Non quick-release skewers
 

I'm in NYC and am considering replacing my quick release skewers to discourage thieves. I'd appreciate thoughts and recommendations on non QR skewers.

I use a basic non-qr skewer that operates with a hex wrench on the front of my commuter bike. It's about 2mm more secure than a qr skewer - but it is lighter! I run a cable through the wheel when at work. Those skewers are only secure if the bad guy doesn't have a hex (or torx or security torx) on them. The ones that use a proprietary tool should be more secure

I had a hard time finding the ones that had a security head on the outside to tell you the truth. Honestly though, if you just use the hex head ones, the thief will just come back tomorrow with the tool and take your wheel then!

I use the halo chrmo hex head ones, and have no complaints. They have a tab on the non hex side that goes in your dropout slot so it doesn't spin when tightening.

As already mentioned, they will not stop the pro/determined thief. If they really want it they will get it. I do think it deters the oppurtunist thieves though. For $12 it's not a costly security option. Unless you want ti, but the chrmo ones are about the same weight as ti QR's for less $.

As I don't lock my bike up in the same place for long periods of time(bring it inside at work) I feel they give me a reasonable security net for the cost.

Then again, my mavics are older than most bike thieves so I don't worry too much.

There are anti-theft skewers. I think the trick is that one can't remove them unless one can turn the bicycle upside down. Zefal 'Lock n Roll' is one brand; Delta 'Hublox' another. I don't have them, but I don't live in NYC.

and Atomic22 - The ultimate bicycle security solution

I use locking skewers like these:

https://www.pinheadlocks.com/store/e...eel-locks.html

Which require a key (or an extremely specialized tool) to remove. With the key it's just as fast as bolted on skewers, and they (this company or others who make the same kind) also have similar locks for QR seatposts and even headsets.

The pitlock / pinhead ones are good but expensive. The hex head ones are cheap but you just need a 5mm hex wrench, which most thieves have.

A compromise is the VO ones. They use a hex wrench, but it's drilled so a normal one won't work. They're also obscure enough that it's unlikely a thief would have the tool. I use these in NYC. Bonus: they're only a couple bucks more than the basic hex ones.

VO Anti-theft Skewers

Get a spare wrench.

Thank you all for your suggestions. I ended up buying the ones from Velo Orange. They are very well made and I am pleased with them.

2 mm more secure?

Pitlocks are more expensive and more secure. It's possibe to order the same "nut/wrench" combination for multiple bikes. I carry one socket on my key ring so I have the removal tool with me no matter which bike I'm on. Peace of mind can be a bagain.