The thing about cable locks is they figure the weapon of choice is bolt cutters, thus the "loseness" of a cable wont. be easily cut. Iitll have too much give, yet done properly can be cut with bolt cutters, hell wire cutters will do the job. Bike theives tend ti work quickly and generally carry simple tools. a cable lock can be cut quickly.
Premise of the new york chain- the square links; the surface areas dont permit your standard theift sized bolt cutters the 14in and smaller to cut them. They can't cut through so much face. Quickly and quietly, portable ritary tolls make too much noise.
U-locks have been proven hardest to break considering time and tools. Even the three fasest ways are time and effort, and possibly loudness. Now, those new ball bearing style "cables" I dont know. I do. know unless the ballbaering lick is stronger, the u-lock is our best at defense.