reducing commuting cost by biking (best -least expensive-bike lock)

[Anonymous]

My family and I not only want to get more exercise but we want to reduce commuting cost. We have decided to bike 1 -2 times a week but do not have bike locks. Can you recommend an inexpensive but good bike lock?

[Anonymous]

I have found the $45 Kryptonite U-lock to be adequate unless you have a super nice bike or need to leave it locked in public overnight or something.

[Anonymous]

Don't cheap out on the bike lock!!! It's cheaper than replacing your bike.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:I have found the $45 Kryptonite U-lock to be adequate unless you have a super nice bike or need to leave it locked in public overnight or something.

Thank you. We plan on locking kids bikes (at school and playgrounds/pools) and my $30 used bike (out front of a government bldg.) We do not plan on leaving them outside any other time.

[Anonymous]

I prefer one with a longer chain - either one that locks onto a Ulock or by itself. Makes it much easier to find a place to lock up the bike, to lock up the frame AND back wheel, etc.

So something like this: http://www.rei.com/product/833105/kryptonite-kryptolok-series-2-u-lock-with-4-flex-cable

Or this:
http://www.rei.com/product/833100/kryptonite-kryptoflex-1018-cable-lock

Personally we have both and I prefer the 2nd type for standard use because then it's just one thing to keep track of, I can loop it around the bike frame, it packs up small, etc. I also like that it's versatile so we can use it for other locking purposes as they arise (strollers, etc.)

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:I prefer one with a longer chain - either one that locks onto a Ulock or by itself. Makes it much easier to find a place to lock up the bike, to lock up the frame AND back wheel, etc.

So something like this: http://www.rei.com/product/833105/kryptonite-kryptolok-series-2-u-lock-with-4-flex-cable

Or this:
http://www.rei.com/product/833100/kryptonite-kryptoflex-1018-cable-lock

Personally we have both and I prefer the 2nd type for standard use because then it's just one thing to keep track of, I can loop it around the bike frame, it packs up small, etc. I also like that it's versatile so we can use it for other locking purposes as they arise (strollers, etc.)

14:20 again: another benefit to either of these types of locks is that the cable part makes it much easier to lock up multiple bikes at once.

[Anonymous]

You've received good advice. Definitely have a U-lock and lock the frame and at least one wheel. If you can also have a chain lock you can get the second wheel, too. I've had wheels stolen, so I've learned the hard way.

[Anonymous]

Don't go with the cable locks, it takes less than 30 seconds to cut move and roll away.

U-locks are the best and pretty much only way to go other than huge chains that weigh you down.

I use this one. Not too big, but high ratings for security. You can get the less expensive model around $50.
http://www.rei.com/product/855203/kryptonite-new-york-standard-u-lock

If you don't care about the bike being stolen because they are less than $100 each, a cable may be ok. But be prepared to replace the bike eventually.