which type of bike lock is best

What are the best bicycle locks?

Our pick of the best bike locks

• Milenco Dundrod ++. ...
• Master Lock Mini U-Lock. ...
• Abus Bordo Granit X Plus 6500. ...
• Oxford Alarm-D Pro. ...
• Zéfal K-Traz U17. ...
• Abus 440 Alarm. ...
• Kryptonite Messenger Mini With U-Lock Extender. ...
• Hiplok Z Lok Combo bike lock. ...

How to choose the best bike lock?

How to Choose a Bike Lock: Bike Lock Styles Explained

• U-Locks. U-locks (also known as D-locks) have a hardened steel U-shaped shank that fits into a straight lock that closes the loop.
• Chain Locks. Chain locks are a chain with a locking mechanism that locks the two ends together. ...
• Folding Locks. ...
• Cable Locks. ...
• Ease of Use. ...
• Size and Portability. ...
• Security. ...
• Price and Value. ...

What is the best lightweight bike lock?

The best lightweight bike locks available today

• Hiplok Z-Lok. ...
• Hiplok DX. ...
• Kryptonite Messenger Mini. ...
• Giant Surelock Air Loop. ...
• Hiplock Lite
• LiteLok Silver Flexi-U Regular. ...
• LiteLok Gold Original
• Lifeventure Sliding Cable Lock SG-400. ...
• Altor Apex
• Jobsworth Ristretto retractable cafe lock. ...

More items...

What is the most secure bicycle lock?

The best bike locks to buy

1. Kryptonite New York Fahgettaboudit Mini bike lock: The most secure bike lock. ...
2. Abus Granit X-Plus 540: The best D-lock bike lock. The Abus Granit X-Plus 540 doesn’t try to win you over by being fun, quirky or exciting. ...
3. Litelok Gold Wearable: The best portable lock. ...
4. Kryptonite Kryptolok Series 4 1055 Mini: The best cheap secure chain lock. ...

More items...

What type of lock is best for bikes?

Best Bike Lock of 2022: Strong and PracticalAbus Granit X-Plus 540: the best all round bike lock.Kryptonite Kryptolok Standard: best medium security bike lock.Kryptonite Kryptolok 955 Mini: best medium security chain lock.Litelok Core: strongest wearable bike lock.Foldylock Compact: lightest folding bike lock.More items...

What is the most secure type of bike lock?

A U-lock, also known as a D-lock in certain countries, is the easiest high security option to live with in a perfect world. That means if you have a bike with thin tubes, and something easy to lock to, they provide a high level of security for the price and are the easiest to transport.

Which bike lock is better combination or key?

The short answer is: yes! Locks that you open with a code are generally less secure than locks that require a key.

Is chain or cable bike lock better?

A decent chain is better than pretty much any cable lock. Cable locks can be cut with hand tools that fit in your pocket. A decent (but portable) cable needs a long bolt cutter. Possible exception are Litelock Gold thick cable locks, but they weigh similar to a chain.

Are bike locks easy to break?

Whatever anyone tells you: no bike lock is unbreakable (and there's no such thing as a theft proof bike). But they're as close as you'll get. Don't forget of course that this security comes at a price. The strongest locks are often small, heavy or expensive.

Are U-locks easy to break?

U-locks are very difficult to open by hammering or using force, but they are weakened and become brittle when cooled by air spray, meaning that they can be smashed open.

Are combination locks safe?

Importantly, combination padlocks are not as secure as their keyed counterparts. It is worth noting that there are no combination padlocks which have achieved Sold Secure or CEN security ratings. As noted - 3 wheel combination padlocks offer a maximum of just 999 potential code combinations.

How do you pick a bike lock?

1:162:12How To Unlock Cable Bike Lock Without Combination - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd let me see. And write those combination. Seven five nine eight and that's how you open one ofMoreAnd let me see. And write those combination. Seven five nine eight and that's how you open one of these combination locks.

Are keyless entry locks safe?

Yes, keyless entry door locks are safe. They are more secure than traditional locks because it is much harder for someone to guess your code than it is for them to pick a traditional lock.

What is stronger chain or cable?

Overall, wire rope is stronger than chain. The multi-strands of continuous wires give wire rope its strength, whereas a chain is joined together with links. These joins are the weakest part of a chain and can break under heavy loads.

Is it easier to cut cable or chain?

Cut Through Cheap Cable in 60 Seconds or Less bolt cutter can cut through 5/8-in., vinyl-coated, flexible, braided, steel cable in 60 seconds. The cable took a bit longer than solid chain because it didn't sever as cleanly.

Are chain locks effective?

Are chain door locks effective? Chain door locks are effective as additional security for an apartment or a house. They help in preventing an intruder from forcibly entering if the door is partially opened. However, they cannot be an alternative for stronger locks such as deadbolt locks.

Can Kryptonite locks be cut?

Kryptonite New-U KryptoLok Standard: This U-lock employs a disc-detainer mechanism, like the New-U Evolution does, and it now comes with the same double-deadlock design as our top pick. (The version we tested did not.) However, the biggest problem with this lock hasn't changed: Bolt cutters can cut through it.

How do you securely lock a bike?

The most secure way to lock your bike is with two locks. And ideally to a bike rack that's cemented into the ground. The first lock should go around the back wheel, the frame and the bike rack. The second should go around the front wheel, the frame and preferably the bike rack as well.

How do I keep my bike from being stolen?

There are a number of techniques you can use to help prevent your or your student's bike from being stolen.Always use a U-lock. ... Lock your wheel and frame together (see card for example).Use a bike rack (sign poles are not as secure).When possible, do not park your bike on the sidewalk or street overnight.More items...

How do I lock my bike to prevent theft?

0:000:38How to lock your bike to prevent theft - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipFind a bike hoop or similar that can't be moved attach a d-lock connecting your front wheel frameMoreFind a bike hoop or similar that can't be moved attach a d-lock connecting your front wheel frame and the bike hoop attach another d-lock connecting your rear wheel frame and the bike.

How are bikes being stolen?

When you think about protecting a bike it's important to have an understanding of how bikes are being stolen. You can't protect against every attac...

What is the right type of bike lock?

Deciding what type of lock you buy is all about understanding how bikes are being stolen then applying that to your situation. What level of risk a...

What is the difference between a U lock and a D lock?

U locks and D locks are the same thing. They are both named in relation to their shape. Without the brace fitted, the shape resembles that of the l...

Why is there no cable lock on this list?

Chains, U locks, folding locks, why not cable locks? There are a lot of cable locks sold in the world so why don't we have any on this list? The ea...

Are key or combination bike locks better?

The two most common locking methods utilise either a key or a combination. Both have their merits, and both have their pitfalls. A combination lock...

How to lock your bike

We have a full article about how to lock a bike and there's more detail there. What's important to understand in this context is that you want to l...

What about insurance?

Some bike locks come packaged with insurance offers. These are nice for peace of mind but there's a few details you should be careful about. The bi...

Make sure you register your bike

While you are following the directions for registering your new lock, make sure you also register your bike. Bike Index is a non-profit that works...

How we tested the best bike locks

There is no perfect solution to bike theft. Particularly with the continued prevalence of portable angle grinders, every lock is vulnerable. With t...

What are bike locks made of?

Bike locks are made of quality stainless steel or durable coils and cables.

What is the most secure bike lock?

Depending on brand and preference, an all-around option is the chain lock. For keyless lock, it's best to opt for the combination lock whilst the U...

Is there an unbreakable bike lock?

Q: Is there an unbreakable bike lock?

What is the best lock for a bicycle?

1. Best Bike Chain Locks . Chain locks are considered to be most effective against bike thieves. This type of lock might not be as convenient to carry around, but they do a great job protecting the bicycle against bolt cutters.

What is the strongest bike lock?

The chain lock is the strongest bike lock type but also the heaviest and often least convenient to carry. If you don’t live in a high-risk area, a simple chain and padlock or good-quality D-Lock ( a.k.a U-Lock) should be sufficient.

Why are bike locks weaker than traditional locks?

Most alarm-enabled bike locks are weaker than traditional locks because the alarm should deter any extended attempt at theft. This means they offer a good lightweight alternative to heavy U-locks while still offering a high level of security.

What is Abus chain lock?

It’s bulky and heavy, which in most cases is just about enough to lock the frame and either wheel! Abus is a well-known name in the game, and the Granit series locks come in various different sizes.

What is a Kryptonite 1210 chain lock?

Inspired by the streets of New York, the Kryptonite 1210 is a decent chain lock by one of the most trusted bike lock brands out there. The biggest advantage of this lock is the length of the chain (40″) which can be locked over any thinkable object such as trees or lamp posts.

What is the heaviest lock for a bike?

Hiplok Gold is one of the heaviest locks that should keep away most bike thieves whenever they’d see this massive lock. It’s best suited for those who either travel during the dark or occasional trips in the daytime as the Hiplok can be comfortably used around the hips while cycling.

Which is stronger, U lock or folding lock?

While many folding locks have decent security ratings, a U-lock with an equivalent rating will always be stronger. The best folding locks are made by ABUS, SeatyLock, and Foldylock.

What size is the Evolution bike?

The Evolution has a durable protective rubber coating on all the main parts to prevent scratches on your bike’s paint and is available in multiple sizes, but we think the 7-inch size is ideal for most people.

What size bolt cutters are used for testing?

The 24-inch and 36-inch bolt cutters we used for testing. Photo: Duncan Niederlitz

Can a lock keep a thief away forever?

No lock can keep a determined thief at bay forever. But a good one might persuade that thief to move on to an easier target.

Do you need a lock for a bike?

If you ride a bike and ever need to leave it unattended, you should carry (and use) a sturdy bike lock—at least if you want the bike to be there waiting for you when you return. And if you live in an area where garage or apartment-building bike-room break-ins are common, you may even want to lock your bike up when it’s seemingly safe at home, too. Unfortunately, as we’ve discovered through both our testing and our own painful experience, no lock can keep a determined bike thief at bay forever. However, a good one might persuade that thief to move on to a less well-defended target.

What is the toughest bike lock?

The Hiplok Gold is the company’s toughest bike lock system to date. There’s no messing around with this piece of security hardware that is as rugged as it is attractive. The 32-inch chain is plenty long to fit around any standard bike rack as well as lampposts and most other common anchors you’ll find in an urban setting. Our handy guide to the best car bike racks features more great products like this.

What is a UShake bike lock cable?

The UShake Bike Lock Cable is made for the biker who doesn’t ride into bike theft hot spots but still needs to secure their ride against opportunistic thieves. Considering this lock cost less than a large pizza with everything and will likely save your very expensive bike time and again over the course of its life.

What is an Etronic M6 lock?

The Etronic M6 Security Bike Lock with resettable combination locks is the easy, dependable way to secure your bike from even the most determined thieves. The 10mm thick cable is resistant to all but the most robust bolt cutters and the resettable combination lock is impervious to leveraged attacks. The heavy-duty cable is a full 6 feet long to ensure you’re always able to find a place to lock your bike.

What is the size of the Abus 6100 folding lock?

The Abus 6100 Folding Lock is available in either 75cm or 90cm lengths so it’s easy to secure your bike to a wide variety of potential anchors. The lock itself comes with its own rattle-free carrying case and folds up into a very manageable size that every type of bike owner will find relatively easy to transport. You just need to find the best place to lock up your bike.

What is the Kryptonite lock?

The Kryptonite M-18WL New York Lock is a serious piece of security technology designed to repel even the most determined bicycle thief. There’s a reason they call this the “New York” lock. Because it’s been battle tested in that city’s most notorious bicycle theft areas and passed with flying colors. The M-18WL New York Lock features an extra-long shackle because there’s not always a bike rack when you need one. This bike lock is a great gift for cyclists.

What is the Kryptonite Kryptolok Series 2 lock?

There’s little doubt that the 13mm hardened steel shackle of the Kryptonite Kryptolok Series 2 lock will repel all thieves who aren’t sporting a portable welding device. The rest of this Kryptonite lock is just as thoughtfully engineered and tough with one exception: the 4’ extension cable, which seems more of an afterthought. The rest of the lock, however, is rock solid.

What is a U lock?

It is also called the U or D lock because when picturing it looks like the letters U or D and has been designed to serve as a buckle. Made with high-performance steel, this locks efficiently to protect against hitting and pulling attacks.

What is the best bike lock for a backpack?

The folding locks are some of the easiest models to transport. Both the ABUS uGrip Bordo and FoldyLock Compact fold into a compact shape that easily slides into a backpack or messenger bag without taking up much space. They could even fit inside generously sized pant pockets. They also come with easy-to-use frame mounts that can be strapped onto the bike and were among our favorite mount designs. Both fit onto nearly any tubular bike frame, and while easy to slide into and remove from the mount, remained in place without rattling or ever coming close to falling out. It's also worth mentioning that both weigh considerably less than all the chain and U-locks that we analyzed.

What is the most critical consideration when choosing a bike lock?

For most cyclists, security is the most critical consideration when choosing a lock (which makes sense--why else would you be buying a bike lock if you weren't concerned about your bike's security?). We invested a lot of time in testing the security of each lock included in this review. We first assessed each lock's weak point and then attacked it. Then, we tried alternative attacks on a lock's integrity to ensure we were not missing any vital weaknesses. We used tools commonly employed by bike thieves to compromise each lock and make away with the bicycle. We started with hand tools, including tin snips, a hammer, a hacksaw, and bolt cutters. We then switched to an electric hacksaw, angle grinder, a cordless drill, and even a car jack (because, yes, thieves also use those).

What is a U lock on a bike?

The U-locks tend to be less accommodating when it comes to locking a bike to anything but a bike rack, especially if you have wider wheels on a mountain bike or fat bike. These locks serve cyclists best when there is a specific bike rack present at their destination. A U-lock for the frame and another lock (cable or otherwise) for the wheels would work nicely, but this arrangement also increases the amount of time spent locking up. However, when it comes to standard bike racks, U-locks are simple enough to use. The New York Standard U-Lock is easy to manage due to its reasonable size.

What is the hardest lock to crack?

The Fahgettaboudit Chain and Disc Lock, Standard U-lock, and Fahgettaboudit Mini proved to be some of the hardest locks to crack. These models have hardened steel bars ranging from 14 mm to 18 mm in diameter that resisted attacks from all our hand-powered tools, including a 36" bolt cutter. When it came to the angle grinder, each of these locks took the longest to slice through completely (nearly a minute of hard-core, sparks-flying slicing). Moreover, for these locks, one cut wasn't enough. Due to their well-designed dual-locking mechanisms, they required us to do two separate cuts on the U-bar of each lock to free the bike, doubling the necessary getaway time. It would take thief at least one and a half minutes of sparks a-flying to compromise one of these locks. The ABUS Granit X-Plus 540 also required two cuts from the angle grinder before releasing the bike frame, as did the Kryptonite Evolution Mini-7.

What is a Kryptonite Evolution Mini 7 U lock?

The Kryptonite Evolution Mini-7 U-Lock offers medium security at an entry-level price . A part of its charm is its accessory: unlike other U-Locks in this review, this one comes with a four-foot cable that can reach around both wheels. While we don't think cable locks are very secure on their own, a cable AND a U-Lock can be a powerful combination. We also appreciate the frame mount, which offers an easy solution to carry the lock. A thief would need two cuts with an angle grinder to get through this lock as well, which is more than many other U-lock and cable combos on the market.

What are the key performance metrics for bike locks?

We designed this review around four central performance metrics that best define a quality bike lock: security, ease of transportation, ease of use, and versatility. Security is the most important of these four, but if a lock weighs a lot or is inconvenient to carry, will you use it? That's where the rest of the criteria come into play. Each performance metric's score is weighted according to its relative importance.

What chain locks up the front wheels?

The Fahgettaboudit chain provides enough length and flexibility to lock up both wheels with the frame without needing to remove the front one.

What is a bike lock?

This widely used bike lock style is an excellent deterrent. The bulky locking mechanism resists hammers, chisels and the like. Its horseshoe shape can limit leveraging—provided it's not way oversized for the bike. The goal is to reduce the amount of space in which a thief can insert a crowbar and leverage enough oomph to pop it apart.

How many keys are in a bike lock?

Keyed bike locks usually come with at least 2 keys so you’ll have a backup. Most bike lock makers have a key replacement program if you lose your keys. Keyed locking mechanisms are found on most U-locks and some cable and chain locks.

What type of keys do you use for a keyed lock?

Keyed locks use either flat keys or cylindrical keys. Cylindrical keys got a bad reputation in years past when it was discovered some locks of this style could be picked by a ballpoint pen. Newer models have solved that problem so now either style is equally effective.

Why are combination locks so convenient?

Combination locks are convenient because you don’t have to remember to carry a key with you or worry about losing keys, but you do have to remember a 4-digit code.

Can you steal a bike with a quick release wheel?

Quick-release wheels and seatposts are, unfortunately, as convenient for thieves as they are for bike owners. Great for high-crime areas, locking skewers disable the quick-release feature and make it a lot tougher to steal. They’re easy to install but many require a special wrench that comes with the skewer.

Can bike locks be broken?

All bike locks can be broken, but a sturdy lock and savvy locking strategy will greatly reduce the risk of your bike being singled out by thieves. If playback doesn't begin shortly, try restarting your device. Videos you watch may be added to the TV's watch history and influence TV recommendations.

What features should I look for in a good bike lock?

As we've highlighted above, there are many types of bike lock to choose from, with certain locks suiting different cyclists. Secure by Design (the official police security initiative) recommends you lock your bike with at least two locks, one of them being a U-lock.

What does a bike lock do?

A bike lock only has one job to do – stop your bike being stolen – and it has to do it well. We've thrown all the lock-breaking tools at our disposal at a selection of leading bike locks to help you choose the best bike lock.

Why do you need two locks on a bike?

The aim of bike locks is to make your bike as unappealing as possible, deterring thieves from even trying to nick your bike. You should use two locks to secure your bike, with one of them being a U-lock.

How did the U lock get its name?

This lock gets its name from its rigid, 'U-shaped' body. U-locks vary in size, strength and weight, but are generally regarded as the most secure type of lock.

What is cable lock made of?

Made from intertwined metal fibers with a plastic coating, cable locks come in a wide variety of sizes, weights and locking mechanisms. They're flexible and tend to be available in longer lengths than chain locks.

What is chain lock?

Chain locks are made up of a series of hardened steel links, usually inside a protective sleeve. They can offer similar levels of security as U-locks, but they have pros and cons by comparison.

Is a bike lock good?

A Best Buy bike lock will be easy to use and offer good security against even the most powerful tools – meaning a thief is likely to be spotted and interrupted when trying to steal your bike, or just give up.

What is the strongest bike chain lock?

Wearing the Hiplok as a belt distributes the weight and bulk around your body so that it's much more manageable. Hiplok Gold: strongest bike chain lock. With the Hiplok Gold, you get a generous 85 cm locking circumference which will give you loads more locking opportunities than any u-lock and many other chains.

What is the ultimate job of a bike lock?

The ultimate job of any lock is to prevent the theft of your bike. So the first and most important step is to work out what level of protection you’ll need.

What is the lightest folding lock?

The Foldylock Compact is the lightest folding lock that still offers a reasonable level of protection. What’s more, it’s also the most usable folding lock I’ve ever tested!

How much should I spend on a bike lock?

Many lock brands suggest spending 10% of the value of your bike on your lock. But if you have a $200 bike and you only spend $20 on the lock, you’re probably asking for trouble. I recommend you spend as much as you can. This will give you the best reliability and security you can afford.

What is the difference between a bike chain and a U lock?

But the difference is: it's flexible, so you'll find loads more places you can lock your bike. Like all chains, it's much heavier than a u-lock of comparable security (it weighs about the same as 4.5 cans of Coke). But it's still light and short enough to carry wrapped around your seat post or thrown in a bag.

How often do locks have to be tested?

And the locks must be resubmitted for testing every year, or they lose their rating.

Why don't I recommend sold secure bronze locks?

I don’t recommend Sold Secure Bronze locks for any circumstances because they offer very little practical protection.