Combinations versus Keys

Most high-end locking systems use keys rather than combination locks, but on less-expensive products combination locks abound. Combinations are best for convenience because crooks tend to attack the cable itself, not the locks.

Kryptonite combination-lock cable

In theory, though, given enough time or sheer luck, a crook could go through all the possible lock combinations. As a result, combinations aren't found on the high-end products.

There is very little lock-picking in the United States — the tools aren't available and it takes too long — but it's still smart to select a device with a strong, impressive-looking cylinder. All the high-end locks sport key cylinders that are suitable for the job.

Lock and Locking Tips

Law-enforcement professionals figure that the average bike stolen in New York City fetches $50, regardless of its retail value. A bike lock works to the advantage of the owner by making the prospect of stealing a bike more hassle than it's worth.

Visibility: The first line of defense is visibility. A crook that sees a bike with a lock difficult to defeat will simply move down the street. Choose a product with good brand recognition, and chose the right lock for the area. You can bet a thief knows product lineups better than anyone.

Warranty/Guarantee: Be sure to select a lock with a good warranty against defects and guarantee against theft. Some companies will pay the full replacement value of stolen bicycles if it can be proven that their locks were used. (Read all the materials that come with the lock to find details of the programs.)

Always lock your bike: Remember that bikes are frequently stolen from areas besides city streets. They should be locked while in garages, on roof racks (even if the rack has a lock), and in hallways of shared buildings.

Lock snugly: When locking a bike, be sure to provide as little space for leverage as possible. Lock everything that might be taken, and take anything you can't secure (seatposts for example) with you.

Availability: Brand-name locks are available anywhere bikes are sold. Kryptonite and Specialized both provide dealer locators on their Web sites (Specialized even has a mapping feature) and both are found in the major online stores and mail-order houses.

Brand Comparison

It may be obvious that I'm biased toward Kryptonite. I've used their locks for years and years, with no problems and no thefts.

Kryptonite is a big fish in a little pond. Their locks are at just about ever dealer and just about every price point. There are few product areas in cycling with such a clear leader.

Kryptonite offers a full warranty-replacement program, as well as a guarantee program funded directly by the company rather than an insurance agency. They are so sure their locks will protect, they'll pay you a check out of their pocket if they fail (subject to restrictions, depending on the lock).

That being said, the U locks from Specialized live up to the level of quality of their other products and should be considered as well. There is little price difference in quality locks. The bottom line is to make a decision based on availability and features.

Finally, be wary of non-brand-name products. There are poor-quality U locks sold at nonspecialty stores that are no more of a theft deterrent than a sign reading"Please don't steal me." Remember that a bike is a serious investment. Lock it well.

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Securing Your Bike in an Insecure World

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