Locking your bike and panniers/trailer



mtb4x4mad

New Member
Aug 12, 2003
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Just curious as to what system people use when long distance touring in populated areas to lock their bikes and panniers; say when shopping or the like?
 
mtb4x4mad said:
Just curious as to what system people use when long distance touring in populated areas to lock their bikes and panniers; say when shopping or the like?

I've never risked it in a busy city. One person will always stay behind to watch the bikes and panniers. In smaller towns (in Italy or France) we don't bother locking the bikes or panniers - haven't had a problem yet :)
 
I guess I've been lucky - I just use a cable lock for my bike when I'm touring, and I haven't even attempted to lock my panniers or trailer. That said, I don't tend to tour through very busy places. When I have passed through larger cities I usually try to keep my bike in sight; if I'm staying in a hotel/motel I always take the bike to my room, and if I'm staying in a B&B I usually try to find one that has a place where I can store my bicycle.
 
mtb4x4mad said:
Just curious as to what system people use when long distance touring in populated areas to lock their bikes and panniers; say when shopping or the like?
I use a large Master padlock and oversize motorcycle cable threaded through the frame and wheels, take the panniers with me, shop quickly, and try to keep an eye on the bike whenever possible.
 
mtb4x4mad said:
Just curious as to what system people use when long distance touring in populated areas to lock their bikes and panniers; say when shopping or the like?
I've toured on and off for 30+ years and never carried a lock. Two rides across the USA. Here is a suggestion, use plastic fasteners that you can undo. You can tie the panniers to your racks and lock the wheels up, even with an extra large one tie the bike off. It will discourage the impulsive thief.
 
i never locked my bike. cables and locks add lots of weight. i didn't have expensive stuff, and i guess i just took the chance. a train/plane ride home if my bike got stolen would have worked.