Kryptonite respond to U-lock fears

[Bob]

Lock firm Kryptonite has announced an upgrade and rebate program for customers after admitting some types of tubular lock can be opened with nothing more than a biro pen. The claims spread throughout the internet, with videos demonstrating the method of lock-picking being circulated.

The company has brought out their 2005 range ahead of time, featuring new style locks that are pick and drill resistant, and will be colour-coded to enable easy identification of the new products. The Evolution and New York locks will have black and orange crossbars, while the KryptoLok series get a black and silver crossbar.

Any owner who has bought any of the following products in the last two years is eligible for a free upgrade, as long as they have either registered their key number, registered for Kryptonite anti-theft protection, or have their proof of purchase.:

New York Chain, New York Noose and Evolution Disc Lock with a Pik-Safe, disc-style cylinder and key.

If your lock is older than two years, then you still qualify for a sizeable rebate on the upgrades.

[Bob]

It may only be Kryptonite that have admitted to the problem, but it is fair to assume that if their u-locks (the ones with the round keys that have a single tooth set) can be opened in moments with no more than a biro, then the same technique will open pretty much any lock with this kind of key.

So if you are using a lock with this sort of key, I'd think seriously about replacing it.

Not trying to scare-monger or drum up trade for the bike shops, but I'd rather see you guys spend a little money for effective bike protection that use something that can be opened with a plastic pen.

[Motu]

Thought it was a Bic pen - not the Bic pen we get here anyway - that should stump the crooks for awhile over here.

[Drunken Monkey]

More information, including links to the corresponding media/videos, here:

http://www.bikebiz.co.uk/daily-news/article.php?id=4637

The pen used in the demonstration on the first link looked the same as what we call a 'papermate' here.

[Bob]

Take a look at this item on EBay