Hello! And lock advice please…

[Big Al]

Hello! Warwickshire based bloke here who’s just picked up a rather tired-looking 2002 TMax, having been hankering after one for years. Currently awaiting few small jobs and an MOT, and can’t wait to give it more of a run than the brisk charge down a dual carriageway en route to the garage.

Also have quick question; what sort of lock would other riders (especially those used to the early TMax) suggest for when I’m out and about? I’ve got an Oxford Boss that just fits onto the front disc, but well aware that this could be defeated by reasonably simple tools. Also got a big Oxford chain (used on old NTV about 15 years ago) which I’m thinking of buying a new padlock for. But any suggestions about better all-round products gratefully accepted.

Note; it’s kept in locked garage at home, with Boss lock in place, and large Mondeo parked hard up against door!

[Andym]

I really struggled with the Forza's little wheels. Here in Mega City 2 theft is endemic so I'm used to buying good locks. My Abus etc. just won't fit.

I now have a Litelock X1. Big enough to go through the back wheel and a shock, so hard to get a jack in and cannot be defeated by cutting the disc. The shackle is apparently made of some alloy that fouls cutter blades, but the chap who came up with it named it after himself so it feels gimmicky, but you assume Rodnium or whatever it is has some properties better than basic steel. The lock itself is protected but probably not the best. Only Americans pick locks though, phone thieving scum use plumbers spray, so who knows.

For the Cub I have a Xena disc lock. Only as good as the disc which could be cut in two minutes. Weight is important though when you only have 9 HP.

At home it's about layers. Car blocks the garage. Garage connected to house alarm. Extra locks on garage door. Extra sheet metal round hinges. Neighbors bought wine at Christmas and their dogs played with and encouraged to yap. Concreted in lock down points and massive chains with good shutter locks. Covers and garage door kept closed so passers by don't see contents. Keys kept at multiple locations inside the house. CCTV looking out of back bedroom etc.

Andy

[Big Al]

I now have a Litelock X1. Big enough to go through the back wheel and a shock, so hard to get a jack in and cannot be defeated by cutting the disc.

Yeah, have to say this one looks good! Curious to know if it'll make it through the back wheel of the TMax, and wondering if there's a decent chain that'd fit through the shackle to enable attachment to ground anchors or street furniture? Honestly, the more I go through Maxi-Muppets posts, the more paranoid I get about TMax's basically being the most nickable bikes around... Even my old dog!