You are so much more helpful than the salesperson in my local Brompton junction, who tried to shut me down when I asked him for tips on locking the bike when I have to do it.
Insurance + approved lock + a picture every time you lock your bike to make claiming easier is my way to go. Or the budget-friendly way of leaving a note asking thives to leave the broken Kryptonite on the scene so you can get Kryptonite to reimburse you.
Someone tried to steal mine a few years ago in the centre of Dudley,unfortunately he got a bit of a punch in the mouth and was still unconscious when I rode away (shame)
I know this video is over a year old but here's a couple of lesser known top tips that might be useful: 1)Leave your bike in a high gear. It makes it more difficult to pedal away quickly. 2)Spin your seat post around backwards. Again it makes riding it off quickly more difficult. 3)Use several different types of locks. A thief is unlikely to carry a bunch of different tools, an angle grinder for example is good for cutting shackle locks but not so good for cables. 4)Try to secure your bike in an awkward, high up position. Tools like bolt cutters are much more difficult to use above your head because you can't use your body weight as leverage. 👍
I think in the last year I have locked my Brompton outside my destination once (Uni campus dentist, next to their CCTV). I have a shoulder-bag for the buses, bars and restaurants who don't like to see a folding bike.
Haha, that is really the problem. Might be safer in the first configuration. Another idea is to add a second lock, just to make it a little more difficult for a would-be thief.
This channel is a real gift. Useful, thoughtful (and often ingenious) info, well produced and presented enthusiastically. Thanks for making these excellent videos.
True. The good Brompton dealers all tell you this during the instructional demo. Never leave outside, don’t leave in bad weather, always clean if gets wet.
@@StimParavane would u mind if i ask what lock do use for your brompton . Im really scared locking it outside but i usually go shopping (morrisons) near work . When i had my cheaper bike i always locked it outside that shop and no problem at all. But now with my brompton im kinda hesitant. Im planning to take off the brompton sticker just to not call the attention of people that “hey im brompton!!” Although the colour is really screaming that it’s a brompton😂😂 i got the b75 and im from uk as well . Thank you
I received my 2020 Brompton electric a few weeks ago and also had a question about locking outside. It appears keeping the bike with me at all times is the way to go, but thank you for the very informative video. Thanks, Chris
Thankyou yes l fold the bike when l lock my Brompton. Only when l visit a public toilet. People laugh at me, because l do have a disability key, so where possible l wheel the bike into the cubicle. I’ve noticed in some places, that people are monitoring my bike. (Two people were discussing its value and possibly were hoping to steal it, as they hung around the public toilet area and decided to move away when l took the bike inside the cubicle. ) Best wishes to you and all the viewers. ☺️🌈👌
It’s good that you provide very basic instructions. Viewers might be new to riding a Brompton, or to cycling, even. And starting with the basics is brilliant. 😀
Recent sub, love your channel. I use Pitlock (German company) for my wheel skewer locks, seatpost binder and also Hexlox on all my allen key bolts (saddle rails, stem, oury slip on grips, folding mirror, etc). Your second example of lock through frame & wheel would be better imo with a second u-lock connecting both wheels. I always use two u-locks and bikes survived SF/Oakland, LA, NYC and Montreal from theft. My bike is just a really pain in the ass to steal anything. I have the same saddle -- people would def cut the cable just to pinch it.
I lock my brompton entirely folded with the lock going through both wheels and frame and then the bike post too with the extra long New York kryptonite M18.
Good tips. A friend of mine had his electric Brompton stolen (he had locked it using the most expensive kryptonite u lock) it was gone within the hour. Unless I was going inside somewhere for less than 5 mins or my bike was constantly in view I would never risk locking it outside.
I feel sorry for him! Unfortunately bike theft is very common, specially in countries with a lot of biking infrastructure. Nothing can stop a bike thief with an electric angle grinder.
Everyday Cycling I agree. I’m in London UK. This Brompton theft was videoed in broad daylight outside a school I sometimes work at. Shocking. ruclips.net/video/iLQFjXR_ggc/видео.html Ps seems much more civilised where you are 😀
One of the Brompton's greatest features is the fact that you can fold it up and bring it with you, while simultaneously raising your middle finger to bike thieves. No way l'm locking it up. It goes with me, or I go home with it.
But there are places that you just cannot take it with you. For examples, most American campus, most Chinese subways, some American parks, and the gyms I go to which have bike rooms but before security check in so everybody could go in to grab it.😅
Best strategy. I learned this to my cost. The first and only time I had to leave it outside, locked up with a Kryptonite New York D lock out side London University in Malet Street, central London, it was stolen. Underneath a CCTV camera as well. Kryptonite D locks are CRAP!!!!
When it comes to bike locking, it doesn't have to be perfect, just obviously harder than the lock the other guy is using. If there's a place you park often, try leaving a good locking system there. When I was doing a lot of research at a university library, I had a very thick chain and sturdy lock in their under-cover bike storage area. Leaving it there made sense. It was far too heavy to carry about with me. The advantage of a chain is that you can quickly loop it through all the major elements of your bike.
I'd never leave my Brompton outside - far too valuable. I'd cycle back home. I only use ABUS locks. Brooks saddles are valuable and a thief would definitely go to the trouble of stealing one.
@@prw56 I find it pretty annoying to have to unfold and wheel the Brompton around clothes shops, especially in a shopping centre etc. I normally just use another bike if planning to do this, but I sometimes feel it's worth me getting insurance for the Brompton for peace of mind.
Thank you for this video! I sometimes avoid riding my Brompton because I'm not sure where to lock it, in the case where some establishments won't let me bring it in. The tips and techniques are valuable!
Try taking it in with you, that is the major point of the Brampton i cant think of any establishment that would refuse to let you bring it in, you can even put it in its carry cover and they wont even know you have a cycle in it.
Seeing the Brampton locked up out side is enough to make fans just burst into tears And if the Brampton appreciation society found out they put together a rescue squad it would become a major news story in your area it is very rare to see a Brampton locked up outside. Thanks for sharing your thoughts.. (Laugh)
And a Brompton Electric is $3500. I would bring it in with me even if I was explicitly told I couldn't. If confronted, I'd just tell them how much the bike is worth, and I'd expect they'd understand.
One thing you could do is put a tracker in the bike, put it under the saddle or somewhere very well hidden, that way is if the bike is stolen you can track it and get it back with the police. The apple trackers are really cheap and excellent for this.
Good job man, really enjoy your content. Just bought my first Brompton which is a M6L Raw Lacquer -- arriving tomorrow so trying to get up to speed how to use the bike, tips and tricks. You do a fab job explaining everything I'm thinking about for my first couple of months. Thanks! From London.
What I used to do on my racing bike was detach the front wheel and take it with me in the shop, it’s amazing how doing that totally prevents bike theft…
When I have been forced to lock my Brompton I have used the second method you demonstrated. There's been a few places where I have not been allowed to bring it in: a few department stores, some movie theaters, and when I go swimming to my local sporting club and I cannot attend to the bike, I leave it in the parking lot. Fortunately, there's a guard there, and besides locking it, I ask him kindly to keep an eye on it.
Things like anti-theft skewers or even putting a little magnet in the seatpost bolt to make it hard to get a wrench in there also help. I've also taken to putting an ugly saddle cover over my saddles to make the bike look cheaper. Never had a single noticeable theft attempt. Of course locking a bike in a very visible and high traffic area also helps.
Magnet in seatpost bolt doesn’t work. If they have the hex to remove the screw, it takes the magnet out. As if it wasn’t there. I just tried since it seemed a good idea and unfortunately if they don’t have the hex key the are not after your saddle but perhaps your entire bike.
Hanging the lock on the handlebar makes sense. An easy way to stop it swinging and knocking is to just tie the lower end to the steering upright - use any piece of string or a lace from a discarded pair of shoes.
Another idea (I didn't test because i own a brompton since only one week) : Removing the screw of the frame will make impossible for anyone to ride the bike... The only solution is to hold it while walking, and it can gives time to identify the theft...
My first Brompton was stolen in central London. I used a Kryptonite New York D lock just like yours to secure it in a bike rack under a CCTV camera. This bike D lock was as good as cheese. Luckily my house insurance paid quickly for a replacement Brompton which I now do not let out of my sight when riding it away from home. I now also use Abus Granite D-locks instead. I wouldn't touch Kryptonite locks with a barge pole, certainly not lock up any of my bike(s) with them because Kryptonite locks are rubbish.
I use a mixture of both Abus and Kryptonite. Much bigger Kryptonite that what he used here. The extra weight doesn't bother me as electric. A Dutch woman told me to triple lock any bike as a deterrent. With a Brompton, I'd say put as many locks on it as possible! I haven't locked it outside yet but I have locked it indoors. Yes that's right bikes get stolen from work places that you think are secure but aren't really.
I use a good quality D lock too when I have to leave the bike outside. If riding without a bag, then I lay it on the rear rack, as the locking bar part of the lock fits in the 'niche' at the front of the rack. It can then be held in place using the 2 elastic straps, thereby saving the need to have a lock swinging abut when riding! Cheers.
The attraction of a Brompton to thieves might be lessened by creating a plastic tube that snaps over the "Brompton" label on the frame, replacing it with a name that sounds like a cheap Chinese/Walmart ripoff. It wouldn't work with the more bike savvy thieves but it might help with the stupider ones.
Cablelocks can easily be cut with simple pliers. I can also recommend OnGuard-locks, ABUS may be secure, but they don't allow women in leading positions for religious reasons, keep that in mind.
I dangle my U-lock on the handlebars, and there have been enough times where it would jump up and out of place, so now I use a garden wire (wire wrapped in silicone or some kind of rubber) that I wrapped around my front basket (would be head tube, in your case), and the other end I secure around the shaft of the lock.
@@mattbalajadia I'm so curious about the B75. To my understanding it's just the geometry that is a bit older, but it has all the same features as the more expensive ones. You're gonna love it!
Matt Balajadia please let me know what you think of your B75 when you get it,I have been thinking of getting one myself but still saving the pennies at the moment 😉
Very informative and handy tips i have just purchased a foldable bike, so am just getting myself all up to speed with tips and the best ways to lock my bike. I will be subscribing to your channel. Happy riding ❤
Good video. I’ve been doing exactly ‘Method 2 ‘ for the last 2 years on my M3L at various places in London. I use a Kryptonite New Yorker and a coiled cable lock for the seat post. I never leave the Brompton locked outside for more than 2-3 hours though. An obviously in a place where there’s lots of footfall if possible
@@allanb2906 Yeap I do, mostly Central London in places with high footfall. Again, never for than 2-3 hours. My Brompton is quite old now. If I had a newer or Electric one I'd consider buying a Litelok X1 which is resistant to angle grinders
@Najeebster Thanks. Yes I've been watching a few review videos of the X1/X3 and they look like that's the way to go if you need to leave unattended for the shortest of times. Thanks again for your reply.
after locking it up like the way you showed, wrap the entire bike with a regular black garbage bag and most people probably wouldn't even realize there's a bike
Some notes about U-locks: The one advantage of Kryptonite is their Theft Protection Plan. For just $35 for 5 years they will reimburse you if your bike is stolen for the base price (not accessories or upgrades) of the bike if you supply a police report and a picture of the broken lock. No other lock maker offers this AFIAK. u-locks up to 14mm can be defeated by bolt cutters and all locks (with the caveated possible exception of the lifelok) can be cut by angle grinders in a minute or less. this includes 16mm locks like the Kryptonite New York and 18mm Foggetaboutit.
my best tip : never leave your bike unattended , a cordless grinder can go through these locks in under a minute, GUARANTEED YOU WILL LOSE YOUR BIKE it’s just a matter of time , forget even owning a lock keep your bike with you at all times
For my travel, Lightweight Brompton, I have bought some different wire cables to bring. Just entering a store, I hopefully won't need that much, but I have also a double loop, thick wire, for a little more heavy jobs, both locking wheels, frame and a nearby pole! But don't leave it outside, as it is double the price of an ordinary bike.
Yeah I'll look up or call ahead to see if i can bring in my brompton in with me if im not sure cause i would never want to leave it lock outside. Their are new ways to break the locks and with many people around thiefs will still go for it.
I have the same lock - we call then D locks in the UK! I have the extending seat post and tend to take my seat and short extension with me on the very rare times I leave my bike.
I would recommend Litelock - have a look at the RUclips videos of people trying to saw through it. Takes the longest of the bunch. I use this in conjunction with the Litelock silver ‘O’ lock around the front wheel and frame, d lock securing back wheel and frame. I don’t have a brompton, just trust issues.
I have a great system for locking my brompton outside; remembering that thieves carry angle grinders and brompton's are No 1 on their shopping list, it's something that never happens.
Excellent stuff, thank you. I have a Pitlock on the front wheel (with a Schmitt SON generator), so I folded the rear wheel and passed an Abus folding lock through the rear wheel and the rack/object it was tied to; it is too tight to remove the wheel and walk away with the frame & the rest of the bike. The saddle (Brookls B17Special) is unaccounted for, of course; so, after a few times, I decided never to lock it outside. (Brompton M6R Ti 2012)
Unless you are living in a Brompton hub like London or Barcelona, where Bromptons are easy to sell, you are most likely overdoing it. In most cities Bromptons will just go unnoticed by thieves. Anyway, great tips!
Im here again because I when I'm out and about I always struggle to go and use public toilets. Folding it and bringing it with me just to use the urinal for 2mins tops is just too much hassle.
Given the scarcity and value of Bromptons at the moment, I would not take the risk of leaving that bike unattended, ever. This is a bike a thief would work very hard to steal.
Bonjour, toujours content de voir tes vidéos l ami, toujours des bon trucs et bon conseil 🙂Mon brompton,je ne l attacherai jamais,car les Brompton sont trop convoité par les voleurs......
Just take it inside, I was not allowed to enter a park with my bike, and they told me keep your brompton outside, so I just left and enjoyed biking in that city rather than getting into that park.
This is my main concern for buying a Brompton. I don't need it to commute to work but I would love to have a bike that's easy to take on the train and then ride to go visit castles and nature parks that are usually only accessible by car. However I can't take the bike with me into historical buildings so I would have to lock it outside. Considering how expensive they are, it would be just aweful if it got stolen. I'm not sure I if the convenience if offers outways the financial risk.
Hi Victor, thanks for this super helpful video! I'm in the market for a Brompton, and after watching this video I was wondering if you could tell me some examples of those times you absolutely had to lock up the bike outside? Thanks!!
Absolutely! Places that have asked me to leave the bike outside are a bank, a movie theater, a health centers and a museum. I've taken it into banks, movie theaters and health centers before though, so it's not a hard rule. Really depends on the security personnel.
Another brilliant video! I very rarely lock my B in town but I have two LiteLok Silver Secure locks which can be used singly or together to form a very long loop or two interlocking loops. I use them in rural areas to lock to trees or solid gate posts. Not as secure as the NY U-lock but has more opportunities for use.
Of course the question is why would you want to lock your Brompton if locking it takes more time than folding it. I would probably just carry some kind of nice looking bag where I can zip my bike and cary inside pretty much anything without revealing what's inside (nobody will think it is a bike!)
Great stuff. One other thing... get some *insurance*... the two bikes I had stolen... one was from my closet in my bedroom, and the other was from my cubicle at work... so... Also, try not to get so attached to your bikes... this can be hard, but unless you're going to keep it with you at all times, there's no guarantees... Bromptons rule! ;-)
At home my renters insurance covers personal belongings, and at work I keep it locked under my desk (not with a u-lock haha, just a simple cable lock and padlock). Sorry to hear you got two bikes stolen!
I have bike insurance... Because London. High possibility that someone actually mugs me while I'm riding her. Hard to get into my flat/apartment/home. Three secure doors and window locks on the first floor. Been here 5 years no break ins. The other thing is I don't have a set routine so it's hard to identify when I will be home. As for work... Brontë(yes that's her name) gets triple locked with Abus and Kryptonite at my workplace inside! If my locker was bigger, I would put her in there too!
Hey you should make a complete separate video showing where you can fit Brompton when folded like showing how versatile it is. For example in between your legs when on the bus, underneath a desk, back trunk of your car, inside your car, closet, on a plane, etc..
Just got my Brompton today in the nyc store. Peter, who does demonstration videos for Brompton I believe he is the media manager assisted me! I had the cute smart guy from RUclips! Everyone is great there. I love your videos and I told everyone about your channel. the technician was impressed. I had to get a seat cover gel or foam Not a fan of the seat comfort. Other than that I was zipping along. I did have intermittent battery issues. We’ll see .the button wasn’t responsive. Getting used to folding. Tricky but I’ll get it. Come to nyc!
I usually connect a brick of C4 and electric shock spikes to my bike. The only downside is if the C4 goes off the bike will be damaged. I might replace the C4 with poison gas or a good lock.
But the front wheel with a motor would still be vulnerable. BTW, There are demos on RUclips showing an angle grinder cutting through the kryptonite locks in 15 sec! The grinder is now the bike thieves' implement of choice. I won't go in any place these days if they won't let me take the Brommie inside. That's why I got it in the first place.
I'm lazy to remove the "extension seatpost" because I have a second dynamo-powered rear light near the saddle and the cable for that one runs inside the seatpost assembly. I have a video on the best three upgrades I did on my Brompton that shows that a little bit. So it's kind of inconvenient to remove the saddle as I have to unplug everything and then run the cable again through the seatpost and plug it back in... so what I do on the few times I lock my Brompton outside is just use the cable lock for the saddle.
This might be minor but would render the bike uselss if stolen. Remove the 2 hinge screw bolts and keep it with you. in case someone cuts the lock., they would have to carry it. they can't unfold and keep the shape... they will probably just dump it once they realize it is useless....
I never rode my Specialised Hard Rock mountain bike anywhere that it couldn't come inside with me because of the theft and vandalism risks were just too great. Likewise with a Brompton, which is specifically designed to enable it to accompany it's rider inside buildings, vehicles, etc. I cannot imagine why one would leave their Brompton outside with the virtual guarantee of theft or vandalism.
Absolutely, I'm not telling you to stop taking your Brompton inside and start locking it outside. I'm giving some piece of advice to those who, for whatever reason, lock their Bromptons outside.
i wouldnt necessarily launch into folding it up when locking it. As soon as people see a folded bike they could easily realise its a brompton and possibly very expensive. Yes you can tell a brompton from any angle but the fold is distinctive.
Hi again Victor, I wondered if you had heard anything from GoRack about the availability of their M2? I joined the list to be informed of availability and William Ho of GoRack emailed that the estimate was early November. I've heard nothing - now 2 months later and wondered if you'd heard anything? Best wishes, Robert ps I had the local Brompton bike shop do your modification to a Titanium kick stand and yep, it has increased stability and works well - thanks for the tip video! Note you need the right drill bit for Ti. Also unscrewing the hex screw exposed what appeared to be a tiny metal spring that may have acted to help keep the screw tight since it seemed to follow the threads and was way too flimsy to act as any kind of sprng. Anyway, they added a washer on the outside to help stabilize it all after this little spring got bashed up during removal.
There is only one tip with a Brompton. And it is much more necessary than the one given in this video: You never lock a Brompton anywhere. You would not leave your luggage out of sight when travelling. The same with a Brompton. 15 years and on my third Brompton Black Edition, I have learnt my lesson.
Ive had three bikes stolen in NYC i hunted one down and found it being used for deliveries at a deli! Called the cops and got it back but the PD did not arrest anyone they said there would be too much paperwork,Until they increase the penalties for bike theft it will never stop!
It'd have been so cool if you had actually mentioned how you did lock yours the times you said you had to leave it outside. You mentioned you don't advice locking it totally folded, so how was your way?
If you need to lock the Brompton regularly, maybe get the Brompton bag to put the bike in. Nobody is going to argue with you bringing luggage into a building :)
I'd say if you have to lock the Brompton regularly (like every single day), you should definitely look for another bike, maybe even a cheaper folding bike just for those rides.
unfortunately any mechanical lock can be picked if you have the know how. i started to notice quite a number of years ago the brand of bike lock seen in this video being marketed as high security level bike lock but it was being picked often and left in place with no bike remaining, all over the place. i suppose the claim it was considered to be a high security level lock only presented a small challenge for experienced lock pickers who could overcome one in a matter of only seconds. typical most mechanical locks can be picked in seconds once you have learnt the correct way to pick different locks. people often pick noses within the seconds when no one is looking and within that same amount of time it takes to pick a nose bike locks have been picked a 1000 times all across the globe in that one few short seconds of time it takes to nose pick lol.
You are so much more helpful than the salesperson in my local Brompton junction, who tried to shut me down when I asked him for tips on locking the bike when I have to do it.
Insurance + approved lock + a picture every time you lock your bike to make claiming easier is my way to go. Or the budget-friendly way of leaving a note asking thives to leave the broken Kryptonite on the scene so you can get Kryptonite to reimburse you.
Someone tried to steal mine a few years ago in the centre of Dudley,unfortunately he got a bit of a punch in the mouth and was still unconscious when I rode away (shame)
What a shame, hope your hand wasn’t scratched by his teeth.
I know this video is over a year old but here's a couple of lesser known top tips that might be useful:
1)Leave your bike in a high gear. It makes it more difficult to pedal away quickly.
2)Spin your seat post around backwards. Again it makes riding it off quickly more difficult.
3)Use several different types of locks. A thief is unlikely to carry a bunch of different tools, an angle grinder for example is good for cutting shackle locks but not so good for cables.
4)Try to secure your bike in an awkward, high up position. Tools like bolt cutters are much more difficult to use above your head because you can't use your body weight as leverage.
👍
It would be comically hilarious to use a tree to lock your bike
I think in the last year I have locked my Brompton outside my destination once (Uni campus dentist, next to their CCTV).
I have a shoulder-bag for the buses, bars and restaurants who don't like to see a folding bike.
But the last configuration is: Look at me, I'm Brompton - I'm very expensive.
Absolutely. Haha it's good to see that it's doable, but as I say in the video, I wouldn't recommend doing this on the streets.
Yeah better to get a dahon instead.
Haha, that is really the problem. Might be safer in the first configuration. Another idea is to add a second lock, just to make it a little more difficult for a would-be thief.
Never feel peaceful to leave it outside whatrver the method.... 😅
This channel is a real gift. Useful, thoughtful (and often ingenious) info, well produced and presented enthusiastically. Thanks for making these excellent videos.
Tips on locking your Brompton outside:
1. You don't lock it outside
True. The good Brompton dealers all tell you this during the instructional demo. Never leave outside, don’t leave in bad weather, always clean if gets wet.
Noo don't do it !!!
After getting the brompton cover, I’ve been able to avoid the situation in places that gave me a hard time about my brompton which is rare.
I've locked my Brompton outside in the UK for about 15 years with no problems. Is it different in the US?
@@StimParavane would u mind if i ask what lock do use for your brompton . Im really scared locking it outside but i usually go shopping (morrisons) near work . When i had my cheaper bike i always locked it outside that shop and no problem at all. But now with my brompton im kinda hesitant. Im planning to take off the brompton sticker just to not call the attention of people that “hey im brompton!!” Although the colour is really screaming that it’s a brompton😂😂 i got the b75 and im from uk as well . Thank you
I received my 2020 Brompton electric a few weeks ago and also had a question about locking outside. It appears keeping the bike with me at all times is the way to go, but thank you for the very informative video. Thanks, Chris
Absolutely, keep it with you whenever possible!
That's why you get a folding bike
NEVER leave you beloved Brommie locked outside. There's also vandals to consider as well as thieves.
Thankyou yes l fold the bike when l lock my Brompton. Only when l visit a public toilet. People laugh at me, because l do have a disability key, so where possible l wheel the bike into the cubicle. I’ve noticed in some places, that people are monitoring my bike. (Two people were discussing its value and possibly were hoping to steal it, as they hung around the public toilet area and decided to move away when l took the bike inside the cubicle. ) Best wishes to you and all the viewers. ☺️🌈👌
It’s good that you provide very basic instructions. Viewers might be new to riding a Brompton, or to cycling, even. And starting with the basics is brilliant. 😀
Recent sub, love your channel. I use Pitlock (German company) for my wheel skewer locks, seatpost binder and also Hexlox on all my allen key bolts (saddle rails, stem, oury slip on grips, folding mirror, etc). Your second example of lock through frame & wheel would be better imo with a second u-lock connecting both wheels. I always use two u-locks and bikes survived SF/Oakland, LA, NYC and Montreal from theft. My bike is just a really pain in the ass to steal anything. I have the same saddle -- people would def cut the cable just to pinch it.
I only did it twice and I never saw anyone locking their Brompton outside here 🙂 Thanks for the tips though. 👍🏼
I lock my brompton entirely folded with the lock going through both wheels and frame and then the bike post too with the extra long New York kryptonite M18.
Good tips. A friend of mine had his electric Brompton stolen (he had locked it using the most expensive kryptonite u lock) it was gone within the hour. Unless I was going inside somewhere for less than 5 mins or my bike was constantly in view I would never risk locking it outside.
I feel sorry for him! Unfortunately bike theft is very common, specially in countries with a lot of biking infrastructure. Nothing can stop a bike thief with an electric angle grinder.
Everyday Cycling I agree. I’m in London UK. This Brompton theft was videoed in broad daylight outside a school I sometimes work at. Shocking.
ruclips.net/video/iLQFjXR_ggc/видео.html
Ps seems much more civilised where you are 😀
@@jacc88888 a lot of people here in Atlanta don't even know folding bikes exist... Seriously.
Everyday Cycling maybe that’s a good thing!
Did he have it insured with kryptonite's protection? Was he refunded?
One of the Brompton's greatest features is the fact that you can fold it up and bring it with you, while simultaneously raising your middle finger to bike thieves. No way l'm locking it up. It goes with me, or I go home with it.
Good thinking.
But there are places that you just cannot take it with you. For examples, most American campus, most Chinese subways, some American parks, and the gyms I go to which have bike rooms but before security check in so everybody could go in to grab it.😅
@@YT-ob8wzno worriers in China because bike thief is low as Japan, so u can lock it outside in China.
Good post but I would never leave my Bromie. If it is not allowed I I don't go in. Regards
Thanks Paul, I agree with your attitude, and I sometimes do the same thing. But I have to admit I have locked it up outside a few times...
Yeah places that don’t let you are usually craphole anyways so no big deal.
Best strategy. I learned this to my cost. The first and only time I had to leave it outside, locked up with a Kryptonite New York D lock out side London University in Malet Street, central London, it was stolen. Underneath a CCTV camera as well. Kryptonite D locks are CRAP!!!!
I've locked my Brompton outside in the UK for about 15 years with no problems. Is it different in the US?
@@EverydayCycling Why did you lock the Bromie?
you deserve more subsribers. great video, content, audio and tips! cheers
Thank you Reimon, it really means a lot!
When it comes to bike locking, it doesn't have to be perfect, just obviously harder than the lock the other guy is using. If there's a place you park often, try leaving a good locking system there. When I was doing a lot of research at a university library, I had a very thick chain and sturdy lock in their under-cover bike storage area. Leaving it there made sense. It was far too heavy to carry about with me. The advantage of a chain is that you can quickly loop it through all the major elements of your bike.
Dutch lady told me to triple lock it. Chain and D lock with two different brands. But still haven't locked mine outside yet.
I'd never leave my Brompton outside - far too valuable. I'd cycle back home. I only use ABUS locks. Brooks saddles are valuable and a thief would definitely go to the trouble of stealing one.
I wanna know what situation he would be unable to bring it with him.
IDaniel I use an ABUS lock too, it was included when I bought my bike. Seems to be very solid to me.
Check 'Lockpicking Lawyer' and his RUclips videos on Kryptonite and ABUS locks .... they're not safe.
Abus Bordo 6000 Alarm ❤️
@@prw56 I find it pretty annoying to have to unfold and wheel the Brompton around clothes shops, especially in a shopping centre etc. I normally just use another bike if planning to do this, but I sometimes feel it's worth me getting insurance for the Brompton for peace of mind.
Thank you for this video! I sometimes avoid riding my Brompton because I'm not sure where to lock it, in the case where some establishments won't let me bring it in. The tips and techniques are valuable!
Glad it helped!
Try taking it in with you, that is the major point of the Brampton i cant think of any establishment that would refuse to let you bring it in, you can even put it in its carry cover and they wont even know you have a cycle in it.
@@yell50 where do you reside? In my country I couldn't even take my Brompton into a nursing home filled with wheelchairs the same size as my bike.
Seeing the Brampton locked up out side is enough to make fans just burst into tears
And if the Brampton appreciation society found out they put together a rescue squad
it would become a major news story in your area
it is very rare to see a Brampton locked up outside. Thanks for sharing your thoughts..
(Laugh)
A Brompton is a $1500+ investment. I would find a way to sneak it in or just go to another place (cafe, store, restaurant) that's Brompton-friendly.
Absolutely, that's one way to approach it!
And a Brompton Electric is $3500.
I would bring it in with me even if I was explicitly told I couldn't. If confronted, I'd just tell them how much the bike is worth, and I'd expect they'd understand.
One thing you could do is put a tracker in the bike, put it under the saddle or somewhere very well hidden, that way is if the bike is stolen you can track it and get it back with the police.
The apple trackers are really cheap and excellent for this.
Good job man, really enjoy your content. Just bought my first Brompton which is a M6L Raw Lacquer -- arriving tomorrow so trying to get up to speed how to use the bike, tips and tricks. You do a fab job explaining everything I'm thinking about for my first couple of months. Thanks! From London.
Welcome aboard! It must have arrived by now. What are your initial impressions? I'm sure you'll love it!
Many thanks from Germany/Sweden for your great Brompton Tips and Tricks!
What I used to do on my racing bike was detach the front wheel and take it with me in the shop, it’s amazing how doing that totally prevents bike theft…
Very sensible approach - and what I took away is use the locks and cables to create extra deterrent and if you can, keep the bike with you.
When I have been forced to lock my Brompton I have used the second method you demonstrated. There's been a few places where I have not been allowed to bring it in: a few department stores, some movie theaters, and when I go swimming to my local sporting club and I cannot attend to the bike, I leave it in the parking lot. Fortunately, there's a guard there, and besides locking it, I ask him kindly to keep an eye on it.
Things like anti-theft skewers or even putting a little magnet in the seatpost bolt to make it hard to get a wrench in there also help. I've also taken to putting an ugly saddle cover over my saddles to make the bike look cheaper. Never had a single noticeable theft attempt.
Of course locking a bike in a very visible and high traffic area also helps.
I like the magnet idea! How do you put one in the seatpost?
Magnet in seatpost bolt doesn’t work. If they have the hex to remove the screw, it takes the magnet out. As if it wasn’t there. I just tried since it seemed a good idea and unfortunately if they don’t have the hex key the are not after your saddle but perhaps your entire bike.
Hanging the lock on the handlebar makes sense. An easy way to stop it swinging and knocking is to just tie the lower end to the steering upright - use any piece of string or a lace from a discarded pair of shoes.
I suggest if you lock it folded, would help to cover it with some kind of covering. Just to add another layer of prevention.
That's great advice! When I locked it folded is usually indoors somewhere. On the streets I wouldn't do it...
I bought the poncho that goes over it. Hangs off the back of the seat
Thieves be like "I wonder what's in there".
Another idea
(I didn't test because i own a brompton since only one week) :
Removing the screw of the frame will make impossible for anyone to ride the bike... The only solution is to hold it while walking, and it can gives time to identify the theft...
The title should be "tips on locking your Brompton outside" 1. DON'T! 2. DON'T 3. Always take it with you.
My first Brompton was stolen in central London. I used a Kryptonite New York D lock just like yours to secure it in a bike rack under a CCTV camera. This bike D lock was as good as cheese. Luckily my house insurance paid quickly for a replacement Brompton which I now do not let out of my sight when riding it away from home. I now also use Abus Granite D-locks instead. I wouldn't touch Kryptonite locks with a barge pole, certainly not lock up any of my bike(s) with them because Kryptonite locks are rubbish.
I may agree with you. Thanks for posting. I had an incident also.
I use a mixture of both Abus and Kryptonite. Much bigger Kryptonite that what he used here. The extra weight doesn't bother me as electric. A Dutch woman told me to triple lock any bike as a deterrent. With a Brompton, I'd say put as many locks on it as possible! I haven't locked it outside yet but I have locked it indoors. Yes that's right bikes get stolen from work places that you think are secure but aren't really.
I use a good quality D lock too when I have to leave the bike outside. If riding without a bag, then I lay it on the rear rack, as the locking bar part of the lock fits in the 'niche' at the front of the rack. It can then be held in place using the 2 elastic straps, thereby saving the need to have a lock swinging abut when riding! Cheers.
The attraction of a Brompton to thieves might be lessened by creating a plastic tube that snaps over the "Brompton" label on the frame, replacing it with a name that sounds like a cheap Chinese/Walmart ripoff. It wouldn't work with the more bike savvy thieves but it might help with the stupider ones.
“stupider ones” - Love it.
Or alternatively replacing it with the same or same-ish-looking name, like a real ripoff would
@@888SpinR I wouldn't mind a "Prompton" sticker myself.
Love how there are two KLR650s locked to those racks... Seriously a good moto commuter!
Cablelocks can easily be cut with simple pliers. I can also recommend OnGuard-locks, ABUS may be secure, but they don't allow women in leading positions for religious reasons, keep that in mind.
I dangle my U-lock on the handlebars, and there have been enough times where it would jump up and out of place, so now I use a garden wire (wire wrapped in silicone or some kind of rubber) that I wrapped around my front basket (would be head tube, in your case), and the other end I secure around the shaft of the lock.
My Brompton will be arriving on the 21st! Thank you so much for this informative video.
Heeey, I'm excited to hear that!! Which model did you go for, colors, everything? Let me know!
@@EverydayCycling It's the B75. Very basic, though I've included some upgrades like the rack set, folding pedal, and mudguards. I'm really excited🙂
@@mattbalajadia I'm so curious about the B75. To my understanding it's just the geometry that is a bit older, but it has all the same features as the more expensive ones. You're gonna love it!
Matt Balajadia congratulations!
Matt Balajadia please let me know what you think of your B75 when you get it,I have been thinking of getting one myself but still saving the pennies at the moment 😉
Very informative and handy tips i have just purchased a foldable bike, so am just getting myself all up to speed with tips and the best ways to lock my bike. I will be subscribing to your channel. Happy riding ❤
Good video. I’ve been doing exactly ‘Method 2 ‘ for the last 2 years on my M3L at various places in London. I use a Kryptonite New Yorker and a coiled cable lock for the seat post. I never leave the Brompton locked outside for more than 2-3 hours though. An obviously in a place where there’s lots of footfall if possible
Thanks for sharing your experience! I lock the same way most of the times, and don't leave it for more than 2h either.
Looking to buy a Brompton here in the UK and wondering if you still leave it locked occasionally in London?
@@allanb2906 Yeap I do, mostly Central London in places with high footfall. Again, never for than 2-3 hours. My Brompton is quite old now. If I had a newer or Electric one I'd consider buying a Litelok X1 which is resistant to angle grinders
@Najeebster Thanks. Yes I've been watching a few review videos of the X1/X3 and they look like that's the way to go if you need to leave unattended for the shortest of times. Thanks again for your reply.
after locking it up like the way you showed, wrap the entire bike with a regular black garbage bag and most people probably wouldn't even realize there's a bike
Some notes about U-locks:
The one advantage of Kryptonite is their Theft Protection Plan. For just $35 for 5 years they will reimburse you if your bike is stolen for the base price (not accessories or upgrades) of the bike if you supply a police report and a picture of the broken lock. No other lock maker offers this AFIAK.
u-locks up to 14mm can be defeated by bolt cutters and all locks (with the caveated possible exception of the lifelok) can be cut by angle grinders in a minute or less. this includes 16mm locks like the Kryptonite New York and 18mm Foggetaboutit.
Ive never ridden a Brompton, in fact I dont even ride a bike regularly, but this is probably the 4th video of yours ive watched. Keep it up!
Thanks for sticking around, then!
my best tip : never leave your bike unattended , a cordless grinder can go through these locks in under a minute, GUARANTEED YOU WILL LOSE YOUR BIKE it’s just a matter of time , forget even owning a lock keep your bike with you at all times
For my travel, Lightweight Brompton, I have bought some different wire cables to bring. Just entering a store, I hopefully won't need that much, but I have also a double loop, thick wire, for a little more heavy jobs, both locking wheels, frame and a nearby pole! But don't leave it outside, as it is double the price of an ordinary bike.
Believe you me they WILL definitely cut a cable to steal a saddle ESPECIALLY if it's a Brooks , best to just take the seat post with you.
Great video. Please have a look at the Abus Bordo 6000 Alarm. It's very versatile, secure and convenient!
Yeah I'll look up or call ahead to see if i can bring in my brompton in with me if im not sure cause i would never want to leave it lock outside. Their are new ways to break the locks and with many people around thiefs will still go for it.
That's a good strategy! Do they typically know what a Brompton is?
I have the same lock - we call then D locks in the UK! I have the extending seat post and tend to take my seat and short extension with me on the very rare times I leave my bike.
I would recommend Litelock - have a look at the RUclips videos of people trying to saw through it. Takes the longest of the bunch.
I use this in conjunction with the Litelock silver ‘O’ lock around the front wheel and frame, d lock securing back wheel and frame. I don’t have a brompton, just trust issues.
I have a great system for locking my brompton outside; remembering that thieves carry angle grinders and brompton's are No 1 on their shopping list, it's something that never happens.
Excellent stuff, thank you. I have a Pitlock on the front wheel (with a Schmitt SON generator), so I folded the rear wheel and passed an Abus folding lock through the rear wheel and the rack/object it was tied to; it is too tight to remove the wheel and walk away with the frame & the rest of the bike. The saddle (Brookls B17Special) is unaccounted for, of course; so, after a few times, I decided never to lock it outside. (Brompton M6R Ti 2012)
Unless you are living in a Brompton hub like London or Barcelona, where Bromptons are easy to sell, you are most likely overdoing it. In most cities Bromptons will just go unnoticed by thieves. Anyway, great tips!
TAKE THE SEAT WITH YOU!
Im here again because I when I'm out and about I always struggle to go and use public toilets. Folding it and bringing it with me just to use the urinal for 2mins tops is just too much hassle.
yeah good advice. Mine is 'DON'T!'
If you put the u lock in your backpack you won't notice the weight at all as its on your back. Surprised you didn't know this?
Good product and appears well made. Easy to use.
Given the scarcity and value of Bromptons at the moment, I would not take the risk of leaving that bike unattended, ever. This is a bike a thief would work very hard to steal.
Bonjour, toujours content de voir tes vidéos l ami, toujours des bon trucs et bon conseil 🙂Mon brompton,je ne l attacherai jamais,car les Brompton sont trop convoité par les voleurs......
Just take it inside, I was not allowed to enter a park with my bike, and they told me keep your brompton outside, so I just left and enjoyed biking in that city rather than getting into that park.
This is my main concern for buying a Brompton. I don't need it to commute to work but I would love to have a bike that's easy to take on the train and then ride to go visit castles and nature parks that are usually only accessible by car. However I can't take the bike with me into historical buildings so I would have to lock it outside. Considering how expensive they are, it would be just aweful if it got stolen. I'm not sure I if the convenience if offers outways the financial risk.
Hi Victor, thanks for this super helpful video! I'm in the market for a Brompton, and after watching this video I was wondering if you could tell me some examples of those times you absolutely had to lock up the bike outside? Thanks!!
Absolutely! Places that have asked me to leave the bike outside are a bank, a movie theater, a health centers and a museum. I've taken it into banks, movie theaters and health centers before though, so it's not a hard rule. Really depends on the security personnel.
ramenguy never go to places that insist you leave the bicycle outside. In the UK ive never been turned away with a folded Brompton
@@bsms254 What do you do in places like clothes shops or smaller shops?
Another brilliant video! I very rarely lock my B in town but I have two LiteLok Silver Secure locks which can be used singly or together to form a very long loop or two interlocking loops. I use them in rural areas to lock to trees or solid gate posts. Not as secure as the NY U-lock but has more opportunities for use.
That is true! U-locks can be quite limited in the amount of options to lock them to!
Of course the question is why would you want to lock your Brompton if locking it takes more time than folding it. I would probably just carry some kind of nice looking bag where I can zip my bike and cary inside pretty much anything without revealing what's inside (nobody will think it is a bike!)
In my country Indonesia, the bike price is $10.000 right now for brompton explorer series
Great stuff. One other thing... get some *insurance*... the two bikes I had stolen... one was from my closet in
my bedroom, and the other was from my cubicle at work... so... Also, try not to get so attached to your bikes... this can be hard, but unless you're going to keep it with you at all times, there's no guarantees... Bromptons rule! ;-)
At home my renters insurance covers personal belongings, and at work I keep it locked under my desk (not with a u-lock haha, just a simple cable lock and padlock). Sorry to hear you got two bikes stolen!
I have bike insurance... Because London. High possibility that someone actually mugs me while I'm riding her. Hard to get into my flat/apartment/home. Three secure doors and window locks on the first floor. Been here 5 years no break ins. The other thing is I don't have a set routine so it's hard to identify when I will be home. As for work... Brontë(yes that's her name) gets triple locked with Abus and Kryptonite at my workplace inside! If my locker was bigger, I would put her in there too!
Hey you should make a complete separate video showing where you can fit Brompton when folded like showing how versatile it is. For example in between your legs when on the bus, underneath a desk, back trunk of your car, inside your car, closet, on a plane, etc..
Carry it - it is why we bought Bromptons 😀
Just got my Brompton today in the nyc store. Peter, who does demonstration videos for Brompton I believe he is the media manager assisted me! I had the cute smart guy from RUclips! Everyone is great there. I love your videos and I told everyone about your channel. the technician was impressed. I had to get a seat cover gel or foam Not a fan of the seat comfort. Other than that I was zipping along. I did have intermittent battery issues. We’ll see .the button wasn’t responsive. Getting used to folding. Tricky but I’ll get it. Come to nyc!
Peter is a Brompton legend!
@@EverydayCycling Indeed !
best lock for a brompton is a security guard
No. A big hungry dog is better.
There ought to be an ear pearcing lock siren
I can't risking leaving my 4K $$ bike unattended without that. I think is the best theft deterrent
I usually connect a brick of C4 and electric shock spikes to my bike. The only downside is if the C4 goes off the bike will be damaged. I might replace the C4 with poison gas or a good lock.
I am trying to hope you are joking!
I only lock my bike inside the office or at home that way it isn't super easy to roll off with if there's an uninvited guest
But the front wheel with a motor would still be vulnerable. BTW, There are demos on RUclips showing an angle grinder cutting through the kryptonite locks in 15 sec! The grinder is now the bike thieves' implement of choice. I won't go in any place these days if they won't let me take the Brommie inside. That's why I got it in the first place.
With that extended seat post, you can just remove the nice brooks saddle. Take it with you inside better safe then sorry.
I'm lazy to remove the "extension seatpost" because I have a second dynamo-powered rear light near the saddle and the cable for that one runs inside the seatpost assembly. I have a video on the best three upgrades I did on my Brompton that shows that a little bit. So it's kind of inconvenient to remove the saddle as I have to unplug everything and then run the cable again through the seatpost and plug it back in... so what I do on the few times I lock my Brompton outside is just use the cable lock for the saddle.
Oh and the pedals.
And the leather grips, pump, tools, lights and front fork.
@@whazzat8015 I think he just said seatpost.
@@daveadriffield7296 Then you have never had anything stolen off your bike
Don’t lock your Brompton outside or out of your sight, you will be regret otherwise.
Poke holes through the Brompton bicycle cover to put the Kryptonite Lock through. That way the bike is covered.
This might be minor but would render the bike uselss if stolen. Remove the 2 hinge screw bolts and keep it with you. in case someone cuts the lock., they would have to carry it. they can't unfold and keep the shape... they will probably just dump it once they realize it is useless....
First Rule of Locking your Brompton Outside: You don't do it. *Brad Pitt voice*
I love your videos! Really helpful info. Thank you!
Good work on the videos.... very useful and well made
I never rode my Specialised Hard Rock mountain bike anywhere that it couldn't come inside with me because of the theft and vandalism risks were just too great.
Likewise with a Brompton, which is specifically designed to enable it to accompany it's rider inside buildings, vehicles, etc.
I cannot imagine why one would leave their Brompton outside with the virtual guarantee of theft or vandalism.
Absolutely, I'm not telling you to stop taking your Brompton inside and start locking it outside. I'm giving some piece of advice to those who, for whatever reason, lock their Bromptons outside.
i wouldnt necessarily launch into folding it up when locking it. As soon as people see a folded bike they could easily realise its a brompton and possibly very expensive. Yes you can tell a brompton from any angle but the fold is distinctive.
tips on locking your Brompton outside... DON'T!
11 years ownership. Never once locked outside. Fits under any table. No need to ever leave it outside!
Thanks so much for all the tips you show. Question: what is the size of the Kryptonite U that you use in this video?
Great video Victor. Thanks
Hi again Victor, I wondered if you had heard anything from GoRack about the availability of their M2? I joined the list to be informed of availability and William Ho of GoRack emailed that the estimate was early November. I've heard nothing - now 2 months later and wondered if you'd heard anything? Best wishes, Robert
ps I had the local Brompton bike shop do your modification to a Titanium kick stand and yep, it has increased stability and works well - thanks for the tip video! Note you need the right drill bit for Ti. Also unscrewing the hex screw exposed what appeared to be a tiny metal spring that may have acted to help keep the screw tight since it seemed to follow the threads and was way too flimsy to act as any kind of sprng. Anyway, they added a washer on the outside to help stabilize it all after this little spring got bashed up during removal.
There is only one tip with a Brompton.
And it is much more necessary than the one given in this video:
You never lock a Brompton anywhere.
You would not leave your luggage out of sight when travelling.
The same with a Brompton.
15 years and on my third Brompton Black Edition, I have learnt my lesson.
Did you get yours stolen?
What a pathetic world and time we are living in that we need to lock a bicycle
Agreed. =/
Ive had three bikes stolen in NYC i hunted one down and found it being used for deliveries at a deli! Called the cops and got it back but the PD did not arrest anyone they said there would be too much paperwork,Until they increase the penalties for bike theft it will never stop!
You have had to lock bicycles forever. It was a real problem more than 40 years ago, and I’m sure it was still a problem 80 years ago.
Yes, bike theft is common in big cities.
Thieves steal things that are worth much less than a bike.
Any U lock can be broken / split apart by a small car hydraulic jack. I am talking from experience here. Carry them always!!
ruclips.net/video/jXoS_HB1I3o/видео.html
It'd have been so cool if you had actually mentioned how you did lock yours the times you said you had to leave it outside. You mentioned you don't advice locking it totally folded, so how was your way?
Best advice is to checkout the LockPickingLawyer's channel before you purchase a bike lock.
If you need to lock the Brompton regularly, maybe get the Brompton bag to put the bike in. Nobody is going to argue with you bringing luggage into a building :)
I'd say if you have to lock the Brompton regularly (like every single day), you should definitely look for another bike, maybe even a cheaper folding bike just for those rides.
unfortunately any mechanical lock can be picked if you have the know how. i started to notice quite a number of years ago the brand of bike lock seen in this video being marketed as high security level bike lock but it was being picked often and left in place with no bike remaining, all over the place.
i suppose the claim it was considered to be a high security level lock only presented a small challenge for experienced lock pickers who could overcome one in a matter of only seconds. typical most mechanical locks can be picked in seconds once you have learnt the correct way to pick different locks. people often pick noses within the seconds when no one is looking and within that same amount of time it takes to pick a nose bike locks have been picked a 1000 times all across the globe in that one few short seconds of time it takes to nose pick lol.
Thanks so much - gotta have a back up!