Security Bolts Finally Gave Me and My Bike Peace of Mind

Back in high school, I had a friend who'd never wear his seat belt. My $120 Loading Dock rack screams “steal me.” Parts with brand names on them are especially vulnerable, since there's a used marketplace for stolen goods. The top cap and stem faceplate are also high-value, because popping those off means the thief gets everything attached to the handlebars, including your shifter, brake levers, and LCD screen. If their plan works, the owner will leave the bike overnight, and the thief will return in the dark to cut off the lock, pop the pedals back on, and ride it away. Old-School Security Bike enthusiasts have long jury-rigged solutions to keep thieves from going full vulture on their rides.