General Cycling Discussion - Best bike locks

Howdy all,

At the moment I have a kryptonite lock but it's old and beat up so I'm looking for a replacement.

I'd like to hear what others have to say on what a good lock is. I've got my eye on a knog strongman. Anyone use one?

Looking forward to hearing what everyone has to say.

The best bike lock is two. I have both the Kryptonite NY Fahgeddaboudit U Lock, and their heavy chain with mini ulock. If used together a thief would have to have the tools to cut both.

The only problem is that the two of them together weigh more than my bike.:p

Here's some thoughts on locks and lockup: http://www.mechbgon.com/lock You should start by thinking about:

1. how attractive is your bike to a thief

2. is it parked in a predictable location on a predictable timetable

3. how prevalent is bike theft in the area you'll be locking in


If one or more of these are raising a red flag, then go heavier on the security with at least one really good lock, and possibly back it up with a secondary lock. If you're parking at the grocery store on a random timetable with a utilitarian commuting bike, a lower-security lock and a cable to secure your front wheel and seat/post is probably sufficient.

Anyway, if I had to throw out a blanket suggestion, the Kryptonite standard New York U-lock or the Evolution Series 4 would be a couple safe bets, the New York being stronger and the Evolution 4 being lighter. Both of them have a double-deadbolt crossbar so cutting the shackle in just one spot doesn't easily free the bike.

2 out of the 3 are pretty big concerns. I'm not sure how bad the thieves are in this area but better safe than sorry.