Kryptonite U Lock
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Despite the high-ticket price of most bikes, their real value is unrelated to the cost. A lot more consideration goes into the purchase of a bicycle than goes into many other buying decisions. Even consumers who buy on impulse tend to comparison-shop for a bicycle. Trips are made to dealers, test rides are done in parking lots, and friends and magazines are consulted.
But with all the time and energy spent selecting a bike, most consumers still buy at best only a rudimentary bike lock, usually at the urging of a dealer. Considering how many bikes are stolen yearly, a good bike lock is a wise investment.
A U lock — so named because it is constructed from a single piece of metal bent into a U shape with a shackle on the open end — is the most secure line of defense. In all urban areas — as well as most suburban ones — a bike should be secured with a U lock.
U locks are made of solid steel, so cutting them takes a long time. This makes them daunting. Most thieves break locks by forcing them open; a crowbar, a piece of metal, even a piece of wood is placed inside a loop of the lock, and twisted until it breaks. A U lock fits snugly against the frame of a bike, presenting almost no leverage points.
Utilizing Your U Lock
The most secure way to attach a U lock is to remove the front wheel, place that next to the frame, and connect the U lock so it secures the front wheel, frame, and rear wheel, which is why it's important to select a lock of the right size.
Some people in less theft-prone locations use a cable lock for the front wheel, and secure that to the U lock, which is then connected to a stationary object. This makes the front wheel more prone to attack, but alleviates the need to remove the wheel at each stop. Again, test the lock to make sure it's the right length before purchasing it.
A typical complaint about U locks is that they are difficult to carry, so companies are expending a good deal of energy on attachment options. Kryptonite's Evolution 2000 line, for example, has a bracket that connects to six different spots on most bikes, allowing for flexibility when carrying the unit. The lower end Kryptolock U lock mounts to the seatpost and points backwards, a perfect option for commuters or students.
Generally speaking, the thicker the U lock, the more resistant it is to cutting and leverage attacks. Most manufacturers utilize a rating system that will help you select the right lock for your area.
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Article © David Schloss, 2000. Photo © Kryptonite, 2000.
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