Do you fold when you lock? Or do you portage?

[jakub.ner]

I recently bought my first folder with the intention of trying it out for touring, and for commuting without a need to lock it. My motivation is that when touring you can easily transport it. My motivation for commuting and carrying the bike everywhere is that I want to invest in nicer components but don't want them stolen (i.e. dyno hub etc. etc.).

The tour was a success.

The commute not so. It's not practical to carry a 20" folder, in bag or not, into a market. It's definitelly practical when you visit a friend over night or spend several hours at work.

I'm currently thinking that I can still make it harder for thieves to try and grab my seat/bell/mirror you name it by folding the bike before locking it. It's a Dahon so the handlebar goes between the wheels. Do others do this? Or do you portage your bike with you to every store?

[14R]

I do not leave any of my bikes unattended. Others fold, bag, lock and chain, but I personally don't

Just my US$0.02

[gbcb]

When I have to leave my bike outside for more than a few minutes, I usually fold it before locking on the assumption that it will look less welcoming to thieves. Not sure that it does much, but it makes me feel better. I would, however, detach mirrors and other accessories and take them with me, if at all possible.

[Simple Simon]

I usually 'fold and take' - that's a big advantage of a fast folding bike. I would only leave unfolded bikes locked in safe public places where a thief would be put off from operating. I also dont keep my bikes particularly clean or 'new' looking, and take the lights off.

[DaFriMon]

Can't say for sure how all thieves think, but I've always thought that a folded, locked bike might look *more* attractive to a thief because of the novelty factor. Of course, in the folded state, it may also be possible to lock it more securely, by passing a chain or U-lock through more parts of the bike.

Regardless, I take a Kryptonite NY chain with me when I think I might have to leave a folder outside, but so far I've been able to avoid it. Usually I leave the heavy chain behind, and just don't go in anywhere where folded bikes aren't welcome. That's the limiting factor for me, not the inconvenience of folding. Even if a lock prevents outright theft, vandalism is still a concern. I'm not too proud to use other kinds of transportation if I think I need to, even a (gasp) car. ;)

And BTW, I have the new style lock for the chain. There was an older style lock that could supposedly be opened with a Bic pen.

[jakub.ner]

Hmmm, interesting. I wish I could create a poll, how do you do that? I.e. with categories such as:

Do you lock or carry when you ride your folder shopping and step into a mall/store:

[1] I lock my full size (i.e 20" wheels ~25lbs) folder unfolded
[2] I lock my full size folder folded
[3] I lock my compact folder (i.e. 16" wheels ~20lbs) unfolded
[4] I lock my compact folder folded
[5] I always carry my full size folder
[6] I always carry my compact folder

[folder fanatic]

The folders that I have were chosen for their their ability to go with me at any time or place without locking them up. NO EXCEPTIONS! If I even get tempted once to leave it, I would risk losing it to theft since our theives are very professional and know how to nab one quickly, without interference even from law enforcement. If I cannot take them with me, I leave them at home. I live in a high crime area and it is bike owner suicide to leave even a Huffy alone for a minute.

[LittlePixel]

I have a crap 70's fold so I only do it if there's a real need like it's going to be unattended for a bit. I often remove the fixing bolt - My thinking goes if the thing looks broken and the bolt that stops it becoming a clown bike when ridden isn't there then it's a less attractive theft than that nice generic trek 7200 hybrid I've parked it next to. Fixed gear is probably more of a put off too unless you are a really
oddball bike thief.

But back on topic- I rarely take it indoors when out - it's too bulky. If I had a Brompton I probably would though. Better indoors than outside like a tethered lamb awaiting its fate.

[pdq]

my whole point in getting a folder was to "take it along". In live in Vancouver (BC) and so many bikes are stolen - regardless of locking and type of lock used. So, I bought a folder. Folded, it tucks neatly under my desk :)