How to pick a bike lock? You just got a new bike and you want to make sure it’s secure, but you’re not sure how to pick the right lock.
A lot of people think that any old lock will do, but that’s not the case. If you don’t have a good bike lock, your bike can be stolen in seconds.
Josh Quigley has created this guide to show you how to pick the best bike lock for your needs. We’ll walk you through the different types of locks available and help you choose the perfect one for your needs.
How to pick a bike lock?
Types of bike locks
Before picking a lock, it is important to know what kind of lock you are dealing with. There are three main types of bicycle locks:
U-Locks
U-locks (also called D-locks) are the most common type of bicycle lock. They consist of a thick metal bar that is locked in place with a crossbar. U-locks are very strong and difficult to break, but they can be picked if you have the right tools.
Chain Locks
Chain locks are made up of a series of metal links that are held together by a locking mechanism. Chain locks are not as strong as U-locks, but they are more flexible, which makes them harder to pick.
Cable Locks
Cable locks are made of a thin steel cable that is wrapped around the frame and wheels of the bicycle. Cable locks are the least secure type of lock, but they are also the easiest to pick.
Tubular Lock
Also known as a circle pin tumbler lock, the tubular lock is often used on higher-end bicycles. Tubular locks are very difficult to pick, but they can be defeated with the right tools and a little bit of patience.
Combination Bike Lock
A combination bike lock is a type of U-lock that uses a combination instead of a key to open it. Combination locks are more secure than traditional U-locks, but they can be picked if you know the right techniques.
Different methods to pick a Bike Lock
Utilize a Lock Pick
To pick a lock, you’ll need a few tools: a lock pick, a tension wrench, and a light. A lock pick is a thin piece of metal with a hooked end that is used to manipulate the pins in a lock. A tension wrench is a small L-shaped tool that is used to apply torque to the lock. And a light is used to see the inner workings of the lock.
Start by inserting the tension wrench into the bottom of the keyway and applying pressure to the handle. This will hold the pins in place while you use the pick to Manipulate the top pins. Insert the pick into the keyway and feel for the pins. Once you’ve found them, gently push each pin up until it reaches the shear line.
Once all of the pins are in the correct position, the lock will open.
Unlock with a Bump Key
A bump key is a specially cut key that can be used to open any lock that uses the same type of keyway. To use a bump key, insert the key into the keyway and tap it with a hammer. This will cause the pins to align and the lock will open.
Pick with A Lock Bypass Tool
How to pick bike lock? A lock bypass tool is a small piece of metal that is inserted into the keyway to bypass the locking mechanism. Lock bypass tools are very easy to use and can be used to open most types of bicycle locks.
Make use of a Plastic Pen or BIC/Biro Style Pen
Simply remove lid and the ink tube from your Bic pen. Next, unscrew the tip of the pen until you can see the spring inside. Once you have located the spring, pull it out and discard it. Now, take your pen apart so that you have two pieces: the barrel and the ink tube. The ink tube will be used as a pick, while the barrel will be used as a tension wrench.
To use your lock picking tools, insert the pick into the keyway and apply pressure to the pins. At the same time, use the tension wrench to apply pressure to the bottom of the keyway. This will cause the pins to align and the lock will open.
Use a Shim to open the lock without keys
To make your shim, you’ll need an empty fizzy drinks can. Cut the can into strips that are about 3mm wide and 10cm long. Once you have your strips of aluminum, bend them into “U” shapes.
To use your shim, insert it into the keyway and apply pressure to the pins. At the same time, use the tension wrench to apply pressure to the bottom of the keyway. This will cause the pins to align and the lock will open.
Use a Locksmith
If you don’t have the time or patience to pick a lock yourself, you can always hire a locksmith. A locksmith will be able to open any type of lock, no matter how difficult it is to pick.
Take your bike to a local bike shop
If you’re still having trouble picking your lock, you can always take it to a local bike shop. Most bike shops have experienced staff who can help you pick any type of bike lock.
Cut the bike lock off yourself
If you’re really in a bind, you can always cut the lock off yourself. This will damage your bicycle, but it will allow you to get it unlocked and on your way.
So, how to open a bike lock by force?
How to open a bike lock by force?
How to unlock the bike lock? The best way to open a bike lock is by using a lock pick. However, if you don’t have a lock pick, you can use a bump key or a bypass tool. You can also use a shim to bypass the locking mechanism. If you’re really in a bind, you can always cut the lock off yourself.
F.A.Q How to pick a bike lock?
How do you pick a bike lock without a key?
The best way to open a bike lock is by using a lock pick. However, if you don’t have a lock pick, you can use a bump key or a bypass tool. You can also use a shim to bypass the locking mechanism. If you’re really in a bind, you can always cut the lock off yourself.
How do I pick a bike lock with a paperclip?
Are bike locks easy to pick?
Normally, bike locks are quite easy to pick. However, some higher-end bike locks can be more difficult to pick.
If you’re having difficulty picking your bike lock, you can always take it to a local bike shop or hire a locksmith.
How do you pick a bike lock with a paperclip?
Insert the paperclip into the keyway and apply pressure to the pins. At the same time, use the tension wrench to apply pressure to the bottom of the keyway. This will cause the pins to align and the lock will open.
How do you get into a locked bike?
If you’re locked out of your bike, the best way to get back in is by using a lock pick. However, if you don’t have a lock pick, you can use a bump key or a bypass tool. You can also use a shim to bypass the locking mechanism. If you’re really in a bind, you can always cut the lock off yourself.
Once you’ve picked the lock or cut it off, be sure to replace it with a new one so that this doesn’t happen again in the future!
Conclusion
When looking for a bike lock, it is important to consider what type of protection you need. U-locks provide the most security by far and are difficult to cut through, but they can also be more cumbersome to carry around. Cable locks are lighter and easier to transport, but they can be easily cut with bolt cutters. Always make sure that your lock fits the frame of your bike properly and remember to take your key with you when you leave your bicycle! Thanks for reading and we hope this article has helped you choose the right bike lock for your needs. Visit us on bigbuddybike.com for more tips on cycling safety and security.
