I have opened the "locked" skewer in about 5 seconds. Will not post how, but will contact manufacturer - their idea is brilliant, implementation is sloppy.
Update: the original method (already public) involved a magnet; there are two more, one requiring regular pliers, another requiring no tools at all. 1) don't bother unlocking the lever, just twist off the opposing side lug; you'll need pliers for that, but the lug is conveniently ribbed to give pliers a good purchase; design needs the keyed washer just like the "lever" side to be secure, but it doesn't have one. 2) ... and this is a real caper: just turn the "locked" lever counterclockwise. Will require some force, but not too much, no tools needed. It is not supposed to give, but it will - the design has a keyed washer which supposedly prevents it from turning if closed, however the "seat" of the lever appears to be a two-piece plastic, and the outer ring simply spins if nudged hard enough...
Another important distinction between Zefal and something like Pinhead, which uses keyed lugs is purely psychological: first and foremost, Zefal looks like it *can* be opened, there is just enough stuff sticking out that can be turned, twisted, levered and so on; Pinhead, on the other hand, kills any motivation to tamper with itself: you cast one look at it, and you know you are not going to able to do anything with it...
Update: in about 6 months of use in NY, the skewers are so far provided enough of a deterrent. I do see the aftermath of attempts to open them (somewhat bent levers) - but so far no thief came up with anything more inventive than just pulling very, very hard..and that doesn't work with Zefal. I have used another skewer for a while, with keyed lugs, but in the end, it was just a nuisance: the key is chunky, carrying it at all times is impractical, and who would remember to pack it on a long ride? - in the end, you just sit roadside looking hopelessly at a flat tire that you can not change since you can't take the wheel off... I switched back to Zefal, and bought couple more sets for other bikes. The lock is not nearly as secure as,say, Pinhead, but it is much, much more convenient...
In the end, the conclusion is that this is a maddening product: they did 90% of the work just perfect, and couldn't iron out the remaining 10%...
| Item Package Dimensions L x W x H | 11.97 x 5.83 x 0.55 inches |
|---|---|
| Package Weight | 0.24 Kilograms |
| Item Dimensions LxWxH | 11.8 x 5.95 x 1 inches |
| Brand Name | Zefal |
| Country of Origin | China |
| Number of Items | 1 |
| Manufacturer | ZEFAL |
| Part Number | 4970 |
| Sport Type | Cycling |
