends out a special alert. I have felt a lot more at ease since having that tracker!
Great info, thanks.
I liked the idea of ensuring the chain doesn't drag on the ground thus enabling easy bolt-cutter action. That could easily make the difference between success and failure. I can't imagine how the perps would manage with the chain in the air.
If they move the bike away from what it’s locked to, causing the chain to have a tight strain in the air, it’s basically the same as being on the floor unfortunately
Made me laugh when you said ask me how I know about forgetting to remove the disc lock 😂😂 I had an embarrassing incident in Asda carpark on a Honda Silverwing....it only happened the once 😂😂
Exactly the same as me... We only do it once 😂
I was actually in morrison's and in a mood and went over handle bars.
Check out the monimoto device - if you move the bike without the bluetooth dongle being nearby then it alerts you via text/mobile app. It also allows you to track the bike and battery life is probably fine for 12 months.
Battery defo last 12 months mine has
Almax rusts like crazy, a few years of outdoor use leaves it looking like it spent 50 years in the sea. When I took the sleeve off my 2M Almax III I got about 700ml of rust scale out of it, and that's before any wire brushing or whatever. I fear this may have compromised the case hardening.
By comparison, an Oxford used in exactly the same location has slight surface rust, and another I believe is "English Chain" has none. The Squire SS65 locks used on both the Almax and the "English" have a tiny bit of cosmetic surface corrosion, the Oxford Boss alarm lock used on the Oxford chain had just enough corrosion inside to make it difficult to withdraw the battery holder, I had to push it out using a pick in the shackle hole.
Worth noting the only thing on the bike that's rotted at a similar rate is the the bolts in the cheap chinese bar-ends.
That's weird cos mine have been outside for about 5 years without a problem.
My method for "not-forgetting-to-remove-your-bloody-disk-lock". I have a piece of velcro that goes across the keyhole of the disc lock. When I place the disc lock the piece of velcro moves from covering the keyhole on the lock to the ignition key hole of the bike. So when I want to ride away I can't insert the bike key without removing the strip of velcro that goes back to living on the disc lock when not in use.
Brilliant video
Thanks
alarms are great if you keep your bike within earshot. Mine is in the garage next to my groundfloor bedroom, I also got a cheap battery powered bump-alarm thingy on the garage door....which i forget to disarm about half the time.
I bet your neighbours love you! 😂
"Turn you volume down though".... Thanks for the heads up after the video lol
Got 2 bikes chained up through the back wheels to a proper buried in concrete ground anchor with a pragmasis 19mm chain and Squire lock, then an additional pragmasis 13mm chain and squire lock each on the front wheels, plus disc locks, plus covers that the chains also go through to lock them to the bikes at each end.. Only downside the ground anchor makes it rather difficult to keep the 19mm chain off the floor! I think probably getting on for £1k in security, worth every penny if only to help me sleep at night!
Agreed, people will easily spend £600 on an end can but only £30 on a lock.
12 gauge shotgun on a rotating system with a sensor lol and a moat full of crocodiles lol. You forgot them lol. I have a few things on my Michigan. I think the more items you put on is better than nothing. Like you said make it hard for them. 🙂
I agree Russ, a ‘layered’ approach to security is the best way to make the scumbags move onto another target. The Litelock would seem to be a solution for heavy/ bulky chains, however, I’ve only seen sponsored reviews. Have you (or any of your subscribers who might read this) any real experience of this product?
I've seen the lite lock hacked through in 16 seconds. That's what's made me do this upload. You tubers saying it's great when they're given one free
ruclips.net/video/D-On0DGcDlc/видео.html
I don’t use my steering lock ! The chances are it’s something I will have to repair after some scab has tried taking my bike.
Also, have you noticed that bike covers don’t fit right when the steering is turned to one side ?
My main security is a heavy chain & a mini D lock. The chain is long enough to go around a solid object & the mini D lock is just the right size to go through the brake disk making it very hard to remove from the bike without causing a lot of damage. The chain obviously goes through the wheel as well meaning many cuts would be needed to remove the combination. I also have an alarmed disk lock with a reminder cord.
At home on the driveway I have a chain anchor point.
You forgot the most important,an Insurance company that will pay out with the smallest amount of excess so Your getting most of the value of the bike back from them.
I wouldn't trust any theif who wears double denim.......🤣
Great commentary on security, I even use strong cable locks on my soft luggage when touring to be extra safe 👍
How does that stop the bags being slashed and the contents stolen?
@@samsara3694 slows the thieves down... however the best advice would be never to leave your bike unattended or out of sight while loaded 👍
Hello Russ!. You are doing a great job for the community. Which GPS trackers do you recomend without monthly subscription?. Thanks in advance!
I use the TKstar trackers with an O2 payg sim.
Hi Russ interesting video you have put up never seen how easy it is to break the steering lock,
These type of people that seem to believe that they have the right to take what does not belong to them,
Can one obtain a steel wire that is not very easy to cut with bolt cutters or grinder,
Kind regards,
Steph
I think anything less than 19mm is pretty croppable
Trying to drive off with the disc lock still in eh? Shame on you, that most certainly couldn't have been me at any point in time, no sir, not at all... :) thanks for the vid!
It's almost compulsory for becoming a biker 😂
Theres a popular personality on YT named the Lockpicking Lawyer and he does reviews on various locks and chains. However, its worth noting that he's the god of lock picking and has special tools.
I'm subscribed. He's ridiculously good. ☺
I fitted a theatrical sound grenade on a trip wire in my garage. But after setting it of accidentally I went back to a battery powered alarm. Three years later my hearing is almost back to normal.
On the upside it killed every spider in the place.
You can buy alarm mines that use blank 12g or .22 cartridges.
If you use a disc lock, try getting one with an alarm. Not just to deter thieves but also so you don't accidentally ride off with it still on your bike.
If that's not an option, put it in a way that *if* you drive off, it'll lock your wheel up instantly before it can do any real damage
Mentioned the alarm lock bit with the Oxford big boss but forgot about mentioning putting the lock nearer the caliper. . Thanks. ☺
Thank you for the video! It was really helpful, do you think you can link the tracker you showed on the video ? Thank you!!
Just Google tkstar and there's various sizes to choose from
Thanks for the video but now I can't sleep and I'm worried where I leave my bike!
I use a Lite-Lok to secure my bike. The best thing about it is that I actually use it (in combination with other things too). I was finding heavy chains often stayed at home.
I'm just worried I saw a lite lock cut through in 16 seconds and some you tubers recommend it because they were given one. Using with other security is definitely the way to go.
ruclips.net/video/D-On0DGcDlc/видео.html
@@RoadcraftNottingham Thanks. As you rightly said nothing is going to stop someone who is determined and equipped but bolt cutters, jemmy bar and disc cutters, which are the usual tools thieves use, should be resisted by a Lite-Lok. If it doesn't I might lose the lock but the other stuff should be enough to put casual thieves off.
I park my electric scooter with 2 disc locks with alarms one in front wheel and one in back wheel 120 decibels 2x 2 would be so noisy....and one chain lock to a pole and nfc with gps tracker.....last but not least i cover it with motorcycle cover so it would not attract attention to thieves. and lastly where i work has a cctv pointing to it. yeah i agree with you even small cheap locks at least its a good deterant to thieves...even thou they can still go thru it but at least it buys u time to call a police and get to them them.
Fantastic vid, been looking online, your tips are very helpful, thanks.
For security, I use an Oxford Boss alarmed lock and an immobiliser with alarm and always park it in bike specific parking spaces that are close to where I'm going or say "bugger it" and park it on the pavement outside wherever I'm in. If I'm going into the city, I have a chain that'll go through the frame as well. Tempted to change over my lock to an alarmed Abus disc lock and to get a Milenco chain, since I will trust more dedicated security companies than Oxford's "jack of all trades but good at jack shit" approach
Pragmasis available via Securityforbikes and Almax also make quality security chains. I've been upgrading my older Oxford chains to their versions.
Ive just brought a TC Max Electric motorbike, i can take the battery out and leave it indoors, the battery is £1500 new, so makes the bike worthless and not worth stealing, i do still use my disc locks and bike cover though, but make your bike not worth stealing in the first place is just another deterrent.
A little bit simplistic but when my girl is in the garage I park my car right up against the door. In order to get to her they'd have to move my car first which is an automatic so left in gear with an electronic parking brake. Personally I'd like to hide a hand grenade under the seat since I'm unlikely to get her back anyway might as well take something of theirs in return eh? But my other girl (my long suffering wife) says that's a bit extreme 🤔
😂
Jeez! 😂
Steering lock I don’t use - it’s not even a seconds deterrent to a thief.
I had two bikes stolen in a burglary seven years ago - both with Almax chains and a ground anchor. They also stole the chains. I told the insurers I’d not used the steering lock and why and they were fine.
Teenagers fingers being firmly removed with an axe, I've found this a sound solution. Love from Scotland...
I have pretty aggressive thoughts like that too and wouldn't feel sorry for them. ☺
Could we take their man parts off too to decrease the population of thieving scum in the future (asking for all my biking friends)
Drugging and r&ping them.....too much? 😅😄😃🤣😎
That's got to be a CX 650 Turbo, bring back memories when i had mine.
I've just done a new upload on it. Take a look. ☺
Ive tried to get a Almax chain a few times. Mailed them about shipping 2 or 3 times at this stage but never hear anything back. I do think they are the best chain out there, but their customer service is poor.
Any device or bracking system that locks the brakes in brake locked position like hand brake when ignition off and oem key removed then bike wheels can't spin until bike turn on or braking system cut off or removed. Its some difficult to ride a bike without brake for thieves they are in hurry and end up in accident. It doesn't help when the bike carried by van but it will help most of the time. Hidden fuel pump cut off switch or only be working with nfc then if the rider away from bike fuel pump stop working so the bike can't be bikejacked.
Very informative video, unfortunately two weeks late for me!
It's never too late when you get your new baby. ☺