Cable locks are not actually a lock at all. Just a scam to take your money, and provide some crook with a free bike. Most cables can be cut with the correct tool in less than ten seconds.

The "fastest" lock to get on and off your bike actually provides significant security. The Kryptonite Evolution u-lock ( the "mini" version is best) is very light. It has one "bent" foot, and one locking foot. That design allows you to lock or unlock your bike in about two seconds, once you understand how the bent foot design works.

More expensive Kryptonite u-locks have two locking feet and two locking bolts. That increases their security value, but it can take a couple of seconds to get both feet properly seated in the cross-bar so that the bolts will easily engage.

Given the light weight of the Evolution "mini" u-lock, and how fast and easy the Evo is to lock and unlock, it is silly beyond words that anyone is still using a cable lock as their ONLY lock.

When I'm going to be parked for just an hour or two around my own neighborhood, I'm happy to rely on just the "mini" Evolution around the rear wheel and a beefy steel post, set in concrete. The front wheel has a bolt-on skewer replacing the quick release, and a light combo cable attaching the front wheel to the frame.

I live in a high crime neighborhood in one of America's most crime filled cities. The "mini" plus cable method has worked flawlessly for the past decade. But, that bike that was parked five feet away with the cable lock? Well, it ain't there any more.

Of course, if you leave your bike unattended for eight or nine hours at a time, or after dark, a "mini" u-lock is not your best choice. Then, you need a Kryptonite New York lock or Fahgettaboudit around the rear wheel, and move the mini u-lock up to the front wheel.