Where to put cable lock?

[JanT]

I decided it might be fun to do a workout where I ride to the nearby mountain park, lock the bike and run a bit, then ride home. The question is, where do I put the cable lock while I ride, so that it won't be annoying? I tried wrapping it around the rack, but that wasn't so hot. I suppose I could wrap it around my waist, and I guess I could deal with looking goofy for awhile. It just seems like there must be a better way. Do any of you who commute or run errands on your bike have a slick place to put the cable so that it doesn't get in the way, and also so it can be easily accessed? I know someone must have put more thought into this than I have! Please help if you can. Thanks.

[DirtDiva]

Well, a lot of locks come with brackets to attach them to the frame (which is what I had on my bike at home), but I'm guessing you don't have one of those. Could you wrap it around the top tube or the seatpost maybe? I dunno... I just shove mine in my backpack now 'cause I've got a pretty heavy duty D- and cable-lock combo to ward off whatever bike thieves London has to offer.

[mikki]

I wrap mine around the handlebars while I ride. Centered on the post. Just wrap it loosely. Might be important to know I commuting with a mountain bike, though.

[Irulan]

Mine is not coiled, so I wear it bandolero style if the ride is not too long. If you are goingup to the mountains, you can also just stash your bike in some bushes off trail.

Irulan

[JanT]

Thanks for good suggestions. I thought about taking the camelbak and locking the camelback to the bike, but I'm afraid I'll accidentally leave something of value in it. I don't like to run with it on my back--I have enough trouble running as it is! I rode today with the cable wrapped loosely around my waist. It was OK for just riding the 3 miles to the park. This bike is a mountain bike, with a sloped top tube and small triangle, so the top tube won't work well. I might try just using a small bungee cord to attach it to the rack, as it naturally coils into a small circle. It's just a lightweight cable to fend off impulsive children; no one else would be interested in taking this bike! If the bungee doesn't work, then I think I'll use Mikki's handlebars idea.

[Pedal Wench]

Either jersey pocket or in my saddle bag. Works for me!

[maryellen]

As I'm in nyc, I keep a heavier duty cable lock wrapped around my seat post (I use the lock only as a bit of a deterrent if I have to run into the restroom at central park). I use the velco strap from my saddle bag to keep it from rattling around. I leave the lock at home if I'll be riding w others.