OnGuard Double-Team PITBULL U-Lock and Cable Review

U-Lock/Cable combo with security rating.

Easy to Use

It’s been a long time since I spent a lot of time on a bike, so I’ve had a small learning curve to get up to speed with lock design while testing OnGuard’s Double-Team PITBULL U-Lock and Cable. I’ve ended up with a lock system that’s easy to use and that give me peace of mind. 

Right out of the box there were a few noticeable features I liked. First, I like the OnGuard Double-Team PITBULL U-Lock’s long, rectangular shape that gives me more locking options than my shorter locks. I also really appreciated the bright yellow silicone covers on the metal clamps on each end of the cable. I am prone to dropping things, so having the clamps covered means I won’t scratch the paint on my bike or my car.

Next, I like that both ends of the U-lock have yellow ergonomic hand grips so I can grab the lock quickly. They are covered in a durable but not rigid material that’s firm like plastic, with just a hint of a silicone-like feel. U-locks are heavy and awkward to handle because most of the weight is in the thick bar that houses the locking mechanism (crossbar). Having eye-catching yellow “handles” helps me maneuver the OnGuard Double-Team PITBULL U-Lock with more confidence. 

I have found the OnGuard Double-Team PITBULL U-Lock and Cable easier to use than my old lock because once I remove the crossbar from the lock I don’t have to remember which end is the locking end. I can put the crossbar on any way I want since both of the lock ends fit into either hole. This is a huge benefit because it saves me time and frustration.

Finally, I love that the keyhole is on the back of the large lock’s crossbar. I’m used to the old u-locks that had keyholes on the end of the handle; those were never very convenient to lock or unlock. With the keyhole on the back of the thick handle I can access it faster. Also, the key fits into the keyhole no matter if I hold it up or down, making it simple to use when I’m in a hurry.

The OnGuard Double-Team PITBULL U-Lock come with a mount that can be attached to a bike, but I don’t use it since I have baskets on my bike. It’s easier and faster to toss the locks into the basket while riding. 

Extra Keys

For some bizarre reason I never lose keys. In fact, I have a drawer full of weird-shaped keys from many bike locks, cabinets, cars, post office boxes, and even some of my neighbor’s extra keys. Still, it’s nice that the OnGuard Double-Team PITBULL U-Lock and Cable comes with five keys and a laminated card with the key registration number (which I have already photographed and saved into my contacts list!). The primary key has a large encasing containing a mini LED light; it’s quite helpful to be able to see the keyhole at night. 

Security Features

The OnGuard Double-Team PITBULL U-Lock is designed to protect the lock from weather and to thwart thieves at common areas of attack. The keyhole has a shield mechanism that opens when I insert the key, keeping the lock safe from debris when not in use. The handle has raised, molded hoods around the lock contact ends, making it harder for thieves to pry open the lock. There are four contact points inside the handle, securing the lock.

The Z-cylinder in the handle is built to resist “pucking, pulling, and drilling,” and the U bar is is made out of 14 mm thick steel that provides protection from “cutting, prying, and jacking.” I have no way of testing the lock’s strength since I don’t have the lab setup or the tools to attempt damaging the lock, but I what I can do is rely on the OnGuard Double-Team PITBULL U-Lock’s security rating, which ranges from 80 to 85, depending on lock size. OnGuard recommends this lock for medium-to-high crime areas.

Combo for Versatility

When I had a crummy, boring bike I never worried about it getting stolen, but now that I have nice bike with quick-release wheel bolts, I like being able to use the OnGuard Double-Team PITBULL U-Lock and Cable to lock the bike to a fence or post while also securing the wheels to the frame. 

The cable that comes with the U-Lock is four feet long, which is just about perfect for me. The loops are nice and big, giving me plenty of space to quickly lock and unlock the cable to the u-lock. The cable is made of braided steel that’s coated with a smooth, clear material. 

Bottom Line

This lock system is easy to use and priced right for the level of protection it provides. The PITBULL U-Lock is quite heavy (a bit more than three pounds), but that’s what’s necessary to provide durability and keep my bike safe. 

OnGuard also sells longer cable locks for cyclists who want more options or who might need to lock up more than one bike. 

Manufacturer: OnGuard

$72.95 $54.00 on sale for less at Amazon