Went to the hardware store to have my one and only key duplicated. They didn't have the blank for it. Do I have to go to the dealer? Locksmith? Or was the hardware store maybe not the best stocked? Where have you gotten spare keys? Thanks
Matt
A lot of hardware stores don't stock much for motorcycle keys. Like you said, your options are a locksmith, the dealer or maybe just a more well stocked hardware store. Another idea is to order the key blanks online from a place like this (http://www.motorcyclekeys.com/blanks4.html) and just having them cut at the hardware store. Seems like a big hassle though for a stinkin key.
Lucky for me, my bike came with an extra key, it is an Ilco key (like the ones the hardware store stocks) blank number X241, SUZ18 if that helps you at all.
Both my local Lowe's and locksmiths have blanks that work, but I prefer the ones from the locksmith. (See the "specialty" key I use in the thread Finally had a key made! (http://www.gstwins.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=3001). The first post also gives you the ILCO blank number.)
Otherwise, I found several helpful threads by doing a Search (see the link at top of this page) for spare key. Don't forget to select the Search for all terms feature.
i had one made at the local home depot that didn't work, then went to a locksmith and got one that works. it's only $3 at home depot so it's worth a try.
I had one made at the dealer for $5.
how? my local dealer wanted $20 just for the blank.
I just had a copy made at Slaters Hardware, Lancaster, OH for $1.50.
http://bodydemand.com/slaters/lock.htm
They used the ilco x241/suz18 blank.
Two Suzuki dealers and a general store in my area couldn't make one.
My local locksmith was very reasonable, I think less than two bucks for the key. I had originally went to Home Depot and other big box stores, and they didn't stock the keys.....so that's why I tried the locksmith. Wish I would have started there.
Even better, they said that if I brought the bike by, they could make a perfect key for it. Which I plan to do one of these days, because one of my keys is good at getting the ignition into Lock position, and one is good at getting it OUT of Lock position (go figure, huh?) :dunno:
Anyway, just my 2 cents. The locksmiths are both talented and reasonable, and it feels good to support the little guy. :thumb: