Bell U-Lock didn't keep my bike from getting taken
By Dave on
I was ready and prepared to give a good review to my Bell brand bicycle U-Lock tonight... except this was also the night my bike got jacked.
Hmmmmm....
I felt confident that the Bell U-Lock would provide adequate locking power to me. It is a better choice than a cable lock, hands down, and it was fairly inexpensive. It also has a good locking mechanism that wouldn't budge from the times I had pulled on it to ensure it was on securely.
What I didn't know is that even with a special lock key, apparently this kind of lock could easily be picked. Massive bummer!
Again, this is supposed to be better than a cable lock, but I guess even a lock like this can be manipulated to unlock. The tricky thing is they re-locked the lock after they unhooked it to steal my bike.
I felt more secure before this incident happened, and I am not sure what to tell you about this kind of bike lock for the future.
However, the pluses for this bike lock are that the average criminal can't get through it with a metal cutter or cable cutter. I guess, though, it still didn't get the job done. That's why I need to give a negative outlook on buying this kind of lock.
However, I suppose this is the best you can get, and some municipalities will hand them out for free to you. If you have nothing to lock your bike with or are on a budget, it's better than nothing.
However, I am surprised and impressed it did not do its job correctly. Demerits reflected in the scores I've handed out.
I used to use a standard Masterlock padlock and steel chain for my bikes, and they were never stolen. I used to pick through the "bike locks" in no time just as a kid, not even as a professional. Sorry to hear your bike was stolen.
Oh man! I am sorry to hear that your bike was jacked! My son is wanting a bike to get around himself, with gas prices what they are he is considering it over a license, however theft is at the top of his mind... and he doesn't want to get stranded....
Hey. Just wanted to tell you that my StepDad had gotten a bike lock from the sports store that offered a like $200 warranty like if your bike was stolen you could get $200 for a new one. I think the lock was like $25 so its worth it.
Sorry to hear your bike was stolen, but this was good information, this is the type of lock I have always used and very had a problem, but now I know they can be picked I will be more cautions.
Where there is a will... I believe most crooks are VERY willful! Sorry about the loss. Thanks for the warning! Good write.