Bicycle Locks
July 23, 2025
Bicycle security advice from our Locksmiths
This week we would like to discuss bicycle, motorbike and moped security . A rising number in bicycle use in London also means that thieves have more options on the streets. A lot of bicycles are taken to and from work being locked up outside major London stations and workplaces.
Due to the recent rise in bicycle theft & bicycle prices we thought we would go over the basics for securing your 2 wheeled vehicle no matter where you are.
A - Always secure your Bicycle/ Motorbike to a non removable metal object preferably bolted to the floor or wall. This can include railings, purpose built bars for bike storage, anchor points and very tall poles. Never secure your bike to a low pole or simply place the chain/ lock through the wheels. This will slow a would be thief down, but they can easily lift a £3,000 bicycle onto a moped, or even run off with it.
B - Always secure your bike between the frame of the bike, rear wheel and the bar its being secured to. This will ensure that as much of your bike is secured as possible. Securing the front wheel means a would be thief could easily release the front wheel of your bike and steal the rest. If you have an expensive seat we advise removing this as well, seats can be easily removed by a thief just passing by.
C -Secure your bike using a good lock. This seems obvious but we come across a lot of locks that just don't stand up to the job of securing property that's being left in public. The police advise spending 10% of what you spent on your bike, on the lock. This means if you paid any more than £300 on your bike, you need to spend minimum £30 to keep it safe.
D - When possible always use a D Lock!
We have come across many types and sizes of D-locks and the vast majority of them stand up well to attempted theft. They are usually composed of High grade metals that stand up to attacks with any simple methods. They are also 9/10 designed with a great key-way and anti pick systems that will make it impossible for a random thief to pick.
E - Last but not least, keep a spare key. Whether it be at work or at home, its always best to have a spare key for a moment of emergency. Accidents happen and keys get lost in parks and in pubs, you don't want to be stuck without your favourite means of transportation.
In the event that you ever do, we're on standby to give you a helping hand. Just call our emergency Bicycle locksmith and we will find the fastest way to get you back up and riding.
This is one of the top questions people ask before calling a locksmith. Rekeying what it means Rekeying resets the lock’s internal mechanism, so only new keys work. It’s cheaper and fast. Good for: Lost keys (but lock itself is fine) Moving house (if the existing locks are in good condition) Replacing when it’s better Changing the whole lock is best when: Locks are old or damaged You want stronger security You’re upgrading to smarter or multi-point systems A locksmith will recommend the best option after inspecting your hardware.
People searching for a locksmith often worry about cost before they call. So let’s break it down clearly. Typical locksmith pricing Costs depend on: Whether it’s an emergency call-out The time of day Type of service (e.g., unlock, change lock, install new security lock) Parts required Example ballpark figures Emergency opening (no lock change): £60–£150 Lock change (cylinder replacement): £80–£200+ UPVC multi-point lock repair: £100–£250+ High-security lock fitting: £150–£350+ These are typical ranges a local locksmith will confirm before work starts. Tips to avoid surprises Ask for a firm quote before work Confirm whether VAT is included Check if emergency call-outs cost extra Request parts costs upfront SMS Locksmith gives transparent quotes up front , so you’re never left guessing.
