Last month my prized single speed commuter was stolen. It was locked up with a Trimax Max 40 mini U-lock (and a cable) that I had just gotten online (trimaxlocks.com). It was my second time using it. The thing is, it was a cylinder type barrel-key lock and at the time I didn't know those were easily pickable with a Bic pen. What do I do? The retailer or the manufacturer needs to take responsibility for this.

I've been hounding the retailer, but they won't budge and they continue to sell the lock. In fact, I ordered another and it's right here, easily opening and closing with a Bic pen. I've been calling Trimax and got two interesting answers. First, they said that no one in their product dept has ever been able to open it without a key (and they told the same thing to the retailer when I prompted the retailer to call the manufacturer). A month later (yesterday), they said that the guy who said that has been fired and that they discontinued the lock 1.5 years ago and I shouldn't have been able to get my hands on one.

Hmmmm...

So, I've written the owner of Trimax about this and the retailer again. Someone needs to give me $800 for a new bike! What do you all recommend? Are all locks like these off the market? Where do I turn to continue my pursuit. When I'm right, I don't let go of an issue. So, I'm willing to take this thing pretty far (although I'd like to avoid lawyers). Your suggestions are appreciated.