Whoops: $84 Mistake

[TrekTheKaty]

BUMMER! Of course, a lesson here is--a lock that can be cut off that easy is useless in front of a thief. Make sure that new combo lock is heavy duty!

[NoNo]

*Note to self: make sure keys are with lock.*

That's a bummer! Reminds me of last year when I lost the key to my apartment. Naturally, I hadn't gotten around to making copies for anyone. Didn't call the landlord because I specifically remembered when moving in him telling me not to bother, to just call a locksmith. Waited an hour for him to show up (it was 11pm Sunday), took him an hour and a half of drilling to finally replace the lock, and $350 later I was all set Called my landlord the next day to let him know and he says "Why didn't you call me?" Day 91 after the 90 warranty: lock breaks, and I'm out another $150 (the guy felt bad and only charged me half). Moral of the story: make copies of your keys!!!

[irrealised]

Ugh, that was an expensive mistake.

I always keep my bike locks locked, for that very reason. I figure if I have to unlock them to use them, then I must have the key with me!

[Reesha]

Ugh, that was an expensive mistake.

I always keep my bike locks locked, for that very reason. I figure if I have to unlock them to use them, then I must have the key with me!

That's a great idea!!

[fidlfreek]

Ok. WOW, a few months ago I called a locksmith in TX who came and spent 40 minutes trying to pick, then drill the lock. Then he replaced the lock on my apartment. And charged me $100. Total. I'm guessing these things vary WILDLY but for 10 minutes I would think that common sense would call for a lower price.

I'm guessing the guy ripped you off since he didn't have a set price for "bike lock removal" on his little invoice list so he made something up. $84 sounds a lot like $75+tax.

I too use a bike lock with a key but I store the key in the lock - removing it only when the lock is actually keeping the bike safe outside a bar. Your story surely gives me pause to think though....

[Groundhog]

I have a combo lock (when I remember to use it) because of that reason. My DH just got a new lock and you have to have the key to lock it. In other words it won't lock unless the key is in the lock, so if you are attaching the lock to a post you have to have the key right there or it won't lock. I still like my combo better.

Of course, I forgot to lock my commuter bike a month ago and a thief took it, along with all my attachments...fenders, mirror, lights, rack and helmet. That set me back over $400.