When we were looking for another product to review in the long list of latest releases we stood back and thought, what is the most important thing to motorcycle and scooter riders? Security! It’s the hottest thing on the top of every Police report in the United Kingdom, and although motor related crimes in the Capital have fallen in the last 12 months by a staggering 8.9%, there were still a whopping 125,234 reported crimes in the last year.
After we had chosen to look into security related devices we then wondered who the market leaders were and found that Abus Security Tech were one of the hot cookies around at the moment, so approached Phoenix Distribution who were more than helpful offering us a security device for testing purposes!
Without the help of an actual bike-thief, we are unable to test the actual anti-theft abilities the product offers, so instead this review will concentrate on the owners experience. If you are concerned about the actual performance of the lock in a theft scenario then we would recommend that you seek the advise of a security specialist.
The wonderful lock which was provided was a shiny new Thatcham approved Abus Granit 68 Victory X-Plus, which has been rated as the best device currently on the market by other Motorcycle sources. Abus Security Tech, sponsors of Stiggy Motorsport are one of the biggest players in the whole security industry manufacturing numerous devices from shackles, padlocks & chains to surveillance cameras, security systems & windows – we knew instantly that we’d be in for a treat with this review.
On first impressions the locks seemed as solid as a rock with hard welded links, and super secure ‘bolt-type’ locking mechanism. The lock was supplied with two keys, one with a built-in torch for added convenience, and an Abus Code Card for obtaining replica keys if required or should one become lost.
Where to use it:
- Double protection for bikes and scooters through securing of the brake disk and fixing of the bike at a solid object.
- Recommended for protection of two-wheels with high risk of theft.
How it works:
- Brake disk lock blocks the brake disk and so protects against unauthorized use.
- The strong, hardened chain protects the vehicle against unauthorized take away/theft.
- Lock may be used individually.
Technology:
- Specially hardened 12 mm Loop chain.
- Completely cased lock body made from hardened steel.
- ABUS-X-Plus-Cylinder with high protection against intelligent opening methods.
- With lighted key and Memory Cable.
Transportation:
- Comfortable transport under the seat through compact folding up of the chain.
To find out exactly how good this chain was we put it to the test in a number of situations.
Locked in a Motorcycle Bay
To start the experiment off we tried locking our motorcycle in a Solo bay in Ladbroke Grove (W10). This being a ‘posh’ Kensington & Chelsea bay it came with built-in ground anchor, which makes a handy feature when locking. The Abus chain went straight through the back wheel, then the anchor, finally looped through the eye-ring and then locked. There was plenty of chain to lock the motorcycle here, and there was enough slack should the bike be moved a little.
Locked to a Lamppost
The second test was to a traditional lamppost, as used by millions of bikers everyday to keep their motorcycles & scooters secure. We found a very fetching lamp-post in the middle of Hammersmith (W6), and decided to pull up & lock up. Just like the motorcycle bay the chain went straight through the wheel and round the lamppost. Locking the bike through the eye-ring was a little harder but we still managed to get it locked!
Please check with the relevant council before parking your motorcycle or scooter on the pavement as this is commonly grounds for a fine.
Locking a Helmet to the Motorcycle
Just out for some fun, got loads to carry, and would rather leave your helmet behind? We did, and that was our next test. We placed the helmet on the floor at the rear wheel, and inserted the lock through the wheel and back through the bottom of the helmet and out through the visor space. Locked perfect, placed the helmet on the floor with the visor down as far as it will go to prevent it from getting too soaked should it rain.
Using the Lock as a Disc Lock
One of the best things about this lock is the fact that it doubles up as a disc lock! Depending on the size of the disc depends if it can be used. So we parked up the bike placed the pin through a hole in one of the front discs and locked it to the bottom of the lock, with a turn of the key – all done! The very eye catching yellow reminder cord is a great add on when the lock is being used on the disc, as we all know what happens when you ride off with a disc lock on!
Overall this lock is one of the best locks on the market, and highly recommended to anyone who is serious about keeping their scooter or motorcycle safe. Remember it only takes two seconds to steal your pride and joy!
To find a local dealer visit the Phoenix Distribution Abus Dealer Page.
Please bear in mind that this article is a review of the product from an owners perspective. It's not meant to be an actual test of the anti-theft abilities it offers. We would advise you to seek the advice of a security specialist if you are concerned about the effectiveness of it in this regard.
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