General Cycling Discussion - new lock needed

Apologies...I would have used the 'search' tool, but, it's still down. :( The last post on the ULock sticky was 12/2005....

I am looking for a good, strong, "thief-proof" lock. The most urgent use is for my tour in Europe, but, I need a new one none-the-less. Of course, I would like it lightweight, as light as "theft-proof" allows....willing to carry a ULock if necessary.

Anyone know of any other rating system/website I can use in my research? Specific lock recommendations also welcome. Thanks in advance.

A "gold" rated u-lock weighs four to five pounds. A "silver" rated u-lock weighs two to three pounds.

For touring, I'd suggest a light weight "silver" rated u-lock around the rear wheel and a "bronze" rated cable around the front wheel. The OnGuard Bulldog is a very good lightweight u-lock.

Sometimes folks who are touring can't find a bike rack or slim pole to lock to, and are forced to use a large tree or telephone pole. A six foot long cable is easy for a crook to cut, but a long cable is useful in locations where a u-lock will not work.

If your bike is locked to a tree with a cable lock, you still need a u-lock attaching the rear wheel to the frame. That way, a crook can't cut the cable and just ride off on your bike.

"Gold", "Silver" and "Bronze" rated locks are listed at:

www.soldsecure.com/Leisure.htm

Alanbikehouston has good advice. The conventional wisdom from what people do where I live (other than not riding a bike around college campuses that is too valuable if its stolen) is to use a a high security U-lock, and a good cable lock. If its not too much weight, pairing a New York Lock from Kryptonite up with a Rottweiler series cable lock from Onguard locks will for the most part ensure your bike remains where it is.