Many folks say stuff like "I guess my lock is safe, because it is heavy, and it was expensive". But, there is no need to guess. There are three sources of published tests on bike locks.

- "Cycling Plus" publishes one or two detailed bike lock test articles each year. This month's article rates chain locks and padlocks.


- the UK lock testing program results are on-line at:

www.soldsecure.com/Leisure.htm

- the Holland testing ART Foundation program results are on-line at:

www.stichtingart.nl/sloten_resultaat.asp

The ART Foundation results have a complete list for all locks tested, plus a "search" function that lets you find the results for YOUR lock. A manufacturer generally sends only its BEST locks for testing at the ART Foundation, because the standard to earn a "Four Star" rating is very high.


One surprise in the ART testing was that the Kryptonite NY Noose earned the same high rating as Kryptonite's heavier and more expensive chains. So, folks who want a "top rated" chain lock can use the 4.6 pound NY Noose, spend just $80, and enjoy a level of security similar to that of chain locks weighing twice as much.

So, you want to know if YOUR lock earned a "Four Star" rating from the ART Foundation? Visit the ART website, and find out.