Kryptonite New York Lock Standard U-Lock Review

Security Meets Convenience. In our security stress tests, the Kryptonite New York Standard consistently ranks among the top-tier performers. Kryptonite didn't cut corners here; the 16mm diameter steel bar is thick enough to intimidate most opportunists before they even pull out a tool.

What we appreciated most during daily commutes was the dual locking mechanism. It provides a “double-lock” feel that eliminates the rattling common in lower-end models and adds a critical layer of structural integrity. If you are locking up in a high-theft area, this is the heavy-duty insurance policy your bike deserves.

Security

Validated by a Sold Secure Gold rating and a 9/10 internal score, the New York Standard rivals the 10/10-rated Fahgettaboudit Mini in real-world resilience, as our grinder tests confirmed a thief would need to endure over a minute of loud, high-visibility sparking to execute the two cuts required to breach the shackle.

Unlike mid-tier locks that fail after a single breach, the New York Standard utilizes a dual-deadbolt mechanism that anchors both ends of the 16mm shackle, forcing thieves to cut through the hardened steel twice to free the bike. Our testing confirmed this resilience: the shackle refused to bend or pull apart, even under heavy hammer blows after the first cut, underscoring why cyclists should always secure this lock through the frame's most substantial tubes and do their best to “fill the interior” of the lock for maximum security.

Earning its name from one of the world's most notorious high-theft environments, the New York Standard earned its credibility from urban cyclists who need to leave their bikes unattended for more than just a few minutes. Beyond its physical durability, it provides a layer of financial security via Kryptonite's Anti-Theft Protection policy, though users must carefully follow the brand's rigorous registration and claim protocols to qualify for a payout. Ultimately, it serves as both a formidable visual deterrent and a necessary insurance policy for the modern metropolitan commuter.

Ease of Transport

The inevitable trade-off for the New York Standard's near-impenetrable security is its 4.1-pound heft, though Kryptonite eases transport by including the FlexFrame U Bracket to secure the lock directly to your bike's frame.

Adding the New York Standard to a sturdy commuter bike typically results in a negligible weight increase, and it's far more comfortable than carrying four pounds in a backpack. If you're riding a lightweight bike, however, you should be cautious, as the leverage from the mounting bracket can cause structural damage. Ideally, this lock could be carried in a pannier, on a rack, or using an aftermarket strap like the one below.

This is a useful carrying bracket, but you'll lose carrying space in your frame.   Credit: Joshua Hutchens

Even the beefy New York lock remained secure in the Kryptonite frame mount.   Credit: Joshua Hutchens

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Ease of Use

The New York Standard offers usability on par with its peers, though its dual-locking crossbar requires precise alignment that can be a bit fiddly. Its larger interior volume gives it a bit more versatility, making it easier to lock to non-traditional spots like parking meters, lamp posts, and gas meters. While perhaps not the best practice, I've always felt that locking my bike to a gas meter provides extra security against angle-grinder attacks.

Versatility

The New York Standard is slightly larger than the other U-locks in our test. With an interior volume of 4" by 8", you have more room to secure gear and a bit more flexibility when choosing a parking spot.

If you want a bit more versatility, you can add a cable that lets you include your front wheel. While none of the cables we've tested last more than a few seconds, it's less likely a thief will cut the cable just to get a wheel. If you're always using a standard bike rack, you may find more versatility with the smaller Kryptonite New York Fahgettaboudit since it's easier to carry.

Long enough to grab these seat stays, we like the lock's versatility.   Credit: Joshua Hutchens

This is a hefty lock that felt like a mass-tuned damper in our backpacks.   Credit: Joshua Hutchens

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Should You Buy the Kryptonite New York Standard U-Lock?

While the New York Standard is a workhorse and literally defined the “beyond the U-lock” level of security, it hasn't kept up with modern thieves. This is a lot of lock to carry around, and while it's fairly large, it still doesn't have the versatility of an equally sized chain. Since the lock can't resist an angle grinder attack, it feels overpriced and too heavy for its level of security.

What Other Bike Locks Should You Consider?