Bicycle alarm: types and selection criteria
The alarm is an excellent anti-theft remedy, which has long been used not only by motorists, but also by the owners of motorcycles and bicycles. It not only ensures the safety of property, but also quickly attracts the attention of others. What kind of anti-theft device can be installed on the "iron horse" and how not to make a mistake in choosing, we will talk in our article.
Types
Anti-theft electronic systems can be divided into several types.
- The simplest is the siren... This is an audible alarm that attracts the attention of others, thereby scaring off an intruder. In the event that a thief tries to remove or disable the system, the sound will become louder.
- They are in demand among consumers of alarm systems with a remote control panel. The principle of operation is the same as in the previous case. However, the main difference is the fact that the shutdown occurs only from the control panel. You can do this from a distance, for example, by looking out of a window or from a balcony.
- Nowadays, the installation of a smart anti-theft system on a bicycle is becoming fashionable. It is distinguished by the presence of a code blocker. The alarm can be turned off by a person who enters the correct combination of numbers.
- It is also very important to use a feedback system... The reception panel receives information that an intruder is committing illegal actions with the bicycle. An audible signal is also present.
There are people who prefer to install on their bike several anti-theft systems. This makes sense especially if the bike was expensive enough. In this case, there is a chance that the thief will not bother with a well-equipped product, as this will require significant effort and it is not clear if the attempt will be successful.
Remote control alarm
This type of signaling should be given special attention. When any action is taken in the immediate vicinity of the bike, an audible signal sounds, the maximum threshold of which is 120 dB. This is a rather unpleasant sensation for the ears, causing severe discomfort.
Sometimes it makes sense to slow down the triggering of the device. This is especially true when it starts to work on cars that drive by. In such a situation, the bike owner can avoid unnecessary anxiety and eliminate false triggering. Except for the loud siren the anti-theft system also sends information about the incident to the remote control.
This is very convenient, since the user will always be aware of whether his bike needs protection.
GPS device
This type of device is often installed on an electric bike or motorcycle, which are quite expensive. The fact is that such a bicycle alarm with a key fob is able to determine the location of the vehicle. It is hidden in the steering column.
The device is made in the form of a flask. It is not necessary to constantly change the batteries, since it only works while the bike is moving, accordingly, the charge is saved... The alarm is not visible from the outside, so the attacker will not be aware of its presence, however track the stolen property via satellite and find it without much difficulty.
Intelligent lock
GPS navigation is very popular today. However now it became possible to use an alarm of a similar plan and track it on the smartphone screen. Such systems quite recently could only be afforded by car owners, but progress does not stand still and now they can be used by cyclists. GSM signaling allows not only to track the vehicle, but also to send notifications.
Among the most commonly used models are lock Lock 8. It appeared only a few years ago, but now it is in high demand, and consumers note its high quality.
In addition, manufacturers are constantly improving it.
This anti-theft system has several advantages. The main one is the ability to control the device through a special program on the phone. It is convenient for the owner, since no internet connection is required for data transfer, but bluetooth is enough. However, it must be borne in mind that the bike and the phone should not be at a significant distance from each other. For some, this fact is annoying, but most do not consider it a serious disadvantage.
If it becomes necessary to lend a vehicle to another person, you can give him the key... If theft is committed, it will be possible to determine the location using the lock, since it contains both the communication module and the navigation system.
In addition, there are no batteries in the blocker.
Disadvantages of the anti-theft system
Whatever the positives of using a bicycle alarm, their disadvantages cannot be overlooked. One of them is constant power consumption, as most sensors work constantly... Therefore, there is no escape from the additional costs of batteries, which will need to be replaced regularly.
In the case when the system is equipped with a battery saving mode, its sound signal is rather short and lasts no more than 30 seconds. Users do not like this very much, as the silence comes at the most inopportune moment.
In addition, one cannot fail to note the influence of the environment.In this situation, the outside temperature and air humidity are assumed.
How to do it yourself
A bicycle alarm can have a very different cost, it all depends on its functionality. At the same time, experts note that the system can be made by hand. This does not require any specific knowledge, it is enough to understand the structure as a whole.
Can be used ordinary doorbell. It should start in trip mode. Therefore, you will need to connect the wires correctly.
Such an alarm is placed on the end surface of the steering wheel. If you wish, you can replace the melody by making it more powerful. The system is activated when the steering wheel rests against something solid. As soon as it moves, a loud signal will sound.
Of course, such a system is not as reliable as store-bought alarms.
However, in some cases, it is able to protect property from intruders.
You can watch a video review of the Fedog F-118B bicycle alarm below.