This review dives into the Rolson Shackle Bike Lock, a unique padlock-style bicycle lock with an unusual internal mechanism. Unlike traditional pin-cylinder locks, the Rolson utilizes oversized metal sliders, offering a distinct locking experience. We'll explore its build quality, focusing on both the lock itself and the included mounting bracket. The review also details a lock-picking attempt, analyzing the ease with which the lock can be manipulated and highlighting any vulnerabilities.This assessment will cover first impressions, a detailed examination of the internal mechanism and its unusual components, a practical lock-picking test using common lock-picking tools, and a final verdict on the lock's security and overall value for protecting a bicycle. We'll determine whether this unconventional lock provides adequate security for cyclists, weighing its strengths and weaknesses against its price point and intended use.
Pros And Cons
- Fully operational
- Includes two keys
- Mounting bracket is poorly made and doesn't fit well
- Difficult to manipulate the sliders
- Feels cheap and light despite appearing heavy
- Thin metal construction
- Not recommended for securing valuable items; suitable only as secondary security measure
Read more: Top 5 Folding Bike Locks for Ultimate Security
Unboxing and Initial Impressions
The Rolson 'Shackle Lock' arrived with two keys and a mounting bracket. The packaging was minimal, offering little information beyond the claim of a steel body. However, the mounting bracket felt cheaply made and didn't fit well. The lock itself is a unique, oversized padlock design, unlike any other bicycle lock I've encountered.
First impressions were mixed. While the lock's size seemed sturdy, the poor quality of the mounting bracket raised concerns about overall build quality. The unusual design, however, sparked curiosity about its inner workings.
Inner Groove Mechanism Analysis
Unlike the OnGuard lock in my previous video, which used pins, this Rolson lock employs large metal sliders within the inner groove mechanism. These sliders, which are more like substantial metal blobs than traditional pins, are manipulated to open the lock. The key design also differs significantly, featuring a unique profile compared to laser-cut keys used in other locks.
The sheer size of these sliders makes them unusual. The manipulation felt quite different. It seems there is also a side-bar system at play, similar to what I encountered in the OnGuard lock but a lot harder to manipulate.
Lock Picking Process
Picking the Rolson lock proved surprisingly straightforward despite the unusual slider design. Using a tension wrench and a half-snowman pick, I employed a light raking technique to manipulate the sliders. The lock's core was rather floppy which helped during picking.
The square shape of the sliders made using a hook pick difficult. A light tension and careful manipulation were key. The pick tended to jump upwards, making precise manipulation challenging.
Overall Assessment and Conclusion
The Rolson Shackle Lock's build quality feels surprisingly light despite its size. The internal metal appears thin and cheap. While easily picked, its unusual design and the ease of picking present security concerns.
As a secondary security measure to secure the wheel of a bike, this might be enough. However, it would not be suitable for securing anything of high value. I wouldn't recommend using this as your sole security measure on a bicycle due to its weakness.
