How to Stop Crooks From Stealing Your Bicycle Seat

I was once leaning against a street pole with a bike locked on it when a man walked up and offered to kick my ass. It turned out he’d had four seats stolen and, with my hand touching his frame, he assumed I was about to claim the fifth.

Years and a pile of missing parts later, I understand this guy’s paranoia. Jacking a seat is incredibly easy: Usually all you need is a few seconds and a folding pocket tool. It’s also incredibly exasperating for a rider, as you’re now forced to pony up $60 or much more or else pedal standing like a goofy, wannabe giraffe.