Newbie D- Lock

[simonbike57]

I have just brought a Ridgeback Voyage 2009 and found it to be perfect for touring. I already have a heavy D lock for home but need one for touring and visiting places. I am not sure if it good to take off the front wheel (I am unable to do this since the brakes gap is narrower than the black tyre therefore prevent the tyre from coming through) and lock it with the back wheel with a lightweight D lock or some other lock or not? I am not really sure what the best way to lock the bike in a public place, so please advise me what should I do?

[thirdcrank]

Just on the subject of removing the front wheel, from a quick google that bike has Tectro cantilever brakes. These are pulled with a straddle wire (in the shape of an upside-down Y) One end of that wire is held in a nut-and-bolt type clamp, and the other has a nipple hooked over the end of the brake arm. You should be able to free the brakes by squeezing the shoes together and then unhooking the loose end of the straddle cable. Remember to replace it before you ride off.

As for the lock thing, the bigger the locks and the more of them, the more chance you have of deterring a thief, but whenever tests are conducted, even the best locks never seem to withstand a determined attack by a well-equipped thief for more than a few minutes.

[random37]

If you ride in the country, a cheap D lock is fine.
If you live in a city and lock your bike up you need a heavy D lock, and a motorcycle chain. Expect to spend 1/10 of the price of your new bike for appropriate security.

[simonbike57]

Guys,

Thanks for the feedbacks. I cannot believe it a heavy D lock and a motorcycle chain! but I can see why.

[belgiangoth]

Sheldon's article on mini D-locks and how to use them
Back it up with either a cable lock (for extra unstealability) or a pitlock on the front wheel (lighter and less hassle).