Atomic 22 Tribe security system

The Atomic 22 Tribe security system is basically a high tech, ultra lightweight security system designed to prevent casual pilfering of expensive components. Ours was comprised of skewer, stem cap and seatpost kit but there's literally a fastener for every part, from solid axles and quill stems to dropout hangers.

Maybe it's my manufacturing heritage (previous generations having served craft grade engineering apprenticeships) but I'm thrilled to see good quality, well-conceived stuff still made on these shores. Earlier incarnations were exclusively titanium but some fittings are now stainless steel, which has some positive pricing implications.

In common with competitor kits, this one employs a unique key, which can either plug into your torque wrench or a reversible ratchet. Keep that little key safe, in fact, register it online before you even think installation.

Minimal faff is what's called for, so Atomic22 employ tiny visual markers meaning instant alignment-match those and its open sesame - more about that in a minute.

Now, the only academic misgiving I have regarding the Tribe is that it is a common key, apparently shared between sixty-four people over a widely dispersed area. So if you're in Plumstead, someone from Plaistow isn't likely to liberate your bling with his or hers...

Ease of installation is greatly improved too. Pop out your existing fastener, drizzle some Ti prep (Plumber's copper slip will do in a pinch) on the threaded sections to avoid galvanic seizure (where the elements cause metals of different parentage to chemically fuse together), torque down correctly and admire.

I did find the seat collar bolt showed a tendency for stretch, resulting in slippage and unsightly scratches to the Univega's post. Leaving overnight and retightening come the morning solved this particular nuisance, although no such hassle with the stem cap or the stainless steel 'Guard Dog' skewers - the latter employ serrated faces designed to remain steadfast. I'm pleased to report, the zero point alignment system works more or less as conveniently as a standard quick release.

I didn't go in for recreating chisel and bottle jack attacks but pliers, wrenches and similar brute force techniques couldn't find any weak spots. Life on London's meaner streets taught me many things - there's always a back door into any system. I've no doubt that most from chancer to pro will look for easier pickings very, very quickly but its no substitute for good, well lit parkng spots and the visual/deterrent of a suitably substantial lock.

Verdict

Improved design for foiling theft of expensive parts but use a good lock too.