One tip that I got from an RV dealer about our 5th wheel was to put some type of padlock on the lever arm that releases the 5th wheel from its hitch. Normally there is just a pin to seccure the lever arm in a pre-drilled hole, but a padlock ensures that it is secure and has not been opened and you would not notice.. All it would take is someone to throw open the hitch lever arm open at a rest stop or a fast food shop and your 5th wheel will just drop off in your truck bed.
I use TNT booby trap firework item that when you pull apart there is a loud crack. I rig with a trip wire and attach to my tanks, spare and bike as well as a couple trip wires with fishing line that will unnerve anyone with a loud crack who comes into your camping area and will alert you.
As a technician I built a wire loop that goes around my bikes, after connecting and activating my system if this loop is broken it activates horn on my vehicle. In addition a disk brake lock requires the thief to carry the bike away instead of riding it away, this means you could catch up to them unlike if they’re riding.
I'm sure others will say it, but a perusal of lock picking lawyer's UA-cam channel should give you some good ideas for bike locks. One of the lock brands (not specific to bikes) that he and Bosnian Bill have been positive about is Pac Lock. Good quality for the price point, able to rekey things to the same key, some are even available at Home Depot, and they make some good RV specific locks as well. In general, you need to have enough in place to discourage opportunistic thieves. If it's going to take them time, effort, and multiple tools they're probably going to keep walking until they find something that's easier. Taking measures to secure propane tanks and batteries on an RV probably aren't the most necessary thing in the world because they're generally going to take tools and a few minutes to remove. They're also not scarce or expensive like bikes. As long as one of your neighbors is an easier victim (as harsh as that sounds to say) you'll probably be okay without going overboard
Someone once told me this: "Do you want to pay money to replace it? If not, secure it." (Meaning, assume someone will try to steal if if they have the opportunity)
Bike theft has gotten out of control. Cables like the one you had cut are too easy for thieves to cut. Unfortunately even heavy duty chains don’t always do the trick. Leave your bikes in your view as much as possible and try to always have someone around. Glad to hear you still have your bikes!
I have a kryptonite chain lock that bolt cutters can't cut they would have to use a cuttoff wheel surveillance camera with lightning triggered by motion detectors via app to your phone
Use multiple locks of variety. U-locks are the best option followed by chains and fold outs. Never use cables they are just a deterrent at best they can be cut very easy. At minimum us 6 or 7 locks of high grade and high quality, it can get expensive but so can replacing bikes.
I picked up a set of lockpick tools a month or so ago on a lark to just learn a new skill as a just in case. You would be surprised how easy a Master lock can be picked. I know it shocked me as I was able to pop both the ones I had on day 1 of trying the pick tools. You might want to research a more secure lock or lock type. Just my 2 cents. Glad they didn't end up with your bikes.
I have a battery lock box that holds 2 batteries and a ring doorbell door sensor. Propane tanks I just drilled holes in the screw off too and put a padlock through the holes then cable and lock to tongue. Ring doorbell by main door and ring alarm inside with door sensors on ever door. Ring motion sensor over the tv to detect movement inside the trailer. Alexa camera to check periodically. Log chain through the tire rims. Tongue lock. 5 Apple air tags hidden inside to track movement if it gets stolen. Ring alarm with the professional monitoring with the cellular backup. 3 ring camera on the exterior. I have all of this and a few others I don’t care to share. I still have things stolen. Best item is good expensive insurance and video proof before and after. People are garbage and trust no one.
Check the Lock Picking Lawyer and Bosnia Bill channels, if I’m not mistaken some Masterlocks are very easy to pick, both of these channels have good bike lock reviews
Maybe even put a “smile you’re on camera” sign on you RV as a deterrent with like a fake camera looking thing near by. Doesn’t have to be obtrusive but just something that could be noticed when someone gets too close to your equipment without you knowing
We recently invested in a E-Bike and we use a Kryptonite U lock and Krypotnite Chain together! Cables are only acceptable security for a like transport cart attached to the back of your Bike.
I second (third, etc) looking at Lockpicking Lawyer's channel. Try a strong padlock (PAClock) and a cloth-covered chain. Ideally you want a padlock that fits exactly. If you cannot find a covered chain, find a cover for the bike instead for the areas chain comes into contact with it. Do not use the integrated chain and lock, get a length of hardened chain and a bolt type lock (looks like a rectangle or round cylinder) with a locking bolt that leaves little to no wiggle room)
If you dont know his channel allready, watch the lock picking videos from the lockpickinglawyer on UA-cam. Use two different bike locks. Lock the bikes with 2x chains front and back wheel with a part of the bike frame together. And if possible both bike frames with the bike mounting stand. But every lock can be opened if you have enough time. I use a Abus Bordo X-Plus for my bike.
That threaded rod that holds your lp tanks down you can drill a hole through the rod just big enough to put a pad lock through it. Or maybe that big wing nut. I don’t do it but it’s a thought
Good info/tips. It’s a shame we have to constantly be practical and vigilant to protect ourselves and our gear. But, we live in a fallen world, right? Prayers for you and your family.
G'day Aaron, geeeez mate, too many mongrels in the world. There's an old saying "locks only keep the honest folks out". And then there's the other hardware involved too, i.e. they ignore the lock completely and in this case go for the cable instead. Bolt cutters, crow bars, battery angle grinders and such, its never gonna be 100%. Suggest think as if you lost the key or forgot the combo and had to break in to your own gear. All you can really do is get the best/strongest you can afford. Cheers Duke. P.S. do you guys have travel insurance that covers caravaning over there ?
Kryptonite New York Fuhgettaboudit lock and chain is expensive but no one will be able to get through it. Also strap a cheapo bike alarm to the bike frame. and an Apple air tag.
People nowadays use power tools. Takes 15 seconds to cut through both sides of that lock you mentioned. If you already spend more than $100 go for the Litelok X1. Well worth the extra money. But U-locks are difficult to attach at times bc they don't offer the flexibility of chains.
You can figure out a way to lock/secure your propane tanks while stationary but when traveling down the road I would not have them locked up for safety reasons in case of emergency to allow emergency personnel access.
Found a u ( long) lock put it around propane tank Wing nut theifs would have to cut lock off ,boom hopefully there dead . Also on tank pulls make up a thick 1/4" /5/ 16" flat bar bracket, put over old then blue loctite on threads of handle it come loose once almost lost handle never again . Tank pull bracket operation much better now.. Maybe cable around batteries an idea too. Big Ben Canadian RV ers.
Your guardian angel said 🤚🏼 I’m thanking God that you have this opportunity to reevaluate your security without actually getting burned. Blessed are those who find wisdom and gain understanding! ❤️
U-lock. Or chain. Ditch all those cables. Also, people talk about how locks are easy to pick. In 20 years law enforcement, I’ve never actually seen a lock that was picked. Dopers are lazy and dumb.
$2800 worth of bike and your using a cheap Walmart cable😂😂😂😂😂. The first one you had was absolutely garbage, the one you are using now isn’t much better. Spend the money get a decent chain and lock not a master lock!!!!!
It shows what people of the world AREN'T taught, or what they don't follow/obey even if they say they are christian, reverence and respect and honor for God's commands and what is taught in the bible. Don't steal, don't lie etc. Life is a stage. We have a chance right now to show what's in our hearts, what our spirit is like, who we are of, what choices we'll make.
One tip that I got from an RV dealer about our 5th wheel was to put some type of padlock on the lever arm that releases the 5th wheel from its hitch. Normally there is just a pin to seccure the lever arm in a pre-drilled hole, but a padlock ensures that it is secure and has not been opened and you would not notice.. All it would take is someone to throw open the hitch lever arm open at a rest stop or a fast food shop and your 5th wheel will just drop off in your truck bed.
I’m glad things worked out Aaron, enjoy your weekend and blessings to your family buddy
I use TNT booby trap firework item that when you pull apart there is a loud crack. I rig with a trip wire and attach to my tanks, spare and bike as well as a couple trip wires with fishing line that will unnerve anyone with a loud crack who comes into your camping area and will alert you.
As a technician I built a wire loop that goes around my bikes, after connecting and activating my system if this loop is broken it activates horn on my vehicle. In addition a disk brake lock requires the thief to carry the bike away instead of riding it away, this means you could catch up to them unlike if they’re riding.
I'm sure others will say it, but a perusal of lock picking lawyer's UA-cam channel should give you some good ideas for bike locks. One of the lock brands (not specific to bikes) that he and Bosnian Bill have been positive about is Pac Lock. Good quality for the price point, able to rekey things to the same key, some are even available at Home Depot, and they make some good RV specific locks as well.
In general, you need to have enough in place to discourage opportunistic thieves. If it's going to take them time, effort, and multiple tools they're probably going to keep walking until they find something that's easier. Taking measures to secure propane tanks and batteries on an RV probably aren't the most necessary thing in the world because they're generally going to take tools and a few minutes to remove. They're also not scarce or expensive like bikes. As long as one of your neighbors is an easier victim (as harsh as that sounds to say) you'll probably be okay without going overboard
You beat me to the punch.
For the tanks I've just been using a simple strap. It's really nothing but it is one more layer of slow down for a thief.
Someone once told me this: "Do you want to pay money to replace it? If not, secure it." (Meaning, assume someone will try to steal if if they have the opportunity)
Yep totally good advice
Bike theft has gotten out of control. Cables like the one you had cut are too easy for thieves to cut. Unfortunately even heavy duty chains don’t always do the trick. Leave your bikes in your view as much as possible and try to always have someone around. Glad to hear you still have your bikes!
I have a kryptonite chain lock that bolt cutters can't cut they would have to use a cuttoff wheel surveillance camera with lightning triggered by motion detectors via app to your phone
What Kryptonite chain lock are you referring to that can't be cut with bolt cutters?
Use multiple locks of variety. U-locks are the best option followed by chains and fold outs. Never use cables they are just a deterrent at best they can be cut very easy. At minimum us 6 or 7 locks of high grade and high quality, it can get expensive but so can replacing bikes.
I picked up a set of lockpick tools a month or so ago on a lark to just learn a new skill as a just in case. You would be surprised how easy a Master lock can be picked. I know it shocked me as I was able to pop both the ones I had on day 1 of trying the pick tools. You might want to research a more secure lock or lock type. Just my 2 cents. Glad they didn't end up with your bikes.
I have a battery lock box that holds 2 batteries and a ring doorbell door sensor. Propane tanks I just drilled holes in the screw off too and put a padlock through the holes then cable and lock to tongue. Ring doorbell by main door and ring alarm inside with door sensors on ever door. Ring motion sensor over the tv to detect movement inside the trailer. Alexa camera to check periodically. Log chain through the tire rims. Tongue lock. 5 Apple air tags hidden inside to track movement if it gets stolen. Ring alarm with the professional monitoring with the cellular backup. 3 ring camera on the exterior. I have all of this and a few others I don’t care to share. I still have things stolen. Best item is good expensive insurance and video proof before and after. People are garbage and trust no one.
Check the Lock Picking Lawyer and Bosnia Bill channels, if I’m not mistaken some Masterlocks are very easy to pick, both of these channels have good bike lock reviews
Set up a trail camera or some type of camera so worst case scenario you can identify the person. Sometimes its your neighbors.
Maybe even put a “smile you’re on camera” sign on you RV as a deterrent with like a fake camera looking thing near by. Doesn’t have to be obtrusive but just something that could be noticed when someone gets too close to your equipment without you knowing
I was thinking the same thing!
We recently invested in a E-Bike and we use a Kryptonite U lock and Krypotnite Chain together! Cables are only acceptable security for a like transport cart attached to the back of your Bike.
I second (third, etc) looking at Lockpicking Lawyer's channel.
Try a strong padlock (PAClock) and a cloth-covered chain. Ideally you want a padlock that fits exactly. If you cannot find a covered chain, find a cover for the bike instead for the areas chain comes into contact with it.
Do not use the integrated chain and lock, get a length of hardened chain and a bolt type lock (looks like a rectangle or round cylinder) with a locking bolt that leaves little to no wiggle room)
If you dont know his channel allready, watch the lock picking videos from the lockpickinglawyer on UA-cam.
Use two different bike locks. Lock the bikes with 2x chains front and back wheel with a part of the bike frame together. And if possible both bike frames with the bike mounting stand. But every lock can be opened if you have enough time.
I use a Abus Bordo X-Plus for my bike.
If you put something outside for someone to see, assume someone will try to steal it. Put the best lock worth the stuff you want to secure.
God’s blessings and good to hear you’re learning better security on the road! 🙏
Thanks David!
That threaded rod that holds your lp tanks down you can drill a hole through the rod just big enough to put a pad lock through it. Or maybe that big wing nut. I don’t do it but it’s a thought
Good info/tips. It’s a shame we have to constantly be practical and vigilant to protect ourselves and our gear. But, we live in a fallen world, right? Prayers for you and your family.
G'day Aaron, geeeez mate, too many mongrels in the world.
There's an old saying "locks only keep the honest folks out".
And then there's the other hardware involved too, i.e. they ignore the lock completely and in this case go for the cable instead.
Bolt cutters, crow bars, battery angle grinders and such, its never gonna be 100%.
Suggest think as if you lost the key or forgot the combo and had to break in to your own gear.
All you can really do is get the best/strongest you can afford.
Cheers Duke.
P.S. do you guys have travel insurance that covers caravaning over there ?
Is it true that in Holland it's a hanging offence for bike theft.....
G70 chain made at tractor supply to your length you need 3/8 in size
Kryptonite New York Fuhgettaboudit lock and chain is expensive but no one will be able to get through it. Also strap a cheapo bike alarm to the bike frame. and an Apple air tag.
People nowadays use power tools. Takes 15 seconds to cut through both sides of that lock you mentioned. If you already spend more than $100 go for the Litelok X1. Well worth the extra money. But U-locks are difficult to attach at times bc they don't offer the flexibility of chains.
install cameras around your caravan that can be viewed on your phone via the internet
Put them inside the camper!
A Master Lock can be opened in seconds with very basic tools and skill.
Only on the internet
You can figure out a way to lock/secure your propane tanks while stationary but when traveling down the road I would not have them locked up for safety reasons in case of emergency to allow emergency personnel access.
Ya, again maybe a U bike lock
Get a logger chain. 80 poounds per square inch. Lowes and home depot chains are junk.
A cable is not a bike chain....cables are butter to a bolt cutter. ABUS Chain or Kyrptonite chain.....$150 investment for $2800 worth of bikes!
Found a u ( long) lock put it around propane tank Wing nut theifs would have to cut lock off ,boom hopefully there dead . Also on tank pulls make up a thick 1/4" /5/ 16" flat bar bracket, put over old then blue loctite on threads of handle it come loose once almost lost handle never again . Tank pull bracket operation much better now.. Maybe cable around batteries an idea too. Big Ben Canadian RV ers.
Get a truck cap , throw the stuff in the bed of the truck
I'd suggest Kryptonite 12.7mm U-Lock Bicycle Lock. They'd have to have Freon & a hammer to get to the bikes!
Your guardian angel said 🤚🏼 I’m thanking God that you have this opportunity to reevaluate your security without actually getting burned. Blessed are those who find wisdom and gain understanding! ❤️
U-lock. Or chain. Ditch all those cables.
Also, people talk about how locks are easy to pick. In 20 years law enforcement, I’ve never actually seen a lock that was picked. Dopers are lazy and dumb.
Thanks for the feed back.
That's what gasoline tankers have an internal valve and a butterfly valve for safety
$2800 worth of bike and your using a cheap Walmart cable😂😂😂😂😂. The first one you had was absolutely garbage, the one you are using now isn’t much better. Spend the money get a decent chain and lock not a master lock!!!!!
It shows what people of the world AREN'T taught, or what they don't follow/obey even if they say they are christian, reverence and respect and honor for God's commands and what is taught in the bible. Don't steal, don't lie etc. Life is a stage. We have a chance right now to show what's in our hearts, what our spirit is like, who we are of, what choices we'll make.