OnGuard Bulldog DT 5012 Bicycle U-Lock and Extra Security Cable Immediately

I have an original Krytonite-4 U-lock with the ACE II cylindrical lock that could be opened with a simple ballpoint pen tube - although the lock is strong it was too easily compromised for any real usage.

In mitigation Krytonite reacted laudably back in 2004 when the vulnerability was discovered and replaced those locks, that ended Sept/2007. Unfortunately I was not aware of the replacement program, so missed out on it.

However when I contacted Kryptonite about my lock they said they would still replace it with an equivalent lock at the same charge as their regular key replacement program at $20 if I ship the lock back to them. This again deserves merit/recognition.

But the total cost for return shipping and the $20 meant I really could buy a new lock for that price.

Although I would buy Kryptonite again for their good reputation and policies - my research led me to OnGuard U-locks - ConsumerSearch seem to rate both Kryptonite and OnGuard well - they picked the OnGuard Bulldog DT 5012 as one of the better selections and the price at Amazon at just over $25 so qualified for Free shipping - was very good value.

Having the cable means I can secure my front wheel to the U-lock, in turn locked onto a something immovable, rather than having to remove my front wheel to lock with the U-lock.

I was obviously concerned by the negative reviews about the key/lock binding - but my key/lock seems pretty positive and easy to use - so hopefully with good lube maintenance the lock will not give me problems.

My only complaint was that the lighted key came with a battery that was totally flat - but following Amazon's instructions about defective parts I phoned OnGuard - who said they would send me a new battery.

So far, the initial impressions are good - the U-lock seems sturdy and strong - certainly as good, if not better than, my original Krytonite-4 U-lock - and at a price that would have cost me to replace the Krytonite-4, I gain the 4ft cable to help secure my front wheel more conveniently than removal and locking with the U-lock.

Unfortunately it is hard to judge the strength and security of any bicycle U-lock with personal experience - unless one had a bike stolen while the lock was in use. Even that is a difficult call if the thieves used power-tools which probably can overcome most locks fairly quickly other then perhaps the Kryptonite New York Fahgettaboudit (expensive and heavy).

From reading reviews - I regard this OnGuard Bulldog DT 5012 - as better than average security, perhaps more difficult to overcome than most regular chains and definitely cable locks - but it is not invulnerable - so care in where to leave a bike is as important, if not more so, as the lock used.Get more detail about OnGuard Bulldog DT 5012 Bicycle U-Lock and Extra Security Cable.