Home page / blog / Bicycle safety / Secure bike lock: tex–lock is certified with ART and Sold Secure security level
A secure bike lock determines whether a talented thief can steal your bike in a short time or whether he prefers to look for easier prey.
The importance of effective protection is shown by the Bicycle theft statistics from 2022: Of over 115,000 cases in Germany, only 7% were solved. So the chances of getting your stolen bike back are pretty slim. Not to mention the condition of the bike...
This is particularly unfortunate if you don't get any money back from the insurance company. Because you can only get it if you have a bike lock that is recognized by the insurance company. That's why we'll tell you what makes a secure bike lock and how you can recognize it.
Table of contents
How to recognize a secure bike lock
A secure bike lock is robustly constructed and consists of high-quality materials and a high-quality locking mechanism. It should provide protection against break-in attempts and be long enough to secure as many valuable bike parts as possible. Finally, it should be weatherproof and therefore durable so that your investment pays off for a long time. This is what characterizes a secure bike lock in detail:
High-quality materials:
Robust materials, such as hardened steel or specially hardened chain links, are difficult to cut through. The stronger or thicker the material, the more difficult it is for bolt cutters, saws etc. to pick the lock.
Robust construction:
The materials should be sturdy and tamper-proof so that the bike lock cannot be easily bent, broken or cracked.
Protection against break-in attempts:
The lock should be resistant to typical break-in attempts such as picking, drilling and forcing.
Weather resistance:
Snow, rain, ice, wind, hail and other external influences must not harm the lock. Rust protection is therefore a must!
High-quality locking mechanism:
Robust and compact, it protects against lock picking and drilling. A key lock is generally more resistant to mechanical attacks than a combination lock. A double locking mechanism is particularly difficult for thieves to pick.
Sufficient length:
The lock should reach around the rear wheel, the frame and a solid object . The more components that can be locked, the better.
Security certificates:
Independent test institutes such as ART and Sold Secure test and certify secure bike locks independently of the manufacturer's specifications.
Insurance option:
A good, secure bike lock meets the requirements of bike insurance. So that you are financially compensated in the event of damage.
Not all of these features can be determined with the naked eye. For example, which attacks the locking mechanism can really withstand. The bicycle lock security levels of independent test institutes testify to this and more.
Why manufacturer-independent security levels are so important
The security tests of independent testing institutions show you which bike lock is really secure. Independent testing institutions test the security of bike locks using standardized and comprehensive mechanical security tests. Only when a lock has passed these tests does it receive an official seal of approval with one of the bicycle lock security levels.
This may differ from the manufacturer's specifications. This is because manufacturers have their own definitions for the up to 15 bike lock security levels, which are usually very different from those of other suppliers. In addition to security, these often also include other aspects such as comfort and design.
These security levels therefore only provide limited information about the actual security of a bike lock. In this way, inferior locks are sometimes advertised with a security level that is too high.
Security level of bicycle lock manufacturers
Safety, comfort, design, possibly more
Safety classes from independent testing institutes (ART, Sold Secure)
100% safety aspects
For this reason, in the Netherlands, for example, an independently certified ART bicycle lock is even a mandatory component of bicycle insurance policies. And more and more German bicycle insurers are also demanding an ART-certified bicycle lock.
The independent ART Foundation tests secure bicycle locks
The Dutch ART Foundation works intensively to prevent bicycle theft. Its aim is to develop more and better prevention measures against bicycle theft.This work extends far beyond the Netherlands, so that the foundation is now also a recognized testing body in the bicycle world in Germany.
What exactly does ART certified mean?
The ART certification indicates how secure a lock for two-wheelers is against theft. To assess security, the ART Foundation submits all locks to the SKG-IKOB for extensive security tests. If a lock passes the mechanical tests, it receives the ART seal. This consists of a four-digit test number and a star system from 1 to 5 stars. The higher the number of stars, the higher the lock's anti-theft protection.
And what does ART*2 certified mean?
If a lock is ART*2 certified, it has been tested and offers secure theft protection for bicycles. To receive the seal, the lock has withstood various violent attacks, for example with a 60 cm bolt cutter, which must NOT be placed on the ground for additional leverage. An ART*2-certified lock is therefore also a bolt cutter-proof bicycle lock.
And what is the highest security level for a secure bike lock at ART?
The highest security level for bicycle locks at ART is the ART*2 certificate. The higher security levels 3-5 confirm theft protection for mopeds, scooters and motorcycles. The foundation and most insurance companies recommend always locking bicycles to fixed objects with an ART*2 lock.
tex–lock is ART2 and ART3 certified
The tex–lock eyelet , orbit, U/X-lock and D-lock have been recognized by the ART Foundation as secure bike locks and stand out in their respective security classes thanks to their low weight.
ART*2-certified locks: eyelet, orbit and U/X-lock
The tex–lock orbit, the tex–lock eyelet in the U/X-lock Bundle and the U/X-lock individual part have passed the security tests of the ART Foundation and received the ART*2 seal of approval. The woven label at the end of the cable and the imprint on the lock cylinder thus seal the tested high level of theft protection for bicycles that the three tex–lock locks offer.
It gets even better: most bike locks in this security class weigh around 2 kg or more. At just 1.2 kg (100 cm) and 1.47 kg (120 cm), our orbit is therefore a particularly secure, lightweight bike lock in this category. And the eyelet M incl. U/X-lock also weighs significantly less at approx. 1.5 kg.
The D-lock even adds another star to the U/X-lock and eylet U/X-lock Bundle .
ART*3 bike lock: D-lock and eyelet D-lock Bundle
The D-lock U-lock has withstood even tougher mechanical security tests by ART (e.g. 90 cm bolt cutters) and has been awarded the ART*3 seal of approval. Bundle The remarkably lightweight U-lock therefore offers protection for bicycles with a high risk of theft, both as a stand-alone part and in combination with the tex–lock eyelet , e.g. as a Bike lock for e-bikes.
However, the bike locks are not only ART-certified. Sold Secure has also given its blessing to the tex–lock locks.
Sold Secure tests security products independently of manufacturers
Sold Secure is the leading independent testing and certification body for security products in the UK. The security experts test bike locks, alarm systems and more to stop crime. It is Sold Secure is closely associated with the British police and is recognized by insurance companies.
Which bike lock security levels are available at Sold Secure?
There are four Sold Secure security levels, which vary according to the type of attack, the tools required and the time needed. These four levels allow you to assess for yourself which security level is appropriate for protecting your vehicle against theft:
Sold Secure Bronze
Protects against opportunist theft with simple tools. It is therefore not a very secure bike lock and does not offer sufficient theft protection for expensive bikes.
Sold Secure Gold
Protects against targeted attacks with professional theft tools. A Sold Secure Gold bike lock is therefore the right choice for medium to high-priced bikes.
Sold Secure Silver
Protects against planned attacks with advanced burglary tools. Sold Secure Silver bike locks are therefore the perfect mix of high security at a relatively low cost.
Sold Secure Diamond
Offers maximum protection against destructive attacks with special tools, e.g. angle grinders, and is therefore particularly suitable for high-quality bicycles, e-bikes and pedelecs ideal.
In general, the higher the bike lock security level, the higher the cost and weight. Not so with tex–lock.
tex–lock is Sold Secure Gold and Diamond certified
In addition to ART certification, the U/X-lock and D-lock are also certified as secure bike locks by Sold Secure , both individually and in the eyelet Bundle . Again, they weigh significantly less than other locks in this security class.
Sold Secure Gold locks: U/X-lock and eyelet U/X-lock Bundle
The U/X-lock is certified individually and in the eyelet Bundle Sold Secure Gold and therefore has a proven high resistance to theft attempts. The longer X-lock shackle secures several bike parts or the bike at solid object . The shorter U-lock shackle sits closer to the bike instead, making it all the more difficult to pick.
If your vehicle is exposed to a high risk of theft, it is better to play it safe with a Sold Secure Diamond lock.
Sold Secure Diamond locks: D-lock and eyelet D-lock Bundle
Sold Secure has awarded the D-lock the Sold Secure Diamond label individually and in the eyelet Bundle . At just 970 grams, the D-lock is the lightest Sold Secure Diamond U-lock on the market and therefore offers the
"maximum theft protection for bicycles, even against serious attacks with special tools such as angle grinders".
The D-lock combines this maximum level of security with an equally high level of user-friendliness and durability. This makes it a particularly high-quality U-lock. Find out whether it is the best U-lock for you.
Conclusion: tex–lock locks are excellent as secure bike locks
A secure bike lock is your best chance against bike theft. As an unparalleled combination of high security, low weight, versatile application options and recognized certifications, tex–lock locks are the ideal solution for you if you are looking for a secure, lightweight bike lock.
Material and construction:
High-tech fibers, hardened steel and the robust construction make the eyelet, orbit, U/X-lock and D-lock resistant to bolt cutters and other tools.
Locking mechanism:
A compact and robust locking mechanism makes the bike lock safe from lockpicking and drilling.
Weather resistance:
tex–lock Locks are resistant to external influences and therefore also to rust.
ART*2 and ART*3 certification:
The tex–lock eyelet , orbit, U/X-lock and D-lock have passed the strict tests of the Dutch ART Foundation and are certified as ART2 and ART3. These certificates guarantee a high level of protection against theft, particularly in the event of targeted and violent attacks.
Sold Secure Gold and Diamond certification:
The U/X-lock and D-lock were also tested individually and in the eyelet Bundle by Sold Secure and were awarded the Gold and Diamond security levels. These certificates confirm the protection against professional theft tools and destructive attacks.
Weight:
Compared to other locks in the same security classes, the tex–lock locks are remarkably light, which makes them easier to handle and use on a daily basis.
Get your certified bike lock now! The U-lock guide is a great help when choosing the right tex–lock U-lock. 😉
Whichever you choose, we wish you a safe journey at all times!
Your tex–lock Team
Vanessa Nitschke
The tex–lock is the first bike lock with which the amateur racing cyclist can let her beloved bike out of her sight with peace of mind, which is why she wants to introduce bike enthusiasts to the security, convenience and beauty of tex–lock locks.
A high-quality U-lock combines high security and user-friendliness with durability. The D-lock and U/X-lock meet these requirements and have much more to offer.
Project 1 Further development of the internal hardened steel chain of the bicycle lock
Objective: Weight reduction while maintaining security, reduction of production and energy costs during manufacture
Project 2 Material and process development for eyelets of the bicycle lock
Objective: targeted material and process optimization to increase product performance while saving energy and reducing the number of production steps used
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As we are currently rebuilding our webshop, it is unfortunately not possible to place orders. However, you are welcome to take a look around and decide which of our locks suits you best.
As planned, we will be fully available again from 03.01.2024. We ask for your understanding and wish you a good start to the new year! See you soon!
Secure bike lock: tex–lock is certified with ART and Sold Secure security level
Home page / blog / Bicycle safety / Secure bike lock: tex–lock is certified with ART and Sold Secure security level
A secure bike lock determines whether a talented thief can steal your bike in a short time or whether he prefers to look for easier prey.
The importance of effective protection is shown by the Bicycle theft statistics from 2022: Of over 115,000 cases in Germany, only 7% were solved. So the chances of getting your stolen bike back are pretty slim. Not to mention the condition of the bike...
This is particularly unfortunate if you don't get any money back from the insurance company. Because you can only get it if you have a bike lock that is recognized by the insurance company. That's why we'll tell you what makes a secure bike lock and how you can recognize it.
How to recognize a secure bike lock
A secure bike lock is robustly constructed and consists of high-quality materials and a high-quality locking mechanism. It should provide protection against break-in attempts and be long enough to secure as many valuable bike parts as possible. Finally, it should be weatherproof and therefore durable so that your investment pays off for a long time. This is what characterizes a secure bike lock in detail:
High-quality materials:
Robust materials, such as hardened steel or specially hardened chain links, are difficult to cut through. The stronger or thicker the material, the more difficult it is for bolt cutters, saws etc. to pick the lock.
Robust construction:
The materials should be sturdy and tamper-proof so that the bike lock cannot be easily bent, broken or cracked.
Protection against break-in attempts:
The lock should be resistant to typical break-in attempts such as picking, drilling and forcing.
Weather resistance:
Snow, rain, ice, wind, hail and other external influences must not harm the lock. Rust protection is therefore a must!
High-quality locking mechanism:
Robust and compact, it protects against lock picking and drilling. A key lock is generally more resistant to mechanical attacks than a combination lock. A double locking mechanism is particularly difficult for thieves to pick.
Sufficient length:
The lock should reach around the rear wheel, the frame and a solid object . The more components that can be locked, the better.
Security certificates:
Independent test institutes such as ART and Sold Secure test and certify secure bike locks independently of the manufacturer's specifications.
Insurance option:
A good, secure bike lock meets the requirements of bike insurance. So that you are financially compensated in the event of damage.
Not all of these features can be determined with the naked eye. For example, which attacks the locking mechanism can really withstand. The bicycle lock security levels of independent test institutes testify to this and more.
Why manufacturer-independent security levels are so important
The security tests of independent testing institutions show you which bike lock is really secure. Independent testing institutions test the security of bike locks using standardized and comprehensive mechanical security tests. Only when a lock has passed these tests does it receive an official seal of approval with one of the bicycle lock security levels.
This may differ from the manufacturer's specifications. This is because manufacturers have their own definitions for the up to 15 bike lock security levels, which are usually very different from those of other suppliers. In addition to security, these often also include other aspects such as comfort and design.
These security levels therefore only provide limited information about the actual security of a bike lock. In this way, inferior locks are sometimes advertised with a security level that is too high.
Security level of bicycle lock manufacturers
Safety, comfort, design, possibly more
Safety classes from independent testing institutes (ART, Sold Secure)
100% safety aspects
For this reason, in the Netherlands, for example, an independently certified ART bicycle lock is even a mandatory component of bicycle insurance policies. And more and more German bicycle insurers are also demanding an ART-certified bicycle lock.
The independent ART Foundation tests secure bicycle locks
The Dutch ART Foundation works intensively to prevent bicycle theft. Its aim is to develop more and better prevention measures against bicycle theft.This work extends far beyond the Netherlands, so that the foundation is now also a recognized testing body in the bicycle world in Germany.
What exactly does ART certified mean?
The ART certification indicates how secure a lock for two-wheelers is against theft. To assess security, the ART Foundation submits all locks to the SKG-IKOB for extensive security tests. If a lock passes the mechanical tests, it receives the ART seal. This consists of a four-digit test number and a star system from 1 to 5 stars. The higher the number of stars, the higher the lock's anti-theft protection.
And what does ART*2 certified mean?
If a lock is ART*2 certified, it has been tested and offers secure theft protection for bicycles. To receive the seal, the lock has withstood various violent attacks, for example with a 60 cm bolt cutter, which must NOT be placed on the ground for additional leverage. An ART*2-certified lock is therefore also a bolt cutter-proof bicycle lock.
And what is the highest security level for a secure bike lock at ART?
The highest security level for bicycle locks at ART is the ART*2 certificate. The higher security levels 3-5 confirm theft protection for mopeds, scooters and motorcycles. The foundation and most insurance companies recommend always locking bicycles to fixed objects with an ART*2 lock.
tex–lock is ART2 and ART3 certified
ART*2-certified locks: eyelet, orbit and U/X-lock
The tex–lock orbit, the tex–lock eyelet in the U/X-lock Bundle and the U/X-lock individual part have passed the security tests of the ART Foundation and received the ART*2 seal of approval. The woven label at the end of the cable and the imprint on the lock cylinder thus seal the tested high level of theft protection for bicycles that the three tex–lock locks offer.
It gets even better: most bike locks in this security class weigh around 2 kg or more. At just 1.2 kg (100 cm) and 1.47 kg (120 cm), our orbit is therefore a particularly secure, lightweight bike lock in this category. And the eyelet M incl. U/X-lock also weighs significantly less at approx. 1.5 kg.
The D-lock even adds another star to the U/X-lock and eylet U/X-lock Bundle .
ART*3 bike lock: D-lock and eyelet D-lock Bundle
The D-lock U-lock has withstood even tougher mechanical security tests by ART (e.g. 90 cm bolt cutters) and has been awarded the ART*3 seal of approval. Bundle The remarkably lightweight U-lock therefore offers protection for bicycles with a high risk of theft, both as a stand-alone part and in combination with the tex–lock eyelet , e.g. as a Bike lock for e-bikes.
However, the bike locks are not only ART-certified. Sold Secure has also given its blessing to the tex–lock locks.
Sold Secure tests security products independently of manufacturers
Sold Secure is the leading independent testing and certification body for security products in the UK. The security experts test bike locks, alarm systems and more to stop crime. It is Sold Secure is closely associated with the British police and is recognized by insurance companies.
Which bike lock security levels are available at Sold Secure?
There are four Sold Secure security levels, which vary according to the type of attack, the tools required and the time needed. These four levels allow you to assess for yourself which security level is appropriate for protecting your vehicle against theft:
Sold Secure Bronze
Protects against opportunist theft with simple tools. It is therefore not a very secure bike lock and does not offer sufficient theft protection for expensive bikes.
Sold Secure Gold
Protects against targeted attacks with professional theft tools. A Sold Secure Gold bike lock is therefore the right choice for medium to high-priced bikes.
Sold Secure Silver
Protects against planned attacks with advanced burglary tools. Sold Secure Silver bike locks are therefore the perfect mix of high security at a relatively low cost.
Sold Secure Diamond
Offers maximum protection against destructive attacks with special tools, e.g. angle grinders, and is therefore particularly suitable for high-quality bicycles, e-bikes and pedelecs ideal.
In general, the higher the bike lock security level, the higher the cost and weight. Not so with tex–lock.
tex–lock is Sold Secure Gold and Diamond certified
In addition to ART certification, the U/X-lock and D-lock are also certified as secure bike locks by Sold Secure , both individually and in the eyelet Bundle . Again, they weigh significantly less than other locks in this security class.
Sold Secure Gold locks: U/X-lock and eyelet U/X-lock Bundle
The U/X-lock is certified individually and in the eyelet Bundle Sold Secure Gold and therefore has a proven high resistance to theft attempts. The longer X-lock shackle secures several bike parts or the bike at solid object . The shorter U-lock shackle sits closer to the bike instead, making it all the more difficult to pick.
If your vehicle is exposed to a high risk of theft, it is better to play it safe with a Sold Secure Diamond lock.
Sold Secure Diamond locks: D-lock and eyelet D-lock Bundle
Sold Secure has awarded the D-lock the Sold Secure Diamond label individually and in the eyelet Bundle . At just 970 grams, the D-lock is the lightest Sold Secure Diamond U-lock on the market and therefore offers the
The D-lock combines this maximum level of security with an equally high level of user-friendliness and durability. This makes it a particularly high-quality U-lock. Find out whether it is the best U-lock for you.
Conclusion: tex–lock locks are excellent as secure bike locks
A secure bike lock is your best chance against bike theft. As an unparalleled combination of high security, low weight, versatile application options and recognized certifications, tex–lock locks are the ideal solution for you if you are looking for a secure, lightweight bike lock.
Material and construction:
High-tech fibers, hardened steel and the robust construction make the eyelet, orbit, U/X-lock and D-lock resistant to bolt cutters and other tools.
Locking mechanism:
A compact and robust locking mechanism makes the bike lock safe from lockpicking and drilling.
Weather resistance:
tex–lock Locks are resistant to external influences and therefore also to rust.
ART*2 and ART*3 certification:
The tex–lock eyelet , orbit, U/X-lock and D-lock have passed the strict tests of the Dutch ART Foundation and are certified as ART2 and ART3. These certificates guarantee a high level of protection against theft, particularly in the event of targeted and violent attacks.
Sold Secure Gold and Diamond certification:
The U/X-lock and D-lock were also tested individually and in the eyelet Bundle by Sold Secure and were awarded the Gold and Diamond security levels. These certificates confirm the protection against professional theft tools and destructive attacks.
Weight:
Compared to other locks in the same security classes, the tex–lock locks are remarkably light, which makes them easier to handle and use on a daily basis.
Get your certified bike lock now! The U-lock guide is a great help when choosing the right tex–lock U-lock. 😉
tex–lock eyelet
Buy now! This product has several variants. The options can be selected on the product page
U/X-lock U-lock (individual part)
Buy now!
tex–lock orbit
Buy now! This product has several variants. The options can be selected on the product page
D-lock U-lock
Buy now!
Whichever you choose, we wish you a safe journey at all times!
Your tex–lock Team
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