Contents
Kryptonite Messenger Mini – A Great Compact U Lock
Pros:
- Nice compact design.
- Still offers a good level of security.
- Great levels of portability.
Cons:
- Slightly more expensive.
- Can be a little fiddly.
Features: Max Performance Steel Shackle – Sold Secure Silver Standard – 16.5 x 9.5 x 3 cm – 1.19kg
Having already tested and reviewed several models from the Kryptonite range, one that really intrigued us was the Kryptonite Messenger Mini. A lot of the Kryptonite bike locks are quite bulky and heavy which could cause issues if you need to carry your lock on long rides.
We were really intrigued by the compact design of the Messenger Mini, so we had to test it out. We did exactly that so that we could provide an extensive review in the hopes of providing you with all of the information that you need in order to decide if it could be a good option for you. Please read on below for our verdict.
The Design of the Kryptonite Messenger Mini
So, the thing that made us want to test out the Kryptonite Messenger Mini is the compact design. At just 1.21kg, it is incredibly lightweight. Most of the locks of this type that we have tried have exceeded 1.5kg, so this was a welcome feature. It is also quite small in size too, with dimensions of only 16.5×9.5x3cm, making it perfect for those long rides.
One thing that we really liked about this one is the max-performance steel shackle. We have seen this with a few of the different models from Kryptonite, but we weren’t expecting it with this one because of the compact size.
In terms of overall design, this is fairly standard from the Kryptonite U lock range. It features the usual deadlock bolt with a drill and pick resistant cylinder, adding extra security. Again, there is the orange crossbar which we weren’t overly keen on with some of the bigger locks, but given the smaller size of the Kryptonite Messenger Mini, this one doesn’t stand out as much.
The Portability of the Kryptonite Messenger Mini
This is where this bicycle lock really shines in comparison to its competition. To start off with, it is worth noting that it is not a lightweight lock. For something so small, we did expect it to be much lighter. However, it is important to keep in mind that it is made of strong material which is naturally going to be heavier. The plus side is that it is much harder to break.
It weighs in at 1.21kg as we mentioned above, which whilst it is still heavy, it is much lighter than some of the bigger D locks and U locks on the market. At just 16.5×9.5x3cm, the Kryptonite Messenger Mini is more than compact enough to carry on long and short rides. We actually fastened it to the bicycle seat for our journeys and didn’t really notice the extra weight. So, in terms of portability, this is a great lock.
Using the Kryptonite Messenger Mini
One thing that we did notice with the Kryptonite Messenger Mini is that it does take a bit of trial and error to figure out the best way to secure your bike. Because it is so compact, you will have to figure out the best part of the bike to fasten it to. After a couple of attempts, we were able to tightly secure the bike to a pole which is just what you want because it makes theft even more difficult.
Removing the lock was a little more difficult than we had expected due to how snug it was, but after a couple of attempts we were able to do so. Although this is the case, it is definitely worth keeping in mind how convenient this lock is. If you are looking for something that is going to be easy to carry with you on your rides then this is definitely a good choice.
Overall, we were quite impressed with the Kryptonite Messenger Mini. It is made from quality materials, it performs really well and it is compact enough to make carrying it with you no problem at all and we certainly recommend it for those making frequent short journeys.
Here are some other bike lock reviews which may be of interest;
- Hiplok E-DX Cargo Review
- Master Lock Criterion Review
- Litelok Gold Wearable Review
- ABUS 6000 / 120 Bordo Big Folding Lock Review
- Onguard Pitbull 8005 DT Review
- On-Guard 8001 Brute Review
- Abus Bordo Granite X-Plus 6500 Review
- Abus Granit X-Plus 540 Review
- Abus Grantie D Locks Review
- Kryptonite Evolution 4 Review
- Kryptonite Stronghold Ground Anchor Review
- Kryptonite New York Lock M18 Review
- Kryptonite Keeper Integrated Chain Review
- Kryptonite Evolution Series 4 Review
- Kryptonite Evolution Mini Review
- Abus U-Mini 401 Review
- Abus Steel-O-Chain Review
- Abus Bordo 90cm Folding Bike Lock Review
- Kryptonite New York Fahgettaboudit Mini Review
- Kryptonite New York 3000 Review
- Knog Party Frank Cable Lock Review
- Abus Granit Steel-O-Flex 1000 Cable Lock Review
- Abus Granit Extreme 59 U Lock Review
Last Updated on March 17, 2023 by Sammy
