#bicycle security

The Seatylock X LOCK System is a bold attempt to revolutionize bike security. By integrating multiple lock points into the seat post and wheels, it promises to deter even the most determined thieves. While the concept is undeniably clever, the execution presents a mixed bag. If securing your bicycle is the number 1 priority, this combination of lock points makes it significantly more difficult…

Lyra: An innovative bicycle Featuring built-in Lights and GPS

About Lyra Bicycle

Seamlessly integrated lighting and GPS tracking into a premium bike to never lose sight of your bike again. This next generation city bike features 100 integrated high brightness Light Emitting Diodes and the chance to add theft deterring GPS tracking. Designed to increase safety and security both on and off the bike.

Lyra features:

100 high brightness LEDs inside the fork…

bike locks are something i like to obsess over. the issue of securing one's bike (and its accessories) is just the right mixture of challenging, a learning process, application, and options to intrigue me near endlessly. i think i've decided, though, on my ideal situation: an AXA Defender RL (a wheel lock), the beefier of the plug-in chains available for it, and a double-deadbolt u-lock such as the Kryptonite Fahgettaboudit or OnGuard Brute series. altogether that's a weighty combo, but i'd generally leave it to the Defender and it's chain, and only bring along the big heavy in case of overnighting or touring or whathavewe. the frame (or wheel) lock has the advantage of not being forgettable, and the key stays in it until it's locked, and with the relatively sturdy chain i'd feel about as secure as i do with just a u-lock, with the benefit of having both wheels covered. also, i just realized that because the Koobi saddle comes apart to allow interchanging the elastomers which provide suspension, a cable could be actually looped around the rails rather than sent through its own loop, so that the cable could be slightly less exposed... if i put a couple holes in my seatpost, i could even route that cable down to the AXA, which would make it much more aesthetically appealing as well as secure. woo!

that's the tangent, though, which i decided to get outta the way first, cause the real meat of this post is what i came across in the peanut gallery as i finalized these decisions.

Lovely Bicycle expressed an opinion on the wheel lock, there (<--), and in the comments i found:

"Lot's of places make it illegal to posses handcuffs if you aren't an actual law enforcement officer so tread lightly on this one...The local cops where I lived in Pa. for a while immediately went into arm waving, spittle flying code red every time they saw a pair that weren't theirs.

Spindizzy"

w(hy)tf would it be illegal for "civilians" to possess handcuffs? unnecessary control of the tools of control. i suppose i shouldn't be surprised, but still. just... really?

and,

"...distressing acts of random (not theft-oriented) mutilations: slashed tires, magic marker profanity on the frame, dented baskets, and so on. Just for "fun." People are complicated."

- Velouria

Cycles UK are teaming up with the local police and Essex County Council to help raise awareness of bicycle security in the Chelmsford area.

Staff will be on hand down Chelmsford High street to answer technical questions regarding Bicycle safety and security, this includes locks, lights and helmets.

The Police will also be there to answer questions regarding bicycle theft and the council are promoting general bicycle awareness.

There are basic items of security and safety to purchase at special prices on the day.