History

ON A MISSION TO INNOVATE

THE STORY OF KRYPTONITE

Over 40 years ago, Kryptonite began with a mission. While much has changed in bicycling, and bicycle security, our objective remains the same, we are here to empower you to protect what you value.

Through constant innovation, expert guidance, and our never-ending commitment, Kryptonite will continue to pursue our passion and do everything we can to ensure you can go where you want, when you want by offering smart, serious security solutions.

1971

THE BEGINING

After reading about Stan Kaplan’s U-Lock invention in 1971, a business savvy, creative Michael Zane created a partnership with Stan, leading to Zane traveling around the US spreading the message of need for bicycle security. Thus Kryptonite was born. While Stan eventually sold the original design patent and left the business, Zane continued to evolve designs, and revolutionize bicycle security for many years.

1972

THE LEGEND BEGINS

A legendary test for Kryptonite’s new bicycle locks came in 1972. The Second Avenue Bicycle Shop in New York City locked a three-speed bicycle to a signpost in Greenwich Village under Kryptonite founder Michael Zane’s direction. Although all of the removable parts were immediately stripped by thieves, the bicycle itself remained for thirty days and thirty nights. The Kryptonite lock and the bike frame were still in place, even though the lock had been attacked numerous times. Publicity from this event gave Kryptonite the boost it needed, forever changing the face of bicycle security.

1974

K3 U LOCK

Introduction of an integrated locking mechanism. Designed the first carrying bracket for locks.

1977

ANTI-THEFT PROTECTION

Kryptonite introduced its Anti-Theft Protection Offer. This optional offer set a security category standard and proves Kryptonite stands behind its products, and gives customers an additional peace of mind. Often imitated, never duplicated.

K4 U LOCK

Revolutionary lock design with a unique bent foot for ease of use. High grade steels hardened for a strong and light lock. Overhead Cam with locking power to provide strength and durability to withstand thieves’ attacks.

HONORED WITH BOTH MECHANICAL AND AESTHETIC AWARDS:

1983:

NEW YORK MUSEUM OF MODERN ART

1988:

GERMANY’S MUSEUM OF UTILITARIAN ART AWARD

1988:

JAPAN’S GOOD DESIGN PRIZE

1994

THE NEW YORK LOCK

After receiving an unusually high number of Anti-Theft Protection claims coming from the 4 zip codes in New York City in 1989, Kryptonite was forced to stop offering its Anti-Theft Protection Offer in this city. Not recognizing this turn of events as a loss, but a challenge, Kryptonite reinstated the offer in 1994 with the release of the New York Lock, which has become a flagship lock for the company.

30 DAYS & 30 NIGHTS

THE LEGEND GROWS . . .

Twenty-two years later, Kryptonite returned to the streets of the Big Apple to test its latest innovation - The New York Lock. In April, 1994, the New York Post laid down the ultimate challenge: Could Kryptonite’s New York Lock last 48 hours on the toughest streets of New York? Michael Zane and Neil McDaid, Director, Product Development and Design, set out to prove, once again, Kryptonite was up to the test.

In a city where over 100,000 bikes were stolen each year, Kryptonite and the New York Post took a brand new, bright green Univega road bike worth $600 and locked it to a parking meter in the East Village; the “Bermuda Triangle” of New York bicycle thievery. For a full 48 hours, the bike remained locked on the corner of Avenue A and 11th Street.

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2001

The Ingersoll-Rand Company acquires Kryptonite Corporation to add to its residential-security portfolio

KEY SAFE PROGRAM

In 2001 Kryptonite launched their Key Safe Program. This program continues to allow riders with Kryptonite locks to register their keys. In the event that a rider loses their keys, Kryptonite will replace the first two keys free!

Publications such as Bicycling, Fortune, The Wall Street Journal, US News & World Report as well as a host of others continued to advertise Kryptonite products as the best on the market.

2004

LOCK EXCHANGE PROGRAM

It was discovered that our industry-standard tubular cylinder could be compromised with a household item. In order to fix this problem, a voluntary lock exchange program was created. Kryptonite is the only company in the world that offered such a comprehensive plan to customers, taking its ‘legendary customer service’ pledge to new heights.

Replaced over 400,000 locks in 21 countries for free.
Re-engineered 9 years’ worth of products in one year

Color Coding

Now immediately recognizable color-based security scale introduced.

2013

Kryptonite becomes part of Allegion PLC through the spinoff of Allegion from Ingersoll-Rand. This separation allows Allegion to focus solely on commercial and residential security businesses.

2014

MESSENGER COLLECTION

The Messenger Collection was introduced. Urban security design by Bike Messengers. Kryptonite teamed up with some of the greatest Messenger minds to help development of the Messenger Collection. From initial brainstorming to concept selections through product testing and even packaging design, the Messengers had majority rule – every step of the way. The final result consisted of multiple products that fit the 3 key needs of the Messenger community:

1. Flexibility/Fit – Locks that maximize the number of places where it is possible to lock a bike.

2. Durability – Keys that do not break and can operate under heavy use.

3. One Lock Solution – Security which increases the ability to properly secure a bike without having to carry two locks.

2017

STREET LIGHT COLLECTION

For over 40 years, Kryptonite has been your dependable, high quality Lock provider, ensuring your ride is ready to get you where you want to go. Now, let us light your way with our street light series, which offers a complete set of USB rechargeable bicycle lights. Kryptonite will now be your dependable light provider focused on keeping

YOUR SAFETY & SECURITY. . . OUR PRIORITY.