Bike Locks...

Demiurge

So, who here has experience with them? I've always used the U-Shape locks, but I am at a loss now since the last time I looked there were so many options. My Specialized has a bit of an odd frame styling, so I am hoping other Specialized owners know what I am talking about and could recommend something that works for them. I don't ever plan on leaving it sit somewhere for long periods of time, but I would like to be able to secure it like I am.

I am loving this new bike, BTW. The disc brakes and actually having a suspension are a wonderful thing to have.

GuitarheadCA

Having worked at a bike shop for the last 2 years, in addition to running my own bike repair company, I have excessive experience with such things.

Disclamer: All locks can be broken with the right resources.

That being said: U-Locks, Made of hardened steel are by far the most secure option. Don't use a flexible cable to lock your bike. They are rediculously easy to cut (I have cut many in less than 10 seconds.)

About 2 years ago, someone discovered that you can stick a Bic Pen in locks that use a cylinder key. This included many U-Locks. All of the major brands have switched to a flat key, and thus, any lock you buy these days will not have that issue.

The best way to lock your bike is to lock the frame to the bike rack. Locking only the wheel to the frame, while it keeps someone from riding it away, it doesn't not prevent someone from taking your bike and putting it in the back of their pickup. If you have quick release wheels, you may want to run a cable through them and into the U-Lock for added protection.

Hope that helps.

wodom1

You should lock it the way Sheldon Brown suggests: http://www.sheldonbrown.com/lock-strategy.html There's a lot of other useful information on that site as well.

Demiurge

Thanks for your help, both of you.

Toxis

I'm selling a KryptoCable IV for $15 shipped if interested... but its not U shaped. I think it's a good lil cable though.