(Part 2) Best bike u-locks according to redditors

So sorry for your loss. Cable locks aren't worth their weight in scrap steel, unfortunately. Mini U-locks like this offer much more protection.

Pm me if you need help finding a cheap reliable bike - lots of good deals on Craigslist.

I would like to thank everyone who uses a cable lock for keeping thieves away from my bike.


Sincerely,
Someone With a Good D-Lock

As someone with a 2k pedelec with past thefts in guelph and different cities (cheaper bikes)
1)inside as much as possible, especially at night. Thefts have occurred in guelph quite frequently with backyards, sheds unattended or unlocked garages and even lower balconies.
2)proper locking techniques with frames and tires. Don't forget any quick releases or accessories. I've forgotten a light on my bike for a 5 minute lock up on campus and it was gone.
3) I don't recommend downtown campus for long term or overnight lock ups. Cameras won't deter everyone but it may help to put in in a surveillance that is also well lit
4) record serial numbers and keep pictures. I've gone as far as buying a $15 engraver to etch my drivers license # on the frame
5) places that don't have proper racks or sketchy places I often double u lock and use one of those extension cables. I use a small cable lock sometimes for my seat and helmet if I can't bring it with me.
6)try not to lock up to trees or slim signs that could just be lifted, broken or even kicked down


I have this lock: https://www.amazon.ca/Abus-Granit-X-Plus-HB230-U-lock/dp/B00H3T773O/ref=sr_1_11?ie=UTF8&qid=1524959812&sr=8-11&keywords=Abus

Its expensive but it actually has the best mounting brackets I've ever seen and I always have a lock available even on sleepy forgetful mornings. Abus is supposed to be a really good lock brand.

Here is a good link to a bike map resource. It includes hot spots for theft and accident prone areas. You can easily flag anything yourself including dangers such as pot holes or death traps. https://www.guelphmercury.com/opinion-story/7462888-bikemaps-org-wants-to-know-your-cycling-woes/

I would stay away from UCC. They pretty much only deal in Specialized bicycles which are usually over priced for the components that you deal with. I've been riding for a while and essentially, the different brands are simply stickers on the frame. What you want to look for are the components (frameset, derailleurs, forks, etc).

In terms of locks, buy a nice OnGuard lock that has a U-lock and a cable lock for the front wheel. Lock it like the Sheldon Brown technique.

You will be fine at lindbergh. not that familiar with the bike rack situation but even if you can't find the bike rack that marta provides I know there will be one in that business park that the station is connected to.

I own a late model low end road bike (800$) and have left it at a lot of marta stations overnight and never had a problem.

Get a U lock with a cable. something like this and use it like this

I don't think there are many bike thieves in atlanta so you can get away with less and you should still be fine but imo thats your safest option.

The only stripped bikes that I've seen were ones that have been left there for a week or longer. nothing like chicago or new york where you actually have to worry about that type of thing.

I am going on my 4th year here. I had my bike lock cut because I left it for about a month.

The way I see it, over time your bike will definitely be looked at by bike thieves. If you have a U-lock they will move on. If you have a nice bike and a cheap cable, then it may be cut and stolen. Keep it safe, invest in a U-lock and you will not need to worry. ^^^Hail ^^^Corporate.

/r/bicycling will be very happy to help you with this if you decide you want information. Here's the short version:

Locks aren't guarantees, they are deterrents. You just have to make your bike not worth stealing. Whenever possible, lock your bike in an area with plenty of pedestrian traffic, and where other bikes are locked.

Cable locks (example) are weak. They are for keeping somebody from walking away with your bike. If a thief has come to steal bikes, the thief will get this one, no sweat.

If you need something long like that, you can get a lock and chain (example) but be sure it's intended for use as a bike lock. Ordinary chain from a hardware store is too easily cut. This method is heavy and bulky, but it works.

My recommendation, to keep things affordable, simple, and convenient, is to buy a good U-lock (example). Kryptonite and On-Guard are popular, reliable brands, but there are others.

Most importantly, make sure you lock your frame to the bike rack. If you don't lock the frame, the battle is lost. Wheels are easily stolen, so lock these up as much as possible. If I'm being quick about it, I pass the U-Lock through the frame and rear wheel as well as the bike rack (the rear wheel is more valuable), but the front wheel can be detached to lock with the frame and rear wheel using the same lock.

You can look into locking skewers and such to protect your wheels and seat, but the priority is to use a good, strong lock to lock your frame and rear wheel to a highly visible bike rack. Also, keep a photo and detailed description of your bike WITH YOUR SERIAL NUMBER so that if anything happens, you can file a police report.

If you aren't in a city with notoriously high and advanced bike theft, and aren't leaving it out overnight, try this: http://www.amazon.com/OnGuard-Pitbull-Ls-11-5-4-5/dp/B005YPKBRI/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1463020335&sr=8-3&keywords=onguard+pitbull

The long shackle is technically less secure, because it's easier to leverage open, but in a place without a lot of racks it's a blessing to have, because you can fairly easily find /something/ in short walking distance that'll go around, unlike the smaller Ulocks that mostly only work with racks (or, I've found, bikes without big bags and wide upright handlebars). It's a good medium security lock, and both sides of the shackle lock. Downsides, it's heavy, because big, but not as heavy as a chain which is your next smart option (don't get cable locks, they can be cut soooo easily), and the mounting bracket is OK, but I've had two of them fail. I just carry mine in a bag now.

http://www.amazon.com/Kryptonite-Kryptolok-Standard-Bicycle-FlexFrame/dp/B005YPK8G2/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1463020570&sr=8-1&keywords=kryptonite+series+2 This is a little lower security lock, but still a mighty fine one in an area with mostly thefts of opportunity. The included cable is for passing through your wheels for a secondary bit of safety. It's the best selling option at the good local bike shop out where I am (Indianapolis).

As for using them, this is the classic guide: http://www.sheldonbrown.com/lock-strategy.html His method is routinely the best, but without racks it can be hard to lock through the wheel and not the frame. If you can't lock through the wheel, make sure the shackle goes through one of the triangles. And, no matter what, lock to something securely attached to the ground and don't lock to anything the bike can be lifted off and over. Be sure and try lifting any cheap racks you do come across, you'll be surprised how many aren't bolted down right... or at all.

I still live at home, so I do dabble in a bit of this stuff like general cleaning, taking care of the yard, bicycling, but in the future I'd like to have a garden, bees, maybe some chickens or a goat.

If you live in an apartment then instead I would start doing research into something extremely important that everyone who is anyone should know how to do this. That would be personal finance. What can you do right now in order to save money?

Would you:

Cancel the Smartphone? In my opinion, they're just not needed unless you need one for your job. They're expensive ($200-$600?) and then you pay a monthly fee on top of that ($50-$???). A basic phone can work just as well, you can still take pictures, text, call people. I can guarantee you'll find more enjoyment from saving money and by really talking to people.

Cancel the TV? More and more people are becoming /r/cordcutters and ditching the TV. I think TV is ridiculous for the price. Lots of commercials, no real challenge for yourself, lots of reality fake bullshit, advertisements for things that you don't need 99% of the time. Internet has everything we'll ever need. We can watch TV shows on our 'free online' websites, Netflix, Youtube, News, Research, Google Maps, Housing, Crime, Music, Porn, How to do/use/fix something. If you still want the TV viewing experience then I would suggest a projector. I own the LG PH300 and display a 100" picture onto my wall. Check out /r/projectors and http://www.projectorcentral.com/

Take the bicycle to work? Sorry to hear about your last bike, but this is both incredible for exercise and incredible for saving money. If you need a good lock then I'd suggest something like this (german made) and using this locking method. Remember to lock it up to something secure.

Shopping at the thrift store? Just last week, I bought a pair of shorts and a t-shirt, one of those shorts was brand new. Levis Cargo Shorts. I spent around $12 in total. There's lots of good clothes to be had at the thrift store, lots of funny/interesting things (and people) too. Really look around, browse the aisles and don't be afraid to go a different thrift store if you can't find anything.

Stop eating Fast Food? Fast Food is amazing because it's both shit for your body and shit for your wallet. It's filled with preservatives, salt, sugar, lots of fat. That's why it's bad for your body because it's a 'quick fill up' that might taste good (or bad) but is just bad. It's bad for your wallet because it's expensive as shit, especially because some people go every day and because of combos. Many combos are at least $5 (with tax) and for $5 you can go to the grocery store and get something both more filling and something that's better for you. I could get a pack of turkey meat that will probably last me the whole month for $5.

Finally, I would suggest reading a few interesting blogs. If you're interested in personal finance and saving money then please go into them with an open mind. A few of these are just articles and may/may not have been things that I talk about or already do.

www.mrmoneymustache.com

http://earlyretirementextreme.com/ (I like the 21 day makeover at the bottom left)

http://www.raptitude.com/2011/01/i-dont-want-stuff-any-more-only-things/

http://www.budgetsaresexy.com/

Be open-minded! :)

Sadly, the risk of theft is never zero. However, with a cheap bike and a good lock, your risk is pretty low. This is about the cheapest U-lock I would recommend considering. Avoid cable locks, hardware store chain, etc.

I'm not sure how long your ride is, but you can probably find a perfectly serviceable used bicycle for $200-$300, or a new one for $500-$600.

For reference, I've been riding all over the area for years on an old Trek FX from 2006; parked at many different T stations and its never been stolen. Although I only parked at Sullivan a few times; I usually park at Assembly if I need to jump on the Orange Line.

I use this:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01KD9AQ92/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

With this:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01M2BOC7J/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1


Depending on how long I'm leaving it out, I'll use another cheap chain lock on the front tire in addition to the u-lock on the frame.

How big of a lock would you need?

I'm a fan of the Kryptonite New York series personally. They're super heavy duty...I can't imagine cutting through one...There's a 4x8 and a 4x10.25

I use the 4x8 to lock my frame and back wheel, and one of these bad boys to lock my front wheel to the frame.

It's overkill...I know...but I'm in New York.

Amazon is actually very reasonably priced on all of those by the way...if you're looking to order online.

I can really recommend this one: http://www.amazon.de/ABUS-Faltschloss-Bordo-black-51798-3/dp/B0046RVYJE/ref=sr_1_25?ie=UTF8&qid=1371462458&sr=8-25&keywords=abus

They have a version with a combination lock too, but after using both i find the one with key to handle better. In my experience it's much faster to lock it with the key then fumble those numbers together, especially in the dark.

It's big enough to lock my bike to most lampposts but isn't too heavy or bulky. It comes with a holder to attach it to the bike frame.

for those concerned with locking it up outside...a few pro tips:

1. Use a kryptonite New York U lock. Decent amount of choices in that line...I use this one: extra long heavy duty u lock
   
2. For extra protection also use a disc brake lock, the one i use is here: Kryptonite Disc Brake Lock
   
3. Strap a loud ass alarm to it. I have this one, and can tell you it will deter someone from trying to mess with the above two heavy duty locks...It's absurdly loud, even by busy NYC street standards: absurdly loud, remote lockable alarm
   
4. Lock it in areas with consistent street traffic and doubly confirm the structure you are locking to is firmly in place

I use this one: https://www.amazon.com/Kryptonite-Premium-Packaging-Orange-Millimeter/dp/B0030M4DAI/ref=sr_1_22?ie=UTF8&qid=1501886853&sr=8-22&keywords=u+lock+kryptonite

on my back brake and run the reminder cable over my seat to the opposite side rear turn signal. Works great. No one's tried to take it yet, but I do live in a big city (San Francisco) and have parked many times in sketchy areas.

I recently bought this and I must say, it's quite the beast. I like smaller u-locks. I also have a Hiplock for when I'll be leaving my bike alone for a bit.

http://www.amazon.com/Abus-Mini-U-Lock-140mm-Yellow/dp/B004HXENKY/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1345173783&sr=8-1&keywords=Abus+Mini

$30

The theory of bike locking (per Sheldon Brown), is U-lock your frame and back wheel to the stationary object (which you have to make sure is stationary, some street sign posts have bolts that are easily removed; and wood like on your deck can be easily broken). This is why a larger/longer U-lock is often necessary. Then a cable can be run from the U-lock through the front wheel.

[Edit] Alternatively for more protection, a second U-lock can lock the front wheel to the frame at the down tube, then the cable can run from either lock through the stays on the saddle to prevent saddle theft.

Ultimately every lock can be broken, the goal is to deter and slow down potential thefts.

What I do (I commute to and from work (which is school)):

I bought two chain locks. I leave one at school on the lock I use, and keep one at home for short errands. Why? It weighs 8 pounds, and that would suck to carry routinely.

Alternatively, get a u-lock for short errands.

Security wise, a chain lock is better.

My chain(s)

My U-lock

Thank you for the detailed comment, I dont have the scooter yet. I wanted to ask if the 60$ kryptonite you recommended could be a tight fit over the frame bar that I highlighted in the picture, is locking from the rear wheel/disc brakes also a viable method for shorter periods or time eg.going to grocery store in city center?

Edit: what would you think of this? Could it have any use?

https://www.amazon.de/dp/B06XCPH1S4/ref=pd_aw_sbs_200_2/258-5096114-5324401?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B06XCPH1S4&pd_rd_r=a8d50065-847c-4bf2-9106-10358856d0bc&pd_rd_w=OEBCD&pd_rd_wg=2eV0H&pf_rd_p=2dc4f796-cca2-422e-a5f2-34ec116afab8&pf_rd_r=1MRRH92HZB603GEJ9CXT&psc=1&refRID=1MRRH92HZB603GEJ9CXT

I personally have used this Abus mini u-lock for more than a year, and am happy with it. I know Kryptonite is stronger, but this lock is just so much lighter, I could easily carry it in the back pocket of my pants.
When locking up at night i also use this Kryptonite cable to secure the wheels.
If you want a lock stronger, more expensive, and heavier check out the Kryptonite New York addition lock as far as I know it’s the toughest one out there, but I’m fine with the Abus

Chiming in with my 2 cents on racks and bags based on my personal experience. YMWV.

I didn't like the idea of a permanent rack bolted to my frame rattling over every bump + I knew I wasn't running any 25 pound + loads, so while I did get one of those Topeak racks with the clip system, I ended up with a long flat soda carrier like the one in bottom right in this pic . Add a bungee cargo net and it's great for groceries. I ended up rigging up a dedicated quick release + post + seat rig, it's just easier to swap out the whole thing that to try and mount the rack to the post and tighten it down so it doesn't move.

For my 'runaround bike' I went with a cheap ass schwinn 10 bux at the river in africa place and this 12 buck bag with velcro straps.

Not the sexiest rig but it works and when I lock it out on the street I can pull the bag off and with carry handle OR shoulder strap, carry it inside. The main compartment is big enough for a quickstop at the store for a 6 pack or the usual 3-4 other items. It's not for the major runs but for the 'gotta stop and get a couple pounds of hamburger + buns and some catsup. Add the backpack for when you are stocking up.

The sides and top have enough substance that your chow won't melt in the time it takes to get home and it has a water bottle holder in back and 3 side pockets good for a spare tube + tools pump or CO2 inflator , cell phone etc.

My other (cheap but decent quality) safety stuff suggestions like lights and such is here

and for 5 bucks + a 9v batt, add an alarm just to discourage thieves in publiv - many of them will steal your shit right in front of people but when an alarm goes off , it takes ballsy thief to hang in there and keep hacking - at least in a public bike lockup

I use this cable for front wheel + seat when locking out on the street for more than 5 minutes

If you have QR front wheel and intend to pull it off so you can use your U lock and want a longer -wider U lock, I have found this to work well , I also have an older X4 Onguard and if I have to lock up somewhere and be gone for hours I will double U lock the frame and rear wheel and then Cable up the seat and front wheel and turn on the alarm.

There is always bigger, better, stronger, and faster (and more expensive). For a $300 - $500 bike, I have found this gear to function and it's a price/performance point that seems to make sense to me.

FYI most chains are easier to cut with compact hydraulic cutters than a good u-bolt. Its just a function of the manufacturering process and thickness and the fact that chains offer a lot more leverage options which open them up to more attacks. You may just have never seen a good u-bolt lock though if you're under the impression they're lighter than chains. I've got this monster and it's definitely as heavy as a good chain and has a decent lock :
Abus Granit X-Plus https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00H3T773O/

Pad locks unless high end are generally easy to defeat in a dozen different ways If they can't just be cut with a bolt cutters, hacksaw or cordless sawzall.

Tubular locks are basically useless and can be picked in seconds with basically no skill and $30 pick that your just jiggle in the lock blindly for a minute and can hide in your hand easily so anyone watching thinks you're just having trouble unlocking your bike. If you have a u-bolt with one of these it's almost a sure bet it's a crappy ulock in general aside from the actual lock itself.

Checkout 'the lock picking lawyer' on YouTube sometime he's covered almost bike lock and chain combo worth mentioning and shown how they can be defeated. Obviously everything can be defeated with the right tools and time but it'll make you far more aware of the types of attacks you need to think about when combining two different security solutions. You'd be surprised how many times manufacturers will pair an easy to defeat lock that looks beefy with a decent chain or vice versa for instance.

I head Kryptonite locks are pretty good so I got this one which came with a mount.

https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B06XCP8Y8S/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o04_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Then if you buy it at the higher price then you think its worth the money. You can also google and find the MSRP and wait for it to come down if you don't want to support higher prices.

It's only an issue if it's your only option for something important (i.e. Food or water) and not just something you want. Especially when it's not hard to find something that does the same thing for cheaper

Oh hey fellow Kiwi! Yeah you shouldn't have any problems getting there and back on one charge assuming your Hills aren't too steep, you'll probably want to charge daily though!

> The main thing I was worried about is lighting, since it;ll be dark while I'm commuting they lights will be super helpful

The lights are super bright and obvious, you can always get a helmet/backpack light if you don't like high-vis but they're pretty bright by themselves.


> I do kinda worry about it being stolen, owning an expensive bike makes me worry, so I'm thinking about buying 2 U-locks. For when I need groceries and the like. I was wondering if you could recommend a few locks? I was looking into it and people say get 2 different kinds?

Not sure if Auckland and Wellington have similar crime rates, although bike wheels get stolen and stuff most people are still using cable locks and rarely get stolen (don't use them though). I've never seen someone go through the effort of cutting a U-lock but definitely get a good one. I would talk to a bike dealer and maybe see if you can get a frame lock fitted,
- I have one on my e-city (it comes with it fitted) and it immobilises the back wheel which is handy for quickly dipping in and out of cafes etc.

I have two Kryptonite U-locks but usually just carry around the Series 4 as it is super bulky and tough - it's the second toughest bike lock to the New York lock and incredibly tough to cut through, even with power tools. Sometimes I carry around the Series 2 for the front wheel and the Series 4 for the frame/back wheel but do keep in mind they are beefy (heavy!) locks. They will definitely protect your bike, I've had no issues parking mine anywhere.


> I like Smartmotion and one of the reasons I am looking at them is due to them being in NZ

They're designed for our conditions so you know they'll last - my dealer said that parts aren't too proprietary and easy to source, they're not too expensive either!

I would also highly recommend getting good pannier bags as they're very useful - Ortlieb bags seem to be the most reliable around but personally I like Linus bags, although slightly less practical because they look nicer - I have the Linus Sac.

I'll by locking my bike to a metal fire log holder thats in my fireplace, i'm not sure if its cemented into the ground or what but it seems like a solid place to lock my bike to. I definetly wont be leaving my bike anywhere outdoors over night. I have had people break into my home before so I don't want people to take my bike. I do plan on riding it around town and ill need to lock it up outside on occasion but mainly worried about home burglaries. I was planning on combining the golden chain from the link with this u-lock but I wasn't sure if they'd work compatibly. https://www.amazon.com/ABUS-Granit-X-Plus-540-160HB300/dp/B00H3TL52S Also, I live in the California central valley.

Here's the best value I've found:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000FL4Y60/ref=oss_product

It's just $30, one of the better U-Locks out there and comes with a cable.

Kryptonite also sells a D lock with a wheel extension.

https://www.amazon.com/Kryptonite-New-U-Messenger-Extender-Bicycle/dp/B06XCPH1S4/ref=mp_s_a_1_2?keywords=kryptonite+bike+lock+wheel+extender&qid=1568244123&s=gateway&sprefix=kryptonite+bike+lock+wheel+&sr=8-2

On m’a souvent recomendé ces antivols là : https://www.amazon.fr/ABUS-Bordo-51798-3-Antivol-pliable/dp/B0046RVYJE/ref=sr_1_16?ie=UTF8&qid=1464600004&sr=8-16

OnGuard Bulldog LS U-Lock (Black, 4.53 x 11.50-Inch) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B008OHBE8S/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_7pNGyb77QJAA8

This has a 4 and a half in loop. I'm sure if you kept looking you'd find one

What are you going to be using it for?

I have a kryptonite mini 7+cable and it's good for brief trips to the store/bar/etc. However if you're using it for a commuter and locking in the same place everyday at the same time, ymmv. Probably overkill for a sub-$50 ride, but under-safe for something nicer on a daily basis.

Davis native (lived outside city limits but whatever) and UCD graduate. Olive drive is one of the highest crime areas of Davis (according to the police crime statistics, down town and the frat area is FAR HIGHER). However this is Davis, so when I say high crime for Davis, that still means very low crime.

So the worst thing that happened to me on Olive Drive was being yelled at by a homeless man. I was walking on one of the bike trails (the one that connects campus to Murder Burger, and yes it is Murder Burger). The homeless man was camping in a drainage ditch and woke up because my friends and I were speaking loudly. He chased us for about a minute. It spooked us pretty bad but looking back I don't feel we were in any danger.

Downtown and any place on campus will have drunk students, which frankly are more dangerous than the Davis homeless most of the time.

There is a mobile home park south of olive drive, they used to generate a lot of crime that spilled into the olive drive area. The mobile park has been cleaned up however (rent prices jumped, funny how that works) so it isn't much of an issue now.

Here is a list of things I think you should know.

• Olive drive is near the Murder Burger and In-N-Out, if you are not careful you will gain weight
  
• The road connecting the I-80 off ramp to Olive drive is riddled with pot holes. Be very careful driving it.
  
• Most party nights in Davis tend to end near Murder Burger, In-N-Out, I-HOP, or one of the bars in downtown near the toad hole (the bike under pass near Olive, I'm not sure what you kids are calling it these days), so if you live on Olive Drive drunk friends will crash at your place. I would suggest keeping bottled water, a few extra blankets and pillows, and some accessible condoms in the main room of your apartment.
  
• For walking around late at night I would suggest one of these. They are very bright, the mag-light is also heavy duty enough to be used as a defensive weapon should you need it. However running is a far better option and the light should be plenty to get a head start.
  
  Edit Don't forget to lock your bike, they will take it if you don't**. Get a heavy duty U lock. Spend at least $50.** I would suggest something like this.

The Kryptonite I use is a U-lock. Pretty heavy duty and heavy.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001DWNK1A/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

The cable is to lock the wheels and seat, not the bike itself. The bike is locked by the U-Lock.

Trackr is just Bluetooth based. I work too far away from my bike. I was thinking more along the lines of a TK102-2 (original) with an iOT Sim. There is also a satellite based one: Spot Trace. Costs $100/year in service in addition to the device and sends a ping every 5 minutes.

I'm currently using the OnGuard Bulldog DT U-Lock. I hook it through the rear wheel into the cargo rack, which prevents the rear wheel from turning, then secure the cable to something solid nearby and attach it to the U-lock. If I'm parking somewhere that doesn't have an anchor point, then I loop the cable through the front wheel and attach it to the U-lock, which I (again) hook through the back wheel and cargo rack. It's good to keep in mind that any lock system can be defeated if someone is determined enough, but this has worked well for me thus far and provides me with peace of mind. Sidenote: I picked up this lock combo set for $24.99 in late June from Amazon, so the price has definitely gone up, but I'm sure you could probably find it cheaper elsewhere.

If anyone is in the market for a solid U lock, I really like this one:

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005YPKC5O/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o08_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Has a cable included to lock the other wheel and has a high security key (the round keys can be opened with a bic pen). The bike mount is solid as well.

Yeah, I don't mind buying a couple locks. I was looking into these locks:

Kryptonite 999485 Black 14mm x 39-Inch, 1410 New York Fahgettaboudit Chain and New York Disc Lock
Kryptonite New-U New York Fahgettaboudit Mini Heavy Duty Bicycle U Lock Bike Lock
Kryptonite New-U New York Standard Heavy Duty Bicycle U Lock Bike Lock

Abus Granit XPlus 540, U-Lock, Key - USH, 160x230mm, 6.3''x9'', Thickness in mm: 13mm, Black

Probably gonna get the NY chain, and one of these U-locks. Tough decision between the three u-locks. I don't know if the mini Fahgettaboudit will be versatile enough. I like the mounting bracket that comes with the Abus, but the 13mm shackle is putting me off. However, my research tells me that the Abus is the most pick-proof.

Feel free to chip in if u have any suggestions. I had no idea that UofT was that rampant of an area for bike thieves, damn!

I also have a cheap $20 supercycle u-lock from Canadian Tire from when I was a kid, so I'll probably use that as a THIRD lock as well LMAO.

​

Another question I have though, is this: Will having 2-4 locks (2-3 on the frame/wheels and a small Abus $15 4mm chain for the seat) on a bike make it MORE susceptible to it being stolen as it'll certainly catch the eye of a thief?

Far too small. That'd probably fit someone around 5'. I'd say you should be looking for a 19-20" frame. Bear in mind that suspension isn't necessarily a good thing, there's a lot of poor quality suspension out there that's likely already broken on bikes in this price range, and it often isn't desirable anyway for many types of riding. Even on more technical trails, riding with straight forks can help you learn better technique with line selection and soft landings, if you want to get into "proper" mountain biking.

http://portland.craigslist.org/mlt/bik/5629556283.html < seems decent for the price, RockShox forks are generally good quality

http://portland.craigslist.org/mlt/bik/5586347419.html

http://portland.craigslist.org/mlt/bik/5610067720.html

http://portland.craigslist.org/mlt/bik/5630795888.html

http://portland.craigslist.org/mlt/bik/5612201881.html

http://portland.craigslist.org/mlt/bik/5630057428.html

http://portland.craigslist.org/mlt/bik/5615221078.html

http://portland.craigslist.org/mlt/bik/5631362683.html

http://portland.craigslist.org/mlt/bik/5592340701.html

If you're leaving it outside at school, it'd also be worth budgeting for a half decent U lock and learning how to use it:

http://www.802bikeguy.com/2011/07/the-modified-sheldon-brown-bike-locking-strategy/

Just had a quick look, this one for $17.93 from one of the sellers seems like a good deal:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005YPKL5U

I use one of the longer OnGuard U-locks. Hasn't been a problem, yet!

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B008OHBE8S

This is the one I have : https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005YPKBRI/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o08_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

No problems so far, quality feels excellent (it's heavy though). One thing to keep in mind is that locks only keep 'honest' people honest, if someone REALLY wants your shit they'll find a way. Park the bike in a public area where a thief won't be able to spend half an hour unnoticed as he chips away at your lock. I have mine right under a security camera outside my building (capitol area), and haven't had any issues.

It's an OnGuard Brute STD 5001
http://www.amazon.com/OnGuard-PitBull-Bicycle-U-Lock-Security/product-reviews/B000FL4Y60

How does this lock compare to a u-lock like this one?

https://www.amazon.com/SIGTUNA-Bike-locks-Shackle-Mounting/dp/B016GZWRY4/ref=cm_cr_arp_d_product_top?ie=UTF8

Hey thanks for the video, the lock I use is this kryptonite new-u evolution mini 7

But I'm honestly still unsure if I want to keep it as I can't fit both my wheel and part of my frame at any point on my bike, but have been locking the frame and cabling both wheels lately. I sort of want to get a larger one so I can do the modified sheldon, but worried wider will also mean longer, so more room to fit shit that I can't really fill.

All of this considering my LBS owner implied the area to be very low-crime in terms of bike thefts, and that the bike will never be left alone in public more than 15-20 minutes while in the store, I've been trying to convince myself it's good enough. If I had a $1,000+ road bike i'd probably bring that bitch into the store with me, but felt silly buying a $200 lock for an entry level $400 commuter bike.

The only other option that seemed worth while was a heavy chain due to very few places to lock the bike, couldnt find much stuff about them online

I have one of these

http://www.amazon.com/Kryptonite-Series-Premium-Packaging-Orange/dp/B0030M4DAI/ref=sr_1_8?ie=UTF8&qid=1398441959&sr=8-8&keywords=disc+lock+kryptonite

You can get just the lock or just the safety cable or get them separate without the bag for a bit less.

Kryptonite Evolution Series 4 Standard Bicycle U-Lock

Yeah. Spending $100 to lock up a $300 bicycle is not worth it. Get a solid $30 lock like this On Guard, do a recycled chain seat post retention and hose clamps on the quick release skewers like the first A graded bike at http://www.streetfilms.org/hal-and-kerri-grade-your-bike-locking/

That lock can be cut with scissors or a pair of wire cutters pretty easily. I recommend a quality u-lock.

Abus mini 14 is nice

I purchased a HipLok and I am liking that U-Lock so far

Than pair that with a cable to connect your front wheel to the lock. A cable like this would work

A key with the ulock is don't buy a long/really wide one if you don't need it. I prefer the Mini U Locks as once my wheel/frame is in there and I am locked to an object there is almost zero room to put a jack in there.

Also look up proper locking techniques, such as the Sheldon Brown method or the Modified Sheldon Brown method.

ALL locks can be defeated. Locks are nothing more than a deterrent. Just be smart when locking up. I usually do my best to lock in a spot where I can keep an eye on my bike, or I just park inside whenever I get a chance. When parking inside, still use a lock if possible, as i know some people that have had randoms walk in off the street into their office, grab a bike and leave.

Get a good lock and you'll be fine. When I lived there I used locking skewers and a U-lock. I never had any problems, even leaving it parked overnight.

For just a little more, you can get a u-lock with a cable included. This is mine, and there are certainly other sizes available. I've been able to find a way to secure my frame to a pole, sometimes frame+real wheel, and honestly that's been good enough for my relatively low-crime area. It also clips onto my frame, so I don't have to think about taking the lock anywhere, and my key is attached to my keychain, so it's really easy to lock my bike up everywhere.

I mean, I guess I could also just look at better locks. Something like this could work well.

Which isn't a good thing. People can burst those locks by putting a jack inside them. You want the smallest lock you can usefully use - something about this size works quite nicely.

The one thing about Amazon is that they still put stuff from Amazon.com in Amazon.ca, but just adds the extra shipping and customs. If you change the URL to .ca, you may see the exact same product but it can be shipped from a Canadian warehouse, or you can find an alternative on Amazon.ca.

Via Velo Bike U Lock with Cable... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01KD9AQ92?ref=yo_pop_ma_swf
Works really well for me and I trust it more than my Kryptonite U lock, and it’s one of the cheapest on amazon

Kryptonite Evo mini 5, the 5 fits in your back pocket perfect and can lock to just about anywhere if you lock around the head tube. It’s what we all used in SF when I was a bike messenger and we had to park literally everywhere all day every day. It’s the only lock I’ll use. You can buy a cable if you need to lock your wheels too. https://www.amazon.com/Kryptonite-New-U-Evolution-Mini-5-Bicycle/dp/B06XCTDYS6/ref=mp_s_a_1_6?ie=UTF8&qid=1542072269&sr=8-6&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=kryptonite+evolution+mini+7&dpPl=1&dpID=41P8ky%2BTSVL&ref=plSrch (Edit/Ps take off the metal frame mount so it doesn’t tear your pocket)

Should be this: https://www.amazon.com/ABUS-Granit-X-Plus-Lock-160HB300/dp/B00H3TL52S

Thank you for the response. I'm looking at this combo:

https://www.amazon.com/SIGTUNA-Bike-locks-Shackle-Mounting/dp/B016GZWRY4/

• 
  
  https://www.amazon.com/UShake-Resettable-Combination-Complimentary-Mounting/dp/B0151RQAX2/
  
  Those together for day to day locking up. If there is a better option please let me know!

• Planet Bike Blaze 1-Watt Headlight and Superflash Taillight Combination Bicycle Light Set
  
• Pump
  
• Tube
  
• Patch Kits (includes glue patches and sticker patches and tire irons)
  
• Adjustable crescent wrench
  
• Box wrench with 14 mm on one end and 15 mm on the other. (The sizes of nuts holding my wheels on)
  
• 3-way Allen key
  
• Leatherman wave
  
• Rag
  
• Nitrile gloves
  
• On Guard Mini DT U-Lock with 4-Inch Cinch Loop Cable
  
• Clean clothes stuffed into a cheap sinch sack.
  
• lunch
  
• All packed into a Timbuk2 Messenger Small
  
  EDIT:
  
  
• Small Altoids tin first aid kit

The Abus bordo is pretty good, it is bolt-cutter proof, has a dimple cylinder (it is not bump proof, but rare enough that the casual bike thief would have a working bump key).
http://www.amazon.com/Abus-Lock-Link-Folding-Black/dp/B0046RVYJE

Don’t forget the the bell mounted on the stem! 😜
(I call it my “pedestrian bell”)

I ride my bike daily to/from work. I’ve been using this back pack for several weeks now and I absolutely love it. Not huge in size to where it gets in the way, but big enough to carry my essentials - lunch for the day, jacket, U-lock, saddle bag that has some tools in it (throw it on my saddle for longer dedicated rides w/o my backpack + with my clipless pedals on) + any other misc. small things that I may need to bring along with me to work.

For larger loads, I have a different back back that I use on occasion.

Here is an example of what a motorcycle u disc lock looks like.

https://www.amazon.com/Kryptonite-Premium-Packaging-Orange-Millimeter/dp/B0030M4DAI/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1481657678&sr=8-4&keywords=motorcycle+disc+lock

These are used to attach chains to the frame or disc rotor of motorcycles.

They don't have removable wafers, so they can't really be re-keyed (as far as I know, an I think I am using the right words.) so they have to be made with the same key from the factory.

Thanks for any help.

I've used one of these for years. It fits through my front forks and keeps the front wheel from rotating. Not fancy, but it works pretty well.

Yes, decent-locks are sooo expensive. I live in a city with remarkable levels of bike theft. Nary a soul has touched my bulldog, in 10 years. And what the heck kind of logic is that? If you own a $1000 bike, what's more to buy a lock to protect it? Christ almighty.