Kryptonite new york fahgettaboudit u-lock disaster

I think they've salvaged the situation pretty well but the fact is the barrel failed - seemingly without warning. I suppose the weather may have been a factor and it may have been an idea to put some lube in the lock some time ago.

I have one but it's probably overkill considering the bits of thread people use to lock their bikes around here and I'm more concerned with something like this happening than it being cut and my bike being robbed.

I think its safe to say that I largely disagree with you (and the genius that is Zebra Cyclist). Kryptonite have the best reputation in cycle locking, and especially after they repaired the problems with their locks years ago. They have worked hard to get back to the top, and they have earned it.

http://www.kryptonitelock.com/CustomerService/FAQ.aspx

Kryptonite Locks
*Customer Service *
FAQ
Maintenance
*What kind of maintenance does my Kryptonite key lock need? *
We know you are either riding your bicycle around town, cruising down the highway on your steel steed or bombing around down some trails where your lock could pick up all kinds of grime. Lubing on a monthly basis should keep dust and grime in check and out of your cylinder. Lube ingredients need to include one of the following: Silicone, Graphite, Teflon or Paraffin. These are commonly found in bike or powersports shops. Spray or drip a few drops of lube into the cylinder, insert the key and make a few turns to work it in. You should be good to go so you can get back to your adventure.