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.,… expandbut 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. collapse

Sometimes the best bike lock is the one you're most likely to have with you. Many U-locks weigh close to 5 pounds, which can be a lot of weight to carry in a backpack or mount on your bike. Though the OnGuard Bulldog Mini… expandTC 5013TC is not much smaller than the Kryptonite New York Fahgettaboudit U-lock, it weighs a lot less -- 2 pounds -- thus making the Bulldog Mini 5013TC bike lock more portable. Reviewers believe the lock's small size makes it difficult for a thief to gain the leverage needed to break this lock, which has been shown to hold up well against hand tools. But don't expect it to fight off the power tools that the top-rated Kryptonite can. While most owners seem pleased with the lock's sturdiness, some find the keys to be less so, a few having broken inside the locks. If you live in a high-theft area, it may be worth it to trade a little weight for toughness. The OnGuard Bulldog Mini 5013TC has $1,500 of anti-theft protection, but it's not available in New York. collapse

Chain bike locks are a good option for securing multiple bicycles or using in conjunction with a U-lock for maximum security. In most tests, chain bicycle locks -- although they look imposing and tough -- really don't… expandstand up very well against bolt cutters. The OnGuard Beast 5016 is the exception, though. In most tests, it proves less vulnerable than other chain locks. It's available in three different lengths starting at 3.5 feet, so you'll be able to lock your bike to a wide range of stationary objects. It comes with OnGuard's anti-theft protection offer. Many reviewers say the OnGuard Beast chain lock is too heavy to ride with, but they recommend it for a garage or home use. collapse