The advantage of a cable lock over a U-lock is that it goes around trees and posts much better. The cable I'm talking about is coiled and stretches to about 2 1/2 feet - also doubles with a clip as a hanger for panniers in bear country. My sense is that a well-used touring bike loaded down with stuff is hardly an appealing target - - and the lock only serves as temporary discouragement anyhoo. I've toured for twenty years and never had a problem - rarely lock my bike - but then again - it only takes one time, right?