A handy anti-theft device you can always carry with you: The Abus Sportflex

Compact locks for a quick stop

Whether it’s popping out for an espresso, stopping off at a beer garden or popping into the bakery: many road cyclists want a hassle-free way to secure their bikes during breaks like these. Mini locks fit into a jersey pocket or saddle bag, weigh next to nothing and are quick to grab. They can help prevent a quick grab by an opportunistic thief.

However, these small locks do not offer comprehensive protection against theft. The cables and metal straps are simply too thin for that. Anyone leaving their road bike or gravel bike unattended for any length of time should therefore opt for a significantly sturdier lock and, where possible, secure the bike to a fixed object.

Cable or metal strip?

In the test, two models secure the bicycle using a thin spiral cable made of steel with a plastic sheath. The cables are flexible, can be easily wrapped around the frame and a lamppost, and take up very little space. However, their security is limited.

Four further mini locks feature a metal-reinforced strap. This is reminiscent of a lockable cable tie and, thanks to its design, is more difficult to break than a thin coiled cable. The sheathing also protects the paintwork from scratches. The differences are particularly evident when it comes to threading, tightening and stowing.

We assessed the combination locks in the categories of ease of use and security. The ease of operation of the combination lock was particularly important. Some number dials turn smoothly and can be operated without any problems, even after a short pause. Other models require almost watchmaker’s precision.

Abus Sportflex: Always with you on your bike

The Abus Sportflex stands out from other mini locks thanks to a handy feature. It can be fitted to the frame beneath the bottle cage, meaning it comes with you on every ride. There’s no need for an extra bag.

The lock secures the bike with a steel cable just under two millimetres thick and 90 centimetres long. Weighing 200 grams, it is slightly heavier than its competitors, but can be fitted to the frame in a space-saving position beneath the bottle cage. The combination lock is reliable and easy to use. The high-contrast digits are easy to read, making it simple to operate during a quick stop.

Due to its design, the level of security is limited. The thin steel cable prevents quick access, but is unlikely to withstand professional tools for long.

Price: 39.95 euros >> available here
Weight/Length: 200 grams / 90 centimetres
Safety: 2 out of 4 stars
Handling: 4 out of 5 stars