Do you have an old combination bike lock and can't remember the code? If it's a simple four-digit lock, you can easily find the combination using a quick method. So, how do you open a coded bike lock?
Best of all, this technique requires no special tools or know-howIt also lets you reuse the locking cable instead of damaging it with wire cutters. All you need is a little patience and you'll have your combination in no time.
What's more, it goes without saying that you don't have to be a moron to use it to steal bikes. And if it's that easy to break into a rotary bike lock, you might want to opt for a stronger lock (don't forget your code or key this time).
Table of contents
Step 1 Defining the starting point
Make sure all the same numbers line up at the starting position. You can start with any number, but it makes sense to start with 1.
The method involves pulling on each end until you see a gap form. For example, when the first digit is correct, you'll notice a small gap between the first and second positions.
Step 2 : Keep pulling and changing the numbers until you see a gap.
As you can see below, when the first digit reaches 3, you can notice a small gap by pulling on each end. This means we have our first combination number.
Step 3 Use the Tug method to find the rest of the combination.
Move down the line to the last digit. Here, when you get the right number and pull on each end, your lock will open. Pretty simple, isn't it?
Video Watch a video on how to open a bike code lock
For more information, see the full YouTube user guide below.
There's no guarantee that this will work on all combination cable bike locks, as the designs are all slightly different from one manufacturer to another. But who knows, you might get lucky and save your bolt cutter lock.
Conclusion
If you're wondering how to unlock a bike lock without the code, the steps above should help.
If you're using a good-quality lock, it's very likely that you'll need to cut it. If you haven't used a good-quality lock, you're lucky that a thief hasn't already stolen your bike.
If you want to buy a new bike lock, you can read our article on the best bike locks and the one on how to secure your bike.
Now you know how to open a bike code lock.