You’ve probably come across this page because you’re thinking “What is so special about Kryptonite New York bike locks?”. Don’t worry, you’re not the first to ask this question.
With so many bike locks available on the market, it can be confusing which one will work best for you. So as always, before committing to a purchase, it’s a good idea to do some research to make sure you’re getting value for money.
Throughout the article below, I explain what the Kryptonite New York bike lock range is, which bike locks are included in the New York range and a brief review of a few of the best New York bike locks.
The History of Kryptonite New York Bike Locks
Kryptonite’s New York Bike Locks were designed for, yep you guessed it… New York. Back in 1989 Kryptonite offered a similar Anti Theft Protection Offer to the one they do today. But things began to change.
That year, after receiving a huge increase in claims from the city of New York, Kryptonite was forced to end the ATPO cover for claims from this city.
Instead of leaving the cyclists of New York vulnerable to theft, Kryptonite tackled this challenge head-on and created the New York Bike Lock range.
In 1994 the New York Lock was released and the ATPO was reinstated. Kryptonite’s New York Lock range has since become their flagship collection.
Almost every lock in the New York range has obtained the Sold Secure Gold security rating.
The majority of the New York locks obtained a security rating of 10/10 from Kryptonite, however, there are one or two that have been rated 9/10.
The top security ratings show that this range of bike locks will provide the highest levels of security for those that know how to secure their bike properly.
One of the locks in this flagship range (the Kryptonite New York Fahgettaboudit Mini) is one of the best bike locks on the market and ranked as one of the only uncuttable bike locks available.
This being said, any of these well-engineered locks will provide top-tier protection for your bike whilst you’re away from it, giving you the peace of mind you need for a productive day.
Value for money? Definitely.
What is The Kryptonite New York Bike Lock Range?
The Kryptonite New York range includes two different types of bike locks. The best D locks and the best Chain Locks.
This suggests that these are the two most secure styles of lock, and to be fair when I covered the battle of D locks vs Chain locks, there wasn’t much in it!
This may tell us that at the moment, there isn’t a folding bike lock that can deliver the same standard of security as those from the New York bike lock range.
Otherwise, Kryptonite probably would have introduced a New York folding bike lock.
Some of the locks in the list below are titled “New-U”. This simply means that they are the most up to date version of that model of lock.
Kryptonite are always looking to increase the security of the locks they manufacture, so every couple of years an updated version is released!
If you are looking at one of Kryptonite’s locks and see there is a newer version, opt for the newer one. It’s likely to include several upgraded features.
Below you’ll find comparison tables and reviews for each New York lock, starting with D locks and moving onto the New York chain locks in the second half of this article.
Kryptonite New York D Locks
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Kryptonite New-U New York Lock Standard
The Kryptonite New York Standard lock is rated 9/10 by Kryptonite for its security. So whilst it may not be the most secure lock in the New York range, the Standard is still highly secure.
The New York Standard received the Sold Secure Diamond bike lock rating, which is you don’t know already is incredibly hard to obtain.
The reason the New York Standard D lock only received a 9/10 security rating from Kryptonite is likely due to the shackle.
This D lock has a 16mm hardened Max-Performance steel shackle, which resists cutting from both hand-powered and electric tools.
This 16mm thick steel shackle is seriously strong and can be considered bolt cutter proof. However, Kryptonite do offer D locks with an 18mm shackle, so that explains the slightly lower rating.
Whilst this lock may not be as secure as other Kryptonite New York D locks, the Standard does have it’s own strengths.
Where this lock’s shackle is 16mm thick rather than the bulkier 18mm, it benefits from being slightly lighter making it easier to use and transport.
When purchasing the New York Standard D lock, you will also receive Kryptonite’s FlexFrame-U bracket. This bracket allows you to attach your bike lock directly onto your bike’s frame.
This practical feature increases the accessibility of your bike lock and allows you to lock up your bike in a matter of seconds.
The FlexFrame-U bracket also means you won’t have to carry the New York Standard in your bag, making your bike rides, more comfortable.
However, I’d recommend using the Huldit bike lock mount over the FlexFrame as it’s smoother to use and much more secure.
The New York Standard D lock is a super secure option for those who use their bike everyday.
Last update on 2024-09-05 at 11:20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Kryptonite New-U New York Fahgettaboudit Mini
Ah, the New York Fahgettaboudit Mini, this bike lock is the best of the best. I use this lock myself and after learning how to lock my bike properly, I’ve never had an issue with bicycle thieves.
The Fahgettaboudit Mini is one of the New York bike locks that offers the mighty 18mm Max-Performance steel shackle.
This bike lock can’t be cropped with hand-powered bolt cutters and even shrugs off hydraulic bolt cutters too! (see video below)
The Fahgettaboudit, like the other D locks in the Kryptonite New York range, also features the patented double deadbolt design.
This incredible engineering means that two cuts would have to be made through the 18mm Max-Performance steel shackle before a thief could remove this lock.
Its double deadbolt also helps this lock resist twist attacks, which is one of the easier and more common methods used by thieves to defeat locks.
Ultimately, the double deadbolt design increases the time needed for a thief to remove the Fahgettaboudit from your bike.
Increasing the time it takes to remove a lock, increases the chance of the thief either being caught or being spooked by members of the public. Which could prove to be invaluable.
If you’ve had a look through BikeLockWiki already, you’re probably sick of me raving about how good the Kryptonite Fahgettaboudit Mini is.
It appears in many and most of my articles, such as The best bike lock, The best D lock, The strongest bike lock, Sold Secure Diamond bike locks and the best uncuttable bike locks.
Fortunately, you don’t have to carry much extra weight when choosing this lock. Thanks to its smaller “mini” shackle, the Fahgettaboudit only weighs 2.06kg.
Last update on 2024-09-05 at 11:17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Kryptonite New-U New York Lock LS
The New-U New York Lock LS is a larger variant of the New York Standard. The shackle of the LS measures 4″ x 10.24″ (10.2cm x 26cm), making it almost 3″ (6cm) longer than the New York Standard.
This added shackle space is perfect for people looking to secure more than one bike at a time and makes it great for bike rides and days out cycling.
Like the other Kryptonite New York D locks, you’ll receive three stainless steel keys when purchasing the LS. One of these keys features a bright LED light, that can be used for unlocking your bike in the dark.
The LS max uses of the same 16mm Max-Performance steel shackle as the Standard does. If you were wondering, I’ve never heard of a 16mm steel shackle being cut with bolt cutters, which are a thief’s go-to tool.
Unfortunately, the Kryptonite LS does not come with a FlexFrame-U bracket like the Standard D lock. However, the Huldit universal bike lock mount is sold separately and is more effective at transporting the heavier New York locks.
One thing to bear in mind, the 10.2″ (26cm) shackle is longer than most D locks and will take up a reasonable amount of space within your rucksack if you don’t use a mount.
If you’re using a small bag, it might be worth checking there is enough space before purchasing this.
Last update on 2024-09-05 at 11:20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Kryptonite New York Lock M18-WL
The M18-WL is very similar to the Faghettaboudit Mini. The only real difference is the M18’s shackle, which is over 4″ (10cm) longer than the Fahgettaboudit’s.
The M18-WL boasts a 4″ x 9.1″ (10.3cm x 23.1cm) shackle which, is constructed with 18mm thick max performance steel and is completely bolt cutter proof.
Due to the increased shackle size, you’ll have to carry a bit of extra weight. The M18-WL weighs in at 6lb (2.73kg) placing it among the heavier D locks.
The incredible security this D lock offers and its ability to secure more than one bike at a time, mean that you shouldn’t give up on the M-18 due to its weight.
If you haven’t already, watch how the 18mm Max-Performance steel shackle performs against hydraulic cutters in the video above!
If you secure your bike in the same place every day, instead of carrying the M-18 with you, leave it locked at your destination.
You’ll not only have a more comfortable ride, but you’ll benefit from top tier Sold Secure Diamond security waiting for you at your destination.
As with all of the Kryptonite New York Bike Locks, you’ll have access to the Kryptonite Key Safe program.
This means if you lose the keys supplied with your lock, you’ll be able to get replacements cut by using the key code that is supplied with your lock at the time of purchase.
If you like the sound of the Fahgettaboudit’s 18mm bolt cutter proof shackle, but wish to secure more than one bike, this is the lock for you.
Last update on 2024-09-05 at 11:20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Kryptonite New York Chain Locks
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Alongside D locks, chain locks are known to be the most secure bike locks available. The Kryptonite New York chain lock range features four different security levels: 12mm, 14mm, 14.5mm and 15mm.
As you may have thought, the 15mm New York chain locks offer the highest level of security. However, these 15mm locks weigh much more than others within the range, so make sure to take each chain’s weight into account.
New York 12mm Chains & Nooses
New York 12mm Chains
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Last update on 2024-09-05 at 11:21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The 12mm Kryptonite chains are all very similar. As you may have figured, each link in these New York chains is 12mm thick and are made with hardened manganese steel.
Kryptonite gave the 12mm chains 9/10 on their security rating scale, which shows these are very secure locks and are suitable for use in high-risk areas.
There are two different variants of the 12mm Kryptonite New York Chains, The Chain and The Noose. The New York Chains 1210 & 1217 are a much more secure option than your average chain.
The Kryptonite 12mm New York chains utilise a series of hardened manganese steel links that come with the Kryptonite Evolution Series 4 Disc lock.
The Kryptonite Evolution Series 4 disc lock features a 14mm Max-Performance hardened steel shackle, with patented double deadbolt design. All in all, a strong, more portable chain, suitable for all situations.
All of the Kryptonite New York Chains come with a protective durable nylon sheath, that protects your bike from scratches and dents, and prevents your chain from getting dirty or rusty.
The New York Chain 1210 is a more portable version of the 1217. The 1210 Chain weighs in at 3.92kg, which is slightly too heavy to be considered portable.
However, if you’re up to the challenge and feeling strong, this 3.3′ (100cm) chain can be slung over one shoulder whilst riding for easier transport.
The New York 1217 weighs a whopping 13.1lb (5.96kg) and is almost double the length of the 1210 at 5.6′ (170cm). Kryptonite’s New York 1217 chain is a stationary chain that can be used to secure multiple bikes at once.
A good choice of chain lock to use in a bike shed, or to keep locked up near your place of work (communal bike shed, office carpark, etc.)
New York 12mm Nooses
There are two 12mm New York Noose locks, The 1213 and the 1275. Much like the above chains, these are simply two different lengths of chain.
However, these clever locks feature a large noose link on one end which allows you to utilise more of the chain’s length when locking your bike.
Simply slide one end of the chain around an immovable object, back through the noose and then lock this end to your bike. Genius. (see video above for more detailed walkthrough)
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Last update on 2024-09-05 at 11:21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Thanks to this crafty noose link, these New York Noose chain locks are not as long as the above chains and are therefore not as heavy.
The 1275 measures 29.5″ (75cm) long weighing only 6.9lb (3.15kg) and the 1213 is 4.3′ (130cm) long coming in at 10.6lb (4.79kg).
Both of these locks as stated above are Sold Secure Gold rated and offer fantastic protection in “high risk” areas.
As previously stated, with all of the 12mm chains and nooses you will receive an Evolution Series 4 disc lock to secure your chain.
You’ll also receive an anti-scratch nylon protective sheath, to keep your bike’s paintwork in pristine condition.
The important thing to remember when it comes to buying a bike lock is that any lock can be defeated with time and the right tools.
This being said, the video above shows Wayne Winton a popular bicycle security Youtuber attempting to cut one of these chains with a large pair of freshly sharpened bolt cutters. It’s safe to say, he doesn’t get far!
Just like the 12mm New York Chains, the nooses received a 9/10 security rating from Kryptonite, putting them in the “ultimate security” category.
If I was going to use a chain for locking my bike up whilst I’m out and about, I’d opt for the lighter, more portable New York Noose 1275.
New York Fahgettaboudit 14mm Chains
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Before I get into them let me tell you, these beefy 14mm chains are not portable nor are the 14.5 or 15mm chains below.
If you’re looking for a lock to use every day on the go, you’ll either want a D lock or a smaller chain lock like the 1275 noose, shown above.
If you’ve read through the article so far, you’re probably getting the hang of the numbers by now.
The New York Fahgettaboudit Chain 1410 is 100cm long and the 1415 is 150cm in length. Due to their thicker links, and long chains these locks are heavier than the 12mm locks above.
The thicker 14mm links are made with 3T hardened manganese steel “for ultimate strength”.
Both of these New York Fahgettaboudit chain locks received the notorious 10/10 security rating from kryptonite, as well as Sold Secure Diamond ratings.
With these 15mm chain locks, you will also receive the protective nylon cover, three keys (including one LED key) and a 15mm New York Disc Lock.
This disc lock is an upgrade from the Evolution Series 4 Disc lock supplied with the 12mm chains and provides you with “ultimate security”.
You can use the 1410 or the 1415 New York Chains in busy cities or quiet towns and should never have an issue with thieves.
Normally when a thief comes across a chain lock like these, they’ll take one look at it and move on in search of a less secure bike.
New York Legend 14.5mm Chains
Kryptonite New York Legend 1515
The New York Legend Chain 1515 is another of Kryptonite’s biggest and most secure chain locks. This chain is the biggest chain that Kryptonite offer within the EU and the UK, it’s recently become hard to get hold of the 15mm New York Legend Chains.
If you’re looking for the thickest and most secure Kryptonite chain possible, this is the one for you.
This chain is made up of multiple heavy-duty 14.5mm 3T hardened steel links, which (if you’ve already watched the video above) are incredibly strong!
Any thief would seriously struggle to cut this chain, with bolt cutters or power tools.
The chain itself is 150cm long, making this perfect for securing more than one bike at a time. A chain like this would work well in a bike shed, or for securing bikes in a garage with a good quality ground anchor.
With this chain, you receive the Kryptonite New York Disc Lock. This disc lock as we have covered has a 15mm Max-Performance hardened steel shackle that resists cutting and twisting.
The chain and disc lock weigh in at a 6.6kg, making this one of the heavier chains in the New York Range. Fortunately, like the other chains, the New York Legend chains come with a protective nylon sheath.
When securing your bikes with such a large chain this sheath will prevent damage to your bikes paintwork.
If you haven’t secured your bike with a chain as big as this before, take your time and make sure not to be too rough. You don’t want to end up damaging your bike.
This chain is rated 10/10 on Kryptonite’s security scale meaning it will provide the “ultimate protection” for your bikes.If you want the best level of security for your bikes and are willing to invest in a chain that will last a lifetime, this is the lock for you.
When using any of the Locks in the Kryptonite New York range, you’re eligible to register for Kryptonite’s ATPO (Anti Theft Protection Offer).
This is an added layer of security for Kryptonite users and means that if your bike was stolen whilst secured with a lock covered by the program, you could receive compensation.
If you secured your bike with the New York Legend 1515 Chain and it was stolen whilst secured, (if previously registered) you could receive up to $5000 or £3000 compensation.
If you have a particularly expensive bike and worry about its security, Kryptonite’s ATPO can give you the peace of mind you need.
This is a fantastic service that not many security companies offer, so it’s worth looking into.
Last update on 2024-09-05 at 05:00 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
New York Legend 15mm Chains
Update: After speaking with Daryl Slater, Brand Manager of Kryptonite, he confirmed to me that the 15mm New York Legend chains were no longer being produced by Kryptonite.
He confirmed to me that the 14.5mm New York Legend (shown above) was still being sold, which makes it Kryptonite’s most secure bike chain lock.
It’s a shame that they’ve stopped producing these chains as they were the best readily available chains on the market.
If you can still find one of these for sale, get it whilst you can. Otherwise, the New York Legend 1515 shown above is your best bet.
I’ll leave the information below for those interested.
Finally, the biggest and beefiest chains in the New York Range, the 15mm New York Legend Chains. The 1515 measures 150cm long and weighs in at 7.23kg making it the heaviest chain lock in our list.
This chain lock is more than suitable for multiple bike lock-ups and would provide excellent protection in all situations.
The smaller Kryptonite 1590 measures 90cm and weighs 4.31kg, making it more suitable for one bike. With this lock, you will still be able to secure both of your bike’s wheels and frame.
These are normally the most expensive components, so it’s great to be able to secure them all with one lock.
Kryptonite New York Legend 1590
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Weight: 9.50lb (4.31kg)
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Chain Length: 35.4" (90cm)
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Link Thickness: 15mm
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Kryptonite New York Legend 1515
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Weight: 15.95lb (7.23kg)
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Chain Length: 5' (150cm)
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Link Thickness: 15mm
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You’ll receive 3 stainless steel “I” keys for improved ergonomics. Unfortunately, these are not supplied with an LED light like the previous New York chains and D locks I’ve covered above.
The locking mechanism of this chain is a different style to the rest of the Kryptonite New York Chains. This lock is a reinforced, shrouded padlock.
This means that the 16mm shackle of the padlock can’t be reached whilst the lock is secured.
This clever feature prevents thieves from targeting the locks shackle, and instead, they would have to take on the 15mm Max-Performance steel links. It’s safe to say, they wouldn’t get far.
The Best Kryptonite New York Bike Locks
Best Kryptonite New York D Lock
Ah yes, here we are again. The New York Fahgettaboudit Mini. This D lock is a cut above the rest.
This is one of a handful of D locks that utilises an 18mm shackle. The general rule of thumb you can follow with most locks is “the thicker, the better”.
It’s also not only the thickness of this lock that makes it one of the best bike locks and best D locks on the market. For such a thick lock you’d expect it to weigh a ton, however, you’d be wrong.
Most laptop computers weigh around 2.3kg and are easy to carry in a rucksack whilst on the move.
The Kryptonite Fahgettaboudit Mini weighs 2.06kg, and thanks to its reduced size it can easily fit into any backpack you may use.
Alternatively, the Huldit bike lock mount works perfectly alongside this lock, and provides an easy way to mount the Fahgettaboudit to the frame of your bike.
If you’re after a portable bike lock, the Fahgettaboudit Mini is a no-brainer.
Last update on 2024-09-05 at 11:17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Best Kryptonite New York Chain Lock
As explained above, the 15mm New York Legend chains are no longer in production. If maximum security is your priority, this is the chain for you.
If you’re after a bike chain lock, the Kryptonite New York Legend 1515 is the one for you. This 14.5mm chain lock comes with Kryptonite’s 14mm New York Disc Lock.
This bike chain lock can be used to secure multiple bikes thanks to its length and would be a great way to secure your bikes in a bike shed or garage.
It’s 14.5mm 3 tonne hardened steel links do well at resisting all forms of attack.
It’s worth bearing in mind that this lock is not portable and weighs 6.6kg, so make sure it’s suitable for you and your bike before committing to it!
That being said, if you chose to use this bike lock you wouldn’t regret it.
If you haven’t already, watch the video above of Wayne Winton attempting to cut one of the smaller Kryptonite New York 1217 chains with a large pair of bolt cutters.
This video should give you the assurance you need that the New York Legend 1515 will keep your bike safe and sound.
Last update on 2024-09-05 at 05:00 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
So there we have it, the Kryptonite New York range.
If you’re looking to find out more about different types of bike lock and the security they offer, you’ll want to take a look at the 8 best bike locks or the 5 unbreakable bike locks.
These are the two most secure types of locks, so if you’re in need of a new lock, have a read before deciding!
If you commute to work and are looking for something more practical, one of the best lightweight bike locks or a lock from the list of the best folding bike locks might be more suited to you.
Remember, lock it or lose it.
Ciao for now!
