Hello:
I am getting a nice bicycle for exercise and trips to nearby stores. Get in shape and save on gas. And bikes, along with everything else, are stolen a lot here in Memphis. Depending on the source, Memphis is either the first or the second most dangerous metro area in the USA. There isn't that much crime in my area. I think it is because I live close to the university, and the population is high enough in this section that there are usually witnesses to crimes. Still, the bike is a comfort bike-- front shock and suspension seatpost with a big cushy gel-filled spring loaded seat made for smooth long distance commutes--in other words, perfect for a college student. (I am buying this type of bike as I have scoliosis.)
At the bike shop, the owner told me that not only should I keep the bike inside, but I should lock it around a post inside the apartment, as some druggies will see someone with a nice bike and note where the owner lives. The bike is a Giant-- not exactly a cheap brand. Would be easy to sell to a student.
The owner said that thieves operate on speed, and if they see something they want that is heavily secured, they will often opt for an easier target. I already knew that, of course. His bike shop sells premium bikes, therefore expensive locks. The lowest priced lock is $25, and the one he recommends is $45. My question is... do I really need to spend that much on a lock to degter theives?
Second question: The lowest priced helmet he has is $40. Since all helmets perform the same function, what is the difference between that one and a $15 Wal_Mart helmet?
I would appreciate any and all answers, as I don't want to spend more than I need to.
Larry
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| Question about bicycle helmets and locks |
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SpecialKny
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Apr 30 @ 10:43AM
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I don't know much about helmets but you could do a search on goggle about that.....maybe the more expensive ones are constructed better....maybe not...
As far as the bike thieves goes......I Do know about that....in NYC it is far easier to bike it than to try and "park it"......so bikes are big here, and so are thieves....they did a Dateline special on this and how fast these guys.....they carry bolt cutters with them....they said that the best chain was one that was like one piece melded together and covered by plastic.....seems those are hard to cut thru with the bolt cutters as quickly.....I would bring in inside whenever possible.......GOOD LUCK!!!
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mimi_amore
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Apr 30 @ 10:53AM
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I would suggest ....write the name of both the lock and the helmet and try to find them somewhere else. Even if it's only to compare the price.
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firstaircavalryfirst
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Apr 30 @ 11:17AM
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As far as the lock and chain.....there is a distinct difference in the "Hardness"! The harder the metal the harder it is for a bolt cutter to cut through. Believe me there are chains and locks made bolt cutters can't cut through! A case hardened chain can be bought at a good hardware store. Be sure you get the hardest available. If need be you can get an old garden hose to encase the chain in so it will not scratch your bike! I have worked in the construction industry where you learned quickly about hardened steel chains and "cold roll" chains.
Get a heavy linked "Hardened Steel" chain and a hardened steel lock......you will keep your bike! On the links of various chains are marks to verify its hardness......three straight marks on one link every three links tells you it is the hardest available!
good luck!
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iam7545
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Apr 30 @ 2:25PM
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go to bikenashbar on the net - they are the cheapest for bike accessories. get a good helmet!
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sputter49
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Apr 30 @ 9:12PM
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Giant brand is a good quality brand bike. My mountain bike is a Giant Iguana which I paid $500 over 10 years ago. Still great bike with little or no problems.
As for bike locks... choose a cable type that will reach around front, frame and rear wheel plus fixture you are securing to. 6ft seems to be the norm. I prefer the "key" type verses "combination". Keep in mind.. no matter the security... if someone is determined to take your posession... they will succeed no matter what you use. The idea.. is to "slow" the accessablity.
Bicycle helmets are largely made from styrofoam. They are designed to help prevent head injuries in the event of a bicycle "spill". In other words... "a bump to the head". Getting hit by a vehicle... the bicycle helmet my help... providing the head doesn't experience a direct hit. Most helmet instructions suggest replacing every year... and not to use a helmet after experiencing a "bump".
I'm no bicycling "expert" by any means... these are just a few "surface" issues to consider. Much information is available from your dealer... and internet.
May your bicycling experience be safe, secure and healthy.
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sputter49
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Apr 30 @ 9:15PM
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Oh... one other suggestion. Take your new bicycle to your local police department and register it. They will stamp your bike with a number and take identifying features plus take a photo of it. Much easier for them to identify if a thief is apprehended.
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