I’ve been to the Abus factory and seen how the firm works, so I’m pretty convinced about the security offered by this U-lock. Abus is run by serious committed German engineers – exactly the sort of folk you would want to make your locks. For the size and weight, you won’t get anything much tougher than the Granit Extreme. It’s constructed from high-grade steel, specially hardened and toughened, and the main lock body is designed to defeat most forms of attack – both sophisticated and brute force.

A U-lock isn’t as flexible as a chain, but you can use it with one. I use mine at home, together with a big chain and a ground anchor, to secure whatever bike I have at the time. The Granit has been out in all weathers, and shows no signs of any corrosion whatsoever. Similarly, the locking action is as slick as when it was new. It’s also Thatcham-approved, so may get you an insurance discount.

Ultimately, no lock can prevent a totally committed thief with the right tools and enough time, from taking your bike. But the Granit lets me sleep pretty easy when it’s on the bike outside.