Hiplok Z Lok combo up for grabs

They say every bicycle weighs the same; a lightweight (and by extension, expensive) bike requires a heavy lock whereas its cheap and cheerful cousin (which weighs more) can make do with a lighter lock.

If you own a lightweight road bike it's likely you often ride without any lock at all, but what to do when you stop for a coffee or loo break? Hoping to solve this particular conundrum is HipLok with its new Z LOK Combo - a reusable reinforced zip tie for use on car racks, accessories and other outdoor equipment. While the Z LOK might look similar to a conventional zip tie, it features a stainless steel core to deter the opportunistic thief. A three digit combination mechanism does away with the need for a key.

We know it's stating the obvious, but the Z LOK is not rated by Sold Secure and, as such, it's use as a primary lock will render your cycle insurance policy void. Its designers intend the lock to be used to deter opportunistic thieves when the bike is within your sight.

Win a Z LOK combo

We have three Z LOK zip ties to give away. Leave us a message at the bottom of the page and let us know whether you prefer one in black, yellow or pink.

How do thieves steal bikes?

A few years ago, the lock manufacturer Kyrptonite suffered a bout of bad PR when it was alleged its D-Locks could be opened with a modified Bic Biro. The episode called into question the efficacy of many cylindrical-lock products, but in reality most thieves don’t have the time, patience or skill to pick locks – they prefer to cut or smash them.

A well-equipped and determined bicycle thief can defeat almost every lock within minutes. When a thieves are unable to remove a lock, it's not uncommon for them to vandalise the bike or simply steal parts. Thieves in London this spring have taken to stealing handlebars from road bikes. Once a few control cables are severed, they walk away with bars and shifters worth hundreds of pounds.

The ethical choice

The ETA was established in 1990 as an ethical provider of green, reliable travel services. Over 30 years on, we continue to offer cycle insurance , breakdown cover and mobility scooter insurance while putting concern for the environment at the heart of all we do.

The Good Shopping Guide judges us to be the UK's most ethical provider.

{{cta-cycling}}