I heard that these locks were to be recalled, but I still see the same looking ones on the shelves and being sold. After reading the suggestions from others, I'm getting the idea that maybe they have been improved or something. Does anyone know for sure? I'd like to know that there's more security to my $1500 bike than a $15 lock that can be opened by a $.10 Bic pen.
Most of the new U-locks being manufactured nowadays have a smaller opening for the key, and use a flat design that is resistant to picks.
This was quite an embarassment for Kryptonite since they're real product is security and peace of mind. Other lock companies like OnGuard seemed to jump on it and have increased their market share. Kryptonite has issued recalls and if you have one of the older ones, you may be able to exchange it for a new model.
I was considering what lock to buy for my bike last year and ran across an article in the Bicycle magazine (I believe it was August edition) where they were testing locks. They reported that the locks that are secured with those vending machine looking key/locks are able to be opened using a Bic ink pen. They described the process and wrote the article as a warning to people buying those locks.
After reading it, I simply had to try to see if it was as simple as they said. Sure enough, I went into a local store which carried the Kryptonite brand U-lock and with my Bic pen in hand, I tore off the endcap and bent the end to fit. I twisted the lock and "pop" it came open.
I heard that these locks were to be recalled, but I still see the same looking ones on the shelves and being sold. After reading the suggestions from others, I'm getting the idea that maybe they have been improved or something. Does anyone know for sure? I'd like to know that there's more security to my $1500 bike than a $15 lock that can be opened by a $.10 Bic pen.
