The cheaper your bike, the less interest the thieves are likely to take in it. If they **really** want your bike, have enough time, and can work on it without others watching, there's really no lock that is safe.

You might consider looking at out of the way places like police auctions and garage sales. You can often find BARGAINS for much less than e-Bay. I bought a full Shimano Bianchi at a yard sale for $5, including the touring panniers, fenders, water bottles, etc. Keep looking till you find something that fits. A second option is to watch at the end of a semester. Lots of kids are graduating or leaving and you'll find a number of bikes for sale cheap. Put a "wanted" ad on the school BBS and let them call you.