Hiplok DXC: The Spec
The DXC is a Sold Secure Gold Rated lock. Sold Secure is an independent accreditation body that tests and benchmarks security products. Their ratings are used to inform customers as well as insurance companies and the police.
- Security Rating: Sold Secure Gold Award
- Shackle: 14mm hardened steel shackle, dual locking tabs
- Body: Hardened steel casing, tough nylon outer shell
- Accessories: 1 metre steel accessory cable.
- Weight: 1350g
- Locking Size: 15cm x 8.5cm Internal Area
- Keys: 3 keys with coded key replacement program
- RRP: £79.99
Items under assessment are tested against an assortment of destroying techniques – from freezing to wedge attacks, torque attacks and bolt cropping. They’re then given a rating – ‘Gold’ being the highest standard. A Gold rated lock is described as one which:
‘Provides resistance against the top level tool list (each tool being used multiple times) and including items such as large bolt croppers and TCT Hacksaw for a minimum of 5 minutes’.
No lock is invincible, but a Gold rated lock is pretty reliable. Often that means heavy, and a little bit cumbersome – but that’s what sets the Hiplok DXC apart.
The Hiplok DXC features a 14mm hardened steel shackle and hardened steel body. The shackle tabs are anti-twist to help them withstand the toughest of attacks, whilst the outer shell of the lock is made from tough nylon. The lock comes with three keys, and there is a coded replacement programme in place, as is evident from the numbers printed on the top of each key.
The best way to lock your bike is always to secure the frame with a D-lock or chain, and then loop an extra cable lock through the wheels to add additional security – particularly if like most road, hybrid and mountain bike riders you’ve got quick release skewers attaching your wheels. To encourage this, Hiplok have added a 1 metre steel cable, which curls up and sits within a removable clip that then attaches to the shackle. This cable won’t be invincible, but it’s certainly a deterrent and will ensure that your hoops don’t look like an easy target.
Hiplok have done their best to keep the weight low, and the lock comes in at 1350g. It’s no featherweight, but it’s light for the level of protection on offer – which is handy because you’re going to clip it to your jeans. The party trick for Hiplok is the way the nylon plastic case extends to incorporate two ‘hooks’ which fit onto a pocket, belt, waistband or bag – thus creating an easy way to transport your lock.
Sure, if you had a lock in your bag, or on your bike, you’d be carrying the same amount of weight – but this method means the weight is placed in a position that won’t affect handling as per a frame mounted lock, or place extra pressure on your shoulders as would a lock in your backpack.
To add a nod to safety, the DXC also features a reflective strip which will draw a little extra attention to you on the road and aid visibility.
