On the other hand there are the many stories form folks who Have had bikes stolen,either by random thieves or the pro bike-theft crews which go out into big cities in vans full of power tool sand target nicer bikes.

I don't recall anyone saying it was not possible to safely lock a bike outside. I do recall people saying that even the best lock will not deter a sufficiently determined thief. And even the proponents of the best locking systems admitting that any such system can be defeated.

I used to lock up in urban locations frequently but rarely with a bike anyone would recognize as worth owning so I only had to beat the opportunist thieves ... but I have had two bikes stolen (three actually, but one was recovered.) I still lock up in public because I think the odds are in my favor, but I also accept that I am gambling.

I think as much depends on where you lock up as with how. Still, obviously a lot of people ride regularly in really big cities and don't lose their rides .....