ABUS | Pro Tectic 4960 Frame Lock | Black (11260)

Bike locks are hard to review without having a theft attempt, or without trying to break the lock. So this isn’t so much a review of the effectiveness or security of the lock. Frame locks in general are a bit of a tradeoff in some ways… Keep in mind that these see heavy usage outside of North America – especially in the netherlands – and generally meet bicycle insurance standards. As far as frame locks go, this is by no means low grade security, but it is still a frame lock when it comes down to it – so it will secure the rear wheel to the frame, and it will will prevent the rear wheel from turning. It provides no protection for a “van” style theft unless you use a supplemental chain or cable. Within those constraints. this is a very secure device – removing it would likely take an angle grinder.I have a Simcoe Roadster, and I’ve been looking all over for one of the “dutch style” frame locks that could easily be fitted via the braze-ons. I’ve been talking to a local shop for a while, and have made no progress… so I decided to look into it myself. This fits the simcoe very well On its own, it doesn’t look like the most imposing security, but it’s better built than the plastic shell lets on – The plastic is merely external, and all of the internals are very well built.This version is the “non key retaining” version, if that matters to you – I have a slight preference for the key retaining version, but it’s totally no big deal. It just means that you can actually remove the key when it’s unlocked.Super easy to use, super convenient. I’d recommend pairing it with the Pro Tectic cable or chain that will lock into it… I purchased the cable and it’s probably sufficient, but I think I would have rather bought the chain – it’s longer, much more secure, and not much more expensive. The length would be nice if you have a quick release front wheel, you are likely OK if your front wheel actually takes effort to remove. The plug-in cable or chain together with the frame lock make for a decently secure setup for most needs.You can certainly get more secure locks in general, but the frame locks have the convenience of being always available, as they are mounted on the bike itself. I hope I don’t have a chance to update with if this has successfully prevented a theft or not, but I feel that it is more sufficient for my needs as an urban rider.

This a great lock for just running around our small town. It’s NOT going to stop a dedicated bike thief, but it will keep a jerk from taking off with your bike. I first saw this on my wife’s Electra Townie 8i E-bike. Hers is a slightly different model, a little wider to better accommodate the Fat Franks on her bike. The 4960 was big enough to handle the 2.00’s on my Trek Lift+.Be aware mounting this lock is problematic if you don’t have brazed on studs on your seat stays. I ended up mounting it with Heavy duty nylon wire ties for now. Ultimately I’ll make a bracket so it is more rigidly mounted. I strongly recommend also getting the Abus Pro Tectic 4960 Cable for Frame Locks, 12x100cm to go with your lock. It has a connector that sockets and locks into the side of the 4960 and gives you a 1m cable with a loop for securing your bike to a post or rack.

I liked the idea of having a “Cafe Lock” on my bicycle for quick stops, but I spent some time figuring how to install it on my Schwinn Discover City Bike. After searching online and looking at many videos, I figured that the easiest way to install the lock would be with ABUS Mounting Brackets that used the rear brakes as a mounting point. I didn’t like the sheet metal screws that came with the brackets and instead used some machine screws with lock washers and hex nuts. I drilled the mounting holes in the bracket to allow for through-hole mounting of the hardware. Overall. I am very satisfied with the results.

The media could not be loaded. READ FIRST!!If you are getting this lock, check to see if your bike has mounting holes already pre drilled. If not, you will need to get the ABUS Tightening Straps lh Bike Frame Lock Adapters. I didn’t know this until after I got my lock. Actually, I don’t see why it wouldn’t come with them already. But I digress.The 4 stars is for ease of installation. Once you put on the adapters, the hard part is over. All you do now is slide the lock on, bolt them down, put covers back on, give it a quick test, and you are ready to go. I can’t speak to the strength and security of the lock, and I hope I never have to. One of the biggest benefits is that most people don’t even realize it’s there. Even though it’s a good size, people seem to just look over it. At least on my bike they do. Anyways, more bike security can never hurt, but always help. Stay safe out there ya’ll.

I’ve done extensive research on bike locks before deciding on this one in particular. I’ve also gotten the adapter mount sold by Abus, however it didn’t fit well with my bike frame in particular. It seems any bike with thicker tires won’t be compatible with this lock as it will cause some rubbing while you’re on your ride. I thought the adapter would make life easier but unfortunately not. Now I will have to find another method of locking up my bikes so that my mind will be at ease. Great lock if it were actually compatible with my bike. Easy to lock and unlock with key and seems most secure! Thick tires beware!