Commuting - Locking Strategy

Am I missing anything?

Kryptonite locking skewers.

For all but the most determined thieves (the kind that would take those locks out anyways), it will make it so you don't have to worry about locking them. I have a set on my bike, and everytime someone tries to look smart around everyone and makes comments about my failure to lock my wheels, I usually present $50 and tell him if he can take either wheel off I will give him the $50. So far it's ended with the person getting on their knees and muttering something along the lines of "WTF?", or "the hell..?" :D

It's amazing how so many people have never seen these devices before...and the looks it gets are great. Given you may want to still lock up your front fork if you have a suspension fork, but that's about it. I don't consider my seat totally secure since it can be unbolted from the post...so a lock might be consdiered still if you live in a high theft area. So far all teh thefts I've seen in this area are opportunistic in anture (guy leaves toolshed open....random hoodlum takes some powertools, etc), with exception to the radio theif that's been going around...extremely methodical. I got nailed by him about 3 years ago...he only stole the radio and any components he could find...but the theft was very clean...he undid the mount kits without damaging the dash, and made sure teh factory wiring wasnt screwed up...didn't even touch my CDs....freeakign wierd.

I've heard that the skewers can be a pain to install. Something about grinding them down to the right size. Was the person I heard that from out of their mind?

yes, you have to cut them to fit, to avoid the theif supergluing a nut to them and taking them of with normal tools. It's really not as much of a pain as you would think if you use the right tools and protective goggles or safety glasses.

The best way to do this is dremel and the diamond cutting wheel. Takes about 30 mins, and the cut when finished is already perfectly polished by the diamond wheel. Speed is the secret to getting a good polish off that wheel.

The only suggestion I would make is to keep the NY Chain padlock away from a hard surface,like the post in the picture, it could be smashed with a sledgehammer or cold chisel. Have the u-lock pass through a link to keep it from being slipped around to a hard surface.

Replace the NY chain lock with a beefy american or abus lock. Take the saddle bag with you. I've seen someone park their bike on the back wheel straight, that way the chain and lock's up in the air, makes it harder to attack and attracts more attention while being attacked, plus less chance that mercedes rolls forward and creams your rear tire hehe.
Thread something through your bottle cage or they'll take it. ;)

You have the bike locked up pretty good. The U bolt is suppose to work the best by removing the front wheel and placing beside the rear then locking both wheels to the frame; (you could make some fork end protectors out of inner tube so the paint doesn't get marred up while resting on the pavement), then the U is suppose to attach to a pole-but obviously your pole is too fat for that, so running through a chain link is the second best idea if it will fit. Then take the Chain and put it through both wheels ithrough the rear stay around the frame going through the middle of the triangle and around the pole. I've heard that the NY Chain Lock is decent but if your concern the Abus lock you could use in addition to the stock lock, then you would have two locks on the chain. That chain though is pretty much bomb proof. I don't know what brand of U Lock your using but the NY folk that made your Chain also makes a U (2000?) that is very good.

Wow. Puts my whole no locking / just lean it against the fence in a different light.

Replace the NY chain lock with a beefy american or abus lock. Take the saddle bag with you. I've seen someone park their bike on the back wheel straight, that way the chain and lock's up in the air, makes it harder to attack and attracts more attention while being attacked, plus less chance that mercedes rolls forward and creams your rear tire hehe.
Thread something through your bottle cage or they'll take it. ;)

actually, just adding another lock to it would be better.

actually, just adding another lock to it would be better.

Depends on the shackle size and the link size, some won't fit another lock. My fahgaddaboudit lock has links so big there's no room in between to put another lock, only at the ends.

Kryptonite locking skewers.


I have to wonder, it's the same device that unlocks it on every kryptonite locking skewer right? What prevents a thief from stealing the entire kryptonite locking skewer package from the bike shop then using the key to swipe people's wheels?

Depends on the shackle size and the link size, some won't fit another lock. My fahgaddaboudit lock has links so big there's no room in between to put another lock, only at the ends.

i have that. and you can fit another lock there. a small one though. whats' wrong with the gafedaboudit lock?

Am I missing anything?


MY Lord, mate!! Do you really carry all this iron on your
bike as you ride?? It must weigh more than the bike!

My solution is to ride a fugly bike that no one would want.
It's mechanicly sound with enough redneck junk hung on it
to spoil any thiefs fun.

i have that. and you can fit another lock there. a small one though. whats' wrong with the gafedaboudit lock?

The lock itself or the chain? The chain's fine, I've been to 2 LBS's here that recommend replacing it with an ABUS or american lock. Specifically one person lost their key, forgot to copy the key code down, so the LBS had to break the lock, they said it took em about 5 minutes using hand tools. Someone had an american lock that was locked to a grocery store gate, once again lost the key. Took them more than 10 minutes with a power tool. Personally I keep my big yellow lock but the LBS recommended me to replace it.
If the thief has the tool to compromise the tiny u-lock on the chain, chances are any lock that fits between the tiny link spaces won't stand more than 10 seconds at best.

The lock itself or the chain? The chain's fine, I've been to 2 LBS's here that recommend replacing it with an ABUS or american lock. Specifically one person lost their key, forgot to copy the key code down, so the LBS had to break the lock, they said it took em about 5 minutes using hand tools. Someone had an american lock that was locked to a grocery store gate, once again lost the key. Took them more than 10 minutes with a power tool. Personally I keep my big yellow lock but the LBS recommended me to replace it.
If the thief has the tool to compromise the tiny u-lock on the chain, chances are any lock that fits between the tiny link spaces won't stand more than 10 seconds at best.

which locks are the american and abus? i don't think one with a sheilded bar would work on the krypto chain. and the fagedaboudit lock is different from the ny lock.

Thanks a lot for the replies and suggestions. Really.




The only suggestion I would make is to keep the NY Chain padlock away from a hard surface,like the post in the picture, it could be smashed with a sledgehammer or cold chisel. Have the u-lock pass through a link to keep it from being slipped around to a hard surface.
I like that suggestion and have followed your advice. Only problem is that the NY Chain is designed to not allow much to get inside the links, so my U-Lock doesn't fit.




Take the saddle bag with you.
HA! Someone raided the saddlebag last night. I guess there's a big market for tubes and tire levers. I have a Topeak quick-release type back on order, but it hasn't come yet.




I have to wonder, it's the same device that unlocks it on every kryptonite locking skewer right?
Is this true?




MY Lord, mate!! Do you really carry all this iron on your bike as you ride?? It must weigh more than the bike!
Hell no!!! Just the Krypto U-Lock and the flex cable. The chain stays locked to the post. Though I'm thinking about replacing the U-Lock with a NY U-Lock. It seemed so heavy to ride around with, but maybe it's worth it.

Does anyone have links to the Abus or American locks discussed above?

While these things don't seem impenetrable, there's also the matter of the guarantee. The NY Chain has $3000 guarantee and U-Lock has $1250. But it would still be a huge pain in the ass and I'd be without the bike for a long time, I imagine.

which locks are the american and abus? i don't think one with a sheilded bar would work on the krypto chain. and the fagedaboudit lock is different from the ny lock.

Yes, unfortunately the fahgaddaboutit lock is even bigger than the ny lock. They can probably crack the ny lock quicker.

HA! Someone raided the saddlebag last night. I guess there's a big market for tubes and tire levers. I have a Topeak quick-release type back on order, but it hasn't come yet.
Hell no!!! Just the Krypto U-Lock and the flex cable. The chain stays locked to the post. Though I'm thinking about replacing the U-Lock with a NY U-Lock. It seemed so heavy to ride around with, but maybe it's worth it.

I wouldn't replace the original lock if you intend on cashing in the warranty. Also, you can lock the u-lock to the chain when you leave so you don't have to take it with you.
I know someone who locks up the chain with a cheaper lock and takes their kryptonite lock with them so no one tampers with the lock and weakens it over the course of a few nights.
I'm surprised your saddlebag isn't quick release. That's the first thing I take with me is my saddle bag after I dump my blinkers and computer into it.

I'd say that there is no reason, with the U-lock going through the wheel in the rear triangle, to also have it around the seat-tube. If you're comfortable with that, you could use a smaller and stronger U-lock for the back, saving you a few pounds, and reducing the chance that a tool could get in there to pry the thing open.

Kryptonite locking skewers.

For all but the most determined thieves (the kind that would take those locks out anyways), it will make it so you don't have to worry about locking them. freeakign wierd.

Have not seen these on the road. http://www.nashbar.com/profile.cfm?category=102&subcategory=1120&brand=&sku=9148&storetype=&estoreid=&pagename=

So do you lock both wheels every time you park? Or does it just prevent the guy from take the wheel itself.

man. when cycling gets too easy (in a few months) i'm gonna add the on gaurd beast chain with lock onto the ole shoulder when riding! http://www.bicyclebuys.com/Items01.asp?NavID=search&M=0&T=0&D=LP
only $60 here! i might just buy the chain and add an abus lock. but abus locks are soooooo expensive.

I have to wonder, it's the same device that unlocks it on every kryptonite locking skewer right? What prevents a thief from stealing the entire kryptonite locking skewer package from the bike shop then using the key to swipe people's wheels?


Each key is made to that set. You can;t jsut go buy antoher set to unlock yours if you lose your key, you gotta send in the number on the side of the key to kryptonite (this works only if you registered), and pay some stupid fee like $35 to have tehm make and send you another key.

Or you can jsut take a cutting disc to it to blunt the ends and drill it out...but that takes significant amounts of time, as well as tools and metalcutting skills otherwise you'll burn drill bits like mad.

Have not seen these on the road. http://www.nashbar.com/profile.cfm?category=102&subcategory=1120&brand=&sku=9148&storetype=&estoreid=&pagename=

So do you lock both wheels every time you park? Or does it just prevent the guy from take the wheel itself.


The kryptonite skewers make it pointlessly hard for a thief to steal your wheels and seatpost, so it's better than using a cable in my mind at least. You have to give them a good looking at to really get how they are designed.

Why not just a seat leash for the seat? Yeah, they could take it if they had an allen wrench, but then again, they could take half the components off if they had an allen wrench... Do people there lock their non-QR seats?

LOL, these are all awesome. I prefer "cammo", the beat up dumpster look, and keep the wheels dirty. I have a run-of-the-mill Kyrptonite U-lock and cable, parked it with a bunch of other bikes and had everyone else hit but me. I have a quick release front light, so that, the pump, and the Jandd bag all come with. I've actually watched people walk by the bike on the street, look at it and sneer! It's great!

But like I said, all these ideas and tips are great.

I'm leaving the pump on the bike until they steal it, then I'll start taking it upstairs. I know, doesn't make much sense, but the whole idea of locking it outside is that i can quickly take it and go. The more crap I have to set up each time, the more I'd prefer to just carry it up three flights of stairs and store it in my apt.

Based on some of the comments I've seen, I've ordered a Krypto NY U-Lock (on sale, $59.99 at Nashbar), and I'm returning the standard U-Lock in exchange for skewer set (as long as mega-LBS aren't mega-jerks as per usual).

All this just to keep the stuff we work so hard to get. Nice world we live in, eh?

Have you thought about getting renters insurance (assuming your renting)? Most renters policies will cover the bike if it's stolen-no matter where it's at. You do have a deductible to contend with but just make sure you get a policy with contents replacement which eliminates the depreciation factor. If you do decide to check into this type of policy make sure the policy covers bikes and covers them anywhere, and if there is a dollar limit. Also take pictures of you bike and all your other important stuff and copies of your receipts, keep that stuff either in a safe deposit box at a bank or at a family members home...in case your place burns you'll want those papers and photos. Obviously weigh out the annual expense of the policy along with the deductable to see if it's worth while for you.

Each key is made to that set. You can;t jsut go buy antoher set to unlock yours if you lose your key, you gotta send in the number on the side of the key to kryptonite (this works only if you registered), and pay some stupid fee like $35 to have tehm make and send you another key.


how hard is it to remove the wheel? it looks liek a real pain in the rear.

Each key is made to that set. You can;t jsut go buy antoher set to unlock yours if you lose your key, you gotta send in the number on the side of the key to kryptonite (this works only if you registered), and pay some stupid fee like $35 to have tehm make and send you another key.

Or you can jsut take a cutting disc to it to blunt the ends and drill it out...but that takes significant amounts of time, as well as tools and metalcutting skills otherwise you'll burn drill bits like mad.

I have a set of these and I have been reasonably happy with them. I don't think the keys are specially made for the set. Due to the design of the key I can't see there being much more than 20-30 keys that are different enough not to be used on another set. Still, with the size of the key that is significant.

When I got the skewers I cut down the seat lock with the dremel, but not the wheels. I think I damaged the threads on the bolt and it eventually stripped out the locking part. My fault I guess. I ended up taking a couple small nuts and screwing them very tightly over the excess nut. A thief would also need a similar size wrench to remove these now.

Someone can easily steal your quick releases and also what is in your saddle bag.

Another thing I can mention for security is filling all of your hex headed bolts with candle wax. Melt it and drip it in. This makes it so you have to dig out the wax before you remove components. Easy to do, but it takes a few extra seconds. Good places for this are the seat post adjustment bolt, stem top cap, water bottle bosses, etc.

how hard is it to remove the wheel? it looks liek a real pain in the rear.

About as hard as if you had regular bolts instead of quick releases. The main thing is to remember the key. I rarely remove the wheels on my commuter, so the time gained by not needing to lock the wheels far outweighs the extra time it takes to remove the locks. If I was in a place where theft was horrible I would still probably use a cable or chain through the wheels for a more secure image and a bit of extra security.

This all looks like overkill to me. Where the hell do you live anyway? Fallujah? If you have to go to such extreme measures for the pleasure of riding as bicycle, I'd move town if I were you.

yes, you have to cut them to fit, to avoid the theif supergluing a nut to them and taking them of with normal tools. It's really not as much of a pain as you would think if you use the right tools and protective goggles or safety glasses.

The best way to do this is dremel and the diamond cutting wheel. Takes about 30 mins, and the cut when finished is already perfectly polished by the diamond wheel. Speed is the secret to getting a good polish off that wheel.

Can my LBS do this?

Guess it doesn't matter. Will still use the NY Chain when locking at home; but it would be nice to have the skewers for when I'm out and about.

i have Veratomic locking skewers. Are they better or worse than kryptonites ?

Can my LBS do this?

Guess it doesn't matter. Will still use the NY Chain when locking at home; but it would be nice to have the skewers for when I'm out and about.

They could, but if you have a steady hand, and know how to use a dremel, just go for it. it's not hard to do at all...just hard to not slip off the bolt a few times. My rear one got scuffed up a bit when the dremel slipped a dozen times or so...but the slip wasn't bad...it jsut kinda rolled around the shaft a bit. My opinion of easy may be skewed, since I can make large perfectly round holes in sheetmetal using a dremel. One of my hobbies is PC modifications, so I end up using my dremel rather often.

Those diamond cutting wheels don't break apart when you twist them, like the oxide ones do. You don't have to cut fast...you just have to usee a high rotational speeed if you want a nice polish. The finish looks very professional if you go for high rotational speed.

Got the Skewers today and installed them myself. I may be missing something, but I don't understand the concept of cutting off the ends of the bolts. If someone superglues a nut onto the protruding part of the bolt, then how will they pull the bolt back through?

Also took back the krypto-lock and got the NY U-Bolt.

If a shady person was to superglue a nut to the keyeed portion of the lock while the nut was on the threaded shaft...you could then take a wrench the size of the nut and take the skewer right off.

That is why Kryptonite actually lists that as part of the installation.

Remeber, to stop a thief, you have to think like a thief.