The Times Cycling Campaign

People in Japan sometimes don't lock their bikes, or use very light, easily breakable locks.

The difference being that in Japan a symbol of ownership is usually enough to deter thieves, but in the UK you must physically stop people being able to take your bike away.

Regarding Japan, my friend once left an expensive camera by a fountain my mistake. His Japanese girlfriend said don't worry it will be there tomorrow. And sure enough it was! No one had touched it. Amazing! Would be nice if things were like that here.