What is a good U-lock that isn't overly heavy?

Question

I know all u-locks are not the same, but its often hard to distinguish when looking at reviews. I always read that the best locks are too heavy and I'm trying to reduce weight for a bike tour this summer. Any good suggestions would be appreciated.

Answer 1

I read once that every bike weighs 60 pounds....

The 59.9 pound bike that has a 0.1 pound lock consisting of kite string and 2 paper clips, or the 10 pound bike that has a 50 pound lock capable of securing everything to the nearest immovable object.

I suggest that you get a chain lock for a couple of reasons. Cut the valve out of an old innertube and slide it over the chain. A chain will not only be easier to stow, you'll also be able to lock other things with it- and if necessary- use it to pull a car out of a ditch with your bike or some other emergency that can't be foreseen.

Make sure the chain is tempered (case hardened) steel and chromed welded chain with a laminated padlock. Tempered because it causes havoc with bolt cutters, and chromed because it provides another very hard surface that cutters have a hard time breaching.