it was real about 5 years ago, all those locks were recalled and you can't buy them new. if you buy a new lock it does not have this vulnerability
2010-04-10 06:51:03
8
U-Lock pen defeat - legit?
Hi all, I would like to replace my cable lock with a good solid U-lock but I'm curious about the Bic pen defeat tactic... I tried it in college when an old U-lock of mine wouldn't open with the key (!!!) but couldn't do it. Is this exploit for real, or just an urban legend? Has anyone done it or seen it done? And if it's real, is it specific to particular brands, and if so what brands are they so I could avoid them?
2010-04-10 04:50:16
Here's a Wikipedia article on the vulnerability in old Kryptonite-brand locks. It has lots of links with more info.
2010-04-10 07:14:26
Thirded - the bic pen hack was patched pretty fast. Just don't buy used and you'll be fine. If you come across an old coke machine however...
2010-04-10 14:47:15
Awesome, thanks guys.
2010-04-10 15:16:44
I don't think I've ever heard of a case of a Pittsburgh bike thief defeating a U-lock.
2010-04-10 18:16:51
you don't have to be faster than the bear, just faster than the other biker. it also helps if your bike doesn't look delicious.
2010-04-11 01:52:11
i spray painted mine hot pink, hopefully a macho thief wouldn't want that.
2010-04-11 05:57:36