Is a security chain around your saddle still necessary?

[pgoat]

Ok, stupid thread, but I am messing with my commuter bike and trying another saddle this weekend.

I was about to refasten the length of bike drive chain encased in old inner tube and duct tape I have used since 1998 to thwart saddle thieves.....but I realize I rarely see anyone using these measures in NYC anymore when locking up on the street. I used to drip solder or candle wax in my stem bolts and so forth...but it's not like my components are exactly cutting edge anymore, nor do I leave anything really vintage or classic locked up outside.

Assuming the saddle is nothing special (I am going from a fairly new Brooks Swift with TI rails back to my ancient 1991 Selle Italia Turbo Special which is well-worn, scuffed and covered with ragged stickers), would you even bother?

I should add that I lock my bike in the office on an everyday basis; the street lock up is only for the odd occasion when I go out for beer after work, out to dinner or a movie on the weekend, etc. Also I have a Allen bolt seat post fastened in place of the original quick release.

[revolator]

You're in NYC, keep it on.

[Stacy]

I also have a Brooks with ti rails so I wouldn't think of leaving it unsecured.

I've seen a fair number of bikes without seats or wheels lately. Maybe Springtime is just a help-yourself-to-bike-parts time of year.

[dwood]

Although I live in a very low-theft town . . . I still made up a short length of plastic-coated stainless steel cable with loops on each end. I thread it around thru the frame, rear rack, and seat. A small dial-type padlock secures it.

I realize it is not 'real' protection, but would deter a smartass who would think it was fun to rip off my seat. If they are really after my stuff . . . they will get the seat. The rest of the bike gets the usual U-lock and heavy cable so they'll have to work a little harder.