Check out this guide from our cycle insurance partner Bikmo on what D locks you should buy.

The first line of defence against the nightmare of bike theft is a solid and dependable bike D lock. The second line of defence is knowing how to lock your bike (properly), so thieves can’t make away with your frame and leave you with a sorry-looking wheel.

To help with this, the bike geeks at Bikmo, our specialist cycle insurance partner, have put together this blog to help you decide which D lock to buy and why it matters when it comes to insurance.

Why choose a D lock over other types of lock?
Of the three main types of bike lock – D lock, chain, cable. The D lock comes out on top for strength, reliability and popularity. 

The most common type of bike lock, their shape resembles the letter ‘D’ when the retaining bar is locked in place.

Its popularity is in part due to its portability and strength to weight ratio. D locks can fit easily into a backpack or clip onto the bike for commuting.

Lots of bike thefts happen from the garage, outbuilding or garden shed. If you’re securing your bike at home overnight or for long periods, check out our securing your bike at home blog.

Did you know? Many home insurance policies will not cover theft away from home. Bikmo offer Cyclescheme members an exclusive 10%* saving on bicycle insurance, covering you for theft and accidental damage of your bike(s), kit and accessories.

What is Sold Secure approval and why is it important?
Sold Secure approval is a security accreditation given to locks after being rigorously strength-tested by the Master Locksmiths Association. The rating is only given to the locking device and not the accessory cable, which can still be easily cut with the right tools but does offer extra protection for wheels to deter thieves. 

D locks come in a range of security standards. There are four different ratings (Bronze, Silver, Gold, Diamond). It’s this rating you should look for first when choosing a bike D lock due to its insurance requirements.

Most insurers, (us included), will specify the need for a lock appropriately rated for the ‘as new’ value of your bike in order to validate your policy.

Bronze rated D lock
Kryptonite Original Keeper D-Lock – RRP £16.00

The 12mm hardened steel shackle on the Kryptonite Original Keeper D lock will resist the hand tools in the pocket of the opportunistic thief. 

Silver rated D lock
Kryptonite Keeper 12 (The new Keeper) – RRP £29.99

The Kryptonite Keeper 12 with Silver Sold Secure rating features a new hardened double deadbolt design with anti-rotation resist against twist as well as handheld tools. 

Gold rated D lock
Kryptonite Evolution – RRP £64.99

The 12mm hardened steel shackle on the Kryptonite Original Keeper D lock will resist the hand tools in the pocket of the opportunistic thief. 

Diamond rated D lock
Kryptonite New York Fahgettaboudit – RRP £114.99

The 12mm hardened steel shackle on the Kryptonite Original Keeper D lock will resist the hand tools in the pocket of the opportunistic thief. 

Tip: If you’re looking at buying a lock and are unsure if it’s suitable for purpose (or if you want to check the rating of your existing bike lock). You can check using the Sold Secure Approved Product Search. 

Do you have bike insurance?
Unfortunately, it’s not possible to stop bike theft even if you follow all of the advice above. That’s why Bikmo is here, to give you peace of mind when you lock your bike. All Bikmo cycle insurance policies cover theft at home and away from home as standard. 

Bikmo cycle insurance is designed with commuters in mind. Their award-winning policy covers theft, accidental damage, vandalism, clothing, helmets and accessories, plus much more. 

When you buy a new bike through Cyclescheme, you’ll be able to activate 14 days of free insurance with Bikmo so you can ride worry-free: you’ll also benefit from exclusive savings after the 14 days are over. If you’re insuring an e-bike, you’ll even benefit from an additional 25% reduction on your premium.

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*subject to a minimum premium

Terms and conditions apply. This promotion is provided by Bikmo Limited, 1 Minerva Court, Minerva Avenue, Chester, CH1 4QT who are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority ref: 745230.