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U-locks – Don't Give Thieves a Chance

Bicycles are among the most frequently stolen items in Germany. Just as high-quality bicycles are becoming increasingly popular, more and more bicycle thieves are enjoying these high-tech wonders. When it comes to the security of your own bike, the u-lock, also named as d-lock, is one of the best ways to put a stop to thieves. Even though u-locks are not the lightest of bike locks, they are extremely robust, resistant and secure. Read more

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The U-lock – the Most Secure of All Bike Locks

According to data from the German Insurance Association (GDV), 32 bicycles are stolen every hour in Germany. This is a high figure, which is certainly much higher if you include the number of unreported cases. This makes bicycles one of the most frequently stolen items in Germany. One of the reasons for this is that bicycles are becoming increasingly valuable. Another is that they are far too often inadequately locked or not locked at all. A visit to the library, the supermarket, a café or leaving your bike outside your house or apartment overnight can quickly result in a financial loss and noticeably restrict your freedom of movement from one moment to the next.

A bike lock is therefore the best way to protect your beloved two-wheeler from theft. Alongside the combination lock, cable lock, chain lock and folding lock, the u-lock is the most popular and also the most secure of all bike locks. In principle, a d-lock is a plastic-coated, D-shaped metal shackle. The shape of the d-lock and the high-quality, robust quality construction of a bicycle d-lock are designed to prevent forcing, drilling and prying. A hardened steel shackle up to 18 millimeters thick and a small contact surface also ensure that bike thieves cannot use their cutting tools properly. Due to its shape, this kind of bike lock is often referred to as a D-lock or U-lock.

What Advantages Does a D-lock Offer Over Other Bike Locks?

The d-lock is considered to be the most secure bike lock. The reason for this is the solid construction already described. U-locks are therefore recommended for special feature bikes such as electric bikes or e-mountain bikes. The construction also ensures that u-locks are very robust and wear-resistant. It is therefore well worth investing in an u-lock. Because you will most likely enjoy this locking aid for a very long time.

However, the design of the bike u-lock also has a small disadvantage: compared to other types of bike lock, it is significantly less flexible. The length cannot be adjusted either. The heavy weight also means that it can sometimes be awkward to transport an u-lock. Many cyclists either put it in their backpack or attach it to the frame with a special mount.

Bicycle U-lock – What Models Are Available?

A metal u-lock and a locking mechanism – in principle, all bike D-locks work similarly. The difference between the individual models lies in the detail. There are simple u-locks, but there are also u-locks that combine the functions of a metal shackle and a cable, for example. This allows you to further increase the security of your bike. Some d-locks are also equipped with intelligent functions. For example, there are locking assistants that automatically sound an alarm at a volume of up to 100 dB when they detect suspicious vibrations and movements.

Bicycle d-locks can also be differentiated according to the locking systems used. These are optimized to provide effective theft protection. High-security locking cylinders resist aggressive break-in attempts, while double locking prevents any attempt to steal your bike. In addition to the well-known key and code lock locking systems, there are also smart Bluetooth locking systems that you can open keylessly with your individual iOS or Android device. And there are also differences when it comes to accessories: many manufacturers already supply their u-locks with a suitable frame mount.

An Overview of D-locks

To give you a better overview, we have listed the most common u-lock variants below:

  • Classic D-lock: D-lock with a metal U-shaped/D-shaped shackle; is usually locked using a key and locking cylinder
  • D-lock with code lock: Classic D-lock that is opened and closed using a code lock
  • D-lock-cable combination: Combination of D-lock and cable lock, for more flexibility when locking
  • Intelligent D-lock: D-lock with smart functions such as locking and unlocking via smartphone app or automatic alarm in the event of vibration

Bike U-lock – Purchase Criteria

The overview of the different u-lock variants already shows: When buying a new bike lock, it really depends on what is particularly important to you about your lock. In addition to the security factor, the weight and features of the u-lock are also important.

If you want to park your bike as securely as possible overnight, then a heavier lock may make sense. For situations and trips where you only leave your bike unattended for a short time, on the other hand, there are u-locks in a practical mini format. This allows you to save weight and achieve a successful compromise between mobility, weight and security with such an d-lock.

If you want to invest a little more budget, modern, smart u-locks are an exciting alternative. After all, they are not only innovative, but also very convenient thanks to the simple locking mechanism via app.

Buying D-locks Online – Summary

An u-lock is considered to be very robust and is difficult for bike thieves to open. For this reason, it is particularly popular with bike owners. It is not only resistant to theft attempts, but also to cold, frost and moisture. U-locks, which are considered to be particularly hard to pick, not only give you a good feeling, but also many precious hours of enjoyment with your bike.

Discover a large selection of u-lock models that meet your security and quality requirements in the BIKE24 online shop. It is worth taking a look at renowned brand manufacturers such as Abus, Kryptonite or Trelock, which have stood for security, robustness and reliability for years. However, we also stock other models from other brands. We also stock bike lock accessories such as mounts or adapters to complement your u-lock.