The OnGuard Bulldog DT U-lock offers a budget-friendly solution for securing your bicycle, but does it provide adequate protection? This review delves into the features and performance of this standard-sized U-lock, examining its security rating, build quality, and ease of use. We'll assess its strengths and weaknesses, comparing it to other locks in its price range and exploring the value proposition of its included features, such as the supplemental cable and frame mount. We'll also discuss the implications of OnGuard's anti-theft protection program.This comprehensive review will help you determine if the OnGuard Bulldog DT is the right choice for your specific needs and risk environment. We'll consider its suitability for various locations, from low-theft areas to those with higher crime rates. Ultimately, we aim to provide you with the information necessary to make an informed decision about whether this U-lock offers the level of security you require for your bike, weighing its affordability against its potential vulnerabilities.
Pros And Cons
- Lightweight (1.10 kg)
- 13mm shackle thickness resists most bolt cutters
- Double deadlocked shackle
- Bump-proof cylinder, resistant to picking, pulling, and drilling
- Comes with a 10mm thick 4ft cable
- Silver rating from Sold Secure (UK based lock tester)
- Includes five keys, one with a light
- Eligible for OnGuard key replacement program
- Easy to use due to rigid structure
- Wider than many standard U-locks, offering more locking options
- Covered in hard rubber to protect paintwork
- Good value for money ($30-32)
- Lower security rating compared to other OnGuard locks (Pitbull, Brute)
- Cable offers minimal protection against cable cutters
- Can be cut once and pried open despite double locking (according to anecdotal evidence)
- Heavy to carry around without a frame mount
- No dust cover
- OnGuard's customer service is not as good as Kryptonite's
- Requires regular cleaning and lubrication for weather protection
- Medium security, not suitable for high-risk areas
- Anti-theft protection scheme is complicated and difficult to claim from
Read more: Top 5 Folding Bike Locks for Ultimate Security
Specifications and Security Rating
The OnGuard Bulldog DT is a standard-size U-lock with internal dimensions of 9 inches by 4.5 inches (approximately 23 cm by 11.5 cm). This is typical for a standard U-lock. It weighs approximately 2.43 pounds (1.10 kg), about the same as three standard cans of beer. OnGuard rates its security at 70 out of 100, while the box and website show a 65 out of 100 rating. This discrepancy is unclear, but overall, it's considered a medium-level security lock within the OnGuard range, below the Pitbull and Brute models.
Despite the lower rating compared to other OnGuard locks, the 13mm shackle offers good resistance to bolt cutters, prying, and attacks. The double-deadbolt mechanism adds to security, requiring two cuts to release the shackle (though anecdotal evidence suggests potential vulnerabilities).
Cable and Additional Security
The Bulldog DT includes a 10mm thick 4ft cable designed to secure the bike frame and one wheel. The cable is intended to complement the U-lock, offering additional security. However, cables offer minimal protection against cable cutters; they provide more of a psychological deterrent than practical security. Consider upgrading wheels to more theft-resistant options as a better security measure.
The included cable can be threaded through the frame and wheels to secure the entire bike, offering added peace of mind. However, its vulnerability to quick cutting with cable cutters should be kept in mind.
Security Ratings and Portability
The OnGuard Bulldog DT receives a Silver rating from Sold Secure, a UK-based lock testing organization. This is considered a decent level of protection for low-to-medium-risk areas. The lock's lightweight design (1.10 kg) makes it one of the lightest standard-size U-locks available. This lighter weight improves portability, although carrying a U-lock in a bag can still be cumbersome.
Ease of Use and Features
U-locks are generally easy to use due to their rigid structure, and the Bulldog DT is no exception. Its slightly wider design offers more placement options when securing a bike. The hard rubber coating protects paintwork, and the five keys provided (including one with a light) add convenience. The key replacement program offered by OnGuard provides additional peace of mind if keys are lost.
The lock's cylinder is bump-proof and resistant to picking, pulling, and drilling. The lack of a dust cover is a design choice that has both pros and cons - potentially improving security while also potentially making the lock more prone to water damage.
Frame Mount and Anti-theft Protection
The OnGuard Bulldog DT also comes with a frame mount for easy attachment to the bike frame. The mount is adjustable to accommodate different frame thicknesses and positions. Although not the most robust mount available, it is sturdy and reliable. The mount uses different sized bolts to fit various bike frame thicknesses.
OnGuard offers an anti-theft protection program with coverage up to $1500. However, this program has several restrictions, such as not covering damage caused by power tools, and generally is more complicated to use than the insurer promises.
Conclusion and Alternatives
The OnGuard Bulldog DT is a well-priced, medium-security U-lock suitable for low-to-medium-risk areas. Its lightweight design, ease of use, and included frame mount make it a convenient option. However, its security level isn't high enough for high-theft areas. Alternatives include the OnGuard Pitbull (a step up in security) and the Kryptonite KryptoLok Series 2 (better customer service). For budget-conscious buyers, the Abus Granit Detecto XPlus offers cheaper option but should be used in areas of low theft.
Overall, the Bulldog DT provides decent value for its price point, but buyers should carefully consider their security needs and location before purchasing. The anti-theft program may not be worth the cost and added complexity; comprehensive home or bicycle insurance might be a more reliable option.
