johndoe

What are some of the better bike locks availible now.

I need to get a good lock for a decent price. there are so many to choose from and they all claim to be the best.

Goatbiker

Check the archives of Bicycle Magazine. They hired a retired bike thief to use his tools and skills to defeat a number of locks. They list how many seconds it took him to break each one. Kryptonite's New York U-lock and New York Chain were not broken.

Tom

Raiyn

I use a NY Chain.

Mashimaro

i used to use a Kryptonite Evolution 2000 u-lock (before my bike got too expensive to leave outside!) but i like how the 'New York' u-lock looks too. the chain looks invicible!

D*Alex

For quick parking where the bike is still visible (such as at my local Starbuck's), the best theft protection is my rear brake caliper. I adjust the brake so that it is properly adjusted with the adjuster knob in the upward position. When I need to leave the bike for a minute, I simply push the knob all the way down, making the bike completely unrideable.

John E

Cool idea. Undoing the rear axle quick release can also be fun and effective, although a strong, impatient thief could damage your rear rim.

johndoe

The Kryptonite NY series look invincible.

But i don't want to spend $70 on a lock for a $500 bike.

I need something midrange that does a heck of a job.

Actually i prefer a wire lock that isn't too heavy.

orguasch

the best bike lock, is No lock, I have not used any bike lock on my bike, and I still have my bike,, my bike goes with me where ever I go... no lock,

johndoe

Great idea, but sometimes that solution just can't cut it.

There are many stores, restaurants, etc. etc. in NY that do not permit bikes.

So unfortantely there will be occasions where a lock is needed

Raiyn

You asked for opinions. I gave one.

johndoe

What is wrong with a heavy duty wire lock.

Kryptonite makes one under $20?

And why are bike theft so high? I do not get it, it seems like person that i know who is into bikes at least one time or another has had their bikes stolen.

It is horrible

bikerider

Well to be fair, he does live here in Toronto and the number of bicycle thefts is rather ridiculous, even compared to NYC (and I believe he owns a rather expensive road bike). I've never had a bike stolen but I don't lock my expensive bike under any circumstances either.

My solution for commuting/errands is to use my beater bike (old MTB worth about $150) and to use two generic U-locks when doing so. The only problem I have ever had was about eight months ago when the seat post was reefed out of the frame even though the seat clamp was fastened with a nut and bolt (they were after the flashy seat). Now I use an old-style seatpost and an old (but comfortable) crappy-looking seat. I have since left this bike locked in the same place for 3 days straight without incident but I am prepared to lose it at any time.

Now, to answer your question I need to ask:

Where do you live (You implied NYC, is that correct)? Where do you intend on locking this bike? Will it be in the same place every day? For how long will it be locked at a time? Are the wheels and the seat clamp quick release? Is the headset threadless?

Raiyn

You mean this thing?

The following is from Kryptonite's own site
Model: CC4

• Self coiling, combination cable lock for use as a bicycle component or accessory theft deterrent
  
• Easy to use, preset, 4-digit combination locking mechanism
  
• Vinyl coated and weatherproof
  
• Recommended for quick release component and accessory lock-up or as a secondary deterrent
  
• 4'(120 cm) x 3/16" (5 mm)
  
• .3 lbs (0.11 kg)
  
• Limited Lifetime Warranty
  
  Item #210214
  Now for the point of this

• [*]

If you intend to leave your bike locked up outside for any length of time with a cable lock that any moron with a set of bolt cutters can pop, that's your deal. Have fun shopping for a new bike. Yes I'm being blunt but it's a crime that I wouldn't want to be the victim of again.

My understandingis that you intend this thing to be your primary lock bad idea. Here's a link to an article on lock strategy by the Guru of Bike: Sheldon Brown. I hope this clears things up for you.

ViciousCycle

With a New York chain on your front wheel and frame and a New York U-Lock on your rear wheel and frame, you will have a nice solid combination. (And if you're down to your last key, go get a duplicate made. Pronto.)

The New York chain might seem unwiedly at first to carry around because of its weight, but it can actually be worn around one's waist quite nicely.

Brains

Rule of thumb - the cost of the locks on your bike should be 10% of the replacement value of the bike