So today’s adventure became fun when the padlock refused to open and it was getting to the point i thought we would have to abandon bikes. Key went in fine it just refused to open and took 30 mins of jiggling and some pliers force to open it.

It was a yale brass jobby that we use with a wire loop. Nothing fancy but a basic set for outings and is more for opportunistic deterrent than real security.

Has anyone else had similar and / or can recommend a good padlock.

Good question, but slightly pointless as you’ve not said:

how thick the cable loop is
how expensive your bikes are
how long you’re locking the bikes up for
where you’re locking the bikes
how much you’re willing to spend
how much weight you’re willing to carry while riding

and your existing padlock might just need oiling…