[868] Why I Use This Lock On My Bicycle - Kryptonite Evolution Chain Lock (Series 4)

Summary

In this video, the Lock-Picking Lawyer reviews the Kryptonite Evolution Series bicycle chain lock, explaining its practical security features and why he uses it for his secondary bike. He highlights the lock’s durability, flexibility, and resistance to common theft techniques like angle grinders. While the lock is not the most advanced in terms of pick resistance, its solid construction, ease of use, and reasonable price make it an ideal choice for casual cyclists. Despite demonstrating its pickability, the speaker believes the lock is sufficient to deter most bike thieves, offering a balanced solution for securing a bike in public spaces.

Takeaways

• 😀 The Lock Picking Lawyer owns two bikes: a high-end road bike he never leaves unattended, and a cheap bike he locks up when necessary.
• 🔒 He uses the Kryptonite Evolution Series chain lock (90 cm variant) for securing his cheaper bike.
• 🚴‍♂️ Chain locks offer more flexibility compared to U-locks, making them easier to use in different locking scenarios.
• 🛡️ The Kryptonite chain lock is made of 10 mm manganese steel, offering resistance against common cutting tools like angle grinders.
• 🔧 The lock’s mechanism uses a disc detainer core, which can be picked, but is generally considered secure enough for most bike thieves.
• 🪚 The lock’s steel armor and aluminum casting make it more difficult to bypass than many other locks.
• ⛔ While the lock can be picked with the right tools, it’s designed to be robust against shimming attacks and other bypass methods.
• 💰 The Kryptonite lock costs about the same as the cheap bike it secures, offering a reasonable balance between cost and security.
• 🛠️ The lock is not invulnerable to attacks, but it is considered 'probably good enough' to deter average bike thieves.
• 🔍 The Lock Picking Lawyer demonstrates picking the lock to show how it works but reassures viewers that the average thief would struggle with it.
• ⚖️ The lock is a solid middle-ground option, offering decent security without being prohibitively expensive or difficult to use.

Q & A

What is the purpose of the Lock Picking Lawyer's video?

The Lock Picking Lawyer addresses the common question of which bike lock he uses, sharing his reasoning behind his choice of the Kryptonite Evolution Series 10mm Chain Lock and demonstrating how to pick it.

Why does the Lock Picking Lawyer use a cheap bike for locking in public?

He uses a cheap bike to reduce the likelihood of theft. A less attractive bike is less likely to catch the attention of thieves compared to a high-end model.

What are the key features of the Kryptonite Evolution Series 10mm Chain Lock?

The lock features a 10mm hex link chain made from manganese steel, which is resistant to cutting tools. It also has hardened steel armor on the outside and an aluminum casting inside the locking mechanism.

What is the advantage of using a chain lock over a U-lock?

Chain locks are more flexible than U-locks, allowing users to secure their bikes to a wider variety of objects. They are also more resistant to angle grinders, as the links are harder to hold steady.

How does the Lock Picking Lawyer describe the security of the Kryptonite Evolution Series lock?

The Lock Picking Lawyer describes the lock as 'probably good enough' for securing a bike, as it is resistant to picking and bypass techniques, but not invulnerable. He considers it a reasonable balance between cost and security.

What kind of material is used for the Kryptonite chain, and why is it important?

The chain is made from manganese steel, which is a strong and durable material that provides resistance against cutting tools. Manganese steel is difficult to cut with typical tools, enhancing the lock's overall security.

What makes the Kryptonite lock's locking mechanism secure?

The locking mechanism is built with hardened steel armor on the outside and an aluminum casting inside. Additionally, it uses a disc detainer core, which is not easily bypassed by common shimming attacks.

Can the Kryptonite Evolution lock be picked easily?

The Lock Picking Lawyer demonstrates that while the lock can be picked, it is a challenging task that would likely be beyond the skill of most thieves. However, with the right tools and experience, it can be opened in a few minutes.

Why does the Lock Picking Lawyer say the Kryptonite lock is 'probably good enough'?

He believes that for most people, the Kryptonite lock provides sufficient security for the price, offering a good balance between cost and protection against theft. Spending more on a higher-end lock may not provide much additional benefit.

What does the Lock Picking Lawyer recommend for securing a bike in public spaces?

The Lock Picking Lawyer recommends using a chain lock like the Kryptonite Evolution Series 10mm Chain Lock. He emphasizes that it's a cost-effective solution for most people, offering reasonable protection without attracting unnecessary attention.