How to Lock a Bike without a Rack

A sturdy and good quality lock always works wonders. You should consider investing in a D or U lock as they are convenient and reliable, not to forget effective at securing your bike. Begin by finding an immovable, strong attachment rooted to the ground. A pole is an excellent idea. Loop the U lock around the rear wheel rim and turn it around the frame. Secure the lock around the pole to glue the bike. Alternatively, you can secure the front wheel through cable look or a second u lock. The method by Sheldon Brown is one of the best ways to secure your bike when outside. Smaller U locks make it challenging to break in as they are stronger than the bigger U locks. Do not use cable locks as any thief can snip them off using garden scissors. Two U locks are ideal as one secures the back part of the frame and the wheel, and the second one to lock the front. Multiple locking mechanisms also work best. You can get u lock and locking skewers or a cable lock.

Most bikes have quick release wheels, which makes it easier for you to remove the front wheel. It’s an excellent option if you have time. Remove the wheel from its position and tie it to a frame with a cable.

Heavy chains are sturdy and reliable, which makes them a fantastic option to secure your bike when you don’t have a rack. You can opt to use two chains on each wheel to increase security. Remember most thieves may be looking to steal the wheels or seat. Tie down the accessories with a heavy chain and loop through the saddle rails to protect your bike.

You can now find hidden GPS trackers for your bike. Some brands hide their trackers in top caps, seat posts, and LED lights. Other GPS manufacturers out their trackers into the handlebars at an affordable price.

Furthermore, you can find bikes with inbuilt GPS, but these are expensive compared to ordinary bikes. The best part is that you can find a variety to choose from depending on your budget.  

Unfortunately, an isolated place is as dangerous as a crowded area. A spot without people walking around may provide the perfect opportunity for thieves to run away with your bike. Also, overcrowded areas mean nobody will notice when someone is stealing your bike. Always park your bike in an exposed area where people around can see it. A place with a security camera is an excellent spot.

Don’t forget to lock your bike whether it’s in a garage or sitting on a closed balcony. Moreover, you can cover the bike to prevent exposure. Secure garages aren’t always secure as thieves can penetrate through a locked door.

Bikes registries help recover stolen bikes. You can register your bike with a registry and with the police as they may get a head start when your bike gets stolen.

You may be comfortable parking in the same spot daily. However, this could be your undoing as you’re making work easier for criminals. Thieves tend to scout a bike’s position and the time you park for them to attack. Parking at the same place can attract unwanted attention.

Bike thieves work in a team of three, where the first one surveys the area looking for the most accessible bike. The second one comes with the tools to free the bike, but he doesn’t go away with the bike, the third one rides the bike.

Rotate parking spots to prevent thieves from catching on to your routine. Instead, you can opt to park near businesses as they always have working cameras.

Write down the serial number for your bike and email this to yourself. The bottom bracket has the serial number. The information can help you track your bike if it gets stolen. You can also take photos of the bike to help people identify it on the streets.

Merely placing a lock on your bike doesn’t cut it. If you only lock the wheel or the frame, you may need to update your locking mechanism. Locking your wheels alone exposes your frame, which the thief could take advantage. Instead, lock both the wheels and frame.

The same applies to locking the frame alone. Ensure that they are all locked. Also, avoid locking your bike to a post only as the thief can remove the post and steal your ride. Never leave saddle bags and lights. Do not lock up to wooden railings, fences or trees that a thief can easily break to remove the bicycle.

If you plan on parking outside, be sure to look for anchored, secure bike racks. Racks that have a single point of contact are ideal, but they can affect the stability of your bike. Also, check if the place has excellent lighting and visibility. Park in medium or high traffic areas where people can see your bike.

Locking skewers help to clamp quick release wheels to a bike frame. The tool works like a clamp as it runs through the axle. The axle is put into slots at the bottom of the fork to put on a quick release wheel. This action closes the skewer’s clamping, which causes the skewer to grab the fork, thus keeps the wheel in place. Releasing the lever causes the bike wheel to come out. Skewers are a fantastic investment as they not only help when you need to change a flat but also when looking to catch wheel thieves. Sometimes you can lock a seat with a skewer. You can shop around to find one that can lock both your seat and wheels.