Security Chains With Padlocks

About Security Chains With Padlocks

Security chains with padlocks provide a robust and versatile solution for protecting valuable assets from theft. These heavy-duty security systems combine the strength of hardened steel chain links with high-security padlocks to create a formidable deterrent against opportunistic thieves and determined criminals alike. Whether securing motorcycles, bicycles, gates, storage units, or valuable equipment on site, a quality security chain and padlock combination offers flexibility and peace of mind that fixed security solutions cannot match.

The security chains available from Tooled-Up.com feature hardened steel construction with square or hexagonal link profiles that resist bolt cropping and sawing attacks. Many chains come fitted with protective nylon sleeves that prevent scratching of painted surfaces whilst maintaining maximum security performance. Premium models include padlocks with anti-drill, anti-saw, and anti-pick protection on the locking cylinder, along with security ratings from independent testing bodies such as Sold Secure or ART (Foundation for the Certification of Motorcycle Security Equipment).

Modern security chains with padlocks are engineered to withstand sustained attack from common theft tools including bolt croppers, hacksaws, and portable angle grinders. The combination of hardened alloy materials, precise manufacturing tolerances, and intelligent design features makes these security solutions an essential investment for anyone needing to protect valuable property in environments where theft risk is elevated.

Jargon Buster

• Hardened Steel Chain: Chain links manufactured from steel that has been heat-treated to increase hardness and resistance to cutting, sawing, and cropping attacks. The hardening process creates a crystalline structure that blunts cutting tools.
• Square Link Profile: Chain links with a square or rectangular cross-section rather than round, which provides greater resistance to bolt cropper jaws and prevents the chain from twisting during attack.
• ART Rating: A security certification system developed by the Foundation for the Certification of Motorcycle Security Equipment. Ratings range from 1 to 5 stars, with higher ratings indicating greater resistance to theft attempts.
• Anti-Pick Cylinder: A lock cylinder designed with internal mechanisms that prevent manipulation using lock picking tools. Features may include security pins, mushroom pins, or sidebar mechanisms.
• Nylon Sleeve: A protective covering fitted over security chains to prevent scratching of paintwork and chrome finishes on motorcycles, bicycles, and other valuable items being secured.
• Disc Lock: A compact padlock specifically designed to pass through chain links or motorcycle brake disc holes, featuring a short shackle and hardened body construction for maximum security.

Who Uses Security Chains With Padlocks?

• Motorcyclists: Securing bikes at home, work, or whilst travelling, particularly in urban areas with high theft rates
• Cyclists: Protecting high-value road bikes, mountain bikes, and e-bikes from opportunistic theft
• Tradespeople: Securing tools, equipment, generators, and materials on construction sites and in lock-ups
• Property Managers: Protecting gates, barriers, storage containers, and communal facilities from unauthorised access
• Landscape Gardeners: Securing valuable machinery including mowers, strimmers, and pressure washers on customer sites and in transit
• Event Organisers: Protecting temporary installations, fencing, equipment, and infrastructure at outdoor venues
• Homeowners: Securing garden machinery, outdoor furniture, bicycles, and garage contents
• Agricultural Workers: Protecting farm equipment, quad bikes, trailers, and fuel tanks in rural locations

How to Choose the Right Security Chains With Padlocks

Selecting an appropriate security chain and padlock combination requires careful consideration of several key factors. The chain diameter and link profile determines resistance to cutting attacks – look for chains of at least 10mm diameter with square or hexagonal links for serious security applications. Round links offer less resistance to bolt croppers and should be avoided for high-value items.

Consider the security rating and certification of both chain and padlock. Independent testing bodies such as Sold Secure (Gold, Silver, Bronze ratings) and ART (1-5 star ratings) provide reliable indicators of security performance. For motorcycle insurance purposes, many policies require Sold Secure or Thatcham-approved security devices.

Chain length must be sufficient for your intended application whilst avoiding excessive slack that could provide leverage for attack tools. Measure the anchoring points or the circumference of items you'll be securing, allowing extra length for passing through wheels or around immovable objects. The range at Tooled-Up includes various lengths to suit different applications.

The padlock quality is equally important as the chain itself – a hardened chain paired with a cheap padlock creates a weak link in your security. Look for padlocks with hardened shackles, anti-drill protection on the cylinder, and weatherproof construction if used outdoors. Disc locks with short shackles offer superior resistance to leverage attacks.

For motorcycles and bicycles, a protective sleeve on the chain prevents accidental damage to paintwork and chrome finishes. This nylon or fabric covering should be durable and well-secured to prevent slipping during handling.

Popular Accessories

• Ground Anchors: Hardened steel anchors cemented into floors or walls to provide secure fixing points for chains
• Wall Anchors: Heavy-duty mounting points for securing chains to brick, block, or concrete walls
• Additional Padlocks: Spare high-security padlocks for use with multiple chains or replacement purposes
• Chain Storage Bags: Protective bags for transporting and storing chains without damaging vehicle interiors
• Lock Lubricants: PTFE or graphite-based lubricants to maintain padlock mechanism performance in outdoor conditions
• Security Cable Extensions: Supplementary cables for securing helmets, panniers, and accessories alongside primary chain security
• Weatherproof Covers: Protective covers for padlock mechanisms to prevent water ingress and freezing in winter conditions

Frequently Asked Questions

What length security chain do I need for a motorcycle?

For securing a motorcycle to a fixed anchor point, a 1.5 to 2-metre chain typically provides sufficient length to pass through the frame and rear wheel whilst reaching a ground anchor or immovable object. Measure your specific requirements before purchasing, considering both the distance to anchor points and the need to pass through frame sections. Longer chains offer more versatility but can be heavier to carry.

Are security chains with padlocks weatherproof?

Quality security chains and padlocks from brands such as Sealey feature weather-resistant construction suitable for outdoor use. However, regular maintenance improves longevity – apply lock lubricant periodically to prevent mechanism corrosion, and store chains in dry conditions when not in use. Padlocks with sealed cylinders and stainless steel components offer superior weather resistance for permanent outdoor installations.

What security rating should I look for?

For motorcycle and high-value bicycle security, aim for Sold Secure Gold or ART 4-star rated products as minimum specification. These ratings indicate the product has withstood sustained attack testing using common theft tools. Check your insurance policy requirements, as many insurers specify minimum security ratings for coverage. For general equipment security, Sold Secure Silver or ART 3-star ratings provide good protection against opportunistic theft.

Can angle grinders cut through security chains?

Whilst no security chain is completely angle grinder proof, premium hardened steel chains significantly increase cutting time and require multiple cutting disc changes, creating noise and sparks that deter thieves in most situations. Chains of 10mm diameter or greater with hardened construction require several minutes of sustained cutting, making theft in public areas or monitored locations extremely risky for criminals. Combined with good anchoring and visible placement, quality chains provide excellent deterrent value.

How should I store my security chain when not in use?

Store security chains in a dry environment to prevent rust formation on links and padlock mechanisms. If the chain has been used in wet conditions, dry thoroughly before storage. Keep padlocks in the unlocked position during storage to prevent mechanism seizing. A dedicated storage bag protects vehicle interiors from scratching when carrying chains and prevents the protective sleeve from deteriorating. Regular inspection for wear or damage ensures continued security performance.