Kryptonite Kryptoflex 1218 Combo Cable Bicycle Lock (1/2-Inch x 6-Foot) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I purchased both the 1018 and 1218 models (please note Amazon seems to apply reviews to both locks). They're both good value. One is 3/8" diameter steel rope designed to be carried coiled around the seat tube. The other is 1/2" diameter and comes with a carrier and velcro strap. (Personally, I would carry it around the seat tube too.).

The 1018 is a little lighter to carry. Certainly good enough for the 2-minute step into a convenience store (which is all any cable is good for). The 1218 may present a bit more visual deterrence. Also, it's worth noting that 3/8" is the usual limit for smaller (more concealable/affordable) steel-rope cutters. The 1218 adds some real deterrence against thieves who may have a commonly-available steel rope cutter. They would have to work a little longer to cut it. There's probably fewer thieves with the larger steel-rope cutters to cut 1/2".

Likes: You can change the combination (unlimited changes) to your own code.

Dislikes: The numerals are way too large. Makes it easier for a bystander to observe the combination. I'm tempted to paint over the silver numbers with gray paint to make them less visible at a distance. Maybe paint them all black except one on each dial. Then memorize the position of the unpainted ones (2 up, 1 down, 3 up, 1 up).

Personally, I think this lock is made by the same people who make Master Lock combo cable locks. (The innards look exactly like a Master Lock I saw at Walmart.). Since a cable isn't serious security, it wouldn't surprise me if Kryptonite just brands what's available instead of inventing their own. Which leads me to:

I see people rate cables low because their bike was stolen. Everyone needs to realize that a cable is not adequate security except in low-theft areas. And even then: only for a quick trip inside a convenience store (to prevent the bike from being carried away). For everything else, you should use a U-lock. (Use that to lock the rear wheel through the chainstay/seatstay tubes to a bike rack). A cable is handy to loop through the front wheel, seat and rear rack, and pass through the u lock.

A combination cable lock like this is useful because it can serve dual purposes. You can use it like an ordinary cable to augment a U-lock. And, you can use it alone for a 2-minute step inside the convenience store (to prevent the bike from being easily carried away, visual deterrence). The downside to using it for both purposes is that you're carrying around the added weight of the combination. A plain cable (to use with a u-lock) is significantly lighter. But, a u-lock is more trouble to use just for a 2-minute step inside the store.

Every person, bike, and riding location is different. It's all a balancing act. Use the appropriate tools appropriately. A combination lock serves a valuable role. Everyone should have one.

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Product Description:
Kryptonite Flex Cable Locks with 360 degree rotating head for easier handling during lock up and removal. Resettable combination. Flexible braided steel cable for increased cut resistance. Bracket compatible but not included.

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