OnGuard Beast 5018 Bicycle Chain Lock Reviews

• It is 12mm chain not 14mm...

  
  By A10CJ2UMVKUFFW on 2007-02-18
  Not sure who is writing up the product descriptions but the 5018 is 12mm chain (which equals 4/9")... it still carries a 5+ rating from OnGuard(its highest rating) but if you require the 14mm (5/9") chain X 160mm (63")in length then you need the 5016L which also carries 5+ Star rating. Not sure 2mm would be worth the extra weight and probably would not provide anymore protection (1 minute more with the hacksaw?). I have not had this long enough to truly give it a complete testing but I live in Central Asia and if they can steal anything they will...give me a few more months and I will edit this review but so far so good. The best is it "looks" like a monster to even attempt to cut/break/steal and that is half the battle. Get real folks, there is not a lock that cannot be opened by a crook - so - the best you can do is realize that all a lock can do is keep the "honest man honest" and slow the real crooks down. This lock is for use some place where you are not going to give them TIME to break it. I use this when I run to the store and am inside for 15 minutes (maximum 20) or less because I feel it would take them that long to see the bike, get tools and set to work on it. I use a simple cable lock when I am at work (OnGuard 5030) as work has security guards and they all know me and my bike. Rick
  
  
  

• OnGuard motorcycle chain & lock - The Beast -

  
  By A2QCBW782NLP33 on 2007-03-24
  Chain is stout and heavy. Having the nylon sleeve not only looks nice, but keeps my bike from getting scratched.
  
  The lock operates very smoothly and while the key with the built-in LED is nice, it is a bit bulky.
  
  I only have two minor complaints:
  I wanted the longer chain, the 6 footer, but it is not sold in a package with a lock - don't ask me why - So I would have had to purchase them separately and that would have been more money than I wanted to spend.
  
  I want to purchase a second lock for a different location and wanted them to use the same key. I wrote directly to the company and they said it was "impossible"
  
  despite these minor inconveniences, this is a solid product and I give it 4.675 stars out of 5
  
  

• I still have my motorcycle....

  
  By A3B1EE263NXT6E on 2008-08-26
  The words "motorcycle lock" should apply to this baby because it weighs over 13lbs! If you plan on buying this lock for your bicycle, you can - great protection! But at that weight unless you are in REALLY good shape, or a masochist (or both), its better suited for a motorcycle. And with a motorcycle, it's not all roses and sunshine, either. Get a good bag, strong bungee cord/net, etc., to hold this lock and keep it stationary on your motorcycle.
  
  I brought this lock for my motorcycle - a 600cc sportbike, which are usually "eye catchers" for the honest and not-so-honest man/woman. I worked hard for my bike and I plan on keeping it. I have one "Beast" that I brought back in 2005 and a second one brought in May 2008 - and I still have my bike!
  
  The OnGuard BeastChain (5018) is well made; the chain thickness is 12mm (½ in.) and is hardened reinforced steel. The lock itself has two steel balls inside of it (no jokes!) for stronger defense against attack, and is 5 ½ feet in length. It's anti-drill and pick-proof (according to the packaging). It also has a covering over the chain to protect your wheel, frame, etc., from damage. There is also a "Anti-Theft Protection Offer" (Power sports only) against failure up to: $1200 (US), £400 (UK), 400 (Germany). And at around $80, the price is also reasonable for what you get.
  
  A statement I've heard from time to time is "If they want it, they'll get it", you should keep this in mind if you buy this or any lock. With the right tools and enough time, a determined, professional thief can break even THIS chain and/or lock. But that's the thing: if they have the right tools and enough time. This isn't the $10.99 lock you find at some of the low end bicycle shops. Something you could probably break with your bare hands. The "Beast" is one heavy duty, tough, chain. A person(s) would be very conspicuous with huge bolt cutters, blow torch, etc. trying to break this lock on the street. This would attract attention, police, etc. Thieves don't want that. And it takes time, too. So seeing the size and thickness of the chain and the huge lock, most would just keep walking, looking for a much easier target. Great!
  
  This lock is not perfect however, the length - at 5 ½ feet, is a bit short. At that length you cannot just wrap the chain around your wheel and that pole on the sidewalk; unless the pole (or stationary object) is right next to your bike. That can be a negative to some. You may have to park your motorcycle/scooter on the sidewalk to get closer to that pole/object, but careful in some states that's illegal (in New York City it is). You could also buy a longer chain, say 7 ft., but that's going to be more weight.
  
  There's also a part of the lock that's plastic. I don't know why this is; it doesn't weaken the lock (to my knowledge), the lock is mostly metal with a plastic cover. But cosmetically it's something to worry about if you happen to drop the lock.
  
  Another thing with the Onguard padlocks I've had experience with: you must insert the key correctly every time. You insert the key into the lock until it cannot go any more and then you turn it. This may sound elementary but sometimes you can get lazy or be in a hurry and not do this. In which case you will then, over time, damage the lock, where you won't be able to open it. You will then need an experienced lock smith or the Fire department/Police to cut the chain/lock. So be careful.
  
  Some tips: Spray inside the lock with WD40 occasionally, to keep the mechanisms inside working smoothly. Also, use an air duster to keep sand and grit out of the holes on the lock itself, and the "Beast" should protect your possession for a very long time.
  
  Also remember: *ALWAYS* chain your motorcycle/scooter/bicycle to something stationary if you are going to be away from it more than 30 seconds! Seriously!
  
  So I would recommend this chain, its tough, strong and of good craftsmanship. I believe it's a good theft deterrent. I brought my motorcycle two years ago; I live and ride in New York City and I STILL have my motorcycle!
  
  
  

• Heavy Duty

  
  By A5B623DDX5ZRP on 2006-02-23
  I was pleased with the quality of the chain that I purchased and with the price.
  
  

• peace of mind!

  
  By A3VAX41JBV2YPK on 2007-10-06
  I have no worries leaving my buddy outside when this chain is wrapped around it and a fixed object. I would suggest this theft deterrent to anyone who needs peace of mind.
  
  

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