The Dutch make good cheese and bad locks.

I have been diligently reporting to you for just under two months from the Netherlands. During most of this time, I have been in the possession of a bike. The bike, as I've stated earlier, while not pretty is still susceptible to theft by filthy, Dutch bike thieves. As such, protecting "The Eagle" with a bike lock is a sound investment.

However, as this is a different country than Canada, lock technology and styles are slightly different. The fixed wheel lock (pictured above) is quite popular and is a quick way to secure your bike should you just want lock it temporarily. They also have the typical U-lock, cable lock and chain lock; chain locks seem to be the most popular.

It was suggested to us to purchase a good lock to guard against potential larceny. In some cases, people own locks with a retail value in excess of the bike they are trying to protect. There are no shortage of stories about people who are more upset about their €50 lock being cut, than their €25 bike being stolen.

But since being here, I have owned three bike locks.

"Was it because someone tried to steal your bike?" you ask.
No. No bike misappropriations here.

"Was it because you're a paranoid freak and attach three locks to your bike?" you question further.
Uh, no. I have more pressing issues about which to be paranoid.

"Is it because you think of bike locks as a fashion accessory and try to match it to your attire or mood?" you inquire as you grin sarcastically.
No, you jerk. Why do I even bother?

Actually, it's because the first two locks failed on me. Keep in mind that these are €20 locks (while they are at the lower end of the price spectrum, they are not the Dollar Store, bargain bin special). My first lock had a problem where the key would get stuck in the lock and wouldn't budge. I finally snapped the key off out of pure anger and frustration. My second lock just fell apart one day as I unchained my bike and was beyond repair. Fortunately, the bike shop where I bought it replaced it after some discussion.

Which brings me to the present. Hopefully, this third lock will last more than a month.

Teeks