Go Back  Bike Forums > Bike Forums > Commuting
Reload this Page >

Some lock advice from a locksmith

Search
Notices
Commuting Bicycle commuting is easier than you think, before you know it, you'll be hooked. Learn the tips, hints, equipment, safety requirements for safely riding your bike to work.

Some lock advice from a locksmith

Thread Tools
 
Search this Thread
 
Old 06-22-09 | 05:27 PM
  #301  
Older "newbie"
 
Joined: Jul 2008
Posts: 157
Likes: 0
From: Hudson Valley of NY

Bikes: Fuji Newest 4.0 just bought 7/26/08!


Interesting, thanks for the link. Kind of like a side bar WAFER lock. Which is what I meant to say in my last post. My bad. Same principle I believe.
Tommyr is offline  
Reply
Old 06-26-09 | 11:50 AM
  #302  
no motor?'s Avatar
Unlisted member
 
Joined: Dec 2005
Posts: 6,192
Likes: 435
From: Chicagoland

Bikes: Specialized Hardrock

Originally Posted by crawdaddio
Sorry, I haven't heard of "head" brand locks.
If he told you it was a good lock, it probably is.
Got a photo?
https://www.bikeforums.net/album.php?albumid=114 If this works I've finally been able to upload this low quality picture. Does this tell you anything?
Attached Images
File Type: jpg
head padlock.jpg (91.0 KB, 57 views)
no motor? is offline  
Reply
Old 06-28-09 | 08:39 AM
  #303  
Member
 
Joined: May 2009
Posts: 34
Likes: 0
Actually, Kryptonite's new keys are based on the Abloy design. Excellent decision on their part. They work with Rotating detainer discs and floating gates that mechanically scramble when the key is retracted. Why did'nt I think of that?

https://www.abloyusa.com/images/execkey.gif

Cheers,

Kelvin
kelvinbatista is offline  
Reply
Old 07-03-09 | 12:59 AM
  #304  
Gear Hub fan
 
Joined: Nov 2008
Posts: 2,829
Likes: 2
From: Reno, NV

Bikes: Civia Hyland Rohloff, Swobo Dixon, Colnago, Univega

I note that the keys for current Kryptonite and OnGuard U locks appear almost identical in form including the varied depth/angle of the keying cuts. Are both now using basically the same general design of lock cylinder?

I did read on the packaging for the latest OnGuard locks I have looked at that they are being made in China.
__________________
Gear Hubs Owned: Rohloff disc brake, SRAM iM9 disc brake, SRAM P5 freewheel, Sachs Torpedo 3 speed freewheel, NuVinci CVT, Shimano Alfine SG S-501, Sturmey Archer S5-2 Alloy. Other: 83 Colnago Super Record, Univega Via De Oro

Visit and join the Yahoo Geared Hub Bikes group for support and links.
https://groups.yahoo.com/group/Geared_hub_bikes/
tatfiend is offline  
Reply
Old 07-08-09 | 08:53 PM
  #305  
Senior Member
 
Joined: Jun 2006
Posts: 54
Likes: 0
what would you guys suggest is better, the fahgettaboudit u-lock, the fahgettaboudit hexagonal chain, or something else?

is there much difference from the evolution series and the fahgettaboudit?
hypermaniac is offline  
Reply
Old 07-09-09 | 12:15 AM
  #306  
Gear Hub fan
 
Joined: Nov 2008
Posts: 2,829
Likes: 2
From: Reno, NV

Bikes: Civia Hyland Rohloff, Swobo Dixon, Colnago, Univega

The Evolution Series 4 locks use a 14mm shackle versus the fahgettaboudit U locks using an 18mm one. Both have locking bolts on both sides of the shackle. The Evolution Mini locks use a 13mm shackle and only have single side locking of the shackle. The other leg uses the classic Kryptonite "bent leg" design. I suspect that the dual locking bolts are probably stronger.

IMO a U lock is probably stronger than a chain due to the thicker material but the choice depends on your individual locking situation. Either should discourage most bike thieves other than professionals. As mentioned NOTHING works for pros with power equipment who want YOUR bike.
__________________
Gear Hubs Owned: Rohloff disc brake, SRAM iM9 disc brake, SRAM P5 freewheel, Sachs Torpedo 3 speed freewheel, NuVinci CVT, Shimano Alfine SG S-501, Sturmey Archer S5-2 Alloy. Other: 83 Colnago Super Record, Univega Via De Oro

Visit and join the Yahoo Geared Hub Bikes group for support and links.
https://groups.yahoo.com/group/Geared_hub_bikes/
tatfiend is offline  
Reply
Old 07-09-09 | 02:58 AM
  #307  
Senior Member
 
Joined: Jun 2006
Posts: 54
Likes: 0
i'm going to assume their all hardened steel, but which would last the longest against an angle grinder assault? when i lock it, its going to be near the street where there are many people walking around so the thieves will attract attention. i want the best for the peace of mind really lol.

i'm pretty set on getting mini u-locks, as i read most u-locks are broken through the bottle car jacks, not angle grinders.
so is the fahgettaboudit mini u lock worth the extra agaist the evolution series? how bout onguards or other brands? i'd like the most cost effective for the money.
hypermaniac is offline  
Reply
Old 07-09-09 | 08:05 PM
  #308  
Commando303's Avatar
Senior Member
 
Joined: May 2009
Posts: 618
Likes: 2
I like current-series OnGuard U-locks. As far as I know, the only issue anyone ever takes with OnGuard is locking-mechanism–failure, not lack of lock security; I believe the locking-mechanism of the current series is improved.
Commando303 is offline  
Reply
Old 07-09-09 | 08:22 PM
  #309  
Member
 
Joined: May 2009
Posts: 34
Likes: 0
Evolution series u locks are nice and light in my opinion. Can be mounted easily to frame,stashed in panniers, backpacks and even back pockets. they offer a great compromise of weight and security in my opinion for most people. The NYC series is the next level in terms of weight and security. Much heavier, more secure and I would highly recommend if you can leave it at a rack with seldom need to transport. $20 more can get you a krypto cable which I use for wheels in conjunction to u lock.

cheers,

Kelvin
kelvinbatista is offline  
Reply
Old 07-27-09 | 03:45 PM
  #310  
Senior Member
 
Joined: Jun 2006
Posts: 54
Likes: 0
is there any difference between the Kryptonite New York Fahgettaboudit mini u-lock
(https://www.bikewagon.com/Bike-Access...-p7546386.html)
and the onguard brute mini 5112
(https://www.ebikestop.com/on_guard_br...t-LK5112.php)?

seems pretty much the exact same thing. should i go for the cheaper one?
hypermaniac is offline  
Reply
Old 07-27-09 | 07:31 PM
  #311  
Commando303's Avatar
Senior Member
 
Joined: May 2009
Posts: 618
Likes: 2
I would.
Commando303 is offline  
Reply
Old 07-28-09 | 12:19 AM
  #312  
lambo_vt's Avatar
member. heh.
 
Joined: Jul 2008
Posts: 1,631
Likes: 0
From: Williamsburg, VA
Is there a difference? Almost certainly. Should you go for the cheaper one? Only you can decide... the difference is what, thirty bucks?
lambo_vt is offline  
Reply
Old 07-28-09 | 07:00 AM
  #313  
kingfish254's Avatar
Senior Member
 
Joined: Jul 2009
Posts: 970
Likes: 3

Bikes: 1989 Dahon Stainless Classic III Folder - 1990 Dahon Mariner Classic III Folder - 2005 Dahon Jetstream P8 Full Suspension Folder

I shopped around and this was the best price I found on the Kryptonite chain/lock combo. $64 (free shipping).

https://cgi.ebay.com/KRYPTONITE-3-3-N...d=p3286.c0.m14
kingfish254 is offline  
Reply
Old 07-28-09 | 01:01 PM
  #314  
Gear Hub fan
 
Joined: Nov 2008
Posts: 2,829
Likes: 2
From: Reno, NV

Bikes: Civia Hyland Rohloff, Swobo Dixon, Colnago, Univega

The biggest noticeable difference I have seen between the current Kryptonite and OnGuard U locks is in the fit of the shackle to the crossbar. Fit seems to be much tighter on the Kryptonite lock with almost zero free play when the parts are locked together. Key operation also feels smoother on the Kryptonite. Overall the Kryptonite just seems to be a higher build quality unit.

This is comparing a medium size narrow Pitbull with a NY Fahgettaboudit U lock side by side. Overall both are similar size locks though the NY is a lot heavier due to having an 18mm diameter shackle versus the Pitbull's 13mm diameter.

No real idea of the differences in steel quality on the two locks though the larger shackle on the NY lock should slow down power tool attacks.
__________________
Gear Hubs Owned: Rohloff disc brake, SRAM iM9 disc brake, SRAM P5 freewheel, Sachs Torpedo 3 speed freewheel, NuVinci CVT, Shimano Alfine SG S-501, Sturmey Archer S5-2 Alloy. Other: 83 Colnago Super Record, Univega Via De Oro

Visit and join the Yahoo Geared Hub Bikes group for support and links.
https://groups.yahoo.com/group/Geared_hub_bikes/
tatfiend is offline  
Reply
Old 07-28-09 | 01:11 PM
  #315  
Gear Hub fan
 
Joined: Nov 2008
Posts: 2,829
Likes: 2
From: Reno, NV

Bikes: Civia Hyland Rohloff, Swobo Dixon, Colnago, Univega

Originally Posted by hypermaniac
is there any difference between the Kryptonite New York Fahgettaboudit mini u-lock
(https://www.bikewagon.com/Bike-Access...-p7546386.html)
and the onguard brute mini 5112
(https://www.ebikestop.com/on_guard_br...t-LK5112.php)?

seems pretty much the exact same thing. should i go for the cheaper one?
The kryptonite shackle opening is about 1/2" longer while the OnGuard shackle opening is a bit wider. To me the choice comes down to whether you need the additional length of the Kryptonite or not, so is dependent on your locking situation.
__________________
Gear Hubs Owned: Rohloff disc brake, SRAM iM9 disc brake, SRAM P5 freewheel, Sachs Torpedo 3 speed freewheel, NuVinci CVT, Shimano Alfine SG S-501, Sturmey Archer S5-2 Alloy. Other: 83 Colnago Super Record, Univega Via De Oro

Visit and join the Yahoo Geared Hub Bikes group for support and links.
https://groups.yahoo.com/group/Geared_hub_bikes/
tatfiend is offline  
Reply
Old 07-28-09 | 02:53 PM
  #316  
cbchess's Avatar
Map maker
 
Joined: Feb 2008
Posts: 728
Likes: 0
From: Richmond,VA

Bikes: Ventana El Ciclon, Walt Works 29er, Specialized Enduro (fixed up for my son).

I just bought this combination lock:
https://www.kryptonitelock.com/Produ...=1001&pid=1190


is this OK?
I had a much slimmer cable that was like 6 feet long that seemed like it was way to long and easier to cut. it had a keyed locking end.

any one want to chime in on this lock? It is just for locking my bike to the rack outside the grocery store and or outside the pizza joint. I bring my bike inside my office and my basement.
cbchess is offline  
Reply
Old 07-28-09 | 04:33 PM
  #317  
Gear Hub fan
 
Joined: Nov 2008
Posts: 2,829
Likes: 2
From: Reno, NV

Bikes: Civia Hyland Rohloff, Swobo Dixon, Colnago, Univega

If you read the earlier parts of this thread then you will note that the OP and others generally feel that ANY cable lock is a minimum security device as they can be relatively easily cut. Also disadvantages of combo locks are discussed as per the OP most can be quickly opened by those familiar with them even w/o knowing the combination.
__________________
Gear Hubs Owned: Rohloff disc brake, SRAM iM9 disc brake, SRAM P5 freewheel, Sachs Torpedo 3 speed freewheel, NuVinci CVT, Shimano Alfine SG S-501, Sturmey Archer S5-2 Alloy. Other: 83 Colnago Super Record, Univega Via De Oro

Visit and join the Yahoo Geared Hub Bikes group for support and links.
https://groups.yahoo.com/group/Geared_hub_bikes/
tatfiend is offline  
Reply
Old 07-28-09 | 04:54 PM
  #318  
zonatandem's Avatar
Senior Member
20 Anniversary
 
Joined: Dec 2003
Posts: 11,013
Likes: 24
From: Tucson, AZ

Bikes: Custom Zona c/f tandem + Scott Plasma single

Any bike, anyplace, can be stolen by a professional bike thief with proper tools.
We use a steel cable with a miniature titanium combo lock. Can it be stolen by a pro? Sure.
Had locked up our tandem and wisea** club member stated. "I can steal that tandem in 3 minutes right now."
Told him "GO! I'm timing you."
No luck on his part.
zonatandem is offline  
Reply
Old 07-28-09 | 04:55 PM
  #319  
mikeybikes's Avatar
Senior Member
 
Joined: May 2009
Posts: 3,213
Likes: 0
From: Edgewater, CO

Bikes: Tons

Originally Posted by tatfiend
Also disadvantages of combo locks are discussed as per the OP most can be quickly opened by those familiar with them even w/o knowing the combination.
+1

Give that lock to me. I can most likely open it in a few minutes. Once you get the feel for it, all of those type of combo locks are relatively easy to open.
mikeybikes is offline  
Reply
Old 07-29-09 | 05:22 PM
  #320  
Member
15 Anniversary
 
Joined: Jul 2009
Posts: 49
Likes: 0
From: Downey, CA

Bikes: 2009 Bianchi Pista

https://www.kryptonitelock.com/Outle...=1000&pid=1095 would this+

https://www.kryptonitelock.com/produ...=1001&pid=1124
looping the cable around the front wheel, bike frame and onto the u-lock. Be good enough. I don't see myself removing the front tire.

Also, is there a disadvantage of buying a used u-lock online?

Last edited by Grand Machine; 07-29-09 at 05:25 PM.
Grand Machine is offline  
Reply
Old 07-29-09 | 05:33 PM
  #321  
Senior Member
 
Joined: Jul 2005
Posts: 290
Likes: 0
On the first page of the thread:

Originally Posted by tatfiend Thanks for the information. I take it that you do not favor any of the On Guard locks. Any particular reasons that you are willing to divulge?

The materials and machining on the 'on guard' locks are inferior to the 'kryptonite' brand. This equates to a lock that is easier to break via prying/jacking. The key systems are not as durable and secure.
Simply better quality.

I would recommend kryptonite over on guard any day of the week.

Originally Posted by hypermaniac
is there any difference between the Kryptonite New York Fahgettaboudit mini u-lock
(https://www.bikewagon.com/Bike-Access...-p7546386.html)
and the onguard brute mini 5112
(https://www.ebikestop.com/on_guard_br...t-LK5112.php)?

seems pretty much the exact same thing. should i go for the cheaper one?
rideabike is offline  
Reply
Old 07-30-09 | 12:56 PM
  #322  
cbchess's Avatar
Map maker
 
Joined: Feb 2008
Posts: 728
Likes: 0
From: Richmond,VA

Bikes: Ventana El Ciclon, Walt Works 29er, Specialized Enduro (fixed up for my son).

Originally Posted by mikeshoup
+1

Give that lock to me. I can most likely open it in a few minutes. Once you get the feel for it, all of those type of combo locks are relatively easy to open.
so you are saying that this lock can be easily "picked" once you have the feel, and it is easy to spin it to the correct combination?
cbchess is offline  
Reply
Old 07-30-09 | 03:15 PM
  #323  
Older "newbie"
 
Joined: Jul 2008
Posts: 157
Likes: 0
From: Hudson Valley of NY

Bikes: Fuji Newest 4.0 just bought 7/26/08!

Originally Posted by cbchess
so you are saying that this lock can be easily "picked" once you have the feel, and it is easy to spin it to the correct combination?
With the right feel or tool.
Tommyr is offline  
Reply
Old 09-27-09 | 12:52 PM
  #324  
Senior Member
 
Joined: Jan 2008
Posts: 74
Likes: 0
From: ottawa canada
i baught that 90cm foldable lock frome abu.

any good...i sher hope so..but its still wrap can bring it back.

it was 74$ insted off 124$cdn$.

here what it look like...any good.?

https://www.bikesax.com/Merchant2/mer...roduct_Count=1


joco
joco is offline  
Reply
Old 09-27-09 | 01:14 PM
  #325  
Banned
 
Joined: Nov 2004
Posts: 10,082
Likes: 1
Originally Posted by joco
i baught that 90cm foldable lock frome abu.

any good...i sher hope so..but its still wrap can bring it back.

it was 74$ insted off 124$cdn$.

here what it look like...any good.?

https://www.bikesax.com/Merchant2/mer...roduct_Count=1


joco
The beefier version (ABUS BORDO 6500 Granit X-Plus) gets low marks from the independent European tester the ART foundation. Two stars out of four.

https://www.stichtingart.nl/sloten_resultaat.asp

Your version gets a bronze rating from Sold Secure, an independent UK tester. Bronze level locks aren't very secure.

https://www.soldsecure.com/search///a...0cm-bordo.html
Cyclist0383 is offline  
Reply


Contact Us - Archive - Advertising - Cookie Policy - Privacy Statement - Terms of Service -

Copyright © 2026 MH Sub I, LLC dba Internet Brands. All rights reserved. Use of this site indicates your consent to the Terms of Use.