Bicycle Locks: Reviews

In tests that pit bicycle locks against hacksaws, bolt cutters and power tools, the Kryptonite New York Fahgettaboudit U-lock consistently comes out on top. Experts say it's the toughest bike lock available in the U.S.,… but it's also heavy (nearly 5 pounds) and expensive. The Kryptonite New York Fahgettaboudit U-lock comes with a one-year, $4,500 anti-theft protection program, but you'll need to send pieces of the lock to Kryptonite as "evidence of lock failure" if you want to take advantage of the offer. The New York Fahgettaboudit U-lock is smaller than some other U-locks -- measuring only 3.25 inches by 6 inches. Experts say that a snug fit gives thieves less leverage to grab the lock, but if you have a beefy frame and wheels, this bicycle lock might be a little small.

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A cable lock is the cheapest type of bike lock, and you can usually pick one up for $10 or $15. However, cable locks fail miserably in every torture test. Instead of a cheap cable lock, reviewers suggest a less expensive… U-lock like the OnGuard Brute STD 5001. The OnGuard Brute STD 5001performs almost as well as the top-rated Kryptonite New York Fahgettaboudit U-lock in anti-theft tests, where it holds up against hacksaws and hammers. The Brute STD 5001 bike lock eventually succumbs to an angle grinder in one test, but reviewers are still impressed and most find the lock a good value. The OnGuard Brute STD 5001 bicycle lock also boasts one of the highest anti-theft reimbursements on the market -- up to $5,000 for one year (although it's not available in New York state).

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Many U-locks weigh close to 5 pounds, which is a lot of weight to carry in a backpack or mounted on your bike. The OnGuard Bulldog Mini TC 5013TC is not much smaller than the Kryptonite New York Fahgettaboudit U-lock, but… weighs a lot less. At 2 pounds, the Bulldog Mini TC 5013TC bike lock is easily portable. Reviewers who are looking for the lightest U-lock available say the OnGuard Bulldog Mini TC 5013TC is a good choice, and they think the small size makes it harder for a thief to gain leverage to break it. This Bulldog is not as tough as the top-rated Kryptonite or OnGuard Brute bike locks, but it holds up well against hand tools. If you live in a high-theft area, it may be worth it to trade a little weight for toughness. The OnGuard Bulldog Mini TC 5013TC has $1,500 of anti-theft protection, but it's not available in New York.

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In most tests, chain bicycle locks -- although they look imposing and tough -- really don't stand up very well against bolt cutters. Still, reviewers say the Kryptonite New York Fahgettaboudit chain lock is tough and it… looks imposing. A chain bike lock is a good option for securing multiple bicycles or for use in conjunction with a U-lock for maximum security. The New York Fahgettaboudit chain lock proves less vulnerable than other chains in most tests. It's available in both 3-foot and 5-foot versions, so you'll be able to lock your bike to a wide range of stationary objects. It comes with one year of theft protection up to $3,500. Many reviewers say the New York Fahgettaboudit chain lock is too heavy to ride with, but they recommend it for a garage or home use.

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