About Bike Theft >The Problem > Contributing Factors
Type of Lock

Research into motor vehichle theft shows that improved lock security, particularly immobilizers, reduces theft. Whilst ‘integrated’ immobilisers for bikes are uncommon (there are some exceptions) secure locking practices may reduce the vulnerability of parked bikes.

Weak locks are unlikely to deter offenders (cable and coil locks under 10mm are particularly vulnerable), however some of the stronger locks are heavy and cumbersome to carry on a bike, and so it is important to determine if the types of locks used by cyclists are appropriate for the level of risk of theft and other conditions of use they experience.