Onguard locks, a class act for customer service

[needWheels]

I bought an expensive Onguard lock (well expensive for me) after reading good things about the quality of their locks and how they were as good as the really high end (very expensive) locks.

I discovered when I got it that they were using a new mounting bracket on the newest models and instead of plastic with screws they replaced it with a cloth strap - probably to help protect the paint on expensive frames. But it didn't work right on my bike and slipped and had awkward placement because of other accessories.

So I wrote them and asked if they could trade or sell me the older mounting bracket, I figured I'd end up having to spend a few dollars or maybe not be able to buy it at all.

But you know what? They sent it to me for free! That was really nice of them.

 

[morph999]

I bought the 5018 Onguard chain...what one did you get?

 

[needWheels]

I wanted the smallest, lightest lock that still could reach around the front wheel and frame but still not hit my legs when I pedal when it's stored - so I got the 5013TC7 which is the Onguard Mini but it's new for 2009 in that it's 7 inches long instead of the old mini's 5 inches which is too short to reach the front wheel.

http://www.magnum.ws/OnGuard/5013TC7.htm

Impossible to put a jack into and I'm hoping at 13mm it takes them an extra minute to cut through so they get noticed.

Don't get it for the warranty because that only lasts a year and has to be renewed.
Plus they don't pay for accessories stolen and you have to send them the broken lock for proof.
I bet they only have paid out a few times in their entire business's lifetime.

Walmart carries a $15 version of this instore called the 5011 which has a 11mm bar and no insurance:
http://www.magnum.ws/OnGuard/5012.htm
It has very good build quality and the best "cheap" lock I have seen.

 

[morph999]

Do you know anything about locks? What is your opinion of the lock on the 5018?

http://www.magnum.ws/OnGuard/5018.htm

 

[needWheels]

I know little about locks except for having two bikes stolen over the years and lots of research as to what works. The answer is a lock only slows down thieves so you need one that slows them down enough that they chose other bikes instead of yours.

There are portable electric cutting tools now meant for construction sites that can cut through anything less than 16mm in just a few seconds


See this thread for more info:
http://www.endless-sphere.com/forums/viewtopic.php?f=3&t=10057

Chains are not normally impressive to me, but I guess 12mm links are pretty serious looking.
I would maybe supplement your chain with this number from Harbor Freight - if you use their 20% coupons you can get it for $12
http://www.endless-sphere.com/forums/viewtopic.php?f=3&t=10057&start=45#p157521

The problem is the weight really starts to add up with multiple locks. What does the 5018 weigh?
I use the 5013TC7 for short stops, but for longer stops I plan on taking the Harbor Freight 16mm

I just found a review with your lock - it weighs TEN pounds? Whoa
http://www.slate.com/id/2140083