Whether you like it or not, electric scooters can generate envy and given their price, it is logical to want to protect your property. Even if in most cases the scooter is easily transportable, it is still true that you may have to leave it outsidefor a while.
In these cases, it is better to have an effective electric scooter lock so that your 2 wheels are safe. But of course, not all are equal. So which style to choose and why?
1. Some facts to keep in mind
Before advising you on a particular product, there are a few things you should keep in mind.
First of all, an electric scooter is a product designed to be transportable and some parts of which can be dismantled. It is therefore not difficult for a careless person to succeed in seizing it if necessary. Another important point is that there is no infallible anti-theft device; thieves often have good equipment and know-how.
It should therefore be remembered that most anti-theft devices will have more of a deterrent value and that this type of device is only valid for a short period of time.
If you need to park your scooter for long periods of time on a busy road, consider taking it with you for safety. However, if you need to park your scooter outside, consider securing it to a stable, sturdy point such as a pole or a hoop.
Of course, avoid places with little traffic, which will give opportunists plenty of time to get hold of it, and avoid leaving it outside for a long period of time, such as overnight.
2. The different types of electric scooter locks
There are, of course, various types of locks that are generally used for both electric scooters and bicycles, or electric bikes.
Keeping in mind that electric scooters are much easier to move than bicycles, here are the different types of electric scooter locks you can find on the market.
In order to steal your scooter, people usually prefer to cut the body of the lock with pliers, rather than trying to pick them, which would take longer. However, both options exist, so choose carefully.
Cable (or chain) locks
There are different types of cable locks. Either thin cable locks, thick cable locks, chain locks or so-called boa locks.
Overall they have the big advantage of being reasonably priced, easy to transport and easy to install. That said, no matter how big the cable or chain is, with the right equipment - a pair of wire cutters or a bolt cutter - it won't be long before this system finds its limits.
So basically this type of lock is more recommended for a quick stop or to prevent someone around you from using it without your knowledge, but these locks are not particularly reliable because they are easy to cut.
It would be better to use a chain lock such as the Abus Steel-O-Chain.
U-shaped locks
It isone of the most sold models because it is indeed more resistant and potential thieves will need a discer to get through it. However, this system has its limits.
U-shaped locks are often heavy and not necessarily practical to carry, and they do not fit just anywhere. You will need to think carefully about where you are going to place them, which can be problematic as they do not go around lampposts for example.
We recommend the Abus Granit Plus 470 or the Trelock BS 450.
Folding locks
Thefolding scooter lock is easy to transport, as it takes up very little space when folded and the plates that make it up are strong.
However, there are several disadvantages, firstly there are major differences in quality depending on the range of products, and secondly the fixings are quite fragile with a little know-how it is very easy to overcome them.
It should also be noted that this type of lock, as well as U-locks, are also rigid, which makes their placement rather complicated in some cases.
We recommend using the Foldy Lock Compact anti-theft device.
Handcuff locks
This new generation of handcuff locks lives up to its name. Indeed, when you see them, they are clearly a pair of handcuffs.
Fairly light, easy to handle and carry, this type of lock is easy to use without the disadvantages of U-locks or folding locks which are too rigid. Moreover, the resistance seems to be there.
This is really the type of anti-theft electric scooter that we recommend using. For example theMaster Lock Street Cuff anti-theft model.
3. How to prevent theft of an electric scooter
We have of course mentioned the most common electric scooter locks. It should also be noted that alarm locks exist, as well as camera locks, but this always works as a deterrent. Because as we have pointed out from the beginning, there is really no miracle way to avoid theft if the person committing it is determined and especially if you give him the opportunity.
The only really safe way would be to keep your electric scooter with you all the time which depending on the situation can be complicated. Or rather, depending on the location, some shops or businesses will refuse to let you take your scooter inside.
It is therefore up to you to keep an eye on your scooter at all times, not to leave it unattended in risky places or to leave it outside at night.
Conclusion on anti-theft devices for electric scooters
The new popularity of this type of product makes it particularly prone to theft. This is something to consider when buying the model you want (think of an electric scooter insurance).
Of course an anti-theft device for electric scooters seems necessary, even compulsory, given the price of an electric scooter. Because even if the current systems are not infallible, they remain sufficiently dissuasive and they will certainly give you the time to avoid theft.
Marking of the scooter, a future necessity in case of theft
Mandatory since January 2021 for the purchase of new bicycles, the marking with a unique number in a national file can now be extended to electric scooters. In the event of theft, it will then be possible to trace your electric scooter more easily, thanks toICA Bike's tamper-proof label.
2 comments
Karen
The Master Lock handcuffs are indeed ergonomically practical, but they are not light, and above all the lock is very fragile. I am on my 3rd pair and this will be the last!
Brigitte
I should have read this article because mine was stolen on 23 July