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As the popularity of cycling grows, so too does the popularity of bicycle theft. Unfortunately, bicycles are easy to steal and easy to sell, so even leaving your bike unattended for only a few minutes outside a convenience store can prove to be too tempting to resist for an opportunistic thief.

All too often, cyclists fail to spend as much time considering and choosing a locking system as they do other bicycle accessories like helmets and racks. Though no bicycle lock is impenetrable, a difficult-to-crack locking system can still prove to be excellent protection by deterring potential thieves who would rather take their chances with an easier target.

There are several different styles of locking systems on the market, each of which possess their own advantages and disadvantages:

Cable Locks
Cable locks offer the advantage of flexibility. They are easy to weave in and out of the bicycle components and around other objects. The downside to cable locks is that they are often the easiest to cut.

Armored Locks
Armored Locks are essentially a cable lock with a sequence of articulated barrels through which the cable passes. The advantage provided by armored locks over ordinary cable locks is that the barrels tend to rotate if a thief attempts to saw through the cable. These locks do, however, tend to be heavier than ordinary cable locks.

Chain Locks
Chains tend to be more flexible and secure than cables, but, if of a sufficient enough gauge to provide adequate protection, are considerably heavier. Chains are easier to transport than cables because the chain can be collapsed into less space.

Shackle Locks ('D' or 'U' Locks)
A shackle lock is one of the most secure types of lock available on the market. However, they are solid making storing them when not in use rather difficult. They also tend to be comparatively smaller than other locking systems, so you won't be able to lock your bike to larger objects such as trees or lamp posts. Similarly, you will only be able to lock the frame and one wheel with a shackle lock so any quick release and detachable items such as wheels, seats, etc. will either secured with a second lock or taken with you.

There are several different brands of locking systems available on the market, but, by far, the two most reputable are OnGuard and Kryptonite (both of whom offer anti-theft warranties on most of their models). Some of the more notable locking systems offered by these manufacturers are: OnGuard's Beast ($89.99) A 3'7" long chain system that weighs in at nearly 10 pounds. Kryptonite's New York Chain ($79.95) A 3'3" chain system that weighs a little over 6 pounds.

If weight is a concern, then OnGuard's Brute ($69.95) and Kryptonite's New York Fahgettaboudit ($89.95) are two very reliable shackle systems that both weigh in at about 4.5 pounds.

But, even the most expensive and advanced locking system is useless if you fail to exercise a little common sense. Following these few simple rules will help you minimize the chance of becoming a victim of bicycle theft:

Always lock your bike. Even if only leaving it unattended for a few minutes.

Lock your bike in a highly visible, public place.

If a bicycle stand is not available, choose a secure object (light post, tree, etc.) to which to lock your bike.

In addition to locking the frame, make sure that any quick release and detachable items such as wheels, seats, etc. are either secured or taken with you.

Learn more about this author, Charles Corthell.
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