Stranded bike, broken key. Any advice?
Hey everybody. I'm in a bind. Or a nightmare.
I locked my bike outside my local grocery store a while ago (actually, a LONG while ago) and when I tried to unlock it my key broke. I turned the key too forcefully and the end of it snapped off. Now it's stuck inside the lock.
So I'm turning you y'all. I've asked around a bit and I'm aware of a couple of my options, but I'm wondering what advice you have. What can I do? How screwed am I? Is it advisable to travel back in time and not buy a u-lock?
Thanks
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Replies to This Discussion
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Permalink Reply by h' Zerocats on
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Depending on where it is I can provide cutting help too if needed. 7 7 three 7 one 0 four one 4 3.
Also, if enough of the key is in there you may be able to turn the cylinder with a screwdriver (smallish flathead would be my choice.) I'd spray some lube in there first if handy.
Is it advisable to travel back in time and not buy a u-lock?
Would need to know more to say. What brand? Was the key already dtsressed? Has the lock been difficult lately?
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Permalink Reply by Allen Wrench on
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Good option. Alternatively, get a local lock shop to help. You'll probably need to be able to prove the bike is yours and pay them the (probably not too cheap) fee.
Sometimes you can get the half a key out with a forceps or by gluing a paper clip or q tip or something to it with super glue, then using your extra key to unlock it. Didn't seem to work for me last time. It cost me $30 to get the lock shop to do it.
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Should've done that too.
Cameron Puetz said:Last time I looked at hiring a lock shop to help with a U-Lock, their estimate was more than an angle grinder, so I went the way that resulted in owning more tools.
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Permalink Reply by Doug Haynes on
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Call a bike shop or lock smith.
Expect to have to provide some proof the bike is yours; we like to get a receipt or a picture of the bike in your home, something that shows it has been in your possession before where it is locked.
Expect to pay 50-75 dollars for a remote lock cut.
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Permalink Reply by Brandon on
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Thanks for the advice everyone.
Miraculously my problem has been solved. An anonymous good Samaritan descended from on high to liberate my bike.
I was thinking I'd need to buy a battery-operated circular saw.
Do those even exist?
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no, no, of course not...
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As far as power tools go, a circular saw would be sort of a last resort for cutting a U-lock.
First choice would be an angle grinder, second choice sawzall with metal cutting blade.
All tools are available in cordless versions now.
What did the "good samaritan" use?
Brandon said:Thanks for the advice everyone.
Miraculously my problem has been solved. An anonymous good Samaritan descended from on high to liberate my bike.
I was thinking I'd need to buy a battery-operated circular saw.
Do those even exist?
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Permalink Reply by Pedal To The People on
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Hello! We can pedal out to you and cut it off. We'll give you a 15% discount on any lock of your choice
Feel free to call. 773-355-0882. Let's get you rolling again!
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sorry, disregard that last statement...I should have read all the way to the end of the thread! Glad your bike has been liberated. For any future mobile service, give us a call! On-site service is our specialty! We're there when you need us!
Pedal To The People said:Hello! We can pedal out to you and cut it off. We'll give you a 15% discount on any lock of your choice
Feel free to call. 773-355-0882. Let's get you rolling again!
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OK, does anyone else think "Stranded Bike, Broken Key" sounds like a Morrissey song when they see this thread?
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