Angle grinders are a common tool used by thieves to cut through locks and steal bicycles and motorcycles.
However, with the rise of innovative lock designs, the game is changing.
From locks that release noxious gas to those made of graphene material, there are now options available that claim to be angle grinder-proof.
In this article, we’ll explore the latest technology and techniques that can stop an angle grinder in its tracks and keep your bike safe from theft.
What Can Stop An Angle Grinder
When it comes to stopping an angle grinder, the first line of defense is a lock that is specifically designed to resist cutting. Traditional locks may be easily defeated by an angle grinder, but newer designs are incorporating materials and features that make them much more difficult to cut through.
One such lock is the D1000 D-lock, which uses Ferosafe composite graphene material to resist high power angle grinders. This lock has been independently tested and carries the top level Diamond rating from Sold Secure. Its square profile hardened steel core protects against tools such as bolt croppers, and it features anti-rotation double locking tabs to prevent thieves from cutting through both sides of the lock.
Another option is the SkunkLock, which releases a cloud of noxious gas when cut with an angle grinder, making it difficult for thieves to continue with their theft. This lock may not prevent cutting altogether, but it certainly makes it less appealing for would-be thieves.
In addition to these innovative locks, there are also techniques that can be used to make it more difficult for thieves to cut through a lock. For example, placing the lock in a position that makes it difficult to access with an angle grinder can be effective. Additionally, using multiple locks can make it more time-consuming and difficult for thieves to cut through all of them.
The Rise Of Angle Grinder Theft
Angle grinder theft has been on the rise in many parts of the world, and it is becoming an increasingly common method for thieves to steal bikes. Traditional locks are often no match for an angle grinder, which can cut through most locks in a matter of seconds. This has led to the development of new locks that are specifically designed to resist cutting from an angle grinder.
The rise of angle grinder theft has also led to the development of new techniques for securing bikes. For example, some bike owners are now using multiple locks to make it more difficult for thieves to cut through all of them. Others are placing their locks in positions that make them more difficult to access with an angle grinder.
Despite these efforts, bike theft remains a major problem in many parts of the world. It is important for bike owners to be aware of the risks and to take steps to protect their bikes from theft. By using the right lock and taking other precautions, it is possible to deter thieves and keep bikes safe from harm.
The Limitations Of Traditional Locks
Traditional locks, such as padlocks and chain locks, are often the first line of defense against theft. However, when it comes to stopping an angle grinder, these locks have significant limitations. The shackle of a padlock, for example, can be easily cut through with an angle grinder. Chain locks may be more difficult to cut through, but they can still be defeated with enough time and effort.
One issue with traditional locks is that they are often made of materials that are not strong enough to resist cutting. For example, many padlocks have shackle materials made of brass or aluminum, which are relatively soft metals that can be easily cut through with an angle grinder. Similarly, chain locks may have chains made of low-grade steel that can be cut through with bolt cutters or a powerful angle grinder.
Another limitation of traditional locks is that they may not be designed to resist the specific cutting techniques used by thieves. For example, some angle grinders are equipped with diamond blades that can easily cut through traditional locks made of metal or plastic. Additionally, some locks may have weak points or vulnerabilities that can be exploited by thieves.
Innovative Lock Designs: Noxious Gas And Graphene Material
One of the most innovative lock designs that has emerged in recent years is the use of Ferosafe composite graphene material. This material is specifically designed to resist high power angle grinders and other cutting tools. The D1000 D-lock is one such lock that incorporates this material into its design, making it much more difficult to cut through. Ferosafe is a weldable composite material that effectively resists cutting and drilling at lower thicknesses and weights than what is possible with conventional materials. Its intended applications include safes, ATMs, and lock boxes.
Another unique lock design is the SkunkLock, which takes a different approach to preventing theft. Instead of trying to resist cutting, this lock releases a cloud of noxious gas when cut with an angle grinder, making it difficult for thieves to continue with their theft. While this lock may not prevent cutting altogether, it certainly makes it less appealing for would-be thieves.
These innovative lock designs are just some of the ways that manufacturers are trying to stay ahead of bike thieves. By incorporating new materials and features into their designs, they are making it much more difficult for thieves to steal bikes using angle grinders and other cutting tools.
Testing The Angle Grinder-Proof Claims
While many locks claim to be angle grinder-proof, it’s important to test these claims to ensure that they hold up in real-world situations. One lock that has been put to the test is the Litelok X-1 and X-3 locks, which use Barronium, a composite material that Litelok claims can resist angle grinders better than any existing material on the market.
In a video test conducted by Litelok, the X-1 lock was subjected to an angle grinder for over 5 minutes, with no success in cutting through the lock. The lock remained intact and fully functional, proving that it can withstand even the most determined angle grinder attacks.
Similarly, Hiplok’s D1000 lock has been independently tested by Sold Secure and carries their top level Diamond rating. While it has not been specifically tested against angle grinders, Hiplok claims that its use of Ferosafe composite graphene material makes it highly resistant to these tools.
Altor Locks’ SAF Lock, which claims to be angle grinder-proof for 30 minutes, has also been put to the test in a video demonstration. The lock was subjected to an angle grinder for 30 minutes, with no success in cutting through the lock. While this lock is not as portable as some of the other options on the market, it provides a high level of security for those looking for maximum protection.
Additional Security Measures To Protect Your Bike
Aside from using a lock specifically designed to resist cutting, there are other measures you can take to protect your bike from theft. One important step is to choose a smart lock spot. Ideally, this spot should be anchored to the ground and hard to tamper with. This makes it more difficult for thieves to remove the lock or the bike itself.
Another important consideration is to secure the frame of your bike, not just the wheels. Many bikes have quick-release levers that allow thieves to easily remove the wheels and steal the bike. By securing the frame in addition to the wheels, you make it much more difficult for thieves to steal your bike.
Locking your bike high up can also be effective in preventing theft. If the lock is on the ground, it provides leverage for thieves using an angle grinder or bolt cutters. Locking your bike higher up makes it more difficult for thieves to use these tools effectively.
Finally, using multiple locks can be an effective way to make it more difficult for thieves to steal your bike. By using two different types of locks, such as a U-lock and a chain lock, you force thieves to think twice and spend more time trying to cut through both locks. This can be enough of a deterrent to send them looking for an easier target.