🔒 ABUS Granit CityChain XPlus 1060: The Lock That Pulls Double Duty As Security AND Strength Training 🚴
🌱 For most recumbent trike riders and long-distance tourers, weight is the enemy. Every extra gram has to be dragged up hills, across borders, and through the inevitable windstorms of life on the road. But what if you could flip the script? What if weight could actually work for you? Enter the ABUS Granit CityChain XPlus 1060—a heavy-duty beast of a lock that not only protects your precious trike from theft, but doubles as your personal strength-training partner.
Today, I’ll walk you through why I upgraded to this legendary lock, how it compares to my old setup, and why sometimes, choosing the heavier option is the smarter move.
✅ Key Information: The Lock That Means Business
The ABUS Granit CityChain XPlus 1060 is no joke. It ranks in at Security Level 15, the highest level ABUS assigns. The chain is sheathed in a protective textile sleeve to prevent scratches, and the XPlus cylinder inside the lock body is designed to withstand picking, drilling, and even the most creative attacks.
Specs at a glance:
- Weight: 2.61 kg (5.76 lbs)
- Chain thickness: 10 mm
- Length: 110 cm (43 inches)
- Material: Special temper-hardened steel
- Lock type: Key (XPlus precision disc-cylinder)
- Security level: 15/15 (ABUS maximum)
In short: It’s a tank. And I love it.
🔧 Practical Tips and Techniques
I just received the ABUS Granit CityChain XPlus 1060 today, so I haven’t yet taken it on extended trips. However, I’ve been using a very similar model from ABUS for the last nine years—the one I bought back in 2016 from Biker Fietsen on Steendam (Ghent center). I don’t remember the exact name, but you’ve seen the photos: it’s probably either an earlier version or the smaller sibling of the beast I now own.
If that old lock was already great—and it truly was—then this new one promises to be even greater. The build quality is next-level, and I can already tell it’ll become a key part of my setup.
Here’s what I plan to do with it:
- Mounting: I don’t recommend strapping it under your trailer or rack. If it falls off at high speed and hits the ground or another object, the consequences could be serious. Instead, I always carry mine safely stowed inside one of my waterproof Ortlieb recumbent panniers. It’s protected, secure, and easily accessible when needed.
- Daily Use: The lock’s action is smooth, and the keyhole is protected by a rotating cover to keep out dirt and rain—great for long-haul riders.
- Placement: When locking up, I loop the chain through the main frame and a fixed object (preferably steel or concrete-based), leaving the least slack possible. This reduces leverage points for thieves.
If you’re locking your trike overnight or in high-risk urban areas, this is the kind of peace of mind that lets you sleep soundly—even in a tent.
💡 Important Considerations
Here’s where I part ways with the typical ultralight crowd:
Yes, the ABUS Granit CityChain XPlus 1060 weighs 2.61 kg. My previous lock weighed just a bit over 2 kg. And yes, most long-distance cyclists would balk at carrying anything heavier than absolutely necessary. They count grams like monks count beads.
But here’s the twist:
Weight isn’t just a burden. It’s a training tool.
Every extra kilo I carry—be it this lock, my titanium cookware, or the few luxuries I allow myself—trains me. It challenges my muscles. It adds resistance. And resistance is what builds strength.
At 54, I’m not just riding for scenery—I’m riding for longevity. We lose up to 1.5% of muscle mass per year after 50 if we do nothing about it. But cycling with load? That’s a mobile gym session.
I’m not suggesting strapping lead weights to your panniers. But if a heavier lock gives you both safety and strength? That’s a double win.
🗂️ Advanced Insights
Let’s talk psychological security. Many touring cyclists suffer from that nagging worry: Is my bike still there? With the ABUS Granit 1060, I’ve experienced a profound drop in background stress.
In fact, I’ve had moments where curious onlookers tried to sit on my trike while I was away—only to be met with a high-pitched scream from my alarm system. Paired with a smart alarm, the 1060 becomes part of a multi-layered defense system. A visible deterrent and a hidden surprise.
Also worth noting: this lock is certified by multiple international insurance standards, making it suitable for high-value trikes and e-bikes. If you’re rolling with a setup worth €5,000 or more, you want insurance to work with you, not against you.
🚲 Components or Tools to Focus On
✅ XPlus Cylinder – extremely resistant to manipulation and picking
🛡️ Textile Sleeve – protects frame paint while keeping a low profile
⚙️ 10mm Hexagonal Chain Links – high resistance to bolt cutters
🔑 Keyed System – includes code card for key replacement or matching
💪 Physical Deterrent – it looks strong because it is strong
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Isn’t 2.61 kg too heavy for a touring cyclist?
Not if you see it as portable resistance training. Every gram adds strength. If you’re already pulling gear, this lock is just the cherry on top.
❓ Is this lock overkill for rural or low-crime areas?
Not really. Theft can happen anywhere, and a lock like this offers peace of mind, even when wild camping.
❓ Can I travel with this on flights or trains?
Absolutely—though the weight makes it better suited to fully-loaded trike touring than ultralight minimalist trips.
📅 Long-Term Strategies
If you tour regularly, invest once in a lock like this. Over time, you’ll save on stress, potential theft, and even gym memberships. Combine it with a quality alarm and GPS tracker for a layered defense. Think in systems, not single items.
Also: as you age, keep your muscle mass in mind. Don’t fear weight—use it. Carrying this lock is like doing loaded squats, one (s)mile at a time.
🏁 Final Thoughts
The ABUS Granit CityChain XPlus 1060 isn’t just a lock—it’s a mindset. It says: “I take my security seriously, and I’m strong enough to carry what matters.”
Yes, it’s heavy. Yes, it’s tough. But so are you. And every pedal stroke you take while carrying it, you’re building more than security—you’re building resilience.
Want to experience this level of peace of mind and personal empowerment yourself?
Check out the ABUS Granit CityChain XPlus 1060 on Amazon
Stay safe. Stay strong. And keep rolling.