A Good Lock
Buy the best lock you can afford. Keep the lock and/or cable off the ground so a thief cannot use the ground for leverage.
Using it Effectively
Lock your bicycle in a well-lit, well traveled area. Dark alleys and other out of the way places give thieves time to work. Always lock your bicycle in a bike rack. When there are not bike racks, lock your bicycle to something that cannot be easily broken.
Choosing the Right Location
Find a bike rack, when available. There are bike racks throughout the downtown and the UW campus, and in all City parking ramps. Where there are not bike racks, lock your bicycle to something that cannot be easily broken. Bike thieves have been known to steal bicycles, lock and all, and break the lock later. Remember, it is illegal to park your bicycle against a tree, or where it will block access for persons with disabilities. Think about others. Will your bicycle block a doorway, stairs, crosswalk, ramp or other access, or will it generally be in the way of pedestrians? Keep your bicycle locked indoors overnight, if possible.
