When it comes to choosing a bike lock, there’s always a battle between the level of security you require and the amount of weight you can tolerate hauling around. Beefy steel U-locks (or oversized chains) are pretty well unbeatable in terms of security, but even with a good frame bracket or lock pocket in your backpack, you’re still saddled with the weight. TiGr has sought to eliminate that problem by using titanium for their innovative locks, and the company has recently released their smallest, lightest offering yet called the TiGr Mini.
We checked out the original TiGr locks a few years ago, and our readers immediately uncovered a troubling online video of one being clipped rather easily. However, we’re not writing off TiGr’s ideas just yet- Anything less than a U-lock or fat-link chain can be defeated with a pair of industrial bolt cutters, and many riders rely on smaller locks that deter 95% of thieves. The TiGr Mini is a compact, lightweight option that should prevent anything short of targeted theft by well-equipped kleptomaniacs. Read on for the skinny on this lean, clean lock…
The Mini’s bow is made of titanium and is the same 1.25” width as found on TiGr’s larger locks. The Mini’s shapely design provides a locking area of roughly 4” by 7”, which is about the same as other brand’s mini U-locks and just big enough to secure your frame and one tire to a bike rack or post. The bow features a PVC coating so it won’t scratch up your frame.
The mini’s lock cylinder is similar to the rest of TiGr’s line, with a stainless steel housing and a 7 disc anti-pick mechanism. Two keys are included with the lock. A carry bracket that attaches to your frame’s water bottle mounts is also included with the Mini, and the bracket features rubber bumpers to reduce vibrations while you ride. The bracket weighs 1.4 ounces, and the lock simply and easily clips in and out.
With the complete Mini lock weighing in at just 0.9lbs TiGr has a nice offering for those who want to keep things light, and don’t require the highest level of security available. It’s also made of Ti and it looks pretty neat too, so it probably holds some aesthetic appeal to riders with stylish, customized commuter bikes. TiGr’s locks are made in the USA, and the new Mini is now available online for $99.00 USD.
