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Love your bike. Lock it right.

Hi everyone, I'm sorry to hear about all the recent bike theft stories. Getting your bike stolen is heartbreaking. We want to reduce thefts as much as possible so we came up with a "Do's and Don'ts" of locking your bike. I'm sorry it won't do much good for you folks who've already had to deal with getting a bike stolen, but in going forward, they're some good rules to live by. Good luck to all of you in getting your bikes back. We'll keep our eyes peeled. How to Lock Your Bike Bike Pittsburgh has received a number of emails lately from people who have had their bikes stolen. Getting your bike stolen causes severe sadness, stress, and irritability. Avoid these symptoms by following these do's and don'ts: DOs:
  • Do use a U-lock, or NY-strength chain lock, or better yet, two types of locks
  • If you keep your bike in your garage, do make sure it's locked to something big and heavy, or attached to the inside of the garage itself. A lot of bikes are taken right out of people's garages.
  • Do lock to something secure, not something that can easily be taken apart, or kicked off like a wooden railing.
  • Do secure your seatpost and remove any lights and pump/bags from your bike.
DON'Ts:
  • Don't lock your bike using only a cable lock unless you have one thick cable lock.
  • Don't lock to a chain link fence. The links can easily be cut.
  • Don't lock only your wheel, unless that's the only part of your bike you want to keep.
  • Don't leave your bike unlocked on your porch. This is the number one "stolen-bike scenario" we hear.
  • Don't lock to a sign post or a parking meter without a sign or a parking meter head.
  • Don't leave your bike locked in one spot for a long period of time.
  • Don't lend your bike to a stranger even if he says he'll bring it right back. This scenario played itself out right here in Pittsburgh recently.
  • Don't leave your bike unlocked "for only a minute" while you run into a store etc. It takes less than a minute to steal a bike.
  • Try your best not to lock your bike to a tree, it can harm them. We know there are often times no other place to lock to in certain parts of town, but if you have to lock a block or two away it could save a tree. City of Pittsburgh, if you're listening, please at least provide racks in these parts of town where there aren't even meters to lock to.
scott
2007-01-12 11:57:59
how bout we top this for all the unlocked bikes that are being stolen lately...
caitlin
2008-06-23 17:33:05
in front of the hilman library.
front wheel locked
erok
2008-07-18 11:48:29
That's a great way to have your day ruined... Never was a fan of those kind of racks.
k33k3r
2008-07-19 00:25:12
Sheldon used to advise that the weight of the bike and lock together should total 55 lbs. In other words, if you expect to keep a 10 lb carbon-fiber racer, you need a monstrous lock, but if your bike alone weighs 55 pounds you don't even need to lock it up. I can attest to that, having "locked" my bike up downtown before with a piece of string, and having been using a $1.99 bargain lock for years with no problem. My bike doesn't weigh 55 pounds, even, but it looks totally uncool. I mean, not even cool in the sense that "my bike is so ugly it's cool". My bike is like an old Porsche with wood-panelling and turn signals fastened to the fenders with sheet-metal screws. 'Course, I don't leave it in Oakland ever...

I also think that it was Sheldon that advised using protective camouflage: always park your bike next to one that's more desireable.
lyle
2008-07-22 16:46:44
BikeSnobNYC's latest on locking techniques.
scott
2008-08-22 12:34:25

I was wondering ('cause every bike I owned since '97 ultimately was stolen) what bike theives in Pgh are looking for? Are they a)bicyclists who don't want to pay for a bike b)unsophisticated riders looking for a "bling" ride c)chop-shoppers?


It'd make a difference, 'cause a POS Wally World FS might be hot stuff to a b) theif, but not a) or c). Also, do clipless pedals make a bike more or less desirable?


Finally, would rattle-can black and a neon green plastic chain guard on a $1,500 bike fool ANYONE?


One piece of advice I got was to secure the quick-releases to the frame with a metal "radiator" hose clamp.


frankenbike
2008-12-06 02:25:26

Frankenbike, how were those bikes locked when stolen? In all my time following the stolen bike bulletin on these forums, I've never heard a report of a U-lock defeated; cable locks, on the other hand, get cut. I've even had a friend in the same building have her cheap rigid mountain bike with a basket ripped off from our back yard with its cable lock cut.


The impression I've gotten is that essentially any bike part of a bike locked with a U-lock to a sturdy, immovable object (many Pittsburgh signs and parking meters are held down by nuts that anyone with a pair of wrenches can undo; check that) should be pretty much safe. Some folks have had problems with unlocked parts being stolen, but not that many. Not having a quick-release seat seems like enough defense from that.


alankhg
2008-12-06 19:16:28

just thought it might be time to top this thread......


caitlin
2009-07-30 13:06:48

Has anyone tried the locking skewers for quick release wheels, like the onguard ones?


Also, since my apartment has a nice entryway, I was considering getting a floor to ceiling stand that would hold two bikes. One of the ones that is compression fitted so I dont need to put holes in the floor or anything and lock our bikes to that while in the apt. Has anyone had any experience with those or have a brand/model recomendation?


netviln
2009-07-30 13:38:13

just make sure you can lock your bikes in. an easy way to do that would be to bolt a cable lock (the kind with loops on the end) to the wall. then just use your daily bike lock (hopefully a ulock) to lock to the cable


i use locking skewers on one of my bikes. i like them, but am always afraid i'll lose or be without the key


erok
2009-07-30 14:06:04

netviln, I've got a set of allen bolt skewers for my wheels & seatpost. I also use two types of locks, an OnGuard Mastiff chain/padlock combo & a light cable for the front wheel. They've been good to me, but then again, I try to be careful where I lock up, how long, who I lock up next to (preferably a nicer ride), etc.


ka_jun
2009-07-30 14:20:20

ooooo a colnago - i'll go lock next to that


erok
2009-07-30 14:26:12

Yeah, I currently use a mini ulock(onguard pitbull mini tc)with a cable for the wheels. the quickrelease skewers are nice since i have had to replace tubes 3 times in the last week that why I thought the locking skewers looked neat.


netviln
2009-07-30 14:45:48

yeesh. bad luck


erok
2009-07-30 14:53:32

Well.. got a pinch flat.. tried to patch but patch didn't hold.. so new tube.. the valve assembly failed catastrophically.. took the tube back and REI gave me two to replace the failed one. Been good since.


netviln
2009-07-30 14:58:39

I've watched someone try and open a U-lock with a jack. U-locks are great, but make sure you have that U-lock full of bike/post/whatever, so there is no room to shove a jack in between the bars too.


I have some pretty fat tires on the back, so I usually have the lock around both the rear wheel and seat tube (and a big fat parking meter post). It is so tight it will only fit around there in one direction. You flip the U-lock around 180 degrees and it is about an inch shy from being able to lock.


My paranoia level went sky high when I watched a locksmith use a cordless angle grinder to cut off a U-lock in about a minute and a half.


dwillen
2009-07-30 15:13:59

ive cut some u locks with angle grinders. bikes have come into free ride with locks still attached and no key. one thing that i've noticed is that with locks like many kryptonite ones with the little bend on one side of the U and the locking mechanism on the other, you need one cut to get the lock off. the on guard ones, the U part has the locking mechanism on both sides, so you need two cuts to get them open.


erok
2009-07-30 15:18:31

I have also heard to lock your u-lock up high on the bike so a thief can't use the ground as leverage.


rsprake
2009-07-30 15:44:54

All of the OnGuard locks are 2 or 4 bolt, that is why you need to cut both sides.


I picked up a OnGuard Pitbull Mini U, and I absolutely love it. It is built very well, even the key hole cover collar is metal. My only complaint it the key--the handle part is wide and very hard. I just cut it down to make it thinner like the Kryptonite keys.


Also, I used Sheldon's lock technique (around rim and tire, inside rear triangle). Some people have criticized me for it, but I think it makes a lot of sense.


I think lock size is very important. Big U-locks are much easier to break with all of the extra room inside of them.


In the end I think it is just like cars. If your bike is more secure the the one next to it, you'll be fine--unless it is a target.


ndromb
2009-07-31 00:02:11

I lock my back wheel to the frame with a small U-lock, and then wrap a thick cable either thru the bike seat or around the bike frame to a larger U-lock on the front wheel. The front wheel's lock is the one that actually holds the bike to the rack/item being locked to.


greenbike
2009-07-31 13:28:33

Do you guys lock expensive bikes outdoors too? I only have one bike, but its a fancy carbon road bike. Would you feel safe leaving it for an hour with a u-lock or do think its wise to invest in a less expensive commuter for when i'd need to stop and lock?


dryrunholiday
2009-07-31 21:08:24

Dryrunholiday: No, but I see people doing it. It's probably somewhat a matter of risk tolerance, inasmuch as if you can afford an expensive bicycle to ride around town you can afford to replace one every once in a while if it were to be stolen. Pittsburgh bike thieves also seem to be the opportunistic sort with maybe a pair of bolt cutters rather than the methodological kind that have a crew, a van, and an angle grinder.


That said, it makes sense to get another bike for riding around town just because most carbon road bikes aren't particularly well suited for anything but fast road riding, and don't have room for fenders and racks and fatter tires to handle Pittsburgh potholes hidden in puddles or snow.


alankhg
2009-08-01 01:26:42

I would see no problem in it depending on where you were going. Example, if you were riding the trails and locked up in front of REI or something like that. Commuting on it to downtown or some places in the east end I dont think would be a good idea.


netviln
2009-08-01 03:29:35

yeah, i'd say the chances that within an hour, someone coming by that has the capability to cut a ulock is pretty slim, next to none. your wheels on the other hand...at least lock them with a cable


erok
2009-08-01 17:20:00

The other night I cut a lock for someone who lost the key and was moving. It took under 10 sec. (probably 5-6 sec) to wiz through it with a cut off wheel on a angle grinder. It was a Kryptonite U-lock.


ndromb
2009-08-03 22:37:47

I live in NYC and have had 3 bikes stolen, one just days after completing a ride from Boston to NYC. After that I got 3 locks as they steal everything here including Bungey Cords! I use the NYC Krip. chain, a Krip. U-lock and a Krip. cable with another cable locking the seat to the frame. It's been 13 years now since my last stolen bike. The other thing I did was to park the bike in different locations near the office I would be working at, as the bike theft rings look for bikes parked in the same location. The other thing that this craft assholes do is plant fake bus stop post that lift up and out of the sidewalk. Now, if they would only apply their ingenuity to better things...


katlinbr
2009-08-07 14:29:30

a friend of mine in nyc had his bike stolen some weeks past. he had left it securely locked to a pole at a transit stop. he came back to find the pole had been cut down, and his bike removed. i hope pittsburgh never gets like that.


hiddenvariable
2009-08-07 17:09:38

Katlin: have you looked into parking your bike inside now that Intro. 870 is passed in NYC?


alankhg
2009-08-09 15:38:39

Topping this thread yet agian. I've been seeing a lot of expensive bikes locked up with cheap cable locks lately - especially on the Pitt campus. I've been leaving notes to get a u-lock on some of them.


marko82
2011-05-25 13:15:50

I wonder if we could get a local shop or two to print up and honor some "10% off any U-lock" hang tag coupons for such purposes.


Heck, I'd pay a couple bucks personally to have a wad of those (and coupons for frickin' lights, for all the ninjas out there) tucked in my bag.


reddan
2011-05-25 13:26:41

I recently left a note for someone at my regular bike rack with a super nice city bike to read this thread. They repeatedly just throws their U-Lock over their front wheel. Hasn't worked, saw it again this morning :-(


dmtroyer
2011-05-25 13:45:03

@dmtroyer They repeatedly just throws their U-Lock over their front wheel.


Mean, but effective: Take their bike off and leave it next to their locked wheel.


mick
2011-05-25 14:36:35

Is the Kryptonite NYC lock over kill? Is it really the best U Lock?


marvelousm3
2011-05-25 14:50:09

I saw a bike locked up across from Dave and Andy's yesterday that had a u-lock on the milkcrate trailer but a 1/4 inch cable locking the top tube to a street sign...


sloaps
2011-05-25 15:01:53

The Krypto NYC lock is overkill in Pittsburgh. Great for high theft places like NYC, Philly etc.


There are so many people in Pittsburgh (and in most places really) leaving their bikes unlocked or using $5 chains and cables that a normal steel shackled ulock is just fine.


bradq
2011-05-25 15:38:04

In the past I have used a 1/2" thick coated steel cable and a keyed U-Haul lock (no room to shim it open) and no issues. I would thread the cable through all kinds of shit.


One thing that I think people also overlook is the ability to steal a bike from on top of a car.


All of these stories here though make me happy that I can use our shop here at work for bike storage.


orionz06
2011-05-25 16:12:36

What is the alternative that will secure both wheels and the seat?


If one is to judge Kryptonite as THE standard, their cables are thinner than what I use and suggested for low to moderate crime areas, the only areas in which my bike has been locked, and even then it was for minimal amounts of time.


I do agree that cables are easy to cut, but chains and U-locks are as well. If it came to me losing the ability to keep the bike indoors where only co-workers have access I don't think I would commute anymore, I don't trust a nice bike to be outside for very long, regardless of the locking method.


orionz06
2011-05-25 16:52:48

u lock through the frame. cable through everything else that matters with the looped ends in the u lock. also a length of bike chain looped through one saddle rail and one of the seat stays is a great way to leave your qr seat both safe and adjustable.


the only "easy" way to get through a decent and properly used ulock is an angle grinder and the crack/meth heads in the burgh dont use them. if we had pro bike thieves like philly or nyc that might be different.


cburch
2011-05-25 17:29:16

When it comes down to it, a determined thief can pretty much always steal your bike or your car or break into your home given sufficient time and opportunity and the proper tools.


All you can do is try to make it less attractive to them. Use multiple methods of locking and good locks; pick the places where you lock your bike carefully (i.e. not to street signs that can be easily dismantled); try to lock your bike in high-traffic areas where a thief can't work unobserved; and try not to leave your bike parked for long periods of time in high-crime areas.


If you still get robbed in spite of all that--well, at least you tried.


rina
2011-05-25 17:31:08

an effective, if morally murky, way to make sure your bike isn't stolen is to lock properly near poorly locked bikes.


you don't have to outrun the bear. just the other campers.


cburch
2011-05-25 17:40:22

@brad I see bike thieves whipping out their park tool cable housing cutter all the time.


dmtroyer
2011-05-25 18:21:54

all it takes is a pair of angle cutters. they don't even need to be that sharp.


cburch
2011-05-25 19:24:33

As some of you may know I am new to biking, but this free-for-all theft makes me sad. =( Can't enjoy anything anymore without having to think of someone stealing your stuff.


italianblend
2011-05-28 18:42:43

Its only a free-for-all if you don't lock it right. As this thread has repeated, if you lock smart with a U-lock, you'll be fine. Its the folks who dont heed the advice that get their stuff stolen, in most cases.


robjdlc
2011-05-28 19:07:54

Hi guys, a question about u locks.


I have a bulldog mini, and it's pretty small so I'm not sure I can put it through my tire and frame, unless I do it in the rear frame which is thinner and runs along the side of the wheels. Is this an okay place to lock it? It would go through the spokes and not the actual wheel. I have been locking it just by the middle frame only. I assume this is going to be okay when I lock it at work, as it will be on a camera anyway, and I don't anticipate anyone messing with it.


Also, this is going to sound like a dumb question, but I am going to Myrtle Beach in a few weeks and I was going to rent a bike. I am not checking luggage, just a carry-on. Would I be allowed to put the u-lock inside the carry-on? I highly doubt it, but I was just curious.


italianblend
2011-08-19 00:40:56

I haven't seen a mini used in any other way than you mention. You can always get a double-thick cable or chain (heavy) from a bike shop to strap through your wheels and seat when you need more long-term parking. That's what I've done for years and I think it just scares people off looking at the tangled mess of loops that happens when I'm in a hurry.


humblesage
2011-08-19 00:56:32

Leave a cable lock at work locked to the rack and you can lock your front wheel with that if you are worried. I think you are ok locking up to anything that is a part of the frame. I've personally never had any luck with the Sheldon method and a bulldog mini.


As for the lock and TSA, are you sure that the rental place won't be giving you a lock to use? In my experience the rental places supply a lock.


rsprake
2011-08-19 01:13:51

Minis are too short for the Sheldon usually. Rear triangle is often too wide.


humblesage
2011-08-19 01:57:54

I can almost always do the Sheldon method with my Bulldog Mini. On my cross bikes I can also usually lock my front rim alongside the rear this way. Sometimes I have to lock through the front wheel's spokes, but that's better than nothing. On my beer-getter I don't even bother locking the front - hasn't been stolen yet.


renny
2011-08-19 17:23:06

Also usually lock with the sheldon method with a older model bulldog mini.


I have brought U-locks in carry-on. Usually get a thorough search of my luggage, but never had a problem. Trying to bring a set of allen wrenches too, though? Forget it. :P


johnwheffner
2011-08-19 19:19:06

"Also usually lock with the sheldon method with a older model bulldog mini."


Seems to depend on your setup and what you lock to. It looks like there's only about 5 inches to work with there. Maybe it's just my fender/rack combo getting in the way back there. It's cool to know that it IS possible though. ;)


humblesage
2011-08-20 02:11:22

I've been using an ancient U-lock. This morning the key snapped in half, which leads to some questions:


Is the Bulldog Mini still everyone's favorite lock? What should I look for when I go shopping for my replacement?


Secondly, what can you do with an old U-lock with a barely functional nub of a key? Seems like I should be able to do something creative with it instead of just pitching it.


pinky
2012-03-19 13:12:48

Might be worth taking the key to the hardware store to see if they can still duplicate it.


I think the bulldog mini is a bit too mini for some situations. I have one but I usually use a normal size ulock nowadays which is easier to deal with - it works on thicker poles and I can often get the frame and the wheel. The argument for the mini is it's harder for a thief to get a jack inside but I have never heard of that happening in pgh.


salty
2012-03-19 13:40:40

damn pinky that sucks. i too used the same ancient u-lock for about 15+ years until the day the key broke off at work leaving me stranded. unfortunately there was nothing of my key left that was usable and i had to call a friend with a cordless grinder to come and cut the damn thing off. i went and bought a krypto mini and have been very happy with it. it is a little harder to lock up the crossbike with properly because of it's diminuitive size but it seems to work fine with the rest of the fleet. plus it takes up much less space in my bag and is much lighter.


as for suggestions for uses for a busted lock, i'm coming up empty.


chefjohn
2012-03-19 13:44:59

Just saw "We Need to Talk About Kevin" so your question brings all kinds of horrible images to mind. And then there's the end of "Inglorious Basterds". Anyway, I supposed you could use it one last time, to attach together two things that you wanted to keep locked, perhaps as a prank, at least until somebody with an angle grinder comes along.


jonawebb
2012-03-19 13:49:50

This is what the key looks like now (note it was already repaired with tape):


I'm thinking a full-size U-lock is a good bet for me since my commuter is a MTB. I've read about people breaking bigger locks with a jack, but I've also never heard of it happening in the Burgh.


That's a huge bummer chefjohn - as soon as it snapped I was like "Oh #*%" but I think it'll make it though the day before being retired to the big bike rack in the sky.


pinky
2012-03-19 13:51:05

Hmmm. A prank you say? Totally thinking of U-locking a coworker's chair to his desk.


pinky
2012-03-19 13:55:21

good one pinky!


chefjohn
2012-03-19 14:00:38

There is possibly some kind of serial number on the key, which woiuld allow the company to replace it.


I'm not sure if that works for very old locks. It seems to me that if Kryptonite give a lifetime guarantee for their locks, they would be responsible for a broken key for a long time.(but not a lost one)


mick
2012-03-19 15:02:24

Any thoughts on mounting brackets for u-locks? Ideally it'd be nice to secure the mini u-lock to the seat post, and have a separate mounting bracket on each bike, but I've never found a good secure mounting bracket to buy.


asobi
2012-03-19 15:40:53

Kryptonite has a decent mount and when it breaks they'll replace it for free.


sgtjonson
2012-03-19 16:29:30

@pinky: I have an OnGuard Mini Pitt Bull U Lock. It comes with a ton of keys and works well, but it is usually not possible for me to lock a wheel & frame onto the rack, so I supplement with a long cable for my wheels & seat. I have a mixte frame and full fenders.


@asobi: Portland Designworks has a new small front basket with a slot for holding the U Lock. The basket seems overpriced to me, but the slot design is interesting & maybe you could invent a mod with a pipe and some plumbing hardware and rubber to cut down on rattles. Or, super velcro strips - tie it to the frame that way?


pseudacris
2012-03-19 16:32:57

+1 to what edmonds said - replace that lock regardless.


I have one of those sitting around my house and I have no idea what to do with it. I couldn't even give it away with a clear conscience.


salty
2012-03-19 17:27:24

Yeah it's a long overdue replacement for me. I knew it was a crappy lock but always counted on the whole bear/camper perspective since there are so many more poorly locked bikes.


Though if I can get it to reliably lock and unlock with a pen, my broken key problem is solved right? :)


pinky
2012-03-19 18:15:04

I think the u-locks you will find at any fine bike retailer are going to be good. I prefer on guard myself, the mini is too small but it's a breeze to unlock and lock again compared to the kryptonite lock I have.


rsprake
2012-03-19 19:32:47

For a while Kryptonite was giving replacement locks to anyone with the old tubular-keyed lock, I think as a result of a class-action lawsuit. It was a pretty good deal (one of the only times I got any direct benefit from such a lawsuit), but I think they eventually caught on that they'd greatly increased the value of the old locks and stopped.

Now I have the high tech key that looks like a rectangle with two pairs of notches cut in it, surrounding an angled piece of metal. Never understood how they managed to make a key that looks so completely generic.


jonawebb
2012-03-19 19:52:08

With four posts in 24 hours about stolen bikes, it's time to top this old thread.


EDIT: My daughter is trying out a bike version of "The Club" for her new bike at college. Said it cost her all of $5. It looks a bit like a U-lock, only more square.


stuinmccandless
2012-08-27 00:37:11

^ They have those @ Big Lots. If someone decided to go that way, I would suggest the Ultra Bike Club with the flat key, vs. the version they're selling with the cylinder. I've seen them have both. Kinda small, though.


ka_jun
2012-08-27 00:57:47

Top


scott
2012-10-09 15:29:11

Andy Sheehan from KDKA is doing a story on bike thefts in Pittsburgh and tried and true ways of deterring it. I just finished going over all of the common theft scenarios. Not sure when the story will air, but probably in the next few days.


scott
2012-10-09 16:36:19

Personally I just use two ulocks. Typically sheldon method with back wheel and front wheel to the frame (and if possible to something else). I've never had a problem with this method in and around boston for about 10 years and now a few years in pgh.


2012-10-09 20:36:41

Just a thought on stolen bike message board threads - and feel free to disagree with me on this.


This seems to be a typical pattern for stolen bike threads:




Someone - My bike got stolen from x it looks like y


Someone 2 - How was it locked?


Someone - Cable lock/not at all/inside blah blah


Someone 2 - Cable locks suck/You should always lock your bike/Never leave your bike there etc etc.



Now I understand that we want to know how the stolen bikes were locked, so that we can keep an eye on what is trending for how far bike thieves will go. But do we think it's necessary to always say "cable locks suck" or "never leave your bike unlocked"?


I find it a wee bit grating that someone comes here for help and gets a sort of "You should have known better" response. Or is that just me?


If it's just me, please carry on. Just thinking about community and such.


pinky
2012-10-10 12:27:42

can we get a bunch of these stickers?




rubberfactory
2012-10-12 10:29:55

I like it!


pinky
2012-10-12 12:00:29

I feel a bit of morbid curiosity about what kind of lock was used...I am always hoping it's not a U-lock because to me that would be some kind of indicator that the thievery has escalated in P'burgh. But, I think you make a good point, Pinky. Not as bad as asking an assaulted woman what she was wearing, but....


pseudacris
2012-10-12 16:48:47

I think you could hear "it was locked with a U-lock" soon. I've seen some really, really, really cheap U-locks around town lately.

They look like this. Amazingly thin and cheap looking, with what appears to be a hinged shackle. From the specs: 12mm diameter shackle.


2012-10-12 18:00:15

I am curious to know how a bike was locked and what t wrong. I can see where saying cable locks suck puts salt into the wounds. It also seems that most stolen bike posts are from newbies who don't seemed as informed, like my coworker who had a bike stolen so she got a "really thick" cable lock to make sure it doesn't happen again. I did tell her to get a u lock.

But since I don't know what to say I just don't say anything and just look for their bike.


marvelousm3
2012-10-12 19:04:55

Just to be clear - I'm OK with asking what kind of lock was used. I think it's a good idea to hear the level of bike thievery.


For example, I use a giant U-lock, because I'm confident that nobody in Pgh is using jacks to break them open. But if I were to hear that change, I might rethink my lock options.


It's more the follow up about why the locking choice was bad that troubles me.


Though mr marv, you make a good point - there's an opportunity for education here. Trek in Robinson sells cable locks only, so clearly people are going to think they're OK.


Does it seem less snarky to point victims to the top of this thread, where it clearly says that cable locks are bad and gives other good tips?


pinky
2012-10-12 19:14:15

+1 yes that is a good idea


marvelousm3
2012-10-12 19:16:46

my coworker who had a bike stolen so she got a "really thick" cable lock to make sure it doesn't happen again. I did tell her to get a u lock.


FWIW, the post at the top of this thread suggests cable locks are OK if they're thick.


But I haven't seen any particular snarkiness in posts explaining what locks are best. There's implicit criticism, but I think that's unavoidable.


steven
2012-10-12 19:40:52

If the victim responds that they used a cheap/vulnerable lock, I think sympathy goes a long way while pointing out their mistakes in the same breath.


Maybe something along the lines of: "That sucks, I'll keep an eye out for it. By the way some locks are easy to break into. It's a good idea to invest in a bla bla bla."


2012-10-12 19:52:29

Some real facts about 'U' locks.


I worked at a shop, and on various occasions was asked to remove a 'U' lock. -- yes these were verified owners --


I wont give complete details, but outline a few things to think about.


You can **cut** a 'U' lock, through the solid metal bar, in <1 minute. And not using cutting a torch.


You could, I haven't tried this in a while so the lock mechanisms may have been changed to resist or stop this, break open a 'U' lock's locking mechanism with a hammer and some other materials. This takes seconds.


2012-10-13 01:16:55

FYI the entire industry pretty much ditched the easy to break cylinder locks once the videos of how to defeat them with a pen and hammer went viral five or so years ago.


It might be a bit cutthroat but I subscribe to the "more of a pain in the ass than the bike next to me" method of locking. Once we start getting more professional thieves and its no longer mostly a crime of opportunity ill need to rethink this.


cburch
2012-10-13 16:43:22

Lock that Worksman!

Here is a nice piece of overkill spotted in Chelsea last weekend.



I also saw a beautiful, covered bike shelter with posted locking instructions. Will put up images soon.


pseudacris
2012-11-26 23:07:30









pseudacris
2012-12-03 14:06:20

@Pseudacris, I don't think there is such thing as "overkill" when locking a bike. Whatever it takes as far as I am concerned. Also, have a look at that sign you posed on how to lock a bike. Pretty impressive with two U-locks. Like that sign showing Midtown-Long Island with time included. Cool!


2012-12-03 14:34:42

The cost and weight of those locks starts to compete with the cost/weight of the bike if you ride an old 80s bike.


pseudacris
2012-12-03 14:38:21

Lots of 80's bikes are worth well over a grand. Some are worth over $2k. Anyway, that part doesn't matter that much, it is the fact that you are keeping your transportation there when you return to it regardless of value to others.


After seeing that stripped down bike in the South Side, it is making me wonder about how I am locking my bike. My seat isn't locked, so that might have to be part of the process now. People can label it "overkill", but I don't want to give a thief any edge. They deserve no gifts that is for sure.


Thanks for posting that information.


2012-12-03 14:51:34

Re; just seats, for Pgh, removing a quick release if you have one and replacing it with an appropriately sized bolt is probably adequate, unless you have some expensive seat like a Brooks or something.


edmonds59
2012-12-03 15:19:36

i always liked the method of using a chain tool to lock an old chain from your saddle rails to one of or both of your stays, often times wrapped with an intertube to reduce rumble damage




imakwik1
2012-12-03 16:00:53

^this. By far one of my all time favorite locking methods.


cburch
2012-12-03 17:23:51

@cburch Not very reliable. :( Very often you can snap a chain by hands if push "across" it.


2012-12-03 22:30:50
helen-s
2012-12-03 22:44:44
I was surprised to see this Friday afternoon: It's such a nice bike and so well equipped, that seems incongruous with the locking technique. It's a QR front wheel, so you open the QR, lift the bike out of the U-lock, and carry the bike (sans front wheel) away. It's such a nice, clean bike that I wondered if it wasn't a Candid Camera bike-theft-sting thing.
vannever
2013-02-16 11:07:04
Honestly, I've given up on leaving notes on bikes to warn people against poor locking. I've seen many chain locks around handlebars at CMU, and at this point I'm considering them cannon fodder for potential thieves. Some are amusing, like the one that's only locked the back wheel to the frame, yet still pushed into a rack space. That rack is a couple feet away from the street where it could be easily tossed into the bed of a truck.
mpm
2013-02-18 11:32:10
I moved a bike at CMU last week- it had a U lock through the rear wheel, sticking out the back on the ground. Front wheel was in the rack. I moved it to the next rack up as it was sticking out into the sidewalk.
helen-s
2013-02-18 13:22:35
I lock my bike with a small NYC lock and a huge chain with a separate lock. They have to cut/break two large obstacles. I am sure it is overkill in Pittsburgh and probably even overkill most places, but I don't want to be that person that has his bike stolen when and if theft technology increases. My bike was targeted once before these two locks and I got lucky because someone saw them trying to steal it and other bikes. They got two bikes that day. I vowed never to be at any disadvantage again. Can my bike still get stolen? Sure, with an angel grinder or some fancy cutter, but in that case, there isn't much I can to do.
gg
2013-02-18 13:32:20
I know it's just a typo but I really like the idea of an "angel grinder".
jonawebb
2013-02-18 14:12:22
"Every time a bike bell rings, an angel gets its wings. And every time a car horn honks, an angel grinder disposes of another angel." - It's a Wonderful Bike, 1947 (the little-known sequel)
steven
2013-02-18 14:20:53
Fresh angel on your salad?
jonawebb
2013-02-18 15:20:54
Just when I thought I'd seen the worst possible lock jobs, I saw this one in Oakland earlier this week. In case it's not obvious, it's a cable lock around the rack and then around the top of the seat post.
ieverhart
2013-02-22 17:49:47
Here is my guess on that one in Oakland around the seat post. I have a feeling that isn't that person's lock and he laid his bike there for a few minutes and dummy locked it, to make it look like it was locked for a moment. That is just a guess. I don't think anyone smart enough to cycle would lock a bike that bad. Remember, we are... well a bit more advanced.
gg
2013-02-22 18:55:18
If you are going to take the time to wrap the lock around the rack, you might as well at least "dummy lock it" through the frame as well... I'm not buying it gg.
headloss
2013-02-22 19:24:45
found this online somewhere, still a pretty good example of what not to do.  photo badlock_zps0fc4f081.jpg
pbeaver
2013-02-22 19:29:18
Drewbacca wrote:If you are going to take the time to wrap the lock around the rack, you might as well at least “dummy lock it” through the frame as well… I’m not buying it gg.
Nah, I am saying the lock was left there from another cyclist because maybe they park there all the time and just leave the lock there, so the bike you see in the picture just threw the lock over their bike to make it looked like it was locked when they ran into some shop or something. I thought about doing that once, but ended up taking my bike in the store and no one seemed to mind.
gg
2013-02-22 19:49:35
Fair enough, I didn't consider that someone else may have left the lock behind; that's at least *almost* plausible! :p
headloss
2013-02-22 20:20:51
Love your shopping cart. Lock it right. Taken yesterday at Robinson's Market District. (Edited to fix my dumb typos.)
pinky
2013-03-18 06:36:58
Take a good long look. Something is seriously wrong here. (Oakland. Specific location omitted for reasons that should hopefully become obvious...)
epanastrophe
2013-05-03 18:43:10
Saw these outside of the 3PNC/Fairmont parking garage. Newly installed, I have never seen a post like this.
that_tickles
2013-05-07 11:44:37
I started this album over on the Thick Bikes Facebook page: How Not to Lock Your Bike. Shaming people hasn't seemed to make much of a difference. How do we really teach people to lock properly?
beth910
2013-05-09 20:04:55
Elmo wrote:Saw these outside of the 3PNC/Fairmont parking garage. Newly installed, I have never seen a post like this.
Why can't we just have bike racks that look like bike racks? I don't even know if my ulock would fit around these things.
benzo
2013-05-10 11:33:40
Racks at the new Aldi on Baum and Roup in Shadybloomfriendsville. Luckily there are other racks behind these that are actually useful. The racks are a little inconvenient to get to, but it is nice that they are inside. The Aldi racks in South Side in the parking lot are not very good either. Is there some sort of requirement to have a certain amount of racks at a new building, and they are half-assing it to fulfill that requirement? I love Aldi but this is real bush-league.
that_tickles
2013-05-10 11:58:08
Glad to know it has some, somewhere--rode by there the other day, saw nothing but trees to lock up to, went to shursave where there's at least a cart barrier near the door I can use... How do you get to these?
epanastrophe
2013-05-10 12:06:30
Wow, another great example of people who put a lot of time in to figuring out how to make a space for bike racks, and then fail at putting them in in the way they are intended. Bravo. Had they move them a foot and a half back from the curb there, it would be great.
benzo
2013-05-10 12:10:55
The racks at Aldis in South Side that are along Carson street are also too close to the building to be useful. I suspect it's the contractor who is clueless not the store. And yes I believe new commercial construction in the city is required to have some bike racks, with an incentive to put even more racks in to offset car parking. There's a thread for it somewhere... Edit for link: http://localhost/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/Bike-Parking-Handout.pdf
marko82
2013-05-10 12:44:23
They can be accessed from the vehicle entrance/exit on Roup
that_tickles
2013-05-10 12:58:58
Are there any standards established in the building code for placement/design of bike parking? I assume there's something like that for car parking spaces. Seems like a good BikePGH advocacy issue (if they're not working on it already), especially if the next mayor is really committed to bike infrastructure.
willb
2013-05-10 13:25:10
I don't know why this is so hard. Even REI, a place that sells bikes and caters to outdoorsy type people, placed their bike racks too close to the building, so you can only fill them up to 1/2 their capacity. You need both sides of the coat-hanger type racks to be open since you'll have issues with handlebars getting caught up otherwise. Good thing they went overboard on the number of racks, so it's not a big deal.
benzo
2013-05-11 09:07:35
The thing with REI is that they generally cater to people who can afford to bring their own bike rack. ;)
headloss
2013-05-11 09:53:24
Suggestion for Bike-Pgh: Add to the website a page of examples for anyone to look at, showing examples of "how to do it right" and "how not to do it", re: rack installation. And make it dead-easy to find. And publicize the hell out of it. Possibly this photo essay already exists somewhere, possibly more than one of them. If so, provide links. But if racks are going up left and right, and not being done well, then the word isn't getting to the right people the right way at the right time. I guess what the rest of us can do is keep providing examples of both.
stuinmccandless
2013-05-11 11:11:36
Benzo wrote:Even REI, a place that sells bikes and caters to outdoorsy type people, placed their bike racks too close to the building, so you can only fill them up to 1/2 their capacity.
I think that there is a problem if someone decided to move rack further from wall. But if make racks in half size and those get installed perpendicular to wall then we can increase capacity without taking a lot of walking space.
mikhail
2013-05-11 17:53:01
Here, for a change, an example of Doing It Right: CMU garage on Dithridge at Henry, under the SEI; rack is just inside, between the entrance ramps. Only complaint is that the rack is just off centre--as visible in the picture, a bike on the 'back' side of the rack sticks out just a bit over the curb.
epanastrophe
2013-05-13 15:18:12
@buffalo buffalo - this is exactly how they did it at my workplace garage. 2 racks in a very small triangular space, but both racks are accessible from both sides, they are positioned perpendicular to each other. They are frequently at capacity during the summer months. Surprisingly, there are a lot of people cycling most of the winter too.
benzo
2013-05-14 07:35:57
Quick poll (dumping this in an old thread instead of starting new): I need to run an errand downtown that will take about 45 minutes after work. The parking there has no camera but has nice bike racks. I won't be able to see the bike from inside at all. I forgot and didn't bring my U-lock; instead I have my crappy combo cable lock because my workplace bike parking is very secure. WWYD? Lock up with the cable lock downtown? Or skip the errand out of fear of coming out to a stolen bike? I'm having a hard time determining my risk tolerance on this one.
pinky
2013-05-29 12:35:36
How far is it from your workplace or some other secure parking? I might trade security for walking, here, but I rarely go downtown and have no idea how secure the area is anymore... (Does Golden Triangle rent or sell locks? Maybe they should...)
epanastrophe
2013-05-29 12:38:12
It's about a 20 minute walk to my errand from my workplace, which would be fine except that I'm on a tight schedule tonight. I could bike to other parking by a camera and loading dock and probably make it only a 5 minute walk. That's definitely an option that makes me feel better. Funny enough, I didn't even think of it because I usually just park right in front of the place. I think I may have just acted like that person who cruises the parking lot looking for a front row space for my car. Only it's for my bike.
pinky
2013-05-29 12:46:37
I don't think I would trust it with a cable for 45min. downtown, but I have an overactive loss tolerance. Can you remove the front wheel and take that with you? It would eliminate some of the desirability to steal the bike if you have to carry it away vs ride it.
marko82
2013-05-29 14:11:19
Can't take the wheel with me, unfortunately. Blerg. I may just skip the errand and try again next week since I have approximately a trillion things to do this evening. Battling voices of reason: "It'll be fine. There are so many other poorly locked bikes!" "But I love my bike!"
pinky
2013-05-29 14:15:15
I would totally trust it. 45 mins? No problem. But it would be better if you could do like @marko said and take some important part with you -- seat, wheel.
jonawebb
2013-05-29 14:22:06
How many threads start with "I only left my bike there for a couple of minutes" It's just a roll of the dice. Don't know how many thefts happen downtown though, more frequent over in the East End I think (Bloomfield, Friendship, Lawrenceville)
sgtjonson
2013-05-29 15:21:09
Update: the locking thing, in combination with a few other things, made it more practical to skip the errand yesterday. So instead I checked out the newly opened trail by Sandcastle, which I haven't had a chance to use yet. It all worked out.
pinky
2013-05-30 06:51:53
In another thread @Drewbacca posted a link to a Chicago bike theft website http://chicago.stolenbike.org/ Their automatic stats page isn’t working, but glancing at the first couple of pages shows that the vast majority of bike thefts in that city are from people leaving bikes in home garages or locked apartment storage lockers. Of the first 30 or so listings only 4 properly U-locked bikes were stolen out in the open, while 22 bikes were stolen in garages/lockers. Just goes to show that thieves are primarily opportunists.
marko82
2013-08-28 09:19:29
Opportunity + drug addiction, in many cases... "We meet the seller, he's definitely not the thief. We show him my police report, list off all the parts, and show him a ton of pictures I had printed of the bike. The seller said he found the bike in a house he had bought off the bank, it had been a foreclosure because the people living inside were drug addict hoarders - there were a few bikes (mostly "plain steel frames" and mine "was the only nice one") and a bunch of electronics."
headloss
2013-08-28 11:42:33
Squirrel Hill. The parking meters are sorely missed.
jonawebb
2013-08-31 13:02:55
It wouldn't be difficult to just weld a head on the stumps.
andyc
2013-09-03 10:25:56
When they started removing the meters I heard (maybe here?) that they actually educated the crews not to chop the ones with bikes locked to them. Unlike some other cities. But given the other stuff I've seen on this thread, I'd believe someone locked to this post after the meter was removed. A cable lock could easily be removed over a meter anyway. Glad these folks are around to distract folks from my bike!
erink
2013-09-06 15:39:19
So, I'm visiting my parents in Philly's suburbs... we stopped at a grocery store in Yardley. I watch a woman ride her bike up to the front of the store, deploy the kickstand, park in the fire lane, grab her canvas grocery bags and head inside. Wow. No locking at all.
rustyred
2013-09-07 20:27:02
Holy shit that bike is gorgeous. Mint condition vintage Raleigh 3 spd. The fact that someone is simply using this to get groceries in 2013 is spectacular.
edmonds59
2013-09-07 21:19:53
I'm afraid the only thing to be said for this lock job, seen in Oakland, is "at least it's not a quick-release"....
epanastrophe
2013-09-09 18:16:29
I rode past Heinz Field on Sunday during the Steeler's game. It was nice to see so many bikes locked up all over the place. Unfortunately, the majority of the bikes were only secured with a cable lock; and some just through the front wheel. I wonder if it would be worth while for a group of us to place hang-tags on bikes during the next home game describing a more proper way to secure a bike. Does BP have any of these printed already?
marko82
2013-09-09 21:09:50
Marko82 wrote:I rode past Heinz Field on Sunday during the Steeler’s game. It was nice to see so many bikes locked up all over the place. Unfortunately, the majority of the bikes were only secured with a cable lock; and some just through the front wheel. I wonder if it would be worth while for a group of us to place hang-tags on bikes during the next home game describing a more proper way to secure a bike. Does BP have any of these printed already?
This way the people with wire cutters will be able to quickly identify bikes to steal!
benzo
2013-09-09 22:13:31
Marko - I was there with the pink bike. As my husband and I locked our bikes together with a U-lock, a cable, and a cable lock, I reminded my husband of the old saying about bears and camping :) But I agree - I think we had the only U-lock at the racks by Gate A.
pinky
2013-09-10 07:01:20
there's an old saying about bears and camping?!? O.o
headloss
2013-09-10 08:04:41
You don't have to outrun the bear - just the other campers.
pinky
2013-09-10 11:18:46
What do the racks look like? With the old toaster racks, for instance, about the only way you can lock the bike is with a cheap cable through one wheel.
stuinmccandless
2013-09-10 11:50:19
By Gate A they're the T-shaped racks with two bars on the vertical portion. Cross your fingers that this link works.
pinky
2013-09-10 12:39:27
@Stu, many bikes were locked to railing etc. If we put hang tags out, I envision it being on every bike, just blanket the neighborhood; that way we wouldnt be showing thieves the easy pickings. Alternatively, I wonder how worthwhile a staffed corral would be? and if the Steelers or other entity would sponsor it.
marko82
2013-09-10 13:55:44
For unconventional locking on some toaster racks, you can lift the front tire up and over the rack and lock from the front end of the down tube to the top of the rack.
andyc
2013-09-10 14:15:43
I have never owned a U lock, and only use a 1/4 thick cable lock. I have not had a bike stolen since 1972 or so when my old schwinn varsity was taken from a porch unlocked. There is something to be said for where you lock it, how long you leave it, and what it looks like. I would not leave mine locked in plain view overnight anywhere. Maybe the addendum to the bear story is that you can also look like you don't taste good. Although bear attacks are usually not for food. Lions, sharks, orcas, they are another story.
helen-s
2013-09-10 16:36:01
Here's some low-hanging fruit parked next to me at PNC Park. The cable isn't even through the frame.
rustyred
2013-09-15 08:37:28
hard to tell, but i think the grey cable goes through the blue cable, which is wrapped around the frame... not that they both couldn't be clipped in seconds...
epanastrophe
2013-09-17 07:47:39
An excellent article. Everyone should read it, if just to be reminded about this stuff.
cdavey
2013-09-17 08:33:21
this came across the couchsurfing board. don't know how many bike locks are picked, rather than cut, but might be interesting for some, and/or educational (do you need a new, less pickable lock?): "lock-picking class tomorrow night (9/18) at Remedy in Lawrenceville. 8 PM. Bring a padlock/combo lock and learn how easy it is to open. There will be a short discussion on the ethics of your new skill."
epanastrophe
2013-09-18 11:01:12
I can bust open most pad locks in ten seconds with two combination wrenches... kinda sad, actually.
headloss
2013-09-18 12:10:17
buffalo buffalo wrote:“lock-picking class tomorrow night (9/18) at Remedy in Lawrenceville. 8 PM
And Message Sep 17 2013 at 8:33am Is it today (Wed Sep 18th, 2013) or tomorrow (Th Sep 19th, 2013)?
mikhail
2013-09-18 12:23:25
Mikhail wrote:Is it today (Wed Sep 18th, 2013) or tomorrow (Th Sep 19th, 2013)?
Message was sent this morning, headlined "Thursday night". I'll ask which he meant.
epanastrophe
2013-09-18 13:00:14
Benzo wrote:Good article on locking I just read:
Good article. I use a small NYC lock and a big chain. Locked independently. Some would say that is way over the top for our region and to be honest, I have never seen anyone lock a bike like I do in any city, but I still have my bike. I can't say that for some others that park all day or sometimes much of the night where I park it in East Liberty.
gg
2013-09-18 21:02:05
Tonight's locking-related WTF - (The pipe on the building was pretty sturdy, but...why?)
erink
2013-10-06 19:47:43
ErinK wrote:Okay, no idea why the photo didn’t show up, try this:
It didn't show up because it's on flikr; they don't like to share photos. There's probably a "get url" link someone on your page, you need a url that ends in one of the image formats: jpg, gif, png.
headloss
2013-10-13 11:47:44
Yeah, but I actually grabbed the code from the "share" link before. Oh well. The picture is a bike locked to the building at D's while 3 bike racks sit empty.
erink
2013-10-13 12:48:40
@ErinK, I think this might work: I went to the picture on Flickr, clicked on the pic itself to get the various sizes menu, clicked Medium 800 (at random), then right-clicked on the pic that came up, and from the context menu, selected Copy URL to clipboard. Then, back in the thread typed [img src=""] (using angle brackets instead of square ones), arrowed back to between the quotes, and pasted the URL from the clipboard.
stuinmccandless
2013-10-14 06:18:58
StuInMcCandless wrote:then right-clicked on the pic that came up, and from the context menu, selected Copy URL to clipboard.
Depending on the browser this may or may not work... in my version of chrome on a mac, I have to look at the source code in order to get to the actual image url (doable, but a few extra steps).
headloss
2013-10-14 10:23:53
Some Flickr photos are set up for easy sharing, but this one isn't. On a Flickr photo with easy sharing, when you click the Share icon (3rd of 5) the last option is "Grab the HTML/BBCode", and it gives you some code to copy and paste to this board to show the photo in-line. But ErinK's photo doesn't have that option, just a "Grab the link" option for linking to Flickr's page. That won't make the photo display in-line. Flickr's help page suggests this happens "1) If the photo is restricted. 2) If that person has turned off "Share this" or access to original files." So perhaps you (ErinK) could change that setting to make "Grab the HTML/BBCode" appear.
steven
2013-10-14 12:37:54
So I'm assuming after going through this thread that a 7 foot, 1/2 in Krypto cable with a padlock is insufficient. I wind the cable around everything (wheels, seat, etc). I'm on a fairly tight budget, so I don't want to buy a pricey U-lock if I don't have to. On the other hand, coming back to no bike would be pretty tough on the budget too...
kaaden
2013-10-17 11:28:22
I despise Amazon for a variety of reasons, but they do show a handful of Ulocks for $15-25. (REI's are a little more expensive, but you can ship them to the store rather than your house for free.) And, since every little bit helps, note also that most of the local shops, including Thick, Iron City, and Performance, offer 10% off accessories for BikePGH members.
epanastrophe
2013-10-17 11:35:38
kaaden wrote:So I’m assuming after going through this thread that a 7 foot, 1/2 in Krypto cable with a padlock is insufficient. I wind the cable around everything (wheels, seat, etc). I’m on a fairly tight budget, so I don’t want to buy a pricey U-lock if I don’t have to. On the other hand, coming back to no bike would be pretty tough on the budget too…
Check Ross Stores, I've seen them carry Onguard mini-u locks for around $7, if you're on a tight budget.
ka_jun
2013-10-17 20:16:54
Mal*Wart's selection is also getting better, although I'd still rather have a bike-shop level u-lock. The bell u-locks have a cylinder style key, but it's a larger diameter than the older style that was susceptible to the "bic-pen" lock-picking technique. Maybe a sharpy-pen lock picking technique vulnerability... Any u-lock is better than a cable, it doesn't take much to cut through most cable locks. They should be used to secure all the various parts to the bike (seat, front tire, etc.) but not to secure the bike itself.
headloss
2013-10-17 21:44:30
Have there been reports of people poaching components around here? I usually lock my front wheel with an extra cable but not always. The only thing I always take off is my headlight.
andyc
2013-10-18 08:13:03
i've seen plenty of bikes with stolen wheels, I've had lights stolen, and someone ripped off the duck that was strapped to my rear rack last weekend, but that's about it. I usually take my computer as well as my headlight, but that's in part just because it's old enough i think it'd be a pain in the ass to replace the unit.
epanastrophe
2013-10-18 08:18:21
Someone stole my husband's tire levers and multitool out of his seatbag, but left the spare tube behind. I think it's a crapshoot - you might lose stuff, you might not. I decide based on how long I will be gone and where I'm parked.
pinky
2013-10-18 08:50:12
I've had a saddlebag stolen, so now I keep that inside my pannier. A friend of mine in San Francisco had his one month old Salsa Vaya stolen within an hour. He was using TWO u-locks.
dmtroyer
2013-10-21 08:28:23
This is so annoying, but at the same time so dear: Not only has he blocked anyone else from using the rack, he's also placed his faith in the worst bicycle lock ever made, and then doubled his security by using two of them.
jonawebb
2013-10-24 07:36:09
If I had money to throw around, I'd be tempted to buy a proper U-lock, cut the cables, lock the bike properly, and leave a note saying how to access the key. Not charge for the lock, I'd give that away, but I would give him/her a brief lecture on proper bike locking technique and not being a dick.
stuinmccandless
2013-10-24 08:45:16
A neighbor cable-locks to a street sign overnight. I mentioned U-locks. "Dude, it's a $50 bike." He has a point.
mick
2013-10-24 10:20:45
I don't know, I think I could get my bike locked onto that rack with the chain ring resting on his top tube... :D
erink
2013-10-24 17:58:20
jonawebb wrote:Not only has he blocked anyone else from using the rack,
You can still lock to the rack, you just have to do it like he did, sideways.
benzo
2013-10-25 09:33:54
Speaking of locked bikes, what's up with the gold colored roadbike with the purple brake levers that's locked up in a weird place? Been there for around 2 weeks now. Anyone missing this ride?
ka_jun
2013-10-25 13:06:45
@jz, I've been wondering that too. I haven't given it a close look, but it looks like a decent bike.
marko82
2013-10-25 16:17:28
@marko82, huh, still there. I guess someone could be doing the multi-modal thing and taking it back and forth using the bus, but it seems like it's been out in the elements for a while, now.
ka_jun
2013-10-28 20:23:21
Sue & I looked at it on Sunday. It has new brake levers and cables on it, otherwise in good original shape and it's locked with a U-lock to the bench. If it's a multi-modal there are other locking options closer to the bus stop or parking lot so I don't think that's the plan. Maybe it belongs to a drunk college kid who forgot where he left it, but then why did he/she leave it there? Art project?
marko82
2013-10-29 10:07:10
I do like that they have these for saddles bolts, seatpost bolts, stem caps. Nice multi-purpose solution. A lot easier than glue and ball bearings for high security.
benzo
2013-11-21 11:15:21
Given the recent uptick in bicycle thefts, I upgraded to a NY Long Shackle, and a 5 foot heavy @ss chain, for the full on belt and suspenders approach.
ericf
2013-11-26 09:26:39
ericf wrote:Given the recent uptick in bicycle thefts, I upgraded to a NY Long Shackle, and a 5 foot heavy @ss chain, for the full on belt and suspenders approach.
You are about the same as me now. 2 years behind, but you caught up. I remember a long time ago mentioning on this forum that bike theft was on the rise and people need to beef up on the locks . I got pounded into the ground on here for saying that, but I digress. Glad to see people slowly catching up. Enjoy.
gg
2013-11-26 23:09:16
gg wrote:I got pounded into the ground on here for saying that, but I digress. Glad to see people slowly catching up. Enjoy.
You got "pounded into the ground" for not having any supporting data. You also specified East Liberty. Is it OK if I call you hcurtis, now?
headloss
2013-11-27 00:04:55
HA!
stefb
2013-11-27 06:03:38
Profile about 9 months old, so yeah, he got caught up in the same problem as what caused a lot of profiles to disappear in the website switch in Jan-Feb, maybe 1/4 to 1/3 of the accounts on the message board.
stuinmccandless
2013-11-27 07:03:36
@drewbacca, @stefb, @gg, @StuInMcCandless, Does this have to permeate every thread on this board? If it is that important to identify gg as hcurtis, please stop interrupting my conversations and start a thread. Otherwise,respectfully, SHUT UP ABOUT IT!
ericf
2013-11-27 10:04:25
Except that hcurtis wasn't "caught up in the same problem", he was banned for repeated racist and otherwise offensive comments. And that, I think, *is* significant.
epanastrophe
2013-11-27 11:18:37
THIS IS A THREAD ABOUT LOCKING YOUR BIKE. CAN WE TRY TO STAY ON TOPIC? PLEASE START ANOTHER THREAD IF YOU HAVE OTHER ISSUES TO DISCUSS.
ericf
2013-11-27 12:27:06
Yeah, but if I can make a small suggestion: maybe hcurtis/gg could change his account again and then we can have fun figuring out who he is?
jonawebb
2013-11-27 13:13:16
@ericf I think the point everyone is making is hcurtis racism is important. It is easy to say send it to another thread. Many people say that about things that aren't important to them or doesn't affect them. For me I can never send it to another thread because it's in every thread of my life without escape. I am thankful for those of you who don't except it and protect every thread, and not sending it away so we can pretend it doesn't exist and go back to being happy and talking about locks again. Maybe if we address it in every thread then it's the first step in removing it completely because it can no longer be ignored. Now go back to talking about locks and I'm going back to Facebook where I belong.
marvelousm3
2013-11-27 17:21:54
Really? I think most of the threads here go off topic.
stefb
2013-11-27 18:59:58
I'm not going to argue with @mm about r how racist comments hurt--how could I? But I think it's a, good thing to let things go if you can. It makes you a better person. And hcurtis hasn't said anything racist in his current incarnation as gg. So that would be one way to deal with it.
jonawebb
2013-11-27 19:18:38
well question then....how do we know the thief or thieves aren't from new york city?? and i had a 7500 dollar colnago bike stolen and i had it u locked! ! i believe it was grinded right through. ...the lock was left right there where my bike was....sucks. and i had that kryptonite u lock!! and it was wire locked as well. i have named this person or persons the bike bully. seriously. the bike bully.
angel71529
2014-07-15 03:48:19
^ we don't know that the thief isn't shipping the bike elsewhere. A high end bike being targeted is certainly a concern. It could just be coincidence that it was a more expensive bike... an angle grinder isn't a likely tool of some neighborhood kid looking for a ride home... although, they aren't super expensive either if you go the harbor freight route. If recent threats are organized, than that is a serious concern.
headloss
2014-07-15 13:32:00
My hope is that somebody will track down one or more of the bikes and that will lead to a cache of them. Given the scale of what's going on, I think it's quite likely that there's at least a minimal level of organization behind it. I'll bet there's somebody out there with a few or more stolen bikes cached in their basement or someplace like that. I've looked for the bikes on Craigslist and no dice on nearby cities, but all that says is that the thieves aren't stupid enough to list their bikes on an easily searched site like that, or they haven't gotten around to posting them there. It would be good to, say, visit flea markets and check them against the stolen bikes page.
jonawebb
2014-07-15 13:51:11
well supposedly the pitt police spotted a kid arrested for bike theft last year cause some other drs bike was stolen. i sure hope so. my bike was very very expensive. and from what i heard from a few people i know as well that haven't posted about their bikes that three of them had u locks as well. so im NOT so sure that arent smart. they gotta be
angel71529
2014-07-16 04:08:39
Just knowing that someone used a u-lock isn't sufficient... What kind of u-lock? Some are easy to pick. How was the bicycle/frame attached to the lock? What was the bike attached to? I've heard stories of u-locks being picked with a bic pen. I've seen u-locks attached to a wheel but the frame wasn't secure and thus stolen. I've seen signage/meters/etc. removed or fences cut, in order to steal a bike. Using a u-lock is only the first half of the battle. There are leverage attacks which can be prevented. There is poor lock placement too. Taking an angle-grinder to a lock is the last and most extreme... if four bikes were stolen that way, it needs to be documented so encourage your friends to get on here and share their story (assuming they are from Pittsburgh, that is).
headloss
2014-07-16 14:26:06
The bic pen issue was with older U-Locks (I think like a decade ago) and they have since fixed it. Of course, people might still be using them. I think this might be a cause of some of the missing bikes that rely on U-Locks. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H9fLtdZyX-A Takes 36 seconds and much quieter than an angle-grinder. Sheldon Brown recommend this method of locking on his site but I have to say this is maybe the one instance where he wasn't giving the best advice.
atown
2014-07-16 15:33:44
I have one of the old Bic pen U-locks, but I don't routinely use it. They are not all that common anymore, and even if you saw it, you might not realize how easy it is to pick, so if you were looking to steal something, you'd pass it up. More importantly, my daughter was relying on a cheap (sub-$10 new) U-lock for a while, but it seized up on her one day, leaving her lock-less. Guess what: The bike was gone in a week. Spend the money. Get a *good* lock. Figure on dropping $30 or so.
stuinmccandless
2014-07-16 15:45:07
Sheldon is a great resource, but just throwing a U-lock around a wheel wasn't good advice. Gotta be around the frame as well. One advantage of riding a track bike because the geometry is so tight. Even my smaller NYC lock fits around both back wheel and frame. Not so luck with my winter ride. I go around frame and through spokes. Even though I do all that, I also put a chain around the front wheel and frame. That is a lot of cutting, but if someone wants something bad enough, they can get it. Still, most would probably go to a different bike if you are locked up requiring two or more cuts.
gg
2014-07-16 15:51:55
I don't think sheldon got it wrong, per se... it's a potential weak point for sure. I use the Sheldon method if I'm parked for an hour or less at a business. If I was going to park in a garage while at work, I'd keep a second u-lock on the rack at the garage and lock up with a second u-lock through the frame itself. Likewise, I'd use a couple of u-locks for overnight parking (I'd probably pull the front wheel off and lock it up in the back as well). Even with the hacksaw through the wheel approach, that's a lot more dedication than the average thief carrying a pair of wire-cutters and looking for bikes with cable locks. It can't be emphasized enough to use more than one lock if you are leaving your bike unattended for several hours (at a regular location). But for the most part, a u-lock will be ignored and the thief will move on to an easier target. Of course, it depends on the thief...
headloss
2014-07-16 17:38:13
Wonder where the Vier lock will be sourced for production? Will it be American made?
gg
2014-08-21 07:44:15
Definitely like the packable size, but you still need a cable to secure the other wheel. Will be interesting to see if it's as strong as a one-piece U-Lock body.
erink
2014-08-21 09:43:39
The nice thing is that they can easily make longer shackle bars, so it could be used through both wheels. The site shows measurements of strength (looks like trying to pull it apart only). I'd be more worried about a jack attack. There's lots of stuff there about sourcing components. I'd encourage anyone with questions to ask them there.
jonawebb
2014-08-21 10:14:09
I saw this bike "locked" in SouthSide park the other day. There is this strong metal railing right there. Oh well... at least a thief would have to break a spoke or two in order to ride away.
marko82
2014-08-21 10:19:27
I've done that by accident at least once.
erink
2014-08-21 10:44:24
When I see bikes "locked" like that I sometimes move them enough the owners will realize someone could have just carried it away.
helen-s
2014-08-22 13:46:22
Hot Mess sighted at PNC Park:
rustyred
2014-09-04 20:32:35
Don't even think of using the racks outside the CVS at center ave and Craig St. Not even bolted in to the ground. The other ones have loose bolts or are very unstable. Maybe this is a trap. Someone locks up and goes inside, while someone unscrews the bolts by hand and takes your bike.
benzo
2014-09-05 17:09:25
Saw this gem on Murray Ave this afternoon.
jonawebb
2014-09-21 20:15:35
Secondary shackle thing looks cool. The locks are now a bit longer and wider, with a slightly thinner but harder metal shackle. This means that the lock will be able to get around wider posts. The gravity skewers, not sure I like them at all. I'm not sold. I tried a set of non-kryptonite branded ones and stopped using them. They were a bit of a pain, and didn't work well with my horizontal dropouts. Kind of curious to see how the kryptonite version works though.
benzo
2014-09-22 12:30:43
I saw these two bikes using the wave racks outside Aldis on the SouthSide and thought I'd share.
marko82
2015-05-29 09:36:51
How do some people get their shoes on in the morning?? (facepalm)
edmonds59
2015-06-02 11:32:24
Great idea. Now can someone actually *do* that here? Losing your bike is a damned annoyance, at the very least.
stuinmccandless
2015-07-17 07:57:13
We have a rack at our office building that is used more or less regularly. Over the past couple of months, two of the four bolts holding it into the concrete have mysteriously disappeared, and one of the remaining two is loosened to the point of being only hand tight. People continue to use it, although not all that happily. Management is unconcerned, as they would prefer that tenants use the newly installed "wave" rack located at the periphery of the property. Unfortunately, that rack is in a more isolated/more theft prone location, has construction occurring in the immediate vicinity AND falls within the spray zone of the automatic sprinklers. And management wonders why people prefer to use the less securely bolted rack in the plaza!
swalfoort
2015-08-05 10:26:57
It's easy to secure those bolts. Use new bolts, dip them in epoxy first, put some in the hole, and screw them in.
jonawebb
2015-08-05 10:39:57
Find new nuts, put them on the bolts. Get a hammer. Bend smash the bolts so they are bent somewhat sideways, preventing the Nuts from being removed, or at least deform the treads enough to prevent easy removal. Or don't do this, could be considered vandalism.
benzo
2015-11-19 11:05:06
A Penn State-Altoona student has been charged with stealing the bicycle of another student — twice. The Altoona Mirror (http://bit.ly/1kAeKVn ) reports Monday that campus police are mailing two theft complaints to 19-year-old Brandon Graham. Police say Graham stole the $465 mountain bike on Sept. 14 after it was parked unlocked on campus. The owner spotted the bike the next day and took it back. Police say the bike was stolen again on Oct. 6 when the owner, again, parked it unlocked on campus. A friend of the owner's saw Graham on the bike on Oct. 22, which had been spray-painted another color. Police say Graham eventually acknowledged stealing and repainting the bike, which ruined it. Graham, who is from Philadelphia, didn't immediately return a call and emails for comment. Read more here: http://www.centredaily.com/news/weird/article45214971.html#storylink=cpy
rustyred
2015-11-21 11:29:01
Outside the squirrel hill giant eagle, near the bike rack At least they used a u-lock
jonawebb
2016-05-07 16:33:02
I think I saw that guy locking up on Friday. I and another cyclist had just vacated the nearby rack, but there was still another empty one maybe 30 feet farther away. At least he did not lock to the tree.
helen-s
2016-05-08 10:29:51
BTW, related, I did an inventory of Squirrel Hill bike racks for the SHUC Bike-ped group. The map is here: https://drive.google.com/open?id=1iUvc0_rYvgkL2TapGYSwXZBKdQ8&usp=sharing One of the striking things the map shows is how clumped the bike racks are at Forbes & Shady and Beacon & Murray, and how absent they are from the 61C up to Forbes on Murray -- missing the liquor store, the post office, Eat 'n Park, the Manor, Bruegger's, Pamela's, and Citizen's Bank. It would be great if we could get some of the racks moved.
jonawebb
2016-05-19 13:18:50
All the businesses in that stretch of Murray are within one short block of a bike rack. Pamela's is within 40 feet of one. Do we really need to ensure that bike racks are closer than bus stops or parking garages to get cyclists to use them? (Maybe we do. I was passing through Lawrenceville this week and noticed a bike suspended and locked up in the branches of a very small tree, in front of the PNC at Butler and 41st. A rack was perhaps 100 feet away.) In any case, I don't recall seeing any racks on Forward Avenue near Murray, nor Murray between Forward and Morrowfield. Maybe those areas should be higher priorities?
steven
2016-05-19 15:17:32
Ask the business owner how they would feel about having on-street parking removed from in front of their business for an answer. It is reasonable to expect to ride up to a business, park there, and enter that business. My inventory was just for Murray from Forward to Forbes, and Forbes to Shady. This is the high traffic business district in Squirrel Hill (or, really, from say Hobart or so on). There is no problem with putting racks other places, but we should at least have them there.
jonawebb
2016-05-19 15:27:10
Giant Eagle could dedicate one spot for bike parking. There's enough bike-riding customers and plenty of spaces open in their parking lot. Also, I asked the beer-store owner if he would consider installing some bike racks if I got him the information. He replied that I can just bring the bike inside. Basically "no" (but still a very nice guy).
meaculpa
2016-05-23 11:01:04
The Squirrel Hill Giant Eagle already has a bike rack on the edge of the parking lot, right at the entrance to the store. However, I've long suggested that people don't use it; AFAIK, it's not actually attached to anything. For contrast, the GE Market District on Centre Ave has a truly impressive number of racks--a handful right by the entrance, a half-dozen or so at the gate to the Cafe's outdoor seating area, and another dozen near the exit of the parking lot. Other than perhaps the Target in East Liberty, has to be one of the highest concentrations of bike racks on a single business's property in the city...
epanastrophe
2016-05-23 11:39:37
In Toronto, some take their locking more seriously than their handlebar attachment.
paulheckbert
2016-05-27 13:36:06
It looks more like they took some parts of the bike, then locked it. The pedals are also missing. From the way the bike is locked I think those would have been hard to remove.
jonawebb
2016-05-27 14:17:15
How long has that been there? I'm half tempted to say that bike's abandoned and people are now scavenging parts.
stuinmccandless
2016-05-27 15:40:40
...especially given the already-half-stripped hulk in the background...
epanastrophe
2016-05-27 16:54:56
The Guardian:  "Bike lock developed that makes thieves immediately vomit"
A man approaches a bicycle, handheld electric saw at the ready. He powers it on, starts to drill, and is shot in the face with a noxious spray that makes him vomit uncontrollably. This is the dream of the inventors of SkunkLock. “Basically we were fed up with thefts,” said Daniel Idzkowski from San Francisco, one of the inventors of SkunkLock. “The real last straw was we had a friend park his very expensive electric bike outside a Whole Foods, and then went to have lunch and chat. We went out and his bike was gone.” Idzkowski’s friend had used two locks, each $120, whose inability to stop a thief outraged him. “I blurted out, ‘why didn’t it blow his balls off?’”  He eventually landed on a less violent and more legal innovation....
epanastrophe
2016-10-21 11:13:13
The City recently installed five new bike corrals in different areas around town. From the city' Bike/Ped Facebook page: "Easy to locate, safe and well-distributed bike parking is provided throughout the city. In dense locations and places where the sidewalk is already crowded, the city installs bike corrals consisting of multiple bike racks in the space of one on-street parking spot. 5 new bike corrals were installed over the last week at the following locations, try them out! James and Foreland Penn and Main 10th Ave (sic) and Liberty 43rd Street and Butler Baum Blvd and Highland If you are interested in a corral at your location, read more about the requirements and process here: http://pittsburghpa.gov/dcp/bicycleparking"  
chrishent
2016-11-14 17:26:06
Post on Facebook via one of the Northside groups: "My son found this on his bike at CCAC. Nice community outreach by Pittsburgh Bureau of Police"  
rustyred
2017-10-28 08:38:51