<p>What are the best buy locks to buy?
I was thinking about getting a U lock AND a cable locks.
Do you have any advice?</p>
<p>Get a cheap bike. Anyone who really wants to get through a bike lock can, so just get a cheap bike and a cheap chain lock that'll keep people from just grabbing it and running.</p>
<p>I'd recommend getting a u-lock because people can cut through the cable locks.</p>
<p>people can break the U locks with a small car jack...but it takes a lot more effort so get the U lock</p>
<p>I can break the U lock with my bare hands. Nothing is really safe.</p>
<p>I personally use a U-lock. Try to lock the frame of the bike, not just the wheel. However, some bike racks (particularly the older-style ones where you place the wheel inside of the rack) don't work with U-locks very well, forcing you to lock only the wheel. Not too scary with a $40 used mountain bike, but can be dangerous with a $700 road bike. This is where a longer cable lock comes in handy, but cable locks are easier to break than U-locks.</p>
<p>The key to securing a bike is not just the lock itself, but the rack, too. If you can't secure the bike correctly, the lock is just an accessory. Investigate where you lock your bike before you lock it.</p>
<p>If somebody really wants to steal your bike, it'll be stolen. Just get something cheap as a deterrence. The fact that your bike doesn't cost $500 also helps.</p>
<p>A good U-Lock is very important. I use the Kryptonite Kryptolok with a front wheel cable. Alot of people dont lock their bikes right. You are supposed to make sure both the front and back wheels are locked. A bike mechanic can also install a wire so that the seat cannot be easily removed as well. During the day just locking the frame will do however at night it is important to lock everything. </p>
<p>As for a bike I think the sweet spot is $300-400. I had my $60 NEXT PowerX (one of those flashy looking Walmart bikes) stolen a month into classes last semester lol. Then I got a Bianchi Avenue ($300ish) and a good lock set and it has been fine ever since. At this price range it would not be worth it still for thief to spend time cracking the lock. Most people steal bikes that are easy to steal not because of their price. Anyway I suggest a nice hybrid bike. It is easy to ride like a road bike and has some qualities of a mountain bike especially in winter.</p>
<p>I use a cable lock and haven't had any problems with someone messing with it. I literally used my bike for just the first two weeks of class last year and then locked it to the bike rack by my dorm until I moved out in May. Nobody ever moved it or anything. This summer I've been riding it a lot (less people on campus) and haven't had trouble. Nobody I know has had bike theft issues, but it could just be my school. </p>
<p>My only piece of advice is that your carry a plastic bag (walmart or target bags) and if it's a rainy day, tie it over your seat. You'll be happy when you return from class and have a nice dry seat while the poor guy next to you has a soaked seat.</p>
<p>Unfortunately, I have a $300 bike... and the point of taking it is because I won't use it if its at home so it would go to waste.
Thanks for the suggestions!</p>
<p>Take sandpaper to it.</p>