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Best bike locks 2024 - Quality locks to keep your bike secure

The best bike locks will help you keep your bike safe when you leave it

• ▶ U-LOCKS

Best all-around

High security

Medium security

• ▶ FOLDING LOCKS
• High Security
• Low security
• ▶ CHAIN LOCKS

Best chain lock

• Use with a car rack
• ▶ CABLE-LOCKS
• ▶ HOW TO CHOOSE

If you are looking for the best bike lock, it can be easy to fall into a rabbit hole of never-ending research. Instead, I've done that for you. I spent months interviewing lock company representatives and polling thousands of cyclists. What I found was that the number of people who had a quality lock actually defeated was small.

What I found was often people lost a bike because it wasn’t secured at all. A common theme was someone with commuter bikes having their bike walk away while they briefly popped into a store. Sometimes they were using a cable lock and sometimes they thought they'd be fast enough to go with nothing. There were also a lot of people who lost road bikes by leaving them unlocked in their homes, garage, or a supposedly secure bike room. 

With those trends in mind, we’ve looked for the best bike lock we could find covering a wide range of different use scenarios. As you look through our list, keep those trends in mind but also make sure you think about your own preferences. You want to look for something that helps you feel secure even if that's more security than you might absolutely need. Above all else though, you need to look for something you find convenient and are going to use every time, even at home, no matter what. It should fit your budget, your style, and your particular use case.

Recent updates

This article was originally published in April 2022 and has been given significant regular updates since, in which our team of experts have added information, updated the product recommendations and more.  The latest update was performed in July 2024, so all the information is relevant and every product recommendation is available to buy as of this date. 

A balance of angle grinder resistance, weight, and price with a high-quality frame mount.

Read more below 

Strong enough to resist everything but an angle grinder packaged with excellent pricing, lots of included keys, and an insurance offer. 

Functionally impossible to cut with an angle grinder but small enough to bring with you.

High-security folding

Easier to carry and more flexible than a U-lock while still offering a high level of security.

A 10mm hardened steel chain with a Sold Secure Gold rating and the ability to wear it without locking it. This is the most convenient high-security lock available.

Budget chain lock

Hardened steel 7mm four-sided chain links with included insurance and a killer price.

Read more below  

Best bike locks available today

You can trust Cyclingnews Our experts spend countless hours testing cycling tech and will always share honest, unbiased advice to help you choose. Find out more about how we test.

A U-lock, or D-lock depending on where you are reading from, 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. The challenge with this type of lock comes when you have unusual anchor points and bikes with large tubes.  

Best all-around bike lock

1. Litelok X1

Our expert review:

Specifications

Reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

Only a few years ago if you wanted high security it was all about how thick the shackle on a lock was. Options like the Kryptonite New York Fahgettaboutit Mini and the Abus Granit XPlus 540 reigned supreme. In today’s world, those types of locks offer little security in a world ruled by portable angle grinders. 

The Litelok X1 isn’t the most secure lock out there. It’s not even the most secure lock that Litelok offers. Instead, it represents a balance of weight, price and security. This is a Sold Secure Diamond-rated lock and I would consider it angle grinder proof even though that’s not technically true.  

What I mean is that I took an angle grinder to the Litelok X1 and I did manage to get through it. That said, I was using a more powerful plug-in grinder and I shredded a cutting blade while cutting through one side of the lock. Like other quality locks though, there’s a double shackle. It takes a cut through each side to open the lock and I was only able to cut through one side before I needed a new blade. It’s not impossible that a thief would change blades but it’s highly unlikely, hence my reason for calling this angle grinder proof in practical terms.  

Aside from that feature, the Litelok X1 is your basic high-quality U-lock. There’s a silicone cover to protect the locking mechanism from the weather and a plastic coating that both slows a grinder and also protects the finish of your bike. The Litelok's coating includes a reflective strip, so there's bonus visibility when riding at night and you can buy replacement keys if you lose the two that are supplied. The lock is easy to place rattle-free in the included frame mount.

In terms of negatives, I have to admit I’m stretching here. This lock is hard to fault as long as you understand what it is. It's heavy and, even with that heft, it’s not impossible to cut it with a grinder. I didn’t list either of those as a negative though because that’s how it’s being marketed. I can’t really punish Litelok for making a very secure lock that’s not as secure as even heavier, and more expensive options. If you are looking for something light or super secure, this isn’t quite that lock. The Hiplok D1000 is more secure but also heavier. The Litelok is a balance. 

The one thing I do find lacking is that there’s no insurance offering. It’s incredibly hard to actually use the insurance that companies like Onguard and Kryptonite offer but it’s still nice to see it available. Litelok made a great lock; they should back up the security with included insurance. 

Best high security bike lock

2. Hiplok D1000

While the Litelok X1 is portable angle grinder resistant from a practical standpoint, the Hiplok D1000 is as close to angle grinder proof as you can get. When Micah Toll from EbikeSchool tested the D1000 with a grinder he gave up after trashing three blades and making it less than halfway through a single side of the lock. If you want absolute peace of mind for an expensive electric bike then this is the lock for you. 

Also, like the Litelok, this is a high-quality lock beside the theft resistance. Despite being quite heavy, it is still portable. It’s also quite well built with a soft touch outer that definitely will not scratch a nice bike and a cover for the locking mechanism. If you lose your keys you won’t be able to cut the lock off but there is a replacement program. Similarly, if you start having issues with the lock cylinder, don’t risk it getting stuck. Stop using it and take advantage of the lifetime (defined as 10 years) warranty that covers normal wear and tear.   

As far as negatives go, the size and weight are the issues. Because of all the security this lock offers, the D1000 is a heavy lock. It's so heavy that Hiplok doesn’t think a frame mount will work and so there isn’t one. Also because of the weight, Hiplok doesn’t make the D1000 very big. As it is, the lock weighs 1.9kg / 4 lbs. 1.6 oz. and so in an effort to keep it from getting even heavier, the locking capacity is small. It’s difficult to use for more than a single frame tube and even with the already high price, you may need a second lock. 

You can read more details about this lock in our full Hiplok D1000 review .

Best medium security bike lock

3. Onguard 8003 Pitbull STD U-Lock

I used this lock for years and I used to call it the best all-around U-lock. It was never the most secure, or even the cheapest, but with a 14mm hardened steel shackle, it was enough for most situations. A 14mm hardened steel shackle is thick enough that bolt cutters are going to be ineffective and it locks on both sides, requiring two cuts to break it free. Unfortunately, as mentioned, a high-security lock in today’s climate needs to take portable angle grinders into consideration and this one doesn’t. 

Not everyone needs the highest security level though. The Onguard Pitbull is the all-around kind of lock you can feel good using in slightly lower security situations. If you feel like an angle grinder isn’t going to be an issue for you, then this is a good lock at a decent price. The generous five keys included mean you can be less stressed with a lost key and the light on one key is a nice touch at this price level. The coating won’t scratch your bike and there’s a decent frame mount. There’s even a small insurance offer to make you feel a bit better.  

You’ll want to keep in mind that the suggested version here is the standard version and there's enough room inside for the frame and a wheel. That also means there’s a bit of extra room and that can make it easier to defeat with a pry bar. Again though, this isn’t the most secure option anyway and this size makes it easy to use. It would be better if there was a cover for the lock cylinder though, as it will eventually fail because of weather. 

Best budget U-lock

4. Abus Mini 410

If a product isn't the best, it should at least be cheap. I've been very intentional in putting a bottom floor on that concept here though. The Abus Mini 410 isn't high security but it is acceptable security. I wouldn't leave a bike for much time with only this lock but it's inexpensive and light enough that it's an easy option to bring along if you plan to briefly head into a store. For all the people I spoke to who had a bike stolen, this was because they weren’t going to be gone long. Don’t be that person, use this lock instead. 

The 12mm double shackle ensures that no one is going to cut the Abus Ultra mini with wire cutters. You could probably get through it with 36" bolt cutters, and maybe even 30" cutters given the right scenario, but either way that's still a lot more protection than a cable lock will ever give you. 

There are also quite a few variants of the Abus 410. The one I’ve included here is the basic Mini 410. It’s too small to lock more than just the frame but it’s less expensive. There are also options that include a cable lock for the front wheel or a bigger space inside the lock. They are all the same 12mm double locking shackle so if this one is too small, pick whatever works for you. 

Folding Locks

Folding locks are less secure and more expensive than either chains or U-locks. What they bring to the table is an ease of use that’s hard to beat. They’ve got the flexibility of a chain and are as easy to carry as a U-lock. If security is your biggest concern then you’ll want to look at a different section but if you are willing to give up some security for convenience this is a good place to look. 

Best high security folding bike lock

5. Abus Bordo Granit 6500 Folding Lock

The Abus Bordo 6500 is the highest security folding lock around. It has both a Sold Secure Gold rating and Abus calls it a 15/15 security level thanks to the 5.5mm hardened steel bars and protected links. On top of that, the Lock Picking Lawyer is quite generous in his description of the lock core as being "ahead of the curve" in his video where he does go on to eventually open it. 

As with other folding locks though, it's not the security where the Abus 6500 shines. Cargo Bike magazine easily cuts it with a portable grinder and only a single cut is enough to open all folding locks. The trade-off is that there's a lot more flexibility when using a folding lock. This is especially true when you are looking at a busy bike rack with lots of other people and not much room. The big links will look impressive enough to sway a thief towards a less protected target and this lock allows you to manoeuvre it between other bikes or reach farther to get the anchor. When it's time to carry it, you've got a bit less weight and all the weight is closer to the frame making the mount easier to use. 

As long as you understand the security available from this lock, it's a great option that's well-made in almost every way. The one thing Abus seems to have overlooked is that the lock cylinder isn't protected from the weather. If you live in a rainy climate you'll have to accept that eventually the internals may fail and require a replacement. 

Best smart folding bike lock

6. Abus Bordo 6500a Smart X

I've already been quite clear that folding locks are less secure in exchange for better ease of use. Abus has an answer to that criticism though. The Abus Bordo 6500a Smart X takes everything good about the standard Bordo 6500 and upgrades it with electronics. The result is a lock that's both more secure and more convenient. 

Instead of a key, the Bordo 6500a Smart X is a smart lock that relies on Bluetooth. The heart of the design retains the same series of 15.5cm long, and 5.5mm thick hardened steel bars. Each one connects to the next with a shielded joint and there's a rubberized coating to protect the finish of your bike. At the top though, you won't find a lock cylinder, not even for backup.

Instead of a key, there's an app. You have the choice to configure a manual unlock but otherwise as you walk up with your phone, the lock will open. It's all seamless and automatic. There are also the nice side benefits of being able to open the app and see where you parked your bike and being able to allow someone else to unlock the bike. On top of that added convenience, there's also the added security of a 110db alarm built in. Should someone try to tamper with the lock an alarm might not stop them but it might and it certainly doesn't hurt. 

The only thing I'd like to see added is a key slot for backup purposes. In my testing, the whole system worked every time but it seems odd to offer no emergency unlock option. It's also worth noting that you do pay extra for the convenience of the smart system. 

You can read more details in my full Abus Bordo 6500A SmartX lock review .

Best medium security folding bike lock

7. Kryptonite KryptoLok 610 S

How much security do you really need? In many situations as long as you use a quality lock then you will be safe. If that already sums up your thoughts then shouldn't your folding lock be easy to carry? The Kryptonite 610s is a counter to the Abus folding lock options. While those locks have a design aimed at high security, Kryptonite is very clear that the 610s will work for quick stops in metro areas or suburbs and longer lockups only in rural areas. 

If that's enough for you then you get a lower price and even more convenient option. The link bars are 5mm, instead of 5.5mm, saving you almost 600 grams. The lock is also longer and narrower which, again, adds to the ease of carrying, while rotation where the bars connect to the lock means it has a ton more flexibility in how you use the lock as well. 

Another thing I really love about Kryptonite locks with better security is that the brand is willing to back that up. Should your bike end up getting stolen, there is an opt-in insurance program that could pay you back a bit of money. These programs are always hard to take advantage of, but it feels like a mark of respect for the customer that it even exists. Unfortunately, there's nothing to help you when the lock cylinder eventually stops working because there's no weather cover for it. You also aren't getting a budget price for this lock despite the lower security. 

Best low security bike lock

8. Hiplok Z Lok Combo

If there's a lock that exemplifies why I don't have a cable lock included in this list, this is it. The Hiplok Z Lok Combo offers about the same security but it's far smaller and cheaper. Any attack with a tool would easily cut through the steel band, just like a cable lock, but you can carry this in a jersey pocket and it's there when you need it.

That means for most situations, I don't recommend this lock. If you've got any kind of bike where it makes sense to attach something to the frame, grab an inexpensive U-lock or folding lock and use that instead. The place where this lock shines is on a bike where you aren't going to put it on the frame and you really aren't going to leave the bike alone. Thieves are incredibly fast and good at what they do and this lock is just enough to keep someone from quietly walking away with your bike while you look at it. It's great at a coffee shop where you might even be within reach of your bike, but this way you can relax enough to enjoy your coffee. 

When you are going to be close to your bike anyway but want to make sure it doesn't disappear from under your nose, grab the Hiplok Z Lok Combo. Although It’s not a folding lock we’ve included it in this section because it also trades security for convenience.

Chain locks

Chain locks are as secure as U-locks, if they are as thick, but they have extra flexibility. If you’ve got a frame that’s extra thick, like an ebike, or if you need to attach to thicker anchors, that’s where chains shine. The downside is that they are heavier and more difficult to carry than both a U-lock and a folding lock.  

9. Hiplok Gold Chain Lock

Chains are great because it still takes two cuts to defeat them, like a U-lock, but they are also very flexible and easy to lock up. The most difficult part of dealing with a chain is that they are big and heavy. It's never convenient to put one on a bike so it's common to wrap them around your waist. That solution works but it's not very safe. 

Hiplok has an answer though. The brand is well known for making locks you can wear safely. The Hiplok Gold is a 10mm chain weighing in at a hefty 2,274 grams but it's got a system that turns it into a belt without locking. Instead, there's a bar on the lock side and a plastic buckle that snaps into the bar on the other side. When you are ready to lock a bike, take it off your waist, open the lock, and connect the lock to the chain that's on the other side of the waist bracket. The super bright version pictured here also adds visibility while riding. 

Not only is the 10mm chain quite secure but it's convenient and safe. If you need to lock something up that isn't easy with a U-lock, this is your answer. The only downside is all that security does mean you've got to deal with a bit of weight. Wearing it mitigates that to some extent but the weight doesn't disappear and you'll notice it. The reflective cover will also degrade over time. It looks great when new, and it's incredibly bright, but I've had a number of products with that coating and eventually, they all start to flake. You’ll want to consider that if you like the look of it. You can read more details in my full Hiplok Gold bike lock review .

Best higher security bike lock for using with a car rack

10. Abus City Chain 1010

When I talked to cyclists who had bikes stolen while locked there was one story that stood out: a brand-new bike stolen off a rack while filling up gas on the way home. The integrated cable lock on the rack got clipped while the owner was inside buying a snack. For me, it was confirmation of a scenario I'd already worried about in the past. It was also a challenge. What would be the best solution in this scenario?

Having spent time studying the design of racks and the needs, my thought is that you need something longer than normal and it has to be quick to get on. The Abus CityChain 1010 is what I ended up settling on. It's fast to get on because it's got a fabric cover that means you won't scratch your frame. Most chain locks have that feature but it's important here because you don't want to spend a bunch of time carefully placing a chain just to go pay for gas. It's worth saying though, that you shouldn't drive with the lock on. 

The Abus CityChain 1010 is also a good choice for locking to the rack on your car because at 140cm it's longer than many options out there. That's important because, unlike most locking situations, both the bike and the anchor are immovable. You can't move the bike into position to make a smaller chain work. 

If you are driving any distance, you will likely stop for food as well as gas. If that's the case, the 9mm links are enough to stop a lot of attacks. Larger bolt cutters, and pry bars, are still an issue but you can probably get some food and come back to a bike. It's also nice to see a protected lock cylinder even if this use case won't see it sitting in the rain for long periods of time. 

You can read more details in the full Abus City Chain 1010 lock review .

Best budget bike chain lock

11. Kryptonite Keeper 785

I prefer high security in a bike lock. Even my city bike is worth more than enough that I don't relish the idea of replacing it. Instead of worrying, I'd rather go for more security. That said, I also live in an urban area and bike theft is common in a bike city like Portland Oregon. In each section, I like to include an option for those who don't need much security. Although I recommend not under-sizing your security, you might not need the highest. If that's where you find yourself, Kryptonite Keeper 785 is your answer. 

The Keeper 785 is an inexpensive option for lower security situations. The sides of each link use a square profile that helps resist bolt cutters even though 7mm still falls within what’s possible for the right bolt cutters. Nylon covers protect your bike's paint and 85 cm / 33.5 in length makes it easy to lock up both wheels and accessories. There's also a Key Safe Program if you lose a key and, like other Kryptonite products there is an insurance program of, in this case, $500 if you do lose a bike while using the lock. 

While this isn't the most secure lock out there, it's inexpensive and still offers decent protection. Make sure you keep the lock away from the ground and wrapped securely to help up the security level and for some that will be enough. The only criticism I have is the lack of a cover for the keyhole. It seems to be a common misstep but not everyone needs the highest security and not everyone needs to worry about rain. 

Cable-locks

As noted in our discussion of how to choose below, cable locks are in general easier to defeat than other types of locks. A bolt cutter can cut the majority of cables quickly and silently. 

Many cable locks are not security-rated or receive the lowest bronze rating from Sold Secure. You can find cable locks offering greater security though; many of Litelok's cables are diamond or gold-rated by Sold Secure, for example.

A cable lock can have its place. If you're just making a short stop and your bike is within your view, you may be satisfied with a lightweight, low-security option. It can provide a useful adjunct to a more secure lock and many U-locks can be bought packaged with a cable to help keep wheels from going astray.

So if you are looking for a cable lock, here are three to consider.

The Litelok Core Plus is available in two lengths, 75cm and 100cm, so you can choose an option to secure most bikes. It's Sold Secure Diamond rated; the downside is a weight of around 2kg.

Squire follows a similar design to Litelok with its Sold Secure silver-rated Straplok. As with the Litelok, it's wearable, with an 85cm locked area. It also weighs less at 1.26kg claimed and can be daisy-chained to other locks.

A souped-up zip tie, the Z Lok is super-easy to carry, weighs just 20g and is cheap as chips. It won't stop a thief but may provide enough protection for coffee stops, securing accessories or as a back-up lock.

How to choose the best bike lock for you

When I write a buyer's guide I endeavour to become an expert if I'm not already. I share what works and what doesn't and I get to look at every product in a category to help draw those conclusions. The problem with doing that for the best bike lock is that I'm not a bike thief and there's no real way for me to become an expert on bike theft. With that in mind, I took a different approach to this section of this buyer's guide. 

While I spent time with every lock here, I also reached out to law enforcement and talked to as many people who experienced bike theft as possible. I pulled together that communal knowledge of having a bike stolen and formed that into questions and answers to help inform you on how to keep your bike safe and what locks to buy.

How are bikes being stolen?

When you think about protecting with the best bike locks it's important to have an understanding of how bikes are being stolen. You can't protect against every attack in every situation so understanding what you need to worry about is step one. To that end, I did a lot of research to try and understand the issue and present options that cover the bases. Keep in mind it's constantly evolving and it's not as well studied as we'd like it to be. Here's what I found though. 

The most obvious tools are bolt cutters. They are inexpensive and low-tech as well as silent and easy to hide. They've been around for a long time as a tool of choice but they are actually beginning to see less use. 

The biggest reason that bolt cutters are seeing less use is the rise of inexpensive portable angle grinders. Bolt cutters are most effective against very low-security U-lock designs, chains, and cable locks. Given that medium-security U locks are the most used type of lock it makes sense to invest a little money into an easy-to-carry angle grinder. They are just as effective against a cable lock and very fast at handling higher security options as well. 

The other common tool in use is a breaker bar of some kind. Something like a steel pipe is common but really anything that's long enough to give leverage is ripe for use. The technique is to jam it into a lock and take advantage of the leverage to twist it until it breaks open. 

One attack method you might notice missing from this list is lock picking. If you are researching locks, you've no doubt stumbled on demonstrations of lock picking but the reality is that it's not a common attack method. It's a skill that requires a lot of technique and there are much easier ways to steal a bike. The people I interviewed to find out how bikes were being stolen were very clear that this was interesting to watch but uncommon in practice. 

What is the right type of bike lock?

Deciding what type of lock you buy is all about understanding how bikes are being stolen and then applying that to your situation. What level of risk are you willing to take on? What situation are you defending against and what is going to work for you? Through all of my research, the number one thing that continued to come up was that the large majority of bikes stolen weren't locked at all. That means it might be less important to worry about ultimate security than it is to worry about what you will use all the time. Here's some info to help make the decision though. 

The most common choice for medium, or high, security is a U lock. They are very secure, and very easy to carry, and there are a lot of choices across a wide range of price points. One of the biggest challenges with chain locks is the size. They are already heavy and a smaller lock will be more secure but they don't have much extra room to accommodate larger anchor objects. U-locks are most effective when you have access to a bike rack to lock against. The one important caveat when choosing a U lock is to always look for a double shackle. You want it to lock both sides of the U so that it takes two cuts to free the bike. 

The second most common option for security is a chain. Chains tend to be more secure for less money. They are also more secure against angle grinders because they are hard to hold still. They are less secure against bolt cutters because individual links often don't match the diameter of a U lock. They tend to be bigger and heavier than a U-lock design and carrying them can be more difficult. Where they excel is in their flexibility. If you need to lock your bike to a signpost or any kind of non-standard anchor, chains can do it for you. 

Another common locking solution is a folding lock. Folding locks are less secure than chains or U-locks because they have a lot of pieces that allow for attack vectors. Quality folding locks do their best to protect the hinges but there will always be vulnerability there. The wide hardened steel makes them difficult to cut with bolt cutters so it's not like they are pushovers and they are convenient. They can be flexible enough for non-standard anchors and they are easier to carry than other options. 

Remember, don't get too caught up in the details of what lock is technically more secure. The Los Angeles Police Department summarized it nicely when it said " Many bikes that are stolen are NOT secured" and that's what I also found when polling cyclists. Find a lock that you are going to use every single time and you've already got a huge leg up.  

How are bike locks rated?

In the UK, Sold Secure is an independent testing organisation. Lock makers submit samples of their locks to Sold Secure, who then use a variety of methods to try to break them. They talk to the police to identify trends in bike theft methods and any novel approaches are incorporated into their test protocols.

Sold Secure will rate a lock on four levels from Bronze through to Diamond on the strength of protection it affords and lock brands will show the rating on the packaging for their locks. A very low-security lock might be unrated.

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 letter U, and when the brace is fitted, it resembles the letter D. The term 'U lock' is widely adopted in the USA, while D lock is used more in the UK.

Why is there no recommended 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 recommend any? The easiest answer to that is that most aren't secure. Many cable locks use steel cables not hardened steel. Cutting them is so trivial and so fast that they only provide the most minimal protection. When I polled cyclists who’d had a lock defeated it was almost universally a cable lock. In most of those situations, they understood the low security but they thought it would be enough for a quick stop and it wasn’t. You can defeat other types of locks too but not as fast and not without making noise. 

That only partially answers the question though. Not everyone needs a high-security solution all the time. There are plenty of situations where covering theft of opportunity, what you might call walk away theft, is more than enough security. Think about a long ride with a snack stop far away from the city. In those situations, you might get away with a low security option but there are better low security options. You can come close to matching the price of a cable lock and you can find options that are easier to carry while offering similar security. 

Having said that, there are more secure cable locks available, as we've highlighted above.

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 can be susceptible to prying eyes. If the wrong person knows your combination, expect your steed to bolt from the stable. At the cheaper end of the market, a combination lock can be hacked without the need for tools. 

A key lock can be less prone to compromise, however, if ever you leave your keys on the train, you could be left having to 'steal' your own bike from the station. 

No matter the variant, bike locks are like front door mechanisms: they work on the principle of very close mechanical tolerances and don’t enjoy too much water or environmental contaminant ingress, which can lead to rust or jamming. 

The best bike locks have weather-proof covers which protect the keyhole, but all bike locks can benefit from similar care to what you’d apply to any drivetrain chain or suspension stanchion in terms of preventative maintenance. Clean, dry and lube them – for longevity and frustration-free locking performance.

How to lock your bike

I wrote 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 limit extra space between the lock and the bike. You also want to keep the lock farther from the ground. These small changes in how you use the chosen lock will make it more secure. Keeping the lock farther from the ground makes it more difficult to use the ground as leverage on a bolt cutter. Limiting extra space between the lock and the bike means it's more difficult to get a tool positioned for a leverage attack. 

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 biggest thing to remember is that these are insurance offers and that means they are very specific. There is no wiggle room for not quite meeting some requirements. Make sure you follow the instructions exactly. In the case of both Kryptonite and Onguard that means you need to have registered at the time you bought the lock so make sure you start there. 

Another good option for insurance is to add your own bike specific insurance and we have an article covering the best bike insurance . More coverage is better than less so doubling up won’t hurt. 

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 US non-profit that works to register bikes then helps with recovery if something happens; in the UK Bike Register and in Australia the National Bike Register provide a similar service. There's no guarantee of anything but they are doing amazing work and it doesn't hurt. 

If a bike goes missing you can access a community of people who will keep their eyes open and help you recover it. It's also a great opportunity to record the serial number of your bike and make sure you have it on hand. If law enforcement happens to recover a bike it will only come back to you if you've filed a police report and given them a serial number.  

You can also have your bike indelibly marked, which helps to deter theft and makes identification easier if your bike is stolen then recovered by the police or others. It's part of the Bike Register service in the UK and some police forces will occasionally have free registration campaigns.

Consider a bike tracker

If your bike does get stolen, it's rare that you'll recover it. You can increase your chances by hiding a bike tracker somewhere in your bike. The best bike trackers include passive devices like an Apple Air Tag or Tile sticker, which rely on proximity to a Bluetooth-enabled phone. 

There are also GPS-enabled devices that will broadcast their location over a mobile network, although you'll need to pay a recurring subscription for these.

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 the exception of the Litelok X1, I haven't taken an angle grinder to these locks because I know without a doubt that it's possible to cut them. The Litelok is the exception because the technology rides on the ability to resist an angle grinder so I decided to see how it worked. There are also a lot of people who have tried to cut the Hiplok D1000 so I’ve seen that demonstrated both personally and via plenty of videos. 

The other thing I didn’t try was cutting locks with bolt cutters. Bolt cutters will defeat locks but it’s dependent on the size of the tool and the size of the lock. There’s no testing to be done because it’s a mechanical fact with no room for error. Instead, what I’ve done is put these locks to the test from the standpoint of usability and helped set expectations. Locks that are low security are listed as such and everything here is a quality option that will work as expected. 

Third-party testing organisations such as Sold Secure will be much better at testing security as well, so their rating is a good indication to follow.

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Josh hails from the Pacific Northwest of the United States but would prefer riding through the desert than the rain. He will happily talk for hours about the minutiae of cycling tech but also has an understanding that most people just want things to work. He is a road cyclist at heart and doesn't care much if those roads are paved, dirt, or digital. Although he rarely races, if you ask him to ride from sunrise to sunset the answer will be yes. Height: 5'9" Weight: 140 lb. Rides: Salsa Warbird, Cannondale CAAD9, Enve Melee, Look 795 Blade RS, Priority Continuum Onyx

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The Best Bike Lock

By Duncan Niederlitz and Eve O'Neill

Bike thieves are a persistent plague . The first line of defense: a good bike lock.

To find the best bike lock, we ordered 33 of the toughest we could find and then sawed, chopped, and cut them to pieces.

We learned that almost every lock can be defeated in under a minute, but the Kryptonite Evolution Mini-7 offers enough of a security advantage over other locks in its price range to keep a modest commuter bike from becoming an easy target for thieves.

Everything we recommend

Kryptonite Evolution Mini-7 With 4' Flex Cable

The best bike lock.

With a dual-locking hardened 13 mm shackle, an included cable, and a free year of anti-theft protection, the Kryptonite Evolution Mini-7 is a good deterrent at a reasonable price.

Buying Options

Upgrade pick.

Kryptonite New York Fahgettaboudit Mini

An even stronger lock.

This lock is more secure than our top pick, but it also weighs a lot more.

Kryptonite New York Fahgettaboudit Chain

Best chain for the money.

If you need more length in your lock and weight is of little concern, the 10-pound Fahgettaboudit Chain is really tough.

Kryptonite Keeper 585

A medium-security folding lock.

This relatively lightweight folding lock can wrap around odd angles more easily than a U-lock and is more secure than a cable lock—but it’s not nearly as strong as a chain, and it’s pricey, too.

Things to know

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.

Using hacksaws, two sizes of bolt cutters, cordless drills, and angle grinders, we destroyed 33 bike locks from 14 companies .

Our main pick , upgrade pick , and favorite chain come with insurance, but you have to register your lock for it to take effect.

The insurance on our upgrade pick covers bikes in Manhattan (unlike our main pick’s).

The Kryptonite Evolution Mini-7 with 4' Flex Cable should withstand attacks from everything but power tools under most circumstances.

Once our testing began, we immediately saw the huge advantage this lock had over the competition: Its 13-millimeter hardened shackle (the big U-shaped loop that gives U-locks their name) can withstand bolt cutters, eliminating a large percentage of potential thieves.

Measuring 7 inches long and weighing a little under 3 pounds, it’s the perfect size for most people—long enough to lock the wheel and frame of most bicycles to a rack while leaving almost no room for someone to wedge a pry bar or a car jack inside it.

On top of that, the shackle in this design has an additional cutout at the end, which makes rotating (and therefore removing) it after cutting it even more difficult.

The Evolution Mini-7 uses a disc-detainer locking mechanism, which is much harder to pick than a typical wafer lock and should foil all but the most savvy criminal using specialty tools.

It also comes with a 4-foot cable to secure the front wheel, plus a free year of Kryptonite’s anti-theft protection . Two caveats on the latter: You must register your lock within 30 days of buying it, and the anti-theft protection on this lock does not apply to residents of Manhattan, where theft is very high. (The company’s New York lock series—including our upgrade pick and the chain pick below—is covered even in Manhattan.)

With an 18 mm dual-locking hardened shackle, the Kryptonite New York Fahgettaboudit Mini held up better than any other lock—except one—against cutting attacks. (That exception is the Hiplok D1000, which costs $300; see “ What about the Hiplok D1000? ” for more about it.) Even with a powered cut-off wheel, our testers took over a minute to make the two cuts necessary to remove it—four times longer to grind through than with the Evolution Mini-7.

However, this lock weighs almost 4.5 pounds, a full pound and a half more than the Mini-7. But if you’re in a high-risk area, and can’t spend $300, this lock is the one to buy. Like our top pick, it uses a very secure disc-detainer mechanism, and it’s long enough to fit around your bike’s frame and your wheel without becoming too cumbersome. For extra peace of mind, it also comes with a free year of the highest level ($5,000) of anti-theft coverage from Kryptonite. (Again, you have to register your lock within 30 days of purchase for the coverage to take effect.)

If you want to secure more than just your bike frame and wheel, if you have a cargo or electric bike that needs a longer lock, or if your favorite spot to lock up is around a street post, go with the Kryptonite New York Fahgettaboudit Chain , which is one of the toughest chain locks we tested. We encountered other chain locks that were harder to cut through, but they either cost too much more or weighed too much more. It has 3 feet of 14 mm hardened links held together by a 15 mm Kryptonite New York Disc Lock, and it should keep all but the most determined thieves at bay. (It too comes with a free year of the highest level of anti-theft coverage, as long as you register your chain.)

If security is your only concern, we recommend skipping a folding lock altogether because the rivets are easy to break. But there are a few special situations that folding locks can accommodate that other options can’t: You can lock them around large or strange shapes like handrails or lamp posts, they’re much sturdier than cables, and they’re a lot lighter than chains (and a pound lighter than our top U-lock pick, even minus its cable). We believe the Kryptonite Keeper 585 offers the best combination of security, weight, and price among folding locks. It also comes in a longer, 100 cm (39-inch) version, the Keeper 510 .

The Keeper 585 measures 85 cm (32 inches) long, weighs 1.7 pounds, has 3 mm hardened steel rivets, and comes with $500 of anti-theft protection from Kryptonite. Is your bike worth thousands more than $500? That should tell you everything you need to know—get a stronger lock.

The research

Why you should trust us, who this is for, how we picked, how we tested, our pick: kryptonite evolution mini-7 with 4' flex cable, upgrade pick: kryptonite new york fahgettaboudit mini, also great: kryptonite new york fahgettaboudit chain, also great: kryptonite keeper 585, what about the hiplok d1000, other good bike locks, the competition, care and maintenance, what to look forward to.

Duncan Niederlitz has worked in the bicycle industry since 2002 on both coasts of the United States, as well as abroad. He has owned many of the locks we’ve tested and has worked at shops selling all of them, occasionally having to cut them off bikes. Between that and the work he did for this guide, he has spent hundreds of hours researching, selling, using, and testing bike locks.

Eve O’Neill, a former senior staff writer covering outdoor gear for Wirecutter, started in 2014 as our first bike reporter.

We contacted John Edgar Park , an avid lock-picking enthusiast and instructor with over 20 years of experience, and we sat down together to review all the locks we had received to vet them for lock-picking vulnerabilities. In addition, we made arrangements to get in touch with a lock-picking group, and we visited on a night with a presentation on high-security disc-detainer locks. The meeting was in an unmarked room in an unmarked building, and everyone who gave a presentation used their Def Con code names.

We also corresponded with Mark Podob of Metlab , a heat-treating and metallurgic-consulting company, to gain insight into how locks are constructed.

We ended up choosing four Kryptonite locks, and we know how that kind of thing can look. But we think the data speaks for itself. Duncan was working at a bike shop in 2004 when the Bic pen fiasco went down (he appeared on the local news station demonstrating the technique), so we approached this guide with a skeptical view regarding any lock manufacturer’s claims.

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.

We spent many hours researching all the locks available from the major brands in the bicycle industry, attended trade shows to see not-yet-available options, reviewed earlier versions of this guide, and searched for well-reviewed locks from smaller companies or lesser-known brands.

Manufacturers make locks in a range of similar styles. Considering their supposedly different levels of security and proprietary ratings systems, however, it can be hard to decide which locks are comparable, other than blindly going by price or researching the ratings from independent organizations such as ART in the Netherlands and Sold Secure in England. Unfortunately these institutions use different rating scales, and not all lock manufacturers submit all of their locks to be tested. And although these independent labs return a rating, they do not make the reasoning behind the rating (or the tests they used to come to that conclusion) available to the public, so looking at their ratings still gave us only a rough idea of the security of any one lock.

We decided that our only way forward was to order the most expensive locks from every company we could and test them to destruction to set a baseline for what each company considered its highest level of security. We then ordered the budget locks from our previous guide, as well as some of the upgrades from companies that had finished well in our first round of tests, and destructively tested all of those, too. We eventually destroyed 35 locks from ABUS, Altor, Artago, Blackburn, Foldylock, Hiplok, Knog, Kryptonite, Litelok, Master Lock, OnGuard, RockyMounts, Schlage, and TiGr.

To truly test the effectiveness of a bike lock, you have to think like a bike thief. From our experiences working in shops over the years and interviewing professional bike thieves (yes, we’ve done that), we created a list of the most common tools that bicycle thieves use to defeat bike locks. It became the checklist that each model in our group of locks would need to survive to become a pick.

To be clear, the following is not a guide to stealing bikes. But to assess the security of bike locks, you have to really understand how they get stolen in the first place.

Lock picks: These require a lot of skill to use, and different locks require assorted tools and pose varying degrees of difficulty to pick. However, once a thief has the tools and the proficiency to quickly open a particular lock, the process merely becomes a matter of walking the streets and looking through racks of bikes for a target lock they recognize as being easy to open.

Cable cutters: Thieves carry out a large number of bike thefts (possibly most of them) using a simple pair of diagonal wire cutters. Unfortunately, the only reason simple diagonal cutters are so effective is that many people continue to lock their bicycles using just a braided steel cable and a padlock or a basic cable lock , even though such devices should be used strictly as accessory locks in most situations. A good set of bypass cutters can cut these locks in a single pass, and a tiny set of diagonal cutters can do so with multiple snips.

Bolt cutters: During Duncan’s work in shops over the years, he has heard hundreds of stolen-bike stories and has seen many cut locks, and most of them (not including snipped cable locks) have been cut with bolt cutters. Bolt cutters can be quite small and are quick to cut through certain kinds of locks.

Hacksaw: A hacksaw can work through a nonhardened lock quickly. Most chains from the hardware store, cheap U-locks, and cable locks can be defeated with a hacksaw. A hacksaw can be slow on a thicker lock, may catch and bind while trying to cut through a cable, and takes some physical effort to use in general.

Cordless drill: This is a rarer tool for bike thieves, as it works well on only a few types of locks, and most of those are also easier to defeat using other methods. But occasionally drills do see use (most often during an attempt to drill out a lock’s core). The locks that drills work well on (such as folding locks ) have become more popular, though.

Angle grinder: A thief with a battery-powered angle grinder will defeat any lock if given enough time—even the Hiplok D1000, though the thief had better be carrying a pile of spare disc blades to crack that lock. For the thief, the biggest drawback of a grinder is the noise and sparks it emits as it grinds through hardened steel. In the past, cordless tools didn’t have the power for such uses, but battery technology has advanced enough that they can perform just as well as their corded counterparts, and thus they have changed the landscape of bicycle security. It’s hard not to notice one of these tools, but a thief who can mask the noise and is brazen enough to use one will probably be successful in stealing the bike.

We did not pry open any locks with car jacks, because the jack would have to fit inside the shackle. You can make that kind of attack more difficult by using good locking technique, which means choosing a lock size that leaves very little room inside the shackle to fit a tool—all of the locks we tested were too small to accommodate a jack.

After we had our list, we needed to decide how the results of the tests would allow us to rank the locks. We believe that any form of security is only as good as its weakest part—think of a locked house with an open window, for instance, or a computer operating system with a backdoor. So we decided that the more quickly a lock could be opened, regardless of how well it performed in other respects, the lower it would score.

The first test would show if any of the locks could be picked (some could). The second would reveal whether any would fall victim to bolt cutters (some did), hacksawing (sadly), or drilling (no problem). The last would demonstrate how long each lock would take to cut through with an inexpensive portable angle grinder (quicker than you might think). After we completed all the tests, we ranked the locks based on their security and price to see where they stood, and then we factored in features such as durability, weight, portability, and ease of use.

The testing methods

Lock picking.

We contacted John Edgar Park , an avid lock-picking enthusiast and instructor with over 20 years of experience, and we sat down together to review all the locks we had received. With a quick visual inspection and a few pokes from one of the many pointy tools he had brought along in a folding leather pouch, Park immediately singled out how each mechanism worked and the easiest way to defeat each lock. Park also taught us how to pick a lock, which he managed to do to one model in less than 30 seconds. It’s a simple raking technique (video) that requires little skill and basic tools; someone could do it with a couple of pieces of scrap metal from a car’s wiper blade or a pair of bobby pins. And we had always thought MacGyver was a joke!

Just to be sure, we also got in touch with a lock-picking group, and we visited on a night with a presentation on disc-detainer locks, a type of high-security mechanism used in some bike locks. The meeting was in an unmarked room in an unmarked building. We learned that even the more basic disc-detainer locks we brought were very hard to pick, and nobody at the meeting had the proper tools to fit the smaller keyways most bicycle locks use. As a result, we came away confident that disc-detainer styles were secure against most lock-picking thieves.

In February 2021, a YouTube expert who goes by the name LockPickingLawyer posted a video in which he said that tools for picking disc-detainer locks were becoming more common—in fact, he designed one himself that’s now available online and that he used to open our top pick in 46 seconds and our upgrade pick in 58 seconds. Given that the brute-force methods we tried took even less time to destroy a lock, though, we remain less worried about lock picking than we do about bolt cutters and angle grinders.

Bolt cutters

The next test: bolt cutters. These tools are available at any home improvement store and usually make a sound during a theft only after it’s too late, when the lock splits apart and the thief is off with your bike. You could be within 20 feet of your bike and still not hear it. For our tests we used cutters of two lengths, a 24-inch HDX pair from Home Depot and a 36-inch Tekton 3421.

Some of the locks we tested claimed to be resistant, but most of them fell to our bolt cutters eventually. The easiest U-locks to cut through appeared to be only case-hardened , which seems to do little to stop bolt cutters since the tool’s jaws can crush and split the softer metal underneath the hardened shell. More expensive locks are hardened more thoroughly, via a different heat-treating process .

We weren’t expecting notable results from the hacksaw test, as even modest case-hardened steel usually deters a hacksaw. However, the Altor and TiGr locks we tested were both made of titanium, which is tough but not very hard, and the hacksaw proved that: With the hacksaw, we cut through each lock, held in a vise, in less than 30 seconds. Using the vise probably resulted in a cut time quicker than that of most real-world scenarios, but practiced thieves have vise-like tricks (using zip ties or leaning against the bike to steady it). The RockyMounts U-lock we tested used stainless steel, a material rarely found in bicycle locks, which to our eyes appeared to have been left unhardened; despite the lock’s large shackle diameter, our hacksaw cut through in just 90 seconds.

Cordless drill

Although a small cordless drill is louder than bolt cutters, it’s still barely noticeable over the sounds of a busy street. The drill we used in our testing was a 12 V Milwaukee Fuel, which is small enough to put into a jacket pocket. While the Altor gave in to the bolt cutters and the ABUS Folding Lock Bordo Granit X-Plus did as well after much effort on our part, the drill easily defeated both. A quick look was all we needed to see that the hinge was probably the weakest component of each system, and we quickly removed the locks by drilling straight through the rivet holding the hinge together.

Angle grinder

We knew all the locks would fall to the 7,000 rpm of an aluminum-oxide disc—we just weren’t sure how long it would take. After years of hearing anecdotes from bike-shop customers, reading marketing literature, and removing the odd lock here and there, we expected it would take more than a minute for us to complete one cut.

We charged all the batteries we had for our cordless grinder, made extra coffee, and mentally prepared for the hours of grinding that lay ahead of us. Then the first lock took 14 seconds to cut through. The next, 15. Some of the locks couldn’t survive past the 10-second mark; the thickest and strongest ones resisted for only 30 seconds before we made one cut. (In 2022 and 2023, we took an angle grinder to the Hiplok D1000 U-lock, which its makers says resists angle grinders. See “ What about the Hiplok D1000? ” for the results.)

We learned that no lock available at the time (2017) could resist cutting for more than a minute against modern tools, even if it was a chain or had a dual-locking shackle and needed two cuts for removal. Granted, we did these tests under ideal circumstances with each lock in a vise to create an equal setting for the locks, but after testing locks in more awkward and unrestrained positions and seeing only a marginal increase in time, we can say that our results aren’t too far off from what you can expect in the real world. Even if it’s painfully obvious that a bike is being stolen, it seems to barely cause any alarm or attract attention, as demonstrated in one of our favorite videos .

So why bother to lock a bike? It unfortunately comes down to beating the bike owners around you—after all, you don’t need to outrun the bear, you just need to outrun the other person with you. If you can ride a less expensive bike and lock it up properly with a better lock in a safer location, you can remove the temptation for a thief to pick your bike over an easier target.

The Kryptonite Evolution Mini-7 U-lock incorporates a wider combination of theft-resistant features than almost anything we’ve looked at that isn’t twice the price or twice as heavy. It has a more thoroughly hardened, dual-locking shackle, which lesser locks don’t have, and it’s outfitted with a more secure disc-detainer locking mechanism. It also comes with a 4-foot cable and a free year of the company’s anti-theft protection (as long as you don’t live in Manhattan and you remember to register your lock within 30 days of purchase). This model is usually about $20 more expensive than the KryptoLok Standard , which shares some of its technology (specifically, the locking mechanism and the dual-deadbolt shackle), but it includes a year of Kryptonite’s protection coverage , up to $2,500. (You have to pay $10 for the first year of protection on the KryptoLok, and that coverage pays up to $1,750 at most.)

Instead of using just a case-hardened shackle, the Evolution series uses a harder steel shackle and a hardening process that, while not technically “through hardened,” still allowed the Mini-7 to withstand more abuse in our tests than other locks at the same price. We cut lesser locks with only 24-inch bolt cutters, but the Evolution Mini-7 withstood even our 36-inch cutters, surviving with just a couple of small scratches.

The current Evolution line also uses deadbolts on both sides of the shackle, rather than having a non-locking bent foot on one end. (This line of Evolution locks used to be called “New-U,” but Kryptonite recently dropped “New-U” from all the locks’ names.) The advantage of the redesigned shackle is that a thief would most likely need to make two cuts with a power tool to pry it open. And after making those cuts, the thief would need to twist the shackle off; on the locks in this series, Kryptonite added a small cutout to each end, making it that much harder to twist off.

The lock also incorporates the more secure disc-detainer locking mechanism. This style of keyway and mechanism is resistant to picking, requiring specialty tools, patience, and skills. After consulting with multiple lock-picking enthusiasts and experts, we decided that the chances of having a disc-detainer lock picked on the street are very slim, in contrast to the likelihood for some of the other lock types we tested. (The YouTube personality LockPickingLawyer posted a video in February 2021 demonstrating how, with a tool he designed, he was able to pick the (then New-U) Evolution in less than a minute. However, considering his level of expertise and the conditions he was working in—able to hold the lock in his hands under good lighting—we believe that brute-force attacks pose more of a problem in real life.)

The Evolution has a durable protective rubber coating on all the main parts to prevent scratches on your bike’s paint. It’s also available in multiple sizes, but we think the 7-inch size (which weighs about 3.5 pounds, cable included) is ideal for most people. If you are commuting on a bike with large tires and need to lock both wheels, the Mini-7 might not be long enough to fit over the tire and frame. You can solve that problem by adding locking wheel skewers , but Kryptonite also sells the Evolution in a larger size without the cable. If you are unsure about the fit, swing by your local shop to check.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

We still believe that thanks to the hardness of the shackle and the difficulty of squeezing a car jack into a properly locked Evolution Mini-7, it will thwart most attacks (other than with an angle grinder) better than any other lock at this price. But if you’re in a high-risk area or if you live in Manhattan, where the only locks covered by Kryptonite’s anti-theft protection are the New York series, you should probably upgrade to the Kryptonite New York Fahgettaboudit. And if you own a particularly expensive or hard-to-replace bike, you might even want to consider the Hiplok D1000 .

And although the Mini-7 comes with one of the better mounts for attaching it to a bike frame, that isn’t saying much. U-locks are the bane of bicycle mechanics everywhere because the mounts always seem to be in an awkward spot or to come loose over time. If at all possible, carrying this lock on a rack or in a basket is definitely the preferred method, but the mount will suffice.

The Kryptonite New York Fahgettaboudit Mini U-lock is a workhorse. You won’t find any special features or frills, just a lot of lock—4.55 pounds’ worth. It uses a through-hardened dual-locking shackle and extra metal in the crossbar for even more security. The 18 mm shackle has a cross-sectional area twice that of the Evolution’s 13 mm shackle and thus takes twice as long to cut through. Since this lock is in Kryptonite’s New York series of locks, it’s covered by the company’s theft protection even in Manhattan (The coverage is for $5,000—or the cost of your insurance deductible, should the theft be covered—and it’s free for the first year. You can extend it for up to five years, for an additional cost of up to $35.)

Like the Evolution, this lock employs a disc-detainer locking mechanism; also like the Evolution, the New York Fahgettaboudit wasn’t able to withstand the attentions of YouTuber LockPickingLawyer for more than a minute. However, as with the Evolution, we’re less concerned about lock picking than we are about bolt cutters and angle grinders.

The only significant downside to this lock, other than an increase in price over the Evolution, is that it’s much heavier. But as our tests showed, a more hardened metal (and more of it) is the key to more security. The New York Fahgettaboudit Mini also does not include any mounting hardware for attaching it to your frame (though we doubt that the mount would even stay in place considering this lock’s weight), and unlike our top pick it does not come with a cable.

Sometimes you need a chain lock. The Kryptonite New York Fahgettaboudit Chain is the best chain for the money for high-security situations. It uses 14 mm through-hardened links and comes in a fairly standard 39-inch length (which weighs more than 10 pounds) as well as in a giant, 5-foot version (15-plus pounds). The chain is connected by Kryptonite’s 15 mm New York disc lock, which employs a dual-locking shackle and a disc-detainer mechanism. And because it is in Kryptonite’s New York series of locks, it is covered by the company’s anti-theft protection in Manhattan.

Although we did not take as long to cut through this chain with the angle grinder as we did the New York Fahgettaboudit Mini, we found that it provided almost as much security; it also had a more usable length. The only chain locks that took us longer to cut though were the Kryptonite New York Legend Chain and the Artago 69T100E , both of which cost significantly more at the time we tested them. If you’re particularly concerned about security, we think spending money on a strong second lock to use around the front wheel (in addition to the lock you’re already using on the back of the frame) would be a more savvy purchase and would give you more security for the same amount of money.

There’s a small intersection in the bicycle-lock world, a place where the features of a U-lock, chain, or cable don’t neatly triangulate. Perhaps you regularly find yourself in a location where a U-lock can’t fit around what you’re trying to lock your bike to, but a chain is much too heavy for you to carry, and a cable lock isn’t secure enough (for what it’s worth, we do not recommend cable locks used alone, ever, because they are so easily snipped). In that case, a folding lock might be the solution to your problem, and among models in that category, the Kryptonite Keeper 585 offers the best combination of security, weight, and price.

The Keeper 585 folding lock measures 85 cm (32 inches) long and weighs 1.7 pounds, and it comes with $500 of anti-theft protection from Kryptonite (this protection, as with all Kryptonite locks that are not part of the company’s New York series, is not valid in Manhattan). A folding lock is not very secure because the rivets in the hinges are easily compromised with a drill. And folding locks also don’t provide that much weight or size advantage over a U-lock.

The rivets on the Keeper 585 are 3 mm hardened steel. You can find folding locks that use thicker, 5 mm rivets, such as the Rocky Mounts Hendrix and even other Kryptonite models , but we drilled through them in nearly the same amount of time as we did the smaller rivets. Judging from our findings, we can say it takes a lot more than an additional 2 mm of metal—more like 10 mm (which you’ll find on the 13 mm shackle on our top pick)—to get in the way of power tools.

Giving up on those bigger rivets in favor of the Keeper 585 gives you a lock that’s nearly a pound lighter and $10 to $30 cheaper. And it still carries a bronze rating from Sold Secure, the same rating as on all other Kryptonite folding locks, even the bigger, more expensive versions. The folding lock with the highest Sold Secure rating is the ABUS Bordo Granit X-Plus , but that’s 4 pounds of lock that costs over $100. If you need something very strong, such as if you’re trying to lock up an ebike, we recommend passing on a folding lock and getting a fat chain instead—same price, but you get 14 mm of steel versus 5 mm of steel. For greater security, it’s a no-brainer.

In addition, Kryptonite offers an anti-theft warranty with its folding locks, in this case up to $500 in the event the lock is compromised. (Again, you have to register your lock within 30 days of buying it.) This lock also comes in a longer version, the Keeper 510 . It’s the same thing but 100 cm (39 inches) long and an extra 0.2 pound as a result of the longer length.

In the fall of 2021, the British bike lock company Hiplok announced that it had made a lock, the D1000 , using a graphene-reinforced ceramic composite designed to withstand a portable angle grinder, and it launched a Kickstarter campaign to publicize it. After the funding period was over, at the end of October, Hiplok sent us a sample lock ( we don’t test or evaluate products while they’re still in crowdfunding ) that was, they told us, one of the first 30 made. Duncan Niederlitz, who did the lock testing (and destroying) for the 2017 edition of this guide, hauled out his portable angle grinder to demolish the sample lock. He went through two disc blades cutting through the lock on the first try, going very carefully and trying not to let the disc blades catch. On the second attempt, he went faster, pushing harder, and it took five blades to cut through the lock. A third, slower attempt also took five blades. “If I was a thief,” he said, “I’d probably quit after the second wore out—if I even carried a spare.”

In order to be sure that the lock we tested ends up being the same lock regular customers will receive, we ordered two more locks as soon as we could, in May of 2022, on the Hiplok website. When they arrived, late in September, Duncan took one and revved up his angle grinder again. He reported that the lock we bought performed just as well as the preproduction one: “Took another five blades to cut through it once, which left a 0.75-inch gap if pulled apart, so someone would probably need to cut it twice” to actually get it off. (The shackles are square, so you can’t twist them to make the gap wider.) He then tried a metal-cutting diamond blade, which didn’t wear down as the regular blades did, but it took him three minutes and 40 seconds to cut once through the shackle—it lasted far longer than any other lock we’ve tested. And this was, of course, under optimal conditions: in a well-lit area, with a vise holding the lock steady.

Hiplok’s specs say that the lock weighs 1.9 kilograms (4 pounds, 2.8 ounces); our kitchen scale says 1.925 kilograms (4 pounds, 3.9 ounces). Either way, that’s less than our upgrade pick, the Kryptonite New York Fahgettaboudit Mini, weighs. (The two locks are nearly identical in terms of their interior dimensions.) The Hiplok costs twice as much as our upgrade pick, and it doesn’t offer any kind of protection coverage like Kryptonite does. Still, given the results of our testing, we’re weighing making it our upgrade pick, after we’ve seen how the lock withstands other modes of attack and how it stands up to daily life (and dirt, water, and wear) on the streets of New York City. Update: As of June 2024, no would-be thief has tried to defeat the D1000 that one of our NYC-based staff members is using to lock his bike. He’ll keep tempting them.

If you need a lock for a bike-storage room or garage: Consider the Kryptonite New York Legend Chain , which is the strongest chain we tested but too big and heavy to carry around. (It weighs nearly 15 pounds and measures nearly 5 feet long; unlike the New York Fahgettaboudit Chain, it does not come in a shorter, lighter version.) The New York Legend Chain’s bulk makes it best suited as a leave-in-place lock, not one you would bring with you and use multiple times a day.

If you want a folding lock with more anti-theft insurance: Check out the Kryptonite KryptoLok 685 , 610 , and 610 S folding locks, which are all stronger versions of our folding-lock pick. The main difference is that they have rivets measuring 5 mm thick, instead of 3 mm. We wouldn’t spend the extra money on any of them for that reason alone, as in our tests a drill still defeated them easily. However, they all come with a much bigger insurance policy: $1,750, versus the $500 of coverage that comes with our top folding choice. If that’s of value to you, upgrading to one of these versions would be worth the investment. Of the three, we’d choose the 610 S; all other things being equal, the narrower design is nice and gives the 610 S a more streamlined fit if you mount it on a down tube.

Kryptonite Evolution Mini-7: This model, our previous top pick, was replaced by our current pick , which used to be called the New-U Evolution Mini-7 but confusingly now bears the same name as its predecessor. (Although you may still see the older version for sale at some retailers and on Amazon, it no longer appears on Kryptonite’s website.) The main difference is that it locks on only one side, in contrast to the current Evolution Mini-7, which has a dual-locking shackle. You can identify the older version, which we no longer recommend, by its bent foot, visible in the video below.

Kryptonite KryptoLok Standard : This U-lock employs a disc-detainer mechanism, like the 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. We believe that spending more on a more-hardened lock, such as the Evolution, could drastically reduce the percentage of thieves with the tools necessary to cut your lock.

Kryptonite KryptoLok Series 2 995 Integrated Chain : This chain’s biggest drawback is that a thief could cut it with bolt cutters, but in our tests the square shape of the 9 mm chain tended to slip out of the jaws of the cutters, and breaking it required quite some work on our part. This model would be a good secondary lock and chain.

Kryptonite New York Cinch : This chain is lighter and less expensive than the New York Fahgettaboudit Chain, and as a result it brings a slight decrease in security. If you already need so much security that you’re considering this model, getting the New York Fahgettaboudit Chain makes more sense.

Kryptonite TKO Folding Bicycle Lock : This folding lock is sold exclusively at Walmart, and for a very tempting price (about $25). It is made by Kryptonite, but that’s all it has in common with our picks. Walmart describes it as a “modern, high-security lock,” but its Kryptonite Security Level is “3”—suitable only for a quick stop in a rural area . Our tester was able to pop the rivets on the one we purchased, using a short length of pipe, in less than 10 seconds.

OnGuard: Generally, OnGuard locks did very well in our strength tests, with cutting times close to those of our top picks. But when we did our testing, we discovered that the huge deficiency of OnGuard locks, including the OnGuard Brute STD , OnGuard Beast 8016 , and OnGuard Pitbull STD , was the lock mechanism itself. At that time, OnGuard used wafer locks, in contrast to the more secure disc-detainer style on our picks; wafer locks are particularly easy to pick without fancy tools or advanced skill. Since then, OnGuard has changed its models’ cylinders to the slider type, which can be more secure depending on how many sliders are involved. Still, the Kryptonite locks performed slightly better in our brute-force tests.

ABUS Folding Lock Bordo Granit X-Plus : Though folding locks are tempting for their light and compact design, they’re not as high-security as their makers claim, as a thief can easily defeat them by drilling out the unhardened pins that hold the links together. With enough patience we were also able to pop this model’s links apart by working large bolt cutters into the joints, as House of Chain demonstrates on a smaller version of the Folding Lock Bordo in this video . The Bordo Granit X-Plus would be okay for low-crime areas, but its price is too high relative to the level of protection it provides.

ABUS Folding Lock Bordo Alarm 6000a : This upgraded version of the ABUS Folding Lock has all the same perks and flaws, with the added annoyance of incessant beeping every time it senses motion.

ABUS U-Lock Granit X-Plus : This U-lock was one of the lightest for its size, and we took significantly less time to cut through it than we did cutting through the Kryptonite New York Fahgettaboudit Mini.

Hiplok Gold : This chain lock has a design that allows you to wear the chain around your waist without locking it. (Wearing one locked is something that you should never do—keys get lost, locks jam, accidents happen, and paramedics need to be able to remove the lock easily in the event of an emergency.) It’s a nice feature, but the cut time for this lock was one of the quickest in our tests, and the real dealbreaker was our ability to snip it quickly with large bolt cutters.

Hiplok D Bike Lock : This lock has a double-locking shackle and is hardened, and we were unable to cut through it with bolt cutters. It uses a wafer-style locking mechanism (which is less secure than the disc-detainer locks on our picks), albeit a much better one than on the OnGuard models we tested; a thief could still pick it with more basic tools than they’d need for a disc-detainer mechanism, but to us it seemed much more secure than any of the OnGuard locks. Even with the dual-locking shackle, though, the Hiplok D showed some movement after one angle-grinder cut in our tests, enough for a thief to remove it from many bike frames.

RockyMounts Compton Large : This 18 mm lock was one of the heaviest we tested. It is made of stainless steel, which is harder than mild steel but definitely not as hard as hardened steel—something we proved in our tests, as we were able to cut through it in just over half the time we took to breach the Artago and Kryptonite locks, both of which also use 18 mm shackles. In addition, this was the least ergonomic lock we tested, with nonrubberized, sharp steel edges. (This lock appears to have since been discontinued.)

TiGr Mini : This has our favorite frame mount of all the locks we’ve tried, but the big dealbreaker is that it easily succumbs to cutting with bolt cutters, despite the maker’s claims to the contrary. We found a severe weak point between the main shackle and the locking mechanism, a gap that permits even small bolt cutters to shear the lock open. Also, titanium is tough but not necessarily hard, and we were able to saw through the TiGr Mini in under 30 seconds when we had it in a vise.

Litelok One : We found the band of this lock extremely difficult to cut through without power tools. The arrangement of the cables against a flat metal strip is a clever idea and works particularly well for slowing these types of attacks. The dealbreaker: We used just a pair of small bolt cutters against the lock mechanism (this is where most thieves actually cut many cable locks, as it tends to be quicker), and the entire mechanism spread open. A second cut through the post made the lock come apart.

RockyMounts Hendrix : A folding lock, the Hendrix is more compact and slightly lighter (by 0.2 pound) than our folding-lock pick, but that’s because it’s 10 cm shorter (only 74 cm total). That length limits its usefulness—for instance, it didn’t fit the mountain bike we tried it on.

Foldylock Classic : Although this model carries a silver rating from Sold Secure—one step higher than the rating on the Kryptonite Keeper 585—we found security upgrades on folding locks to offer almost negligible benefit. (That is, the rivets on such locks are still vulnerable to drills.) The Foldylock Classic is a pound heavier than our top pick of the same length, and more expensive. The Foldylock Compact , despite being “compact,” has the same problem, as it’s still heavier and more expensive than our pick of the same length. And neither version comes with any theft protection.

Locks take a lot of abuse, from drops to rain to snow to road grime. Luckily, maintaining the locks we’ve chosen is easy: Just open the lock, clean out any grime you can see with a cloth, spray in some degreaser if it’s feeling gritty, and then spray in a dry lube (such as Tri-Flow Superior Dry Lubricant or Finish Line Dry Bike Lubricant ) and rotate the key a few times in the lock. Kryptonite offers easy-to-follow instructions on its website .

This article was edited by Christine Ryan.

Competitors to Hiplok’s D1000 are starting to appear. We have one, the Abus Granit Super Extreme 2500 , in hand to test. We will report back with results. We also plan to test the “hardened steel” version of TiGr’s titanium lock.

John Edgar Park, maker, writer, and lock-picking enthusiast with more 20 years of experience , in-person interview

Mark Podob, vice president of marketing and sales, Metlab , email interview

Meet your guides

Duncan Niederlitz

Eve O'Neill

Eve O'Neill is a former senior staff writer reporting on travel and outdoors at Wirecutter. She can remember the titles on her childhood bookshelf that set her in this direction: Into Thin Air, On The Road, The Call of the Wild . She has always been drawn to ideas about how to relate to, and play in, the wilderness.

Further reading

The Best Bike Phone Mount

by Amy Roberts and Christine Ryan

After riding with 27 smartphone bike mounts over 120 miles’ worth of smooth and rough roads, we’d trust our phones to the mounts from Quad Lock .

The Best First Pedal Bike

by Laura Motley

Learning to ride a bike is a rite of passage. Depending on the bike, the process can be either unnecessarily frustrating or, well, like a ride in the park.

The Best Bike Storage Ideas

by Christine Ryan

After 30-plus hours of research and testing, we think the Delta Cycle Michelangelo Gravity Stand  is the best bike rack for storing bikes in limited-space homes.

The Best Bike Racks and Carriers for Cars and Trucks

by Eric C. Evarts

After testing more than 75 bike racks, we recommend the Küat Sherpa 2.0 hitch rack as the best way to carry your bikes on a car.

The 10 Best Bike Locks for Securing Your Ride Anywhere

Whether you’re just ducking in for a coffee or leaving your bike out all day, there’s a lock to help keep it safe.

Gear-obsessed editors choose every product we review. We may earn commission if you buy from a link. How we test gear.

In five minutes’ time, you can order a coffee , check your email, politely glance at the other café-goers, receive said coffee, and return to where you left your unlocked bike , which was stolen four minutes ago. Shouldn’t have asked for that extra shot. But hindsight is 20/20, and now your prized bicycle is listed on a neighboring city’s Craigslist for pennies of what you paid.

The FBI reported 125,136 bike thefts in 2019 (the most recent year for which it has full data), although the actual number is likely higher because most property crimes go unreported, according to a Pew Research analysis of 2022 numbers from the FBI and Bureau of Justice Statistics. A study by 529 Garage found that less than 5 percent of stolen bikes make it back to their owners, which means yours is probably gone for good.

The good news is that since bike thieves are criminals of opportunity, you can decrease your risk by locking up more intelligently than the next cyclist. Check out our reviews of the best bike locks below, and keep reading for more information on various lock types and how to use them best.

• The Best Bike Locks
• Best U-Lock: Kryptonite New-U New York
• Best Value U-Lock: Abus Ultra 410
• Best Folding Lock: Altor Apex
• Best Chain Lock: OnGuard 8020 Mastiff
• Best Lightweight Lock: Ottolock Cinch Combination Lock

Why Trust Us?

How we evaluated, our full reviews of u-locks, our full reviews of chain locks, our full reviews of folding locks, our full reviews of lightweight locks, the four types of locks, types of lock bodies/mechanisms, using your lock, recovering a stolen bike.

Bicycling has been testing bikes, accessories, and more since 1961, a lot longer than anyone else in the biz. We’re constantly evaluating the latest tech, both as a team and as individuals; even when we don’t acquire gear strictly for work, we’re giving it all a proper torture test. We’re cyclists, too, and we depend on quality gear, especially when it’s keeping our bikes from becoming someone else’s—that’s why it’s easiest for us to simply let you know what has worked best for us, regardless of how much noise a shiny new product is making.

Join Bicycling All Access for more gear advice

Every lock here has been thoroughly evaluated and vetted by our team of test editors. For those we got hands on, we used these locks, weighed them, and scanned their mechanisms for weak points. We even cut a few with power tools in individual tests, including the Kryptonite New-U New York , the Hiplok DX , and the OnGuard Mastiff .

The rest of the locks haven’t gotten a proper cut test (yet), but we’ve used them both in formal testing and as our personal locks, all without any glaring frustrations. Additionally, we researched testing and picking conducted by outlets like Wirecutter and Bike Radar, as well as experts like LockPickingLawyer , to identify the effectiveness of each lock type against hypothetical assailants.

Check out these options for securing your bike and shackling down some peace of mind. And scroll all the way down to read more info on features and aspects to consider when buying your own bike lock, a breakdown of the different types of locking mechanisms, and more.

Kryptonite New-U New York Bike Lock

All you need to know about the Kryptonite New-U New York Lock is in the fine print: The company will replace your bike (up to $4,000) if it’s stolen because the lock was compromised in New York , where thousands of bikes are stolen each year. This U-lock has a 16mm hardened steel shackle and uses a pass-through crossbar design to prevent twisting attacks, forcing thieves to cut the shackle twice to compromise the lock. From our experience, the 4-pound lock works great as a mallet, too.

The included mounting bracket uses a nylon strap to affix to the frame rather than going through the bottle bosses, a design that increases your options for mounting positions. However, the design relies on friction to keep the lock in place, so user reviews are mixed on whether it works long-term. One crafty Amazon reviewer used their own hardware to screw the mount to the bottle bosses, which might prove sturdier than the friction mount.

Abus Ultra 410 Bike Lock

The Abus Ultra is a great entry-level U-lock that works in various situations. It’s a bit longer than the typical U-lock, so it can be easier to fasten when a mini lock might not work. The inclusion of a cable makes this package even more appealing, as you can easily and quickly secure the wheels as well as the frame. (You could even use it to lock up two bikes in a pinch if your friend forgot their lock at home.) However, we wouldn’t recommend it for long-term or overnight parking.

Hiplok DX Wearable Maximum Security Bike Lock

Urban cyclists have been stuffing mini U-locks into back pockets and beneath belts for years, which works fine but isn’t too comfortable. So Hiplok reimagined the U-lock with a crucial addition: a clip. With it, the lock slides onto your waistband and isn’t annoying to ride with, so long as you have a tight enough waistband.

The rest of the lock is formidable, with a 14mm shackle that locks on both sides of the crossbar. In our test, the shackle defeated the blade on our hacksaw rather quickly but fell victim to a 5-inch cordless angle grinder in about 30 seconds—an average time for cutting a hardened-steel shackle. And thieves will need two cuts to defeat this lock.

OnGuard 8020 Mastiff Bike Lock

The Mastiff is an absolute brute of a lock, heavier than most cyclists want to carry (although we didn’t mind schlepping it around on an e-bike). The 3.5-foot-long chain has 10mm-thick, titanium-reinforced steel links that are hexagonally shaped to make cutting difficult.

The company’s tough Boxer U-lock secures the chain at each end. A nylon sheath keeps the chain from scratching your frame. For an extra $15, you can purchase the anti-theft protection program , which covers your bike (assuming you’ve locked it up properly) for three years.

Hiplok Gold Wearable Chain Bike Lock

The Hiplok Gold is designed for you to wear it. Rather than locking to your waist—a potentially dangerous move if you crash—the chain has a patented nylon clip and hook-and-loop waist adjuster to close around your torso. It also features a burly 10mm-thick, hardened-steel chain and a 12mm hardened-steel shackle that’s encased in a nylon shell. The sleeve surrounding the chain is removable and washable, and its reflective coating increases your visibility at night.

In testing, we confirmed that the adjustable belt doesn’t fit riders with waists narrower than about 30 inches (Hiplok notes this on its website). And even riders with 32-inch waists might experience slippage. Our main tester has a 34-inch waist, and although the belt cinched tight enough, the heavy chain became uncomfortable after an hour in the saddle. For shorter commutes, though, we loved its convenience and high security.

Altor Apex Folding Bike Lock

Altor’s Apex is an elegant device with a premium feel to match its price. At 2.4 pounds, it’s among the lighter folding locks. Its bottle mount held up; in testing, the Apex stayed put and didn’t rattle as we pedaled. Unfolded, it’s just big enough to secure your frame and front or rear wheel.

Its hardened-steel construction should be formidable against hand tools; reviewers at Wirecutter were able to drill through the hinges of the previous version, the 560G. But the Apex has hardened-steel joint caps to protect the rivets from drilling attacks.

RockyMounts Hendrix Compact Folding Bike Lock

The Hendrix is one of the smallest non-cable locks you’ll find, and RockyMounts includes a holder that mounts on your frame’s bottle bosses for easy portaging. The 5mm steel links present a challenge for cutting tools, and hardened pins aim to resist power drills.

Still, we wouldn’t consider this a high-security lock (RockyMounts rates it a 7 out of 10 on its own security scale). But if you’re looking for a medium-security option to fit in a jersey pocket, the Hendrix might be the best pick.

Ottolock Cinch Combination Bike Lock

The Ottolock Cinch offers solid security for quick trips into the store (the company indicates it’s not for long lockups or high-risk areas). The 0.5-pound lock has a band made of Kevlar and steel to prevent cuts, and the whole thing coils up to a 3-inch-diameter package that stows away beneath your saddle rails.

Although not a replacement for a traditional U-lock, it’s smaller and more durable than a cable, making it a convenient upgrade. And the company sells a mount for your frame or seatpost for an additional $25.

Kryptonite KryptoFlex Looped Security Cable Bike Lock

If you use a U-lock as your primary security, adding a cable to your setup is a lightweight solution for quickly locking both wheels and your frame. The downside of cables is that they’re little more than deterrents and can be surprisingly easy to cut. Still, this is a relatively cheap way of keeping someone from simply walking away with one of your wheels while you’re running a quick errand. It comes in four sizes, the longest of which is 30 feet, while its standard 7-foot length is great for locking up a saddle, rear wheel, and frame.

Hiplok Z Lok Combo Lock

Like the other locks in this category, we wouldn’t recommend the Z Lok as your bike’s only form of security for any high-risk environments unless you can maintain a line of sight, as you might when stopping for coffee. It does complement a more robust system of locks perfectly, especially if you want to secure your helmet (through the vents, not the chin strap!).

This lock is small enough to tuck away in a jersey pocket, which makes it ideal for long rides when you’re planning a gas station or pastry shop stop. It won’t make much of a difference if someone comes along with tin snips, which could foil this lock near-instantly, but it will make it abundantly clear to you and any other witnesses that the person fiddling with your bike is stealing it. In some environments, that’s an effective deterrent all on its own.

A thief with the right tools can defeat any bike lock in five minutes, but that doesn’t mean all locks are the same. The crook will raise hell cutting through a hardened-steel U-lock or chain with an angle grinder, so they’re more likely to go after a cheaper, lightweight cable lock with a set of bolt cutters. To decide how much security you need, consider your location and duration of lockup.

All-day lockups on college campuses and in major metro areas where thefts are common require more security, says Kryptonite brand manager Daryl Slater. Anything left out overnight necessitates paranoia-level countermeasures—using multiple locks that the same bolt cutters can’t defeat is a good start. Here’s how the basic lock types differ in order of most to least secure.

Most U-locks (D-locks in the U.K.) require power tools to cut. They’re heavier and more expensive than most other varieties, but you’ll want the hardened steel when a misguided thief attempts to defeat one with hand tools. High-security models like Kryptonite’s New-U New York use double dead bolts, which means two cuts are needed to open the lock—all but the most daring thieves see them and keep moving.

Chain Locks

Chain locks can be as secure as U-locks if the chain is hardened steel and the shackle is equally durable. A hardware store chain matched with your old gym class combo lock, though, is losing to a pair of bolt cutters. A large chain can lock up a bike’s frame and both wheels while increasing the diameter of the tree, post, etc. to which you’re able to lock your bike, and models like the Hiplok Gold fit comfortably around your waist for portability.

Folding Locks

Folding locks are increasingly popular alternatives to chain and cable locks, and their low profile when folded makes them great for commuters . Some are susceptible to bolt cutters, a Wirecutter test found, and power drills can quietly compromise their connecting joints. Like chains, they enable you to lock up to objects too big for U-locks or D-locks.

Lightweight Locks

Lightweight locks come in a variety of designs, such as the zip tie of the Ottolock Cinch and Hiplok Z Lok or simple cables. Most of these locks can be defeated by hand tools like bolt cutters and tin snips, so reserve them for light security situations like popping into a store.

Bike lock manufacturers use a few popular mechanisms with varying levels of security. Lock-picking is an acquired skill, and anecdotal evidence indicates that destructive attacks are much more common. Likewise, an expert with the right tools can get through any bike lock pretty quickly—see LockPickingLawyer or Bosnianbill for a master class in advanced bike lock-picking.

Thankfully, most thieves aren’t expert locksmiths with custom tools, but amateurs can still foil a couple of prominent lock designs with fairly basic attacks. We consulted a lock-picking expert, Schuyler Towne, to break down the prominent locking mechanisms in order of most to least secure. Below are his descriptions of the four most prominent lock body designs.

Bike locks may have different locking mechanisms, but most use a similar basic construction to the pin tumbler lock (above). The key goes into a plug that sits within a cylinder, and a series of pins, wafers, discs, or sliders prevent the plug from turning without a key.

In a pin tumbler lock, a series of spring-loaded pins prevent the plug from turning. Inserting a key, or picking the lock, lifts the tumblers to clear the shear line—where the plug meets the cylinder—and opens the lock.

Disc Detainer

Also called disc-tumbler locks, these locking mechanisms use a series of slotted rotating discs separated by washers. Each disc has a cutout; when locked, the cutouts don’t line up, but inserting and turning the key rotates them into alignment to form a channel. 

A sidebar rests against the discs, preventing you from turning the lock when there’s no channel for it to drop into. Therefore, opening a disc-detainer lock means aligning each individual disc to a relatively precise position, which usually proves more difficult than picking other lock designs. 

Disc-detainer mechanisms are popular on bike locks because they’re fairly secure. Also on the plus side: They don’t contain springs and can be manufactured to low tolerances, two factors that mean they continue to work after years of use.

In a slider lock, inserting a key actuates a series of springless sliders within a plug that corresponds to a slot on the outside of the plug. Riding atop the sliders in the slot is a sidebar, which must fall into the slot before the lock can turn. 

With the key inserted and the sliders in their correct position, the sidebar falls into the slot and the plug turns within the cylinder. These locks can be high or low security, depending on their construction and the number of sliders.

Pin Tumbler

This lock has a plug that sits within a cylindrical housing. The plug and housing contain long pin chambers that allow a series of pins that are spring-loaded to move back and forth between the plug and the housing. 

While locked, pins bridge the gap in the plug and the housing, preventing the plug from turning. When the key goes into the plug, it lifts up the spring-loaded pins so that they move completely into the plug or housing, leaving a gap between the two that allows the plug to turn. 

These locks are susceptible to skilled pickers who can depress each individual pin, but they can also be raked, which requires less skill. A “rake” is a pick with a specially designed tip that, when raked across the wafers or pins rapidly, can set them and turn a lock without a key.

This is generally considered the least-secure design. It’s similar to a pin-tumbler lock, but instead of using spring-loaded pins, it uses spring-loaded rectangular wafers. Like a pin-tumbler lock, these locks are susceptible to individual pin picking and raking, but many can be opened using jiggers or model keys, one of which may be close enough to the authentic key.

Once you’ve bought a lock, you must put it to work. “Make sure you lock according to value,” Slater says. “The frame (being most expensive), the rear wheel, then the front wheel.”

Unlocked frames and wheels will likely be stolen eventually, so your best bet is to lock both wheels to the frame with a chain or cable lock (or another U-lock, in high-risk areas). Aim for well-lit places and never leave a lock against the ground, as thieves might get the necessary leverage to pry it open.

Ensure your bike can’t be lifted over a pole or tree. Slater says he’s encountered victims whose bikes were locked to street signs, over which a bike can easily be hoisted, or small trees, which were promptly cut down. Generally, the thing you’re locking to should be more robust than your lock. Lastly, take down your bike’s serial number (under the bottom bracket) and register it with your local police department in case the worst happens.

Having a bike stolen is the worst, and unfortunately, there isn’t much help available to victims of bike theft. If you’re tapped into your local cycling community, putting the word out on social media can often be your best bet for recovering your stolen bike.

At least it was , until portable trackers like Apple’s AirTag were introduced. They’re far from perfect because they need to be near someone with an updated iPhone to give you a location, so they likely won’t work for riders in rural places.

If you live in a more densely populated area with many iPhone users, an AirTag and a compatible bike mount could significantly increase your chances of recovering a stolen bike.

Adam Schram is an Assistant Editor of Commerce at Runner's World , though you might see his byline on Bicycling and Popular Mechanics , too. A lover of all things outdoors, Adam's writing career comes after six years as a bike mechanic in his hometown of State College, PA. His journalism experience is steeped in cycling and running gear reviews, and he's also a published creative nonfiction and satire author. When he's not writing, riding, or running, you can catch Adam at home mixing cocktails, watching Star Wars, or trying in vain to do the Sunday crossword. You can check out his latest work below.

Kevin Cortez is an editor for Runner's World, Bicycling, and Popular Mechanics covering reviews. A culture and product journalist for over ten years, he’s an expert in men’s style, technology, gaming, coffee, e-bikes, hiking, gear, and all things outdoors. He most recently worked as the Style Editor for Reviewed, a top product recommendation site owned by USA TODAY. He also helped with the launch of WSJ's Buy Side commerce vertical, and has covered the music and podcast industries for Mass Appeal, Genius, Vulture, Leafly, Input, and The A.V. Club. Equally passionate about leisure as he is his penmanship, Kevin dedicates his spare time to graphic novels, birding, making cold brew, and taking long, meandering walks.

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The Best Bike Locks of 2024

There are a ton of great reasons why you should be riding your bike more — lowering your carbon footprint, working on your health and fitness, saving money, and quietly flexing on folks in traffic as you zip by them on your two-wheeled freedom machine. Bikes aren’t cheap, and your unguarded daily commuter is easy to steal and easy to resell. Our guide to the best bike lock is here to help keep your trusty steed safe and ready to ride.

Cycling surged in popularity during the pandemic as one of the few ways to get out and exercise while everything was shut down. In 2022 alone, between 17 and 20 million bikes were sold in the U.S., and with an estimated 52 million bike owners in the U.S., more people have bikes now than ever before.

It follows that bike theft is also on the rise with somewhere between 170,000 and 190,000 bikes being stolen in the U.S. every year. One statistic we found claimed that a bike is stolen on average every 30 seconds in the States. It’s estimated that less than 5% of stolen bikes are returned to their owners and almost half of the bikes reported as stolen are used in secondary crimes. 

With such dismal statistics surrounding bike theft, having a good lock is imperative. Fortunately, there are a ton of great lock options on the market that fit a variety of needs and budgets to help keep your bike(s) safe. Our testers carefully tested and evaluated each of the locks in this guide to find the best options for every rider.

In our selection, you’ll find nine of the best locks on the market. We’ve included traditional, super secure chain and U-locks, along with more novel choices like folding and wearable locks. Check out our buyer’s guide to help you hone in on a lock that best suits your needs and have a look at our comparison chart for a breakdown of prices and features.

Editor’s Note: For our March 1, 2024, update we’ve included the unique Tex-Lock Eyelet with X-Lock. This versatile, lightweight lock is a tester favorite and provides more security than the average cable lock.

• Best Overall Bike Lock: HipLok Gold
• Best Budget Bike Lock: OnGuar d Bulldog
• Best U-Lock: Kryptonite New-U
• Best Chain Lock: Kryptonite Evolution 1090
• Best Cable Lock: Tex-Lock Eyelet with X-Lock
• Most Portable: ABUS Bo rdo

Hiplok Gold

• Chain thickness 10 mm
• Shackle thickness 12 mm
• Weight 5.2 lbs.
• Diameter 85 cm
• Bonus Wearable on your waist or shoulder (30-44”)

• Super-secure 10 mm chain lock
• Highly visible reflective sheath
• Excellent carry option
• Shorter length limits options

Chain locks are considered by many to be the premier option for securing your bike, but they have a few drawbacks — specifically, chains are heavy and unwieldy and can be a real pain to bring with you everywhere. The  Hip l ok Gold  ($140) solves this problem with an innovative carry option that keeps its 2.4 kg centered and secure around your waist as you ride.

Hiplok designed this lock with an adjustable seatbelt-like clasp that adjusts to waists between 30-44”, which eliminates the need to size your chain according to your belt size, and also keeps the weight down. Additionally, the chain is wrapped in a durable and highly reflective nylon chain cover which increases your safety and visibility as you ride.  

The diameter of the Hiplok chain and shackle is 85 cm, which is enough to lock a frame and wheel to a stand or pole, but it may be difficult to make larger-diameter objects such as trees work. The links measure in at 10 mm thick while the shackle is slightly thicker at 12 mm and while this lock is not impervious to vandals, hooligans, and/or rapscallions sporting nefarious intent, it will certainly slow down any would-be bike thief trying to make off with your whip. The Hiplok Gold is sold Secure rated with a Gold security rating (level 3 of 4, able to withstand a 5-minute attack with hand tools) and a lifetime warranty.

While some folks may prefer a different style lock or something that weighs a little less, our testers were highly impressed with the  Hiplok Gold  for its combination of safety and security in a compact and innovatively portable (albeit slightly heavy) package, which is why it’s our favorite bike lock.

OnGuard Bulldog U Lock

• Length 9” x 4.5”
• Thickness 11mm
• Weight 8 lbs.
• Lock type Key
• Bonus OnGuard offers theft insurance

• Excellent value
• Good theft insurance
• Good frame mount design
• Not as robust as other locks

The OnGuard Bulldog is another solid option for folks looking for a reliable and trustworthy U-lock. At $35, it swings well above its weight class for the price. Our tester has long since been a fan of OnGuard locks, and the Bulldog U lock is a welcome addition to this round of testing. 

At 9 x 4.5″, the shackle is similar to both the ABUS and the Kryptonite U-locks featured in this guide albeit slightly wider. While half an inch isn’t a game changer, the extra space is a welcomed feature on this lock. The shackle clocks in at 11 mm thick, which should offer plenty of protection against bolt cutters and grinders. Like other locks on this list, Onguard uses a double lock shackle feature for enhanced security, and Onguard claims the cylinder is resistant to bumping and lock picking. 

The Bulldog is substantially heavier than its competitors at around 8 lbs and loses some points in the portability department, but our tester felt the added weight just added to its sense of security. If you ride with your lock in your pack or bag, this is definitely a consideration, but for those of you who strap the lock to your bike, you likely won’t notice it. Like both the Kryptonite and ABUS locks, the Bulldog comes with a frame mount to keep your lock with your bike.

Of the tested lock mounts, the Onguard scores best by offering the easiest and smoothest operating frame mount. Onguard also offers theft protection on registered locks — up to $1501 on most models of the BullDog. All Onguards locks come with five keys — one with an LED for use after dark, and four more standard keys to stash as you see fit.

Our tester was impressed with the simple, no-fuss function of the Bulldog, and doubly so for the included mount. At $35 this lock offers tremendous value and outshines other locks in its class. If you are looking for a simple and secure lock that won’t break the bank, the Onguard Bulldog might just be the lock for you.

Kryptonite Evolution 1090

• Shackle thickness Deadbolt
• Weight 6 lbs., 2 oz.
• Diameter 35.5”
• Bonus End link design eliminates a critical vulnerability in most other chain locks

• Great security rating
• New deadbolt design enhances security
• Excellent theft insurance
• Less portable than others

Kryptonite has been a major name in the bike security space for as long as any of our testers can remember, so much so that ‘kryptonite’ locks are often associated with top-tier security. Kryptonite continues to bolster that reputation with the Evolution 1090 ($110).

At 6.5 pounds and 35.5 inches, this is a properly big chain lock that might not appeal to everyone reading through this list. For our uses, however, — securing an expensive mountain bike in a busy resort town — there isn’t much more we could ask for. 

Like the Hiplok Gold, the Evolution 1090 is Sold Secure with a Gold rating, meaning that it will withstand up to 5 minutes of attack with hand tools. Kryptonite has revised the link design and the metals to increase the security for this lock, but probably the most important update to their locks is the new end-link design which eliminates a critical vulnerability in other locks by replacing the shackle with a deadbolt.

We’re not going to give you the specifics here, but this lock is essentially air-can and hammer-proof, which is one of the fastest, easiest, and most inconspicuous ways to break a lock. Would-be thieves will have to cause a scene to break this lock or chain. Kryptonite offers anti-theft protection up to $3,000 for registered locks and a lifetime warranty, as well as their helpful key program — which means that when you finally lose your last key, you’ll be able to get a replacement. 

We had a tough time deciding between the Kryptonite 1090 and the Hiplok Gold locks, but in the end, the Hiplock won out. The Evolution 1090 is a little bit heavier, and a little bit less portable than the Hiplok Gold, which kept it from taking best overall.

But, we are awarding the 1090 Best Chain lock for its super high-security rating and the piece of mind it offered our testers, and also because the deadbolt end link is more secure than the shackle on the Hiplok (which is also why it is heavier). If you are going to keep a lock in your car for an après bike beer, the Kryptonite 1090 is the lock to buy, but if you need portability, check out the Hiplok Gold.

Kryptonite New-U Standard + Cable

• Dimensions 9" x 4"
• Thickness 12.7 mm
• Weight 2 lbs., 13 oz.
• Bonus It comes with a cable lock to secure the front wheel

• Stikes a great balance between portable and secure
• Included cable to secure front wheel
• Poorly designed frame mount
• U-lock design doesn't fit all bikes

U-locks are popular among bike commuters in metro areas for a good reason — they strike a great balance between portability and security. You’ve probably seen someone utilizing the popular belt-carry, and there are even some cycling pants on the market that come with a loop to slip your U-lock in while you ride. The Kryptonite New-U ($71) is the latest iteration of the Kryptonite U-lock. We had that standard model, also known as the Kryptolock, in for this round of testing, and to nobody’s surprise, it scored high in both security and portability. 

The New-U has received a few upgrades to make it more secure, namely the new “double deadbolt” locking mechanism which Kyrptonite claims is more resistant to twisting attack. At a little under 3 pounds, and measuring in at 9 x 4″, the New-U is easy enough to throw in your bag, slip in your belt, or as our tester did — strap it to your pannier rack. The New-U also comes with a frame mount to more easily tote your lock on your rig, but our tester found it to be a little more finicky and less secure than a ski strap on the rack.

One of the downsides to the U-lock is the lack of security for things like your front wheel (go ahead, ask us how we know). Fortunately, the New-U is available with a cable lock to secure your front wheel or loop through a bag or basket. We wouldn’t consider cable locks secure because of how easy they are to cut through, but for a quick pop-in to the grocery store or brewery, we’re confident of its ability to at least deter would-be thieves.

The New-U is on the larger side of the U-locks that Kryptonite makes and has ample room to loop through the chainstay/seat stay and rear wheel of most bikes, though mountain bikes for the most part were too large, and we’d recommend a different lock for your shred sled anyway. 

The New-U comes with $1,750 theft insurance and is supported by the Kryptonite key program (two free keys in the event of losing them) and a 6/10 security rating. This might not be a great option for long-term security, but we think it offers excellent peace of mind at a good price.

Tex-Lock Eyelet With X-Lock

• Chain thickness 6mm, wrapped in braided textile
• Shackle thickness 12mm
• Weight 2.86 lbs.
• Diameter 160mm
• Bonus Innovative cable sheath

• Sawproof, Cutproof, Fireproof
• Highly visible sheath
• Lightweight
• Sold secure Silver/Gold Rating
• Shackle and eyelets still vulnerable to attack

The Tex-lock ($159) is an innovative u-lock and cable system that meets a particular niche in the cycling security world. We tested the X-lock and large Tex-lock cable, but there are a variety of sizes and lock options available. If you live or ride in an area where security is an issue, the Tex-lock is an excellent contender for your next U-lock and cable combo.

What makes the Tex-lock particularly innovative is the textile sheath which covers the 6mm chain. Not only does the sheath prevent damage to your frame or paint, but also it is cut-resistant, saw-resistant, and fireproof. The cable by itself receives a sold-secure silver rating and when combined with the 12mm X-lock mini U-lock, the system receives a Sold Secure gold rating.

Of the cable locks included on this list, the Tex-lock cable is far and away the most robust and secure that we’ve tested. Like other chains and cables on this list, the Tex-Lock carries well over the shoulder and riders can purchase a frame mount separately if they wish. Our tester threw the Tex-lock in his bike basket and had few complaints about portability. The cable and U-lock weigh in at 1,300 g, making this a lightweight, portable, and highly secure option.

The folks over at Tex-lock clearly thought out the design of this lock. Immediately upon receiving the lock, our tester noted that the eyelets are shaped and sized differently; this is so users can loop the cable through a wheel and around a rack before securing it with the X-lock. While the X-lock is pretty small (currently the smallest and lightest sold-secure gold lock on the market), it’s more than adequate in size to secure the frame of your bike to a rack and the end of the cable.

Indeed, this is how the Tex-lock is intended to be used. And, our tester was impressed by the easy and intuitive design of this combo. We also like the X-lock by itself. It’s super compact and transports easily — a great option for an evening spin to the brewery or a quick stop at the market.

In terms of security, the eyelets on the cable are likely the most susceptible to attack in this latest iteration. Tex-Lock has switched to hardened steel to slow down attacks with saws, however, it’s likely that a good strike with a heavy hammer could break the eyelet at its smallest point if positioned properly.

The X-lock’s 12mm hardened steel shackle is significantly more secure but also likely susceptible to the classic freeze-and-smash attack. It’s also important to note that like every lock on this list, the Tex-lock isn’t meant to completely prevent theft, but rather to deter and slow down would-be thieves.

ABUS Bordo 5700 Combo Lock

• Length 60 cm
• Thickness 5 mm
• Weight 1 lb., 9 oz.
• Lock type Combination
• Bonus Super-portable, light-duty security

• Super portable
• Good security-to-weight ratio
• Fun colors available
• Not as secure or robust as a U-lock
• Pivot design may be vulnerable

The ABUS Bordo 5700 ($85) is a nifty piece of kit for folks with limited space. It’s super easy to slip into your bag, or even to stick in a back pocket for a quick rip down to the pub. At 1 pound, 9 ounces, the Bordo is far and away the lightest and most portable lock we’ve tested, but don’t let its small size beguile you into thinking it isn’t secure.

ABUS rates this lock at 7/15 on its in-house scale, which we think is excellent considering its small size and ease of portability. Our tester likes to think of the Bordo as “light-duty” security.

ABUS also tests its locks using the spray method to ensure appropriate protection against modern break-in tactics. While it is definitely not as secure as a U-lock or a chain, the Bordo is far and away more secure than a simple cable. 

Available in 60 or 80 cm, the Bordo offers a convenient and super portable way to protect your bike, and it’s available in eight different colors and two different configurations — keyed or combo. The 60cm version has plenty of room to slip between your seat stays and wheel, providing your anchor is small enough. Trees, pylons, or thicker anchors may require some creativity, but our tester had very little trouble finding a secure spot to lock up.

We tested the combo version of the Bordo. Setting the combination was super simple, a theme that carried with both the ABUS combo locks we tested. The Bordo also scored well in ease of use — fold it up and slip it in a secure pocket and off you go. Like we said — super simple. Our tester did have some concerns about the 5mm thick shackle, though, as it is substantially thinner than any other lock on this list.

We’d hate to see what a pair of bolt cutters or grinder could do to this thing. Additionally, our tester felt that the rivets between shackle segments presented a potential vulnerability and wondered if the ABUS Spray Test included the rivets in addition to the combo. 

Those concerns aside, the Bordo 5700 is a great little lock for quick trips and could be an excellent option as a backup lock for your front wheel or panniers in less secure areas. We wouldn’t recommend leaving your bike locked up and unattended with this lock for extended periods of time, however, if you live in an area with low theft rates, leave your bike locked up in sight, or need the convenience and portability of a lock like the Bordo, it’s an enthusiastic yes from us.  

Abus 8808C/85

• Chain thickness 8 mm
• Shackle thickness Combo lock, no shackle
• Weight 5.22 lbs.
• Bonus Combo offers an added element of practicality

• A more portable chain option
• Lighter weight with high security
• Combo lock offers great convenience
• Less secure than other chains
• Combo may present added vulnerability

We liked the Abus 8808C ($85) for its combination (get it?) of ease of use and solid security rating. Combo locks are great for folks who are frequently locking and unlocking their rigs in suspect areas, and also for folks who regularly lose or misplace their keys. Our lead tester thinks the Abus 8808C is the perfect lock to throw in the front basket for a quick run to the grocery store.

At 5.22 lbs and 110 cm, the 8808C is a little lighter and a little bit longer than other locks on this list. It is certainly easier to carry than the Kryptonite 1090, but it does not carry anywhere near as well as the Hiplok Gold. It’s also less secure, offering a 9 out of 15 security rating from ABUS.

The combination shackle is also quite a bit less robust than a standard steel hook or deadbolt like the one found on the Kryptonite 1090. At 8 mm, the chain isn’t as thick as other chains on this list which makes it more vulnerable than both the 1090 and the Hiplok. That said, the 8808c is still a great lock. 

Our tester appreciated the lighter weight and simplicity of the combination tumbler. The 8808C is fully wrapped in a nylon chain cover and the combo tumbler has a helpful dust shield that keeps dirt, water, and debris from gunking things up. While it’s certainly not the most robust lock on this list, the 8808C offers more than adequate protection for beer runs or quick lock-ups between stops in town, and if that sounds like you, the 8808C is definitely worth your consideration.

ABUS Ultra 410 U Lock + Cable

• Dimensions 9” x 4”
• Thickness 12 mm
• Weight 2 lbs., 5 oz.
• Bonus Good frame mount

• A good lock for a good price
• Size accommodates a wide range of frames
• Added cable for securing your front wheel
• No theft insurance
• More expensive than similar locks with less protection

For those of you looking for a budget-oriented option to keep your trusty steed safe, there is the ABUS Ultra 410 U Lock and Cable System ($60). ABUS has a solid reputation in the market for making sturdy and reliable locks and the 410 Ultra is no exception. Our tester found it functionally comparable to the Kryptonite New-U, but felt that it might not be on the same level in terms of security. It’s a little lighter than the Kryptonite Version and a little thinner, but the hardened steel shackle still inspires confidence.

Like the New-U, the Ultra 410 also comes with a cable lock to secure your front wheel, or at the very least deter someone from trying to make off with it. Again, we don’t consider cable locks secure, and urge users to exercise caution and good judgment when using one to protect their valuables.

With a 9″ by 4″ shackle, the 410 happily accommodates a wide range of frames and offers enough space to lock through your frame and rear wheel providing the structure you’re using isn’t overly large. It comes with two keys that lock and unlock smoothly, but it doesn’t have a dust cover for the keyhole, so users will need to be attentive to keeping their lock clean. 

The 410 has a “double-locking” mechanism which ABUS claims decreases the ability of thieves to pick the lock, and their website claims that the lock passed the spray ice test with flying colors. ABUS rates this lock at 8/15 on their in-house security scale. That said, we struggled to find any information pertaining to theft insurance from ABUS, and in that regard, Kryptonite definitely wins out.

Another gripe we had with this lock is the frame mount — it isn’t great. It broke almost immediately and our tester found himself back to relying on a ski strap to tote the lock. In the end, however, these are minor complaints, and the 410 is a solid lock at a solid price. And, while it might not offer the same fit and finish or the same kind of insurance as other locks on this list, the ABUS 410 is still a great option — especially for folks on a budget who need to protect their bike. 

ABUS Numero 5510C

• Length 70.9”
• Thickness 10 mm
• Weight 1.1 lbs.
• Bonus Dark touch feature for after dark

• A great option for added security
• Combination locks are extra convenient
• Cable locks are extremely easy to cut

So, you’re in the market for an inexpensive cable lock. Maybe you need a lock to keep your panniers safe, or to lock the kid’s bikes to yours on your ride to the park. Cable locks are a simple and practical way to add a margin of security to your ride when you need it, but lack the same kind of security and peace of mind offered by more substantial locks and chains.

There is certainly a value to having a small cable lock on hand, and the ABUS Numero 5510C ($30) is an excellent option to keep wrapped on your bike for quick trips or to bolster another lock. At $30, it’s inexpensive and weighing just over a pound the Numero is almost unnoticeable in your bag or on your bike. 

As far as features go, the Numero is a pretty standard cable lock with good ergonomics and a few well-thought-out features. Its 70.9″ 10 mm cable is wrapped in a PVC coating to avoid damaging your frame. The tumbler indexes well and is easy to see after dark thanks to the ABUS darktouch feature.

ABUS rates the Numero at a 3/15 security rating, meaning that it’s the most vulnerable lock on our list. We definitely wouldn’t recommend locking your rig up out of sight with this lock, and doubly so for high-end bikes. But, if you need a cable lock for securing your front wheel or a bag to your bike while you’re away, the Numero will certainly serve in that application.

Bike Locks Comparison Chart

How We Test Bike Locks

We vetted the most popular locks on the market and ordered a selection of different styles — chains, U locks, folding locks, and cables. We then evaluated them for fit, finish, and function. Our testers carted these locks all over town looking for secure locking points and evaluated portability, security, and ease of use for each lock. 

Then they put some of the manufacturer’s security claims to the test and attempted to break into some of the featured locks to see if they really stood up to attacks. What we came back with are the best options for the different styles of locks on the market today. We stratified our results into the Best Overall lock, Best Chain lock, Best U lock, Best Budget, Most Portable lock, and the best of the rest.

Our expert testing team is composed of experienced cyclists and outdoors-oriented people looking for the best products on the market. Our staff includes former bike racers, recreational cyclists, folks who bike-commute 60 miles a week, and everyone in between — people who care about fit, finish, and function in every product we use. 

Lead tester Paul Mandell has 2 decades of experience in the saddle as a competitive racer and recreational rider. He completed his master’s degree in exercise science where he studied the critical power model for cycling. These days, he prefers lift-accessed gravity riding and long adventure rides with plenty of descending. He still finds time to get out for the occasional gravel grind or single-track loop near his home base in California’s Eastern Sierra.

How to Choose a Bike Lock

Bike locks traditionally come in four different styles.

U-locks (also known as D-locks) have a hardened steel U-shaped shank that fits into a straight lock that closes the loop. These can have a locking mechanism on one or both ends of the U shape. If it locks both sides, it usually means that the lock must be cut twice to be removed. For most folks in most situations, a solid U lock like the Kryptonite New U will be more than adequate.

U-locks offer the best combination of security and portability, but you’ll want to ensure that the lock you choose fits your specific bike. Folks considering a U lock may also want to pick up a cable lock to help secure your other wheel and/or bags while you are away from your bike.

Chain Locks

Chain locks are a chain with a locking mechanism that locks the two ends together. Some chain locks come with a padlock, and others have a built-in locking mechanism. Chains also must be cut twice to remove, making them difficult to break, but not impossible. The value of a chain lock is that it takes a long time to cut through, and usually draws attention. Chain locks offer more flexibility when locking. They allow you to lock up more bikes at once or lock your bike to a larger item.

Chains are only as good as their weakest link, so choose one with a strong padlock or locking mechanism. Additionally, some chain locks like the ABUS 8808C have a combination lock which isn’t as robust as a padlock or shackle. Padlock-style locks are susceptible to attack with the wrench and cutter methods. Locks like the Kryptonite 1090 which uses a deadbolt are more secure than padlocks and traditional shackles.

Folding Locks

Folding locks like the ABUS Bordo are composed of a set of hardened steel bars that are attached by pivot hinges at each end and a lock that connects the two free ends. These allow the same flexibility as a chain lock but at a lighter weight.

The pivot hinges are designed in a way that hinders leverage at those points. In theory, they force the thief to cut through a bar to break the lock, but some hinges on some locks may present a potential vulnerability. Be sure to do your research when considering this style of lock — did the company test the shackle and the pivots?

Cable Locks

We here at GearJunkie don’t consider cable locks secure on their own, and neither should you. They are only meant as an accessory to your main lock and can be used to lock your wheels or other gear that’s on your bike.

These locks use a braided steel cable that’s attached at each end with a lock. Cables can be cut extremely easily and silently, which makes them the number-one lock we have seen bike thieves seek out when stealing bikes.

Ease of Use

Each lock style works differently, and finding the one that fits your needs is pretty easy. Our tester is a big fan of combination locks because they’re quick and easy, and there’s no chance of losing your keys. 

U-locks are an excellent option for most people. Super simple, quick to lock and unlock, and easily portable, U-locks are awesome.

When buying a lock, take a good look at how the locking mechanism works, as well as how easy it is to lock and unlock before deciding which one is right for you. All of the locks featured in this guide scored well in ease of use, but individual preferences may vary. Do bear in mind that combo locks are usually more susceptible to attack than deadbolts and shackles, but offer a slightly easier locking and unlocking situation. 

Size and Portability

Locks come in a variety of shapes and sizes, you’ll want to choose the one that fits your specific needs. U-locks come in sizes that fit one bike or up to five bikes. Chain and folding locks come in different lengths and generally larger and stronger locks make for less portability but are more secure. Then there are highly portable folding locks like the ABUS Bordo , or easy-carrying U locks like the Kryptonite New U — what do you need out of your bike lock?

You’ll want to have a solid way to transport your lock, which is why frame mounts like the one included with the OnGuard Bulldog are so handy. Other considerations include the available objects to secure your bike to; is there a dedicated rack where you’re going, or will you need to use a sign or even a tree, and can your lock accommodate it?

Every lock company has its own security ranking system, but they all seem to be pretty accurate when compared and averaged. An easy way to know if the lock you are buying has a high-security rating is to look for the “Sold Secure” logo, which is an independent-party rating system. Some, but not all of the locks we featured in this article are vetted by Sold Secure — multiple locks from Kryptonite, ABUS, and Hiplok come with this rating

Sold Secure has four categories: bronze, silver, gold, and diamond. We suggest looking at either gold or diamond if you are in a metro area or college campus.

Price and Value

In general, as the price increases, so does lock security. To find the right value for you, a balance of price and security, consider the value of your bike and your security risks. No one wants their bike stolen, but obviously, if you have an expensive bike, it will fetch a higher price, and thieves are more likely to risk cutting a flimsy cable lock or even going after a sturdier D-lock with an angle grinder.

You’ll want a lock system that allows you to secure the frame and the front wheel of your bike. Remember, any lock can be cut eventually, and security comes from the amount of time it takes to break a lock. A sturdier lock like the Hiplok Gold will do the trick, especially if you leave your bike in a highly visible area where someone going at your bike lock with a grinder will attract attention. A cheap parts bike for around-town cruising won’t have the same appeal, and you can probably get by with a less expensive, lighter-duty lock.

If you live in a college town or larger, you’re likely at a high risk of bike theft. A larger population means thieves will have an easier time reselling your bike as well, making bike theft a more enticing hustle. Even if your bike is inexpensive, it could be your primary way to commute, making it very valuable to you, so consider a lock that’s heavier and more secure, like the tough, yet affordable OnGuar d Bulldog .

Finally, you can extend the value of your lock by considering the lock manufacturer’s “insurance” policy. For example, Kryptonite offers an Anti-Theft protection program that will cover the cost of your bike if you fill out the registration and your Kryptonite lock is broken by force. While there is definitely some fine print to consider, it increases our confidence in the brand’s secure, albeit expensive, bike locks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Lock your bike through one of the two triangles made by the frame with a high-security lock. Using a cable or chain lock, also lock the wheels to the frame or to the post you are locking up at.

Never lock your bike using the seat post, handlebars, or just a wheel, as the bike can still be easily stolen leaving that part behind.

No. With enough time and the correct tools, any lock can be cut.

Depending on the situation, you can lock your bike frame to its wheel for a very short time. If it is an extended period of time, you should find a pole, tree, gas meter, or another item to lock to, even if it means you have to walk a block or two.

The Best Bike Pumps of 2024

Our experts found and tested the best bike pumps of 2024. Whether for road riding, mountain biking, or fat biking, we’ve got you covered.

Paul Mandell is a climber, cyclist, skier, and well-rounded mountain athlete. He hails from Bishop California, where he helps the remarkably fit townsfolk get even fitter through his strength coaching program. Paul is a big, hard-charging fella who routinely destroys his gear, so his assessments are solid, especially when evaluating aspects like durability and build quality. When he’s not running around in the mountains, Paul can be found tinkering with his bike and feeding feral cats.

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Best bike locks in 2024: Strong, safe bike locks tested in lab conditions

Plus, how to lock up your bike safely and securely

Kyle Dewick / Our Media

Warren Rossiter

Since we began testing the best bike locks in 2007, we’ve reviewed more than 100 bike locks. 

Our latest test included a selection of the best D-locks (also known as U-locks), foldable locks and chain locks for cyclists, at various prices. 

To find out which are the best bike locks on the market, I tested 12 locks in lab conditions and considered everyday practicalities such as ease of use and weight. I also compiled key statistics for each lock, including weight and security rating. 

The Litelok X1 proved to be the best bike lock on test. The Abus Bordo Granit was the best portable bike lock, the Hiplok DXF was the best-value bike lock and the Litelok X3 was the toughest lock on test.

Keep reading to find out how we tested the latest bike locks and what they scored, or skip to the end of this article to read our buyer’s guide to bike locks . 

How I tested the bike locks to destruction

I took our line-up of bike locks to Abus’ test labs in Rehe, Germany. The locks were subjected to five gruelling tests to simulate attacks from bike thieves and day-to-day use. 

To test resistance to corrosion, each lock was subjected to 168 hours in a climate chamber (to ISO 9227 standards). This is the equivalent of 10-12 months of outdoor use in a salty air environment.

Up next was a tensile-pulling rig. This simulates the bottle-jack approach to breaking locks, where a hydraulic bottle jack is used to push apart the two sections of a lock. The hydraulic test rig pulls on both parts simultaneously and has more than 7 tonnes of pulling power.

A torsion test, to simulate a crowbar, followed. The rig can twist a lock to massive torsional pressures, the equivalent of using a crowbar of more than 1.5m and with a World’s Strongest Man contestant doing the crowing. 

Next up was a hydraulic jaw that cuts like a bolt cropper. It’s capable of more than 250 Kilonewtons (kN) of pressure. 

I then tested the angle-grinder-resistant bike locks with the grinder test. The non-armoured locks can all be cut relatively quickly with a grinder. For example, a 14mm-diameter steel shackle takes 22.3 seconds to cut, while an 8mm bar of a folding lock will take 8 seconds. 

These are the best bike locks tested by BikeRadar

• £149.99 / £179.99 as tested
• Pros: Tough; portable; top corrosion resistance
• Cons: Twist-and-go bracket is rather bulky
• Verdict: The best-value angle-grinder resistant lock we’ve ever tested 

Litelok's X1 proved to be the best bike lock on test.  

Its 13mm-diameter shackle is slim by armoured-lock standards, which helps keep the weight down to 1.75kg. The steel is protected by a fused-on material called ‘Barronium’.  

The twist-and-go frame mount takes up a fair amount of space within your bike frame. It comes with a protective neoprene pouch if you want to slip it into your bag instead.  

The lock proved impressive in testing. It resisted the bottle jack test for 96.9kN of force, far beyond what your average car jack could produce, while its bolt-crop resistance is good at 107.3kN. Its crowbar resistance requires 2,218Nm of force, making it the most resistant lock to this attack. 

In the corrosion test, there were deposits on the lock body, but it still operated perfectly. It was as good as new after a quick clean and lubrication. 

When I tried to cut it with an angle grinder, it took 4min 38secs (including disc changes) to cut through one side of the X1’s shackle, which exceeds its premium rivals and the Sold Secure Powered cycle Diamond rating.

• Weight: 1.75kg 
• Security rating: Sold Secure Diamond pedal cycle, Sold Secure Diamond Powered cycle, ART 4 
• Bracket included: Yes 
• Keys: 2 
• Shackle diameter: 13mm 
• Locking area: 101x197mm 

Abus Granit Superxtreme 2500

• £270 / $299.99 / €299.95 as tested
• Pros: Impressive anti angle-grinder performance; highly corrosion resistant
• Cons: Not the toughest lock; doesn’t come cheap
• Verdict: Impressive lock at quite a price

The Granit Superxtreme 2500 is Abus’ first angle-grinder resistant lock, with a hardened steel shackle, armour plating and tungsten carbide, encased in a solid plastic shell.

The flush fitting means it’s rattle-free and the bracket holds the heavy lock securely. The available locking space is ample for road, gravel, and most mountain and electric bikes. 

It uses Abus’ highest-grade XPlus lock mechanism, which can resist hammers and drills. 

On the pull test, it took 74.9kN of force before one side of the lock ‘popped’. The dual-locking design means if the lock was broken you still couldn’t separate the shackle from the lock.

Bolt cropping took 132.8kN of force. In the crowbar simulation, I measured 1,964kN of twisting force before the lock popped, which would snap the bike or break whatever the bike was locked to. 

To cut the lock with an angle grinder would take 12 minutes and 30 seconds – and you would need five cutting discs. You would also need a hacksaw and hammer to get through the hardened plastic, which would become molten with the heat of an angle grinder.

The Granit Superextreme stood its ground in our corrosion test, retaining full usability after 168 hours. 

• Weight: 2.203kg 
• Security rating: Sold Secure Diamond pedal cycle, Sold Secure Diamond Powered cycle 
• Bracket included: Yes  
• Shackle diameter: 27mm 
• Locking area: 104x115mm 

Hiplok D1000

• £249.99 / $299.99 / €279.99 as tested
• Pros: Compact; frame-friendly finish; tough
• Cons: Doesn’t have the out-and-out resistance of the best-in-class anti angle-grinder locks 
• Verdict: Clever design, very practical and plenty tough enough  

The Hiplok D1000 uses Ferosafe metal, which is resistant to diamond-carbide-tipped drill bits and angle-grinding discs. 

The oversized U-shackle is 20mm in cross-section. Cleverly, it’s also square where it fits into the lock body, making it resistant to twisting forces. This bears out in testing: the twisting simulation required 1,954Nm to pop the lock, making the D1000 a tough cookie. 

Its internal space is smaller than most of its rivals, but it can still comfortably lock a road bike. 

With the pull test, it resisted for an impressive 34.3kN of force. Its bolt-cropper resistance required a massive 196.2kN, making it the toughest lock to sever manually in the test.

The locking mechanism is dual-sided, with twin bolts intersecting the U-shackle to hold it in place. That means you’ll need two cuts to break it free. 

The lock faired well in our angle-grinder test. It would take 6 minutes and 6 seconds to cut through the outer material – which gums up cutting discs – and the Ferosafe core. 

It retained functionality after the corrosion test. 

• Weight: 1.915kg
• Keys: 3 coded keys 
• Shackle diameter: 20mm 
• Locking area: 155x92mm 

• £249.99 / $299.99 as tested 
• Pros:  Incredible resistance to angle-grinder attacks and manual attack resistance is impressive too
• Cons: Extended exposure to the elements can mean corrosion issues
• Verdict: The toughest lock around when it comes to angle grinding, but needs regular maintenance

The X3 is Litelok’s toughest anti-angle-grinder bike lock, meeting the highest Dutch ART4 standard, alongside both of Sold Secure’s Diamond standards. 

It's like a beefed-up X1 with a similar high-tensile steel shackle and Barronium fused to the core to wear down angle-grinder discs. 

The oval shackle on the X3 is thicker than the X1’s, while it’s more difficult to twist than a round shackle. The lock mechanism on the X3 is an Abloy Sentry lock cylinder that’s more commonly found on high-security doors for the defence and mining industry. 

The X3 withstood a massive 79.8kN in the pull test, besting all of its rivals, apart from the cheaper X1 model. Its bolt-crop resistance of 111.6kN is similarly impressive, only outdone by Hiplok’s U-locks. The X3 withstands 1,961kN in the twisting test. 

In angle-grinder test shows it would take over 12 minutes to cut through one side of the lock, requiring four cutting discs. You would then have to repeat this on the other side, all while creating a loud 115dB of noise. 

The lock ceased to function after 120 hours of our corrosion test, so maintenance and lubrication is essential.

• Weight: 2.258kg 
• Bracket included: X-Pouch included 
• Shackle diameter: 24mm/27.5mm 
• Locking area: 100x195mm

Squire Stronghold D16 Max

• £289.99 / $379.99 / €399.99 as tested 
• Pros: Strong against manual attacks; resists extended power-tool attacks
• Cons: Can submit to corrosion if not maintained
• Verdict: Tough at resisting attacks, yet kind to your bike

Squire's Stronghold D16 Max features a 16mm-diameter Boron steel shackle that’s reinforced with a proprietary anti angle-grinder surface.

Its locking mechanism is a high-security six-pin key cylinder with anti-drill, anti-pick and anti-bump technology and more than 500,000 key combinations. It comes with two keys and cannot be copied without the personal key card. 

The lock’s generous sizing means it fits most bike types, while the shackle has a thick rubbery coating to prevent frame dings. 

Under the pull test, the lock resisted until 54.3kN of force – way beyond what an average bottle jack can produce. The shackle resisted an impressive 106.3kN of force in our bolt-cutter simulation.

The angle grinder test showed it would take just under 12 minutes to cut through both sides of the lock. That’s a long time for a thief to be making the amount of noise and disruption an angle grinder brings. 

There were signs of corrosion after 120 hours and by 144 hours the lock mechanism had stopped working properly.

• Weight: 2.79kg 
• Security rating: Sold Secure Diamond Powered cycle 
• Bracket included: No 
• Shackle diameter: 16mm 
• Locking area: 218x94mm

The other bike locks on test...

The following locks scored fewer than four out of five stars in testing, but we have included them here for your consideration. 

Abus Bordo Granit

• £135 / $199.99 / €149.95 as tested 
• Pros: Compact; handy to use; very well made
• Cons: Can be sawn and angle-grinder cut relatively easily
• Verdict: Convenient and well constructed, just not ultimate security 

The Abus Bordo was the first folding-lock design and it proved to be the best portable bike lock on test. 

Rated to Sold Secure Gold, the Bordo has hardened steel plates, linked with domed rivets and a heavy-duty lock mechanism. It packs down to a compact 190x70x40mm package inside a rubberised case with Velcro straps to attach to your bike.  

The Bordo had mixed results in testing. The flexible bar design makes it difficult to bottle jack and crowbar attacks are similarly awkward, but its 5.5mm plates can be cut with an angle grinder in 6.8 seconds. It sailed through the corrosion testing with full operation and few signs of rust.  

• Weight: 1.765kg 
• Security rating: Sold Secure Gold pedal cycle, Abus 15 
• Keys: 3 
• Shackle diameter: 5.5mm-thick bars 
• Lock length: 90cm 

• £84.99 / $99.99 / €94.99 as tested 
• Pros: Safe on your bike paintwork; great bracket; smart design; compact
• Cons: Can be a struggle to lock on fat-tyred MTBs and gravel bikes 
• Verdict: Very good for the money but you need to use it properly 

The DXF is Hiplok’s original DX compact U-lock but with a clever speed-loading frame-mounting bracket and prongs to fit it to your belt. 

The shackle is broad at 8.5cm, making it a good close fit through the rear wheel and in front of the seat tube of a road bike, and awkward to break. The downside is you might struggle to lock a mountain bike with it. 

The DXF performed fairly well in testing. It withstood twisting forces far beyond what an adult could exert with a crowbar and 183.5kN of pressure in our bolt-cropper test.

It only sustained 27.6Nm of force in the pull test, but its compact shape makes it practically impossible to fit a bottle jack in the lock. The lock also cleared the corrosion test, retaining functionality. 

However, it only took me 22 seconds to cut with an angle grinder per side. 

• Weight: 1.102kg 
• Security rating: Sold Secure Gold, Abus 12/15 
• Locking area: 170x100mm 

Litelok Core Flex

• £119.99 / $169.99 as tested 
• Pros: Wearable; adaptable; well made; corrosion-resistant
• Cons: Can be cut 
• Verdict: Great for portable convenience and short stops, but look elsewhere for ultimate protection

The Core Flex uses Litelok’s Boaflexicore+ material, with 200 strands of high-tensile steel wrapped in an eco-rubber casing and a flexible mesh. These components aren’t that strong but together they prove impressively tough. 

The 75cm length is long enough to fit most bike types. It's wearable around 28- to 44-inch waists thanks to an extending strap. You can also wrap it into a loop and mount it to your frame.

The lock mechanism can withstand 29.8kN of pulling force. It also passed the bolt cropping test because the rubber and mesh make it hard for hydraulic jaws to gain purchase and the steel core compresses rather than cuts. 

The Core Flex can be cut with a hacksaw in 52 seconds and an angle grinder in 13 seconds.

The lock was operable with little sign of corrosion after our test. 

• Weight: 1.973kg 
• Security rating: Sold Secure Gold pedal cycle 
• Bracket included: Yes and wearable (waist size 28in – 44in) 
• Shackle diameter: N/A 
• Lock length: 75cm 

Squire Stronghold FL/850

• £154.99 / $167.99 / €179.99 as tested
• Pros: Tough against cropping; convenient to use
• Cons: Can be cut relatively easily; not great corrosion resistance
• Verdict: A useful portable lock that’s tough but needs care to prevent corrosion

The Squire Stronghold FL/850 is similar to the Abus Bordo. The lock uses Boron steel plates coated with a soft-touch plastic coating to protect your bike. 

The six-pin lock mechanism is said to be drill- and pick-proof and has more than 500,000 key combinations. The lock barrel is housed in hardened steel, with the key slot protected by a thick rubber coating. 

Like other folding locks, the Stronghold proved difficult to pull or crowbar open, resisting up to 144.5kN in the hydraulic jaw test. 

You can cut the bike lock in 36 seconds with a tungsten-bladed saw and 4.7 seconds with an angle grinder. 

In the corrosion test, the lock showed signs of corrosion after 120 hours and was seriously rusty by the end, even if it was still just about functional.  

• Weight: 1.883kg 
• Shackle diameter: 5mm-thick bars 
• Lock length: 85cm 

Abus Ultimate 420

• £55 / $79.99 / €79.95 as tested 
• Pros: Inexpensive; usable size; great bracket; great corrosion resistance; lots of options 
• Cons: Can be twisted open; won’t protect against an angle grinder
• Verdict:  Very good for the money, but you need to use it properly

The Abus Ultimate 420 is the most affordable lock on test, although it still meets Sold Secure’s Gold standard.

The lock is finished with a frame-protecting coating and a chunky robust cover over the steel lock-barrel body. It comes with Abus’ rock-solid, rattle-free USH frame bracket.

The lock can withstand high forces. It handled 25.4kN of force before bursting in our pull test and the 13mm steel took 72.6kN of force from our hydraulic jaws.

It didn’t fair so well in the crowbar test, so fill as much of the shackle as possible when using this lock. It’s available in a 230mm length, but the 170mm version will fit around the wheel and frame of most bikes. 

The Ultimate 420 is no match for an angle grinder. It took less than a minute to cut through both sides. It did, however, sail through the corrosion test. 

Squire Chainlok

• £89.99 / $97.99 / €105.99 as tested 
• Pros: Tough; convenient; chain is adaptable to most bike shapes; can link multiple bikes
• Cons: Can be cut with powerful bolt croppers; corrosion resistance isn’t the best 
• Verdict: Better protection than most portable locks, but needs care when fitting and needs to be maintained

Squire’s Chainlok is intended to bridge the gap between wearable convenience and tough security. The lock is made from 10mm-diameter, hardened, square alloy steel chain links wrapped in a thick neoprene cover. 

The patented lock mechanism uses a dimpled key that you push rather than turn to open. The mechanism also means multiples of the Chainlok can be linked to loop around more bikes. 

The flexible nature of the chain means a pull test isn’t viable – and a crowbar attack will simply turn the chain back on itself. 

Bolt croppers are normally a chain lock’s undoing, but the Chainlok withstood 66.4kN of pressure from the hydraulic jaws before breaking. The real-world equivalent would be straining on a 3-foot-long set of bolt croppers for 4 seconds per side. 

After 120 hours in our corrosion test, the lock had limited functionality. At 144 hours, the mechanism ceased to function.  

• Weight: 2.256kg 
• Security rating: Sold Secure Diamond pedal cycle, Squire rating 10 
• Bracket included: N/A, wearable design 
• Link diameter: 10mm 

Hiplok Switch

• £74.99 / $79.99 / €84.99 as tested 
• Pros: Clever bracket; great corrosion resistance; convenient 
• Cons: No serious protection from cutting tools 
• Verdict: A coffee-stop lock rather than an all-day security device 

The Hiplok Switch weighs 935g and can be holstered in a clever bottle-cage boss mount, making it a convenient option, but only for short stops. This is because the Bronze-rated lock is easily cut or pried apart. 

It withstood more pressure from the hydraulic jaws than some locks on test, but it’s not as strong as Squire and Abus’ equivalent folding-lock designs.  

In the crowbar simulation, it took 338Nm of pressure to pop one of the rivets. That’s the lowest of our folding-lock options, although that was no surprise because it’s a lower-rated lock at a much lower price. 

The Switch is excellent against corrosion, taking the full 168 hours without hindering the lock’s operation or showing much sign of corrosion. 

In all, the Switch is a neat short-use lock that’s convenient but in no way a high-security option to lock your bike all day. 

• Weight: 945g 
• Security rating: Sold Secure Bronze pedal cycle 

The full results

The table above shows the full results of my testing at Abus' test labs.

Certain tests did not apply to some of the locks. The pull test doesn't work with folding or chain locks. The hydraulic jaws weren't compatible with the rubberised cable core of the Litelok Core Flex.

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We have experts testing all types of bikes, parts, clothing and accessories, from road, mountain and gravel bikes to commuting, bikepacking and electric bikes. 

Our reviews are always editorially independent – with no exceptions. Our reviewers comprehensively test all products in the real world, always reflecting on performance, value and the wider market when delivering their verdicts and review ratings .

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Our annual Bike of the Year test is an industry benchmark and the BikeRadar team consists of some of the most experienced riders and testers in the business.

Bike lock buyer’s guide: what to look for

Types of bike lock.

There are three main types of bike lock: D-locks, folding locks and chain locks. We explain what they are and their best application.

D-locks for bikes

The D-lock, or U-lock as it is alternatively known, is the classic bike lock. The design consists of a big shackle and toughened crossbar with the lock mechanism built in. It has been around for years and it’s really just a super-sized padlock.

The benefits are the strength for its size and relative portability. The downsides are the slightly awkward shape if you want to lock more of your bike into it. You’ll want to add in an accessory cable or second lock to cover everything.

Folding locks for bikes

Sometimes, you need a lock that’s more portable than a D-lock or chain, but one that’s stronger than a simple cafe stop cable lock.

If you want a combination of lightweight, portability and toughness that you can trust for shopping stops and long lunches, a folding bike lock might be for you. The best folding bike locks are also suitable for securing touring bikes and bikepacking bikes for short periods.

Bike chain locks

Bike chain locks are heavy-duty and good for locking your bike to hard-to-reach points.

These locks are fairly heavy, so you won't always want to be carrying them around. But they're a good additional lock if you're leaving your bike locked up outside for extended periods.

Are any bike locks unbreakable?

The first thing to know about bike locks is no design is unbreakable. Armed with the right tools and knowledge, someone who really wants to steal your bike will be able to, no matter what you lock it up with.

Whether your pride and joy is one of the best road bikes or mountain bikes , it's unwise to ever leave it unattended outside – even secured by the best bike lock. The temptation could be too much to a thief.

What you can do is deter the bike thief looking for an easy steal. With that in mind, one of the best bits of advice we can give you, after many years of busting and picking locks in our tests, is to use two locks of different types and brands.

If a thief is adept at picking a certain type of lock and has the tools to do so, it’s less likely they will also have the tools or the knowledge to pick a completely different type.

Two budget locks that are wildly different in style and key/lock-cylinder types are sometimes better than just one expensive lock. 

Bike lock terms you need to know

Here's a breakdown of all the key lock lingo

• Key: There are various types of keys, but all work a lock mechanism by moving pins or discs into alignment to allow the lock plug to be turned and open the lock
• Shackle: We know the shackle as the D-shaped part of a D-lock/U-lock or padlock. It shackles two things together. In our case, it’s our bikes to something sturdy
• Links: Chains are made up of links; hoops joined together. The smaller the internal diameter of the links the better, because this gives less space for a lever that can be used to break the link to be inserted
• Protection: Nobody wants a bare-metal lock clattering against their frame. A cloth or sponge cover is handy to keep your pride and joy looking nice and to prevent the lock from corroding
• Lock barrel: Manufacturers will centre the lock mechanism in the barrel. Check the weight of the barrel because if it’s heavy that’s a sure sign it’s armoured
• Multiple keys: Multiple keys are essential, with manufacturers such as OnGuard offering up to five with a lock. Keep one at home, one at work and one on your keyring
• Maintenance: Check the action of the mechanism because locks spend most of their lives outdoors, so corrosion can be a problem. Use a light lube or water repellent (GT-85 or WD-40) liberally and top up periodically
• Warranty: An extended warranty is always good. It’s not going to cover you against theft but it should be a sign that the lock won’t fall apart or seize up on you
• Anti-theft guarantee: This guarantee is a form of insurance pioneered by Kryptonite. It bumps up the price but adds peace of mind to the package.

What is Sold Secure?

Sold Secure is an independent industry lock tester that provides a rating for bicycle locks.

Locks with a Sold Secure Diamond rating offer some of the highest levels of security available and are often good performers in strength tests.

The company doesn't have to give a rating, meaning it can fail locks it believes are not up to scratch, so seeing the label is a good indicator that the lock you are looking at is secure.

How to lock a bike

Investing in one of the best bike locks is an ideal first step to stopping your bike being stolen, but there are also other things to bear in mind when locking your bike up to make sure it stays safe:

• Lock your bike to a secure anchor point, such as a bike stand and avoid locking it to posts where a thief could simply lift the bike and lock off.  
• Lock your bike in a busy location. This will (hopefully) give thieves less time to break a lock before someone intervenes.
• Use two locks that are different makes, because some thieves might be adept at picking one brand and not another, or have a particular tool that could cut through one type of lock but not another.
• Keep the locks off the ground and fitted tightly around your bike so thieves can't use the leverage to prise the lock open. 

You can read more tips in our article on how to lock a bike properly and how to improve your bike shed security .

Where to put a bike lock while riding

There are several places you can put a lock while riding your bike.

Many of the best bike locks will come with a mount. These are intended to attach to your bike frame. It's a good idea to use the mount to hold the lock in the front triangle of the bike.

You can affix the mount to another part of your bike, if your bike's front triangle is obstructed by bottle cages and water bottles. Make sure it doesn't interfere with any moving parts or limit manoeuvrability.

You can always carry a bike lock in a pannier bag or rucksack. Some of the best cycling backpacks will have pockets for storing a bike lock, so it doesn't interfere with or damage your other possessions.

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Best bike locks in 2024: Tested and rated

Keep your bike safe and secure with the best bike locks

Chain locks

Folding locks, cable locks, how to choose the best bike lock for you, bike lock types, how we tested the best bike locks, frequently asked questions, features comparison.

A strong, well-designed bike lock will help protect your two-wheeled purchase from opportunistic thieves. To help you choose the best bike lock for you, we put many of the most popular models to the test, from U-locks to chain locks, folding locks to cables. 

It's worth keeping in mind that every single bike lock on the market today can be cut or otherwise destroyed by a determined thief. However, the best bike locks, namely, those listed here, will deter opportunistic, grab-and-go crooks and thwart all but the most prepared criminals. 

When testing the best bike locks, we looked at usability, portability, weight and of course, the level of protection provided. Of the numerous models we used and abused with angle grinders, hammers and bolt cutters, these are the best ones you can buy in 2024 to guard your bike, electric bike or electric scooter . 

We've divided this guide into sections based on the various types of bike locks available to help you decide which is best for your bike and needs. On the subject of protecting valuables, be sure to keep your head safe, too, with one of our best bike helmets . 

Dan Cavallari is an expert on all things cycling. Based outside of Denver, Colorado, Dan tests electric bikes, bike helmets, lights, locks, GPS computers and other cycling accessories for Tom's Guide with numerous reviews and buying guides to his name. 

Best bike locks you can buy today

Why you can trust Tom's Guide Our writers and editors spend hours analyzing and reviewing products, services, and apps to help find what's best for you. Find out more about how we test, analyze, and rate.

Weight : 5.7 pounds Shackle length: 8 inches

Pros : Exceptionally resistant to all cutting tools; longer shackle than the D1000, making it more useful in more locking situations. Cons : Heavy and expensive.

The Hiplok DX1000 is the grown-up version of the exceptionally tough D1000 Anti-Angle Grinder Lock. The big difference between the two is increased locking dimensions.

The DX1000 shackle gives you 8 x 4.4 inches of internal locking space, while the D1000 features 6.1 x 3.6 inches of internal locking space. The DX1000 also weighs 1.72 pounds more, which makes it a bit of a bear to tote around.

Still, the longer shackle combined with the best-in-class cutting resistance makes the DX1000 a formidable force to be reckoned with. It’s graphene-reinforced, which means angle grinders take twenty times as long to cut through it as compared to standard D-locks without reinforcement.  

The anti-rotation design protects the shackle against bolt cutters. It can be used with bicycles, ebikes, and even motorcycles. When combined with the A1000 or AX1000 anchors, the DX1000 provides epic security even in high-theft situations.

It has earned the Sold Secure Diamond qualification, as well as the ART 4-star designation, ranking it among the most secure locks. Hiplok provides a lifetime warranty too. It is perhaps the toughest D-lock you can buy right now.

Weight : 4 pounds Shackle length: 8 inches

Pros: Easy to use; LED key light; high security rating Cons: Flimsy mount; heavy

With a long, 8-inch by 4-inch shackle opening, it was generally easy to find places to lock up my bike with the New York Lock Standard. It’s rubber-coated throughout, which protects your bike’s finish and the lock itself from exposure to the elements. The New York Lock gets an ART rating of 4 out of 5 stars, which is impressive. It features a Sold Secure Gold rating too. 

The keyhole has a cover to keep muck out of the mechanism, and Kryptonite offers a key replacement program should you lose yours. The included key features an LED light to make locking and unlocking easier in the dark. You can register your bike with Kryptonite to take advantage of the brand’s Anti-Theft offer of $4,000 should your bike get stolen. As U-Locks go, the New York Lock is simple, easy to use, and tough. A set of bolt cutters won’t get thieves very far here.  

Weight : 3.17 pounds Shackle length : 9 inches

Pros : Long shackle; well-priced Cons : Plastic on locking bar seems weak

The Pitbull features a long 9-inch, 14mm thick hardened steel shackle that makes it easy to wrap around your bike frame and a fixed object. The bolting mechanism locks the shackle at four separate points. The lock features both a rubber coating and molded plastic covers to protect your bike’s finish. The locking bar is constructed with a lot of plastic, which could present a weak point during an attack. 

But the lock cylinder is also centered on the bar, which eliminates potential prying points. I made a few futile efforts at cutting the shackle with bolt cutters, but the lock withstood the attack with barely a scuff. The 14mm-thick steel shackle can certainly be cut with an angle grinder and enough time, though. 

Weight : 3.2 pounds Shackle length: 9 inches

Pros : Long shackle Cons: Expensive

The Granite X Plus U-Lock features a super-long 9-inch shackle (4.5 inches wide), which opens up more locking possibilities. The shackle features a squared profile, which makes it more difficult to cut with bolt cutters. And the shackle is locked and secured at both ends to make it more difficult to pick the lock. 

Abus was one of the few brands in the test to note this lock had been ice-spray tested. It gets an ART rating of 3 out of 5 stars, but it’s marked as Abus’s maximum security level. It also has a Sold Secure rating. The shackle and bar are both coated to protect your bike’s finish. It’s a great lock if you want as much shackle length as possible, but you’ll pay for the privilege.

Weight : 1.05 pounds Shackle length : 8 inches

Pros : Super light and resistant to bolt cutter attacks; lighweight Cons : Can be more difficult to work into place than traditional U-Locks

By using spring steel, Tigr has created a unique take on the standard U-lock. It was resistant to attack from my 24-inch bolt cutters, but it would not be overly difficult to cut it with an angle grinder. It’s light at just over a pound, and it comes with a mount so you can stow it right on your bike. It fits easily in a backpack too. 

It can be a bit more difficult to work this lock into place than standard U-locks that separate into two pieces. It gets a 2/5 ART certification, so this may not be the lock you’ll want for long-term lockups. But for quick trips into the store or an hour or two at the bar, the Tigr Blue Mini + offers good security at a super light weight. 

Weight: 5.1 pounds Shackle length: 8.75 inches

Pros: Angle grinder-resistant construction Cons: Pricey; heavy

For ebike owners seeking the absolute best protection for their investment, look no further than the Abus Granit Super Extreme 2500. Similar to the Hiplok DX1000, this beefy U-lock is coated in a material that dulls the blade of angle grinders before they can cut through the shackle or crossbar. In this case, Wolfram carbide is used. 

The Super Extreme 2500 is a little cheaper than the Hiplok D1000 but for around $20 less, you get a longer shackle which should better accommodate chunky ebike frames. For further protection, the Abus features dual locking cylinders made of hardened steel. The lock also comes with an extra set of keys and a code for replacement, should you lose both sets. However, like Hiplok, there's no anti-theft reimbursement policy.

Length : 25 inches Weight : 14.8 pounds

Pros : Big, burly, intimidating, and secure Cons : Very, very heavy

The legend. The beast. This lock has long been used by New York City messengers who lock their bikes up in heavily trafficked areas, sometimes for long periods of time. It’s super heavy and not particularly comfortable to wear over your shoulder. But if you’re looking for the pinnacle in protection, the Legend may be your best bet. It combines heavy duty construction with the flexibility to lock your bike in various locking situations. 

I did make a token effort at cutting a link with my bolt cutters, but it was clear from the get-go these links weren’t breaking for anything less than an angle grinder and some determination. The Legend is also one of the very few bike locks to earn a 5-star ART rating. It’s called the Legend for a reason.

Length : 3.5 feet Weight : 6.86 pounds

Pros : Locking mechanism is integrated into the chain; good price Cons : Quite heavy

The OnGuard’s titanium-enforced hexagonal hardened steel chain links aren’t as big and thick as Kryptonite’s Legend chain lock, but the Mastiff weighs almost eight pounds less. It was impervious to my attacks with a 24-inch bolt cutter, but it could be cut with an angle grinder in 30 seconds or so. 

Unlike the Kryptonite Legend, which uses a separate U-lock to secure the ends of the chain, OnGuard integrates the locking mechanism into the lock itself. That’s one less thing to keep track of — or lose. OnGuard does offer up to $2,001 in anti-theft protection, though you’ll need to register your bike with the company. The Mastiff comes with 5 keys, and the locking mechanism bolts secure in two locations for resistance to pulling and twisting. 

Length : 3 feet Weight : 3 pounds

Pros : Alarm is a neat feature to deter casual thieves Cons : Looks and feels clunky when mounted to a bike

While the Adaptor Chain included with the Alarm Box 2.0 can be cut with a pair of bolt cutters and some elbow grease, thieves may be additionally deterred by the Alarm Box’s primary feature: a 100 decibel alarm that sounds with excess movement or tampering. 

If the bike just gets slightly jostled, a five-second ‘warning’ alarm will sound. If the movement continues, then the 100-decibel alarm kicks in. The chain measures just over 3 feet, making it easy to lock to a variety of solid racks or bars. It’s also possible to affix the Alarm Box to your bike without the use of the chain. 

Circumference : 33.5 inches Weight : 2.2 pounds

Pros : Smooth and easy operation Cons : Circumference when open could be slightly larger

Buttery smooth articulation and a compact design that slides easily into the included mount make the Seatylock Foldylock compact  the best folding lock we tested. The 33.5-inch circumference of the lock when fully open is slightly smaller than the Kryptonite Evolution 790, but large enough to open up plenty of locking possibilities. 

The rivets connecting the bars are designed to resist sawing and cutting attacks. The rounded heads of the rivets make it difficult to drill through as well. A thief would need an angle grinder to get through the Foldylock’s stout bars. The lock comes with a 3-year warranty, too. The Foldylock Compact meets the right combination of weight, compact design at 7.5 inches long when folded, and locking capabilities to make it best in the folding lock category. 

Circumference : 35 inches Weight : 3.15 pounds 

Pros : Big circumference; cool frame mount Cons : Hinges are a bit stiff

Like all folding locks, the Evolution 790 only moves two-dimensionally, making locking in certain situations trickier. But it has the biggest circumference of the three we tested, so you’ll have plenty of wiggle room to secure your bike. While not a major issue, the hinges don’t move as smoothly as other options in this category. 

The lock includes a pretty neat mount that holds the lock tightly until you press a release button. But I wonder if more moving parts makes it more susceptible to failure over time. The slim profile when folded makes it a good option for stowing in a backpack. I chopped at this lock with my 24-inch bolt cutters, made a few scratches, then gave up. 

Circumference: 27 inches Weight : 1.5 pounds

Pros : Folds down small and stores easily; affordable; fairly light Cons : Small circumference

The Hendrix is compact and easy to use. A plastic mount is included so you can secure the Hendrix to your bike. The lock would just as easily stow in a backpack, or in a jersey pocket — though it’s a touch heavy, so it will likely pull on your jersey enough to become uncomfortable. 

The overall circumference when the lock is completely unfolded is a bit small, which limits where you can use the lock. And like all folding locks, the Hendrix only articulates in a linear fashion. It’s a handy and portable lock that’s easy to toss in a backpack. I was almost able to cut through the lock with my 24-inch bolt cutters, but despite repeated cuts and lots of twisting, the lock withstood the attack — just barely.

Type : Synthetic rope with steel core Length : 47 inches Weight : 3.1 pounds

Pros : Super flexible Cons : Gets dirty easily

The Eyelet from Tex Lock feels an awful lot like a synthetic rope. That’s because it basically is — with a steel core surprise. The combination of the three rope layers and the steel core make this light and flexible lock tough to cut quickly. Add in the U-lock and you’ve got a lock that will delay any would-be thief for a good long while, even with the right tools. The Eyelet is light and comfortable to wear over your shoulder. 

It looks cool, too, though it picks up dirt rather quickly. And more importantly, it’s easy to loop it through your bike and stationary poles or the like. There are lots of locking and storing possibilities here, and with three lengths to choose from; I tested the 120cm (47 inch) version and found it to be the perfect length in most locking situations, there’s a Tex Lock for everyone. 

Type : Flat strap with combination Length : 18-60 inches Weight : 14 ounces

Pros : Super compact, easy to stow in a jersey pocket; quite light Cons : Can be cut with 24-inch bolt cutters quickly

This super-compact lock is easy to use and best for stowing in a jersey pocket for quick in and out trips at the coffee shop, but it’s not ideal for long-term storage security. I cut this lock very easily with a set of 24-inch bolt cutters, but the six stainless steel bands encased in Kevlar will slow down any would-be thieves with smaller cutters. 

And I could not get through the band with sheet metal cutters or a small pair of diagonal cutting pliers — the types of tools thieves can stuff in their pockets. If you want a bit of added security, pair this lock with Ottolock’s Sidekick U-Lock (sold separately). The three number tumblers can sometimes be hard to position correctly because they’re so small, but otherwise, the Hexband is super simple to use. The lock is available in three sizes (18, 30, and 60 inches) and multiple colors.

Think carefully about your needs in order to choose the best bike lock for you. For starters, think about how much security you’ll actually need. If, for example, you’ll be leaving your bicycle locked outside your apartment or office building for hours or even days at a time, you’ll want a heavier-duty lock. But if you’re only popping into the coffee shop for a few minutes, a lighter, more portable lock might do the trick.

Portability is an important consideration as well. A lock you don’t want to carry with you is a lock you’re likely to leave at home. Some locks are small enough to fit in a jersey pocket, while others will need a dedicated mounting space on your bike or some real estate in a backpack. 

While not always the case, locks that focus on portability will sacrifice some burliness by necessity. So smaller, thinner locks may be more susceptible to common tools that thieves use. Still, even a small and portable lock will offer some theft deterrence for quick lockups outside the coffee shop or grocery store. Try to decide whether you’ll need more portability or more theft deterrence. You can always buy two different types of locks to fit different needs, too. 

The lock’s weight matters too, and while that’s closely related to portability, it is entirely possible to find a strong, durable lock that doesn’t weigh a ton and packs down relatively small. Weight becomes more of a concern if you’re stowing the lock in a pocket or backpack. It can be less impactful if you’re mounting the lock on your bike. 

That said, the heaviest-duty locks are also, well, quite heavy. Such locks are best for locking your bike long-term in high-theft areas. But they won’t feel too great in a backpack or slung over your shoulder.

The theft deterrence level depends largely on the materials used to create the lock and the overall design. Keeping in mind that any lock can be cut or destroyed with the right tools, you can hedge your bets by choosing a lock with heavy-duty materials like steel chain links or a U-Lock with a steel shackle. Cable locks can be cut quickly and easily with bolt cutters, but burlier locks will require heavier-duty tools like an angle grinder. The odds of a thief walking down the street with an angle grinder are much lower than a thief equipped with bolt cutters, so heavier-duty locks can act as a deterrent without ever having to face an actual attack.

Finally, prices for bike locks can vary widely, from $20 all the way up to $300 or more. Choose a lock within your budget, and keep in mind that just because a lock is expensive doesn’t mean it’s better for your needs. Consider all of the above criteria before plunking down your credit card. 

Chain locks vs. U-Locks vs. folding locks

Chain locks differ from U-Locks and folding locks in construction and capability. Chain locks are built with chain links and are connected at the ends with either a small U-lock or an integrated locking unit. 

U-Locks feature a U-shaped metal shackle that inserts into a locking mechanism. And a folding lock features metal links that pivot to open up in a wide circle, then fold up for easy storage.

Each type of lock has distinct advantages and disadvantages. Chain locks are very durable, easy to lock around a variety of fixed objects, and depending on the size of the links, they can be worn around the shoulder for easy transport, and they are very resistant to theft attacks. But such locks can be quite heavy, especially as the links get larger.

U-locks are one of the most common types of locks because they are resistant to all sorts of cutting tools. They stow easily in a backpack, too, and can even mount cleanly on your bike. They, too, can get quite heavy when you get into longer shackle U-locks. U-locks are also limited in locking capabilities because the shackles often don’t reach far enough to be useful.

Folding locks solve that problem by extending outward to create more locking opportunities. The articulated arms extend to form a large circle. These locks fold up compact and can be stowed easily in a backpack or mounted on your bike. The pivots that connect the arms can be a weak point, however, making these locks susceptible to drilling or leverage attacks. 

Portability, price, weight, and ease of use are all fairly easy to determine by simply taking the lock with you on various rides around town. So that’s exactly what I did with each lock in the test. From coffee shops to train stations, I locked up my bike for quick trips and all-day storage. Fortunately, no thieves came upon my bike; if they did, they were deterred enough by the locks to move on. 

I cut a random sampling of locks using both bolt cutters and an angle grinder to get a sense of the effort that goes into it. Not surprisingly, I was able to destroy each one, though the time and effort it took varied quite a lot. Round cables were the easiest to cut with 24-inch bolt cutters I had on hand; large-diameter chains and U-lock shackles were the most difficult and required the use of an angle grinder.

But as mentioned previously, it’s possible to cut through or otherwise destroy any bike lock on the market with the right tools and enough time and determination. With that in mind, we examined each lock for potential weaknesses or obvious flaws that might make cutting or destroying easier. 

Are there testing and design standards for bike locks?

The two most common security ratings you’ll find on bike locks are the Sold Secure designation (Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Diamond), and the ART star rating (5 stars is the highest rating and sparingly bestowed upon locks). 

Manufacturers may also include their own in-house security ratings to give buyers a sense of how much theft deterrence they can expect from a specific lock. Such ratings do not necessarily adhere to any independent scale or rating. 

Can all bike locks be cut?

Yes. With the right tools and enough time, any bike lock can be cut or otherwise destroyed. It is important to keep in mind that even if a lock can be destroyed, it may take a thief a prohibitively long time to get through the lock with the tools on hand. So locks still serve an important function even if they can be cut. 

Should I still use a bike lock even if I know it can be cut?

Yes. The vast majority of thieves are opportunists. If they can’t grab the bike and go, they are less likely to make an attempt to steal it. A tough lock that actually looks tough to destroy may deter a thief from spending the time and effort to steal your bike. 

What tools do thieves use to cut locks?

The most common tool bike thieves use is a pair of bolt cutters. These can cut through most cable locks and even some U-locks, but other U-Locks and chain locks will require an angle grinder. Angle grinders are quite loud and throw a lot of sparks, so if your lock can withstand bolt cutter attacks, it’s already well ahead in the safety game. For the toughest locks, thieves may use torches or other heavy-duty tools. Less commonly, thieves may use chemicals that will freeze the lock, making it more susceptible to damage. 

Will a lock brand cover the cost of my bike if it gets stolen?

Some brands like Kryptonite and OnGuard do have programs that will reimburse you up to a certain dollar amount if your bike gets stolen. This requires a registration process, and you’ll want to read the fine print regarding what is actually covered. Other brands may have programs that will replace the lock if your bike gets stolen, but not the cost of the bike itself. Both of these options are generally considered ‘add-ons’ and may require additional purchases. 

How should I carry my bike lock?

That largely depends on the size and shape of the lock. Some small locks can be stowed in your jersey pocket. Larger locks may require you to carry a backpack or other storage solution. And many locks come with specially designed mounts that you can connect directly to your bike. Ultimately, you should carry your lock however it is most convenient for you. 

Do bike locks require maintenance?

Not usually. But if your lock is exposed regularly to the elements, you may notice degradation. Key cylinders and combination locks in particular may become more difficult to operate in these cases, though often you can spray those parts with some lubrication to restore functionality. 

Do bike locks wear out?

Yes, but not quickly in most cases. Regular and/or prolonged exposure to sunlight, rain, snow, dirt, and mud will accelerate wear. Any moving parts are more susceptible to wear over time, such as hinges, lock cylinders, combination tumblers, etc. If you notice premature wear or damage to your lock, your best bet is to contact the manufacturer to see if it is covered under warranty. 

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Dan Cavallari is the former technical editor for VeloNews Magazine, who currently reviews electric bikes, bike lights, and other bike accessories for Tom's Guide. In addition to VeloNews, his work has appeared in Triathlete Magazine, Rouleur Magazine, CyclingTips.com, Road Bike Action, Mountain Bike Action, CycleVolta.com, Tomsguide.com, and much more. Dan also hosts two podcasts on his site, Slow Guy on the Fast Ride: One is about cycling and other outdoor activities, while the other looks at mental health issues. Most recently, Dan also covered the 2022 Tour de France. Dan lives outside of Denver, Colorado with his family.

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The Best Locks for Protecting Your Bike or Ebike

If you buy something using links in our stories, we may earn a commission. Learn more.

Best High-Security Bike Lock Litelok X1 Read more

Best Lightweight U-Lock TiGr Blue Mini Read more

Best Folding Lock for Security Abus Bordo Granit 6500K Read more

Best Ultra-Compact Bike Lock Seatylock Foldylock Compact Read more

There’s an unspoken rule in the biking world: If a thief really wants your bike, they're gonna get it. That doesn’t mean you can’t mitigate this dire threat to your wheels, even in the age of battery-powered angle grinders. Bike lock makers are engaged in an arms race to develop reasonably priced and relatively light locks that can fend off angle grinders, though they're still far more expensive than the previous generation of U-locks. To find the best bike lock for you, we tested the top options over several weeks in a wide variety of styles and price points, from the safest angle-grinder-resistant U-locks to miniature folding locks and everything in between. Below our main list, you'll also find tips on security ratings and how to properly employ your new lock to help keep your ride safe.

Updated August 2024: We've done a total overhaul of this guide to feature a wider range of options, including a pick from the new class of grinder-resistant locks that are well-suited to protecting pricey ebikes.

Be sure to check out our related guides, including the Best Electric Bicycles , Best Electric Cargo Bikes , Best Ebikes for Elderly Riders , and Best Kids Bikes .

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Where To Lock Up Your Bike

You should lock your bike to a secure rack in a high-traffic area, whenever possible. This alone will keep away many opportunistic thieves as it’s just not worth the trouble to attract attention.

Use a bike rack over a more vulnerable anchor point, as it should be properly secured and bolted into concrete. This isn’t always the case—I recently found a rack in my local area with a loose bolt at the base—so keep an eye out.

Which Lock Type You Need

There are many ways to lock your bike securely, some of which will depend on the type of lock you’re using and the bike you’re locking.

For a regular-size U-lock, you’ll usually want to lock the bike around the frame and the back wheel, if space allows. Some methods suggest simply locking the back wheel, but this can leave the rest of your bike vulnerable. You’ll want to keep U-locks away from the ground, especially with concrete or asphalt, to prevent thieves from trying to smash it with a hammer or use leverage devices like a tire jack or iron.

If you’ve got a quick-release wheel, you may want to consider a dual-lock setup like the Kryptonite Evolution Mini-7 With Flex Cable (though this is not a grinder-resistant lock). Alternatively, you could use multiple locks, like a grinder-resistant lock for the frame and back wheel plus a chain or cable lock for the front wheel.

Chain locks can work well for securing both a frame and wheel, though they have their drawbacks. They’re usually quite heavy, especially the thicker ones that can better resist heavy bolt cutters. They’re also generally not nearly as grinder-resistant as our top picks. Again, keeping the chain off the ground will help ward off bolt-cutting thieves.

What To Know About Security Tags and Trackers

One key trick to tracking your bike is using a Tile or Apple AirTag hidden somewhere along the frame or under your seat so you can keep an eye on its position. Unfortunately, there are some real limitations to this method.

Both AirTags and Tile devices are limited to the range of their Bluetooth antennae. Tile devices come with a maximum 400-foot range for the Tile Pro, while the Tile Mate and Slim offer 250 feet. Apple doesn’t specify its AirTag range, but it's also limited by Bluetooth, with most testing putting it at around 30 meters or 100 feet.

AirTags and Tiles both offer some tracking features when out of range. AirTags can connect over the Find My Network, using other people’s Apple devices to anonymously track, while Tile devices can similarly track the device's last known location over Android phones, but this is far from perfect. Neither offers real-time GPS tracking, and both systems require other devices to track.

AirTags support ultra-wideband technology for Precision Finding (supported by iPhone 11 or higher) that can pinpoint the device more accurately than Tile trackers. On the downside, AirTags will chime when moved away from your phone as a safety precaution, which may alert thieves to their presence.

There are also real-time GPS trackers, such as the Invoxia , which charges a yearly subscription fee. These devices are pricier but potentially more effective since they don’t rely on Bluetooth, instead using real-time GPS location tracking. They’re generally larger and tougher to conceal than AirTags or Tiles.

What About Smart Locks?

What About Smart Locks? Smart locks are relatively new to the bike-lock scene and have yet to make major waves. Smart locks like the I Lock It Plus (which we have not tested) can offer conveniences like keyless unlocking via your phone and even a smart alarm with up to 110 decibels of shrieking sound. That said, you’ll likely have your keys with you for most rides, and alarms can go off accidentally, which can cause more problems than they solve.

Even the pricier smart locks we've seen aren't grinder-resistant, so you’re trading some security for convenience. As noted above, we recommend making sure any lock you choose is independently rated for security from Sold Secure and/or ART to ensure objective testing for the best protection.

What To Know About Security Ratings

Some bike lock makers provide their own internal security ratings for guidance. Those can be helpful, but the most secure locks we've tested use standard ratings from objective sources, including Sold Secure , which offers ratings of multiple vehicle types between Bronze and Diamond, and ART , which uses a number scale from 1 to 5.

So what do these ratings actually mean? Here's a guide to two of the top lock-security firms and their rating systems:

Sold Secure was established in 1992 by Northumbria and Essex police in the UK. The brand is now owned and operated by the Master Locksmiths Association, a not-for-profit trade group. It uses a four-level rating system, as listed below.

Sold Secure Rating Levels: Bronze (lowest, secure against basic tools); Silver (midrange, secure against enhanced tools/determined attacks); Gold (second best, resistant against dedicated tools/attacks); Diamond (highest, resistant against destructive attacks and “special tools”).

The firm also uses separate ratings for different vehicle types, like bikes versus motorcycles (which it now calls pedal cycles and powered cycles, respectively). For example, the Hiplok DX has a Sold Secure Pedal Cycle Diamond rating and a Sold Secure Powered Cycle Gold rating. It's a good score, but it isn't as secure as top grinder-resistant options like the Litelok X1 or tougher locks like the Litelock X3 and Hiplock D1000, all three of which get Diamond ratings in both categories. Grinder-resistant locks will usually say so directly on the brand's site as well. When in doubt, you can always go to the Sold Secure website to check whether your lock is rated.

ART is a Dutch independent security firm that uses a five-star security system centered on vehicle type, durability, weather, environmental resistance, and resistance to attacks.

ART Rating Levels: 1/5 (minimum security rating, fit for a second bike lock only); 2/5 (higher security rating that represents good theft protection for bicycles, the minimum for most insurance companies); 3/5 (bicycle security for high risk of theft, also suitable for mopeds and scooters for insurance purposes); 4/5 (very high security rating for bicycles, good theft protection for motorcycles while traveling); 5/5 (highest security rating, sometimes required to insure motorcycles stored at home).

Best High-Security Bike Lock

Litelok’s trusty X1 is our favorite all-around bike lock thanks to its mix of serious security and impressive versatility for a wide range of users, bikes, and racks. As an angle-grinder-resistant U-lock, the X1’s security scores are among the highest available, with only a few locks claimed to hold out longer against power-cutting criminals. The lock’s mix of high-strength ceramic composite material (which the brand calls “Barronium”) and its anti-rotation locking system—a thief has to cut both sides—means it lasts “at least” five times as long as top traditional U-locks against grinder attacks. No one tried to grind through the lock during my weeks of testing, but multiple users have reported Litelok's models have frustrated thieves for up to an hour, whereas a standard steel U-lock is likely to last only a few minutes.

Just as importantly, the X1 is easy to take along and use. Unlike its close competitor, the thicker Hiplok D1000 , this is a full-size U-lock, so it loops over larger ebike frames like the Propella 9S Pro V2 I used in testing. At 3.7 pounds, its on the lighter side for high-security locks, fitting securely into its included mount or slipping into a backpack or holster. It’s not cheap, but it's an easier ask than Litelok's larger (and tougher) X3 to help put your fears to rest.

Best Lightweight U-Lock

I'm a former daily bike commuter in Portland, a city that is to bike thieves what Rome is to Catholics, and I tested a number of locks during my time there. The best I found was a unique titanium U-lock from a company called TiGr, which makes them by hand in a small workshop outside Philly. The TiGr was strong, light, and unique enough to send thieves looking down the rack, as they generally prefer a known target to an unknown one. I still have that lock, but it was discontinued shortly after the start of the Ukraine war put a crunch on titanium imports .

The new model from TiGr is made of carbon steel and is actually a few grams lighter than the titanium version, with a little more flex. The new lock otherwise performs the same, and I've used it on both normal bikes and ebikes with thinner frames, like the Aventon Soltera2 . It conveniently mounts on your frame where a water bottle cage would otherwise go. You can see how the TiGr does against various attacks in videos on the company's site, which is about as well as a standard steel U-lock from brands like Kryptonite and Abus—for an extra few bucks you're cutting 70 percent of their weight and getting the advantage of presenting a less common and predictable target. —Martin Cizmar

Best Folding Lock for Security

This Abus folding lock works extremely well for larger bikes like cargo ebikes or for locking up multiple bikes with a single lock. I like that it folds down to a manageable size when not in use, and you can easily slide it into its holster on your bike or into a pack or back pocket when needed. At a little over three and a half pounds, it's not light by any means, but it is a bit more svelte than many U-lock options I have tried. The mechanism to lock it is easy: Just slide the end of the chain into the slot and use the included high-quality key to secure it. It comes with two keys, including one with a built-in light for finding the keyhole in the dark. —Parker Hall

Best Ultra-Compact Bike Lock

Seatylock’s miniaturized Foldylock Compact is a great choice if you want minimal fuss on your daily route. Its included mount attaches to your bike’s built-in rivets or, if you like to keep a water bottle there, you can use the included straps to attach it to your frame for a secure and silent setup. I love the lock’s smooth-glide design, making connecting and unfolding it slick and simple, and while it can be a little unwieldy to expand, its long reach made it easy to secure my bike's frame and back wheel to multiple anchor points. Its collapsible body easily fits in any backpack, fanny pack, or even your back pocket.

It’s reasonably robust for a folding lock, with bolts designed to be saw- and cut-proof, but they still provide a natural weak point for would-be thieves, and its frame is no match for severe attacks like an angle grinder. That said, the best bike lock is the one that’s always with you. As WIRED reviewer Adrienne So notes, the Foldylock Compact provides “the ideal compromise in terms of size, weight, security, price, and ease of use.”

Best Mini U-Lock for Security

As one of the most secure bike locks available, the Hiplok D1000 is a top option for anyone in a high-threat area where bike thieves thrive. The lock’s thick, hardened steel frame is reinforced with graphene to make it tenaciously troublesome to cut through. While no lock is angle-grinder-proof, Hiplock claims the lock holds out up to 20 times longer than traditional U-locks, with double-locking tabs that require thieves to cut through both sides.

Apart from its high price, the D1000’s biggest downside is its small circumference, making it tough to get around ebike frames, let alone your bike's back wheel. At over four pounds, it’s also quite heavy and doesn’t come with a mount, but it is compact enough to fit into small packs and holsters. In daily use, I appreciated the lock mechanism’s premium feel and extras like a rubberized cover for the keyhole to help keep it in prime working order over the long haul. This won’t be the right lock for everyone, but if you need a tough-as-nails option for those deep, dark alleyways, the D1000 delivers.

Best Midrange U-Lock

The KryptoLok Standard model is a good lock for those facing only moderate theft threats. It's not super thick or grinder-resistant, but it gets solidly middle-rung security ratings and includes protection against twist and drill attacks. Its weight of just under three pounds makes it pretty easy to tote around, and it comes with Kryptonite's Transit FlexFrame bracket for easy mounting to your bike's frame. I'm not a fan of the fabric mounting straps, as they can loosen over time, but they get the job done. – Matt Jancer

A Lock That Protects Your Front Wheel Too

The Kryptonite Evolution Mini-7 locks in two places in the key cylinder, so a bike thief would need to make two cuts to break through it. The tubes are 13 millimeters thick instead of the Kryptonite New York's 16 millimeters, and being a "mini," the loop of the U is narrower. However, the included cable can be threaded through your front wheel, so you can better secure your whole bike without carrying a second lock. That's especially helpful for bikes with quick-release front tires. – Matt Jancer

A Cheap Low-Security Lock

The Palmy is an aluminum U-lock that is not all that secure. As in, you could definitely break it with one good swing of a hammer. However, a thief wouldn't know that just on sight if you get it in black. This low-security U-lock is better than a cable lock and will stop your bike from just rolling away. It's both super light (10 ounces) and very cheap (less than $40). I've used it on cheaper bikes even in larger cities, and it's perfect for situations such as a long ride into the countryside—occasions when you would feel better locking your bike up while grabbing lunch or supplies but don't want to lug around a hefty steel lock you really don't need. —Martin Cizmar

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Best bike locks 2024: heavy duty and portable locks for keeping your bike safe

Securing your pride and joy with one of the best bike locks is essential - Tested and rated all the best bike locks for securing your bike anywhere

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Best U-Locks

Best mini u-locks.

• Best chain Locks

Best folding locks

Best alarmed locks, best lightweight locks.

• how we test

A good quality bike lock is an effective deterrent to thieves and essential if you plan to commute by bike , leave your bike out of sight or just keep it safe at home.  

We have tested hundreds of bike locks over the years here at Cycling Weekly. Ranging from heavy-duty U-locks and chain locks for securing bikes at home and train stations, to portable lightweight options for bikepacking and peace of mind at the café stop.

We extensively test the useability, function and features of all the locks we test, until we need to bring in the power tools. Here in the UK and North America, Sold Secure does this for us, along with ART in Europe. They independently test bicycle locks, classifying them using a simple rating system based on their performance. For each review, we list its security rating and for more details about the Sold Secure rating system head to the bottom of this page .

A good bike lock shouldn't be the only thing that keeps your bike safe. Consider installing a bike tracker , so at the very least if your bike is stolen, it is more likely to be recovered.   

Best bike locks: quick list

Best overall

As one of the few 'angle grider proof' locks we have tested the Litelok X1 have to get our seal of approval as the best bike lock. 

Read more below

Best chain lock

Sold Secure Diamond rated, Kryptonite's chain lock offers more flexibility as to where you can lock your bike. At nearly 7kgs its not the most practical for carrying around.   

Best budget lock

The Onguard Brute is an affordable lock available in three sizes, but is still Sold Secure Diamond rated.

Best folding lock

Abus's top folding lock provides easier carrying and locking and a Sold Secure Gold rating.

Best alarmed lock

The Oxford Alarm-D Pro lock incorporates an loud alarm to deter tampering and alert people in the vicinity. 

Best lightweight lock

The Hiplok Z Lok is one of the lightest and portable on the market. Providing enough security for quick stops when you have visibility of your bike. 

Best bike locks: Our pick

You can trust Cycling Weekly. Our team of experts put in hard miles testing cycling tech and will always share honest, unbiased advice to help you choose. Find out more about how we test.

The Litelok X1 offers a diamond security rating

Our expert review:

Specifications

Reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

The Litelok X1 isn't cheap. With the premium price, however, comes premium quality. The lock is diamond rated meaning you'll be covered under most insurance schemes, it requires multiple angle grinder discs to penetrate and weighs in at a reasonable 1.7kg, meaning that the lock is easy to carry around.

In use, our reviewer found that: "Due to its locking circumference, it was easy to lock the bike up in all of the different places that I needed to and in general, the Litelok X1 was a pleasure to use". 

There are other locks, such as the On Guard Brute, which offer a similar security rating for a much lower price, but the security ratings only provide a lower bound - they don’t tell you much a lock passes the test by.

So, for ultimate peace of mind - when it’s the bike you care about, rather than insurance provider box ticking - the X1 is an excellent option. It's constructed with 'Barronium', a brand new composite designed to resist angle grinders and lined with an environmentally friendly rubber coating that will not scratch your frame.

Read more: Litelok X1 bike lock full review

Milenco Dundrod ++

The Dundrod++ boasts a diamond security rating

Manufactured by Milton Keynes based security brand, Milenco, the Dundrod ++ surpasses the requirements for Gold and is one of the few locks that meet Sold Secure’s Diamond standard.

Although most bike insurers will only require a Gold rated lock for cycles worth over £1,000/$1,000, if your bike has sentimental value or is a model that can’t be replaced, you’ll be wanting something more secure — which is where a Diamond rated lock comes in.

The Dundrod ++ is reassuringly plump with a shackle and crossbar that are visibly beefier than a standard U-lock. The lockable area is on the larger side for this style of lock, making it quite easy to secure the bike through the frame and wheel.

Bear in mind that if you are considering a lock of this application, it is worth using two to lock each wheel to the frame and immovable object, as well as potentially upgrading the locks to wherever you are keeping your bike.

Coming without a bike mount and weighing just under two and a half kilos, the Dundrod ++ isn’t intended as a lock for use when out and about—although this certainly isn’t ruled out, providing you have somewhere to put it.

Read more: Milenco Dundrod ++ full review

Abus Granit XPlus 540

The Granit Xplus 540’s 23cm shackle height and 10.8cm inner width means you have plenty of room to maneouver. While it doesn’t offer quite as much flexibility as the brand’s Bordo folding lock, it still allows for a variety of locking possibilities. 

Its Diamond rating is secured through a combination of 13mm temper hardened steel square parabolic shackle and a double bolting shackle and lock body, with the latter designed to deliver protection against picking. The lock also has the feel of something that’s well-made and features an automatic keyhole cover; having had a couple of locks jam on me in the past, this is worthwhile detail. 

It comes with a flexible mounting point that allows it to be attached to the top, down and seat tube - depending on your frame of course. It’s certainly light enough to carry in this manner, although like all ‘full-size’ U-locks it’s likely better stored in a backpack. Its security rating also makes it another consideration for home use.

The K-Traz U17 offers value for money without compromising security

Zéfal K-Traz U17

A brilliant low-cost option, making Gold Sold Secure even more accessible to everyone. At this price, it wouldn’t even be too much of an outlay to buy one for every bike in your household. Although it might be tempting to use one lock to secure multiple bikes, especially if you have a longer chain link lock, that only serves to tempt thieves. Far safer to have locks for each one.

At just under 1.3kg, the K-Traz U17 is surprisingly lightweight—especially considering its price and security rating. A complete plastic coating minimizes the risk of paintwork coming into contact with metal.

The two downsides are the straight shackle, which does make it more difficult to mount the crossbar than a bent design, and the plasticky bike mount. We found this a little fiddly to set up, as it uses two long screws to clamp the bracket to the frame, and the release mechanism for extracting the lock feels a little flimsy which makes it a bit of a struggle to dismount the lock.

For the money, we think the K-Traz U17 is a brilliant lock, but if you’re after quality all-round performance, you will need to set your price bracket a little higher.

Read more: Zéfal K-Traz U17 full review

Master Lock's Mini U-Lock is both lightweight and portable

Master Lock Mini U-Lock

The Master Lock Mini U-Lock is something of a hidden gem. You’d have thought that with the top Sold Secure Diamond rating and its impressively light sub-kilo weight Master Lock would be boasting and inflating the price to match those premium qualities.

But no, despite being one of the lightest locks on the market with a Sold Secure Diamond rating, Master Lock remains quite modest about the Mini U-Lock and its price is surprisingly low.

Naturally, the lock is on the smaller side for U-Locks, but we found that it’s still large enough to lock the rear wheel to your bike’s frame and go around a standard Sheffield Stand, securing your bike to an immovable object. On review we found that we needed to be a bit more careful about exactly what object we chose to 'lock up' to but this didn't present any real issues.

The plastic coating helps to avoid scratches to your bike and there's a dust cover over the lock mechanism to avoid contamination.  After several uses our bikes remained scratch-free. Be careful with your keys though; the four provided are all you'll ever have, as there's no key replacement service.

Finally, a bike mount would have been appreciated. During review we found ourselves popping out and having to bring a rucksack to carry the lock in, even though we didn't otherwise require the bag.

Read more: Master Lock Mini U-Lock full review

Onguard's Brute lock comes in three different lengths

Onguard Brute

The Brute is Onguard's highest security lock, which locks the 16.8mm diameter shackle in four places, rather than the more standard two points of engagement. There's plenty of coverage with a flat area at the top of the lock rather than a curved one to increase space and the shackle is coated with thick rubber to help prevent frame damage.

The Brute has a high security locking cylinder, designed to prevent drilling or other assaults and with a rounded shape it helps prevent leverage around its edges. It comes with five keys, one with an LED to help you see what you're doing and unlock your bike after dark.

There are three different lengths of lock, so you can find one to balance portability and lockable area and the Brute comes with a frame mount. Despite its Sold Secure Diamond rating, the Onguard Brute is reasonably priced too.

OnGuard 8006 Pitbull Mini

Gram-for-gram, the Pitbull mini packs quite a punch. Despite only weighing 1.3kg it delivers a Diamond Sold Secure rating. It achieves this by measuring just 9cm x 14cm while still featuring a 14mm hardened steel shackle and a pick, pull and drill-resistant ‘bump lock’ cylinder. Its weight and dimensions makes it easily portable, either using the supplied mounting bracket or stuffed into a bag; 

I found it rattled less than a larger U-lock when mounted to the frame although it didn’t feel quite as solid as either of the folding locks. Naturally it’s size means the internal locking space is small, and will limit how and what you can lock your bike too - so perhaps not ideal for those who require some flexibility. 

However if you're locking your bike up to the same point each time, and know this compact lock fits, then it’s a great way of reducing your carrying weight without having to sacrifice the security rating.

The Messenger Mini+ is a small but well formed bike lock

Kryptonite Messenger Mini With U-Lock Extender

Usually, the consequence of a lightweight and compact U-lock is a bit of a sacrifice in its usability, being too small to loop around objects and actually reach your bike.

But we found that simply isn’t the case with this lock. By the addition of a secondary shackle, the weight and size are kept low, but the total lockable area remains very respectable. Securing a wheel to the frame—in addition to reaching an immovable object—simply doesn’t present a struggle.

The main shackle even has a bent foot, which we found made it quite easy to mount the crossbar—exactly what you’d want in a lock designed around portability.

Regarding that portability, though, we felt that there is a significant omission. The lock doesn’t come provided with a bike mount and the mount available that is compatible with this lock is quite a cumbersome looking handlebar mounting option. For a lock that’s supposed to be used on the go, needing to bring some kind of bag to stow it in is quite an inconvenience.

It is also a little on the expensive side for its combination of security rating, weight, lockable area and portability. That said, if you do always have somewhere to keep the lock on your trips about town, you won’t be disappointed in its application.

Read more: Kryptonite Messenger Mini With U-Lock Extender full review

Best Chain Locks

Kryptonite's chain design offers plenty of flexibility when it comes to locking up your bike

Kryptonite New York Fahgettaboudit Chain 1410

Locks can act as an effective visual deterrent to bike thieves; by this measure the Kryptonite New York Fahgettaboudit chain is like a large, bad-tempered guard dog complete with foam at the mouth. 

Some 150cm in length, it’s made from a series of 14mm six-sided chain links made of 3t hardened manganese steel, all wrapped in a protective nylon cover. It’s locked using a padlock with 15mm steel shackle that benefits from a disc-style cylinder with both a reinforced anti-drill and anti-pull protection system. 

Unsurprisingly it’s heft is reflected on the scales, weighing almost 7kg. Ultimately it makes the chain far too heavy to carry around, unless perhaps you’re using it to lock up a cargo e-bike. However, its Diamond rating means it’s a good match for your home bike shed or garage, where it can be used to lock up an expensive road bike to a secured rack or mount.

The Bordo 6500 Granit X-Plus lock offers a large lockable area that can secure two bikes if needed

Abus Bordo Granit X Plus 6500

Folding locks bring a range of benefits over the venerable U-lock design. Not only do they tend to pack down smaller and have a larger lockable area, but their flexible nature greatly increases the range of objects you can lock your bike up to.

The typical downside of a folding lock is that with so many moving parts, they tend to be less secure than a simpler design, such as a U-lock. The hinge areas add a potential point of attack that's not there with  U-lock.

As such, the Abus is one of the only Gold rated folding locks currently available, but this superlative security does come with a couple of trade-offs. Tipping the scales at just under two kilos, the Abus lock is over four times as expensive and weighs just over half as much again as the Gold rated Zéfal K-Traz U17.

The Bordo Granit X Plus certainly isn’t all things to all people—but then, it isn’t trying to be. As a high security folding lock, it performs excellently. In addition to all the general benefits of folding locks, the Abus has a comprehensive rubber coating to protect your paintwork, a bike mount that is simple to set up and to use day-to-day, as well as an integrated weather seal on the lock barrel—adding some very welcome weather protection.

On review we found the bike mount not only straightforward to use but also capable of keeping the lock firmly in place, even when we were cycling on uneven and bumpy roads. Once we'd arrived at our destination the Bordo Granit X Plus' large lockable area made it easy to lock up our bike without any fuss; in fact we even locked up two town bikes using the one lock.

Read more: Abus Bordo Granit X Plus 6500 full review

Seatylock Foldylock compact is a fantastic compact folding lock that really takes the fight to Lock giants Abus

Seatylock Foldylock Compact

As the name states, it’s a small folding lock. It comprises six steel bars, joined by stainless rivets, that add up to a circumference of 85cm; I found this internal locking space offers just enough room to secure the lock through the front wheel and frame before attaching to a bike rack or similar. Due to its smaller size it was less cumbersome and thus easier to use than the folding Abus - it’s as quick to lock up as U-lock but with a little added flexibility that’s inherent in the design. 

When folded away it measures just 18.9 x 6cm, which likely makes it one of the smallest and lightest Silver rated locks around. Again, like the larger Abus lock, it can be secured to your bike’s bottle cage mounts using a plastic case; similarly it feels secure and silent when in transit. If a combination of weight and portability is important to you then the Compact should have plenty of appeal.

As the name suggests this Oxford lock features an in-built alarm

9. Oxford Alarm-D Pro

As the name would suggest, this Oxford lock comes with an inbuilt alarm that will sound if the internal motion sensors detect any tampering. It’s very simple to use, with arming and disarming controlled by just a turn of the key in the lock.

The calibration of the motion sensor was pretty spot on, detecting any suspicious fumbling, but not going off when the bike was just knocked a little when locking another up next to it. With the battery easy to access (when the lock is open), you can quite easily disable the alarm completely if you need it to work simply as a lock for any reason.

But this lock is by no means a novelty, it performs the basics really well. The bent shackle makes it easy to attach the crossbar, three keys are provided with more orderable, the bike mount is easy to set and works well in day-to-day use, plus its weight is pretty middle of the road for this style of lock.

The only reservation I have about this lock is that the rubber bumpers on the crossbar don’t extend all the way across, so some care is needed not to scratch your bike on the middle section of exposed metal.

Read more: Oxford Alarm-D Pro full review

This ABUS lock features an in-built alarm for added security

Abus 440 Alarm

The Abus 440 Alarm combines a robust hardened steel shackle with an in-built 100dB electronic alarm that's triggered by motion. It's an effective combination, although with only a Sold Secure Silver rating, the lock itself isn't as theftproof as the best. You can turn the alarm off for portage.

It operates using CR2 batteries. They're not that easy to source, so you might want to keep a stock in for when those supplied run flat.

There's a bike mount supplied that's easy to use, although finding a position for the lock within your frame might be an issue. The Abus 440 Alarm is heavy too, but in our review we said that: "This is much more than an 'opportunist anti-theft lock' option. If that is what you are looking for, you really can't go wrong with the Abus 440 Alarm".

Read more: Abus 440 Alarm full review

The Z Lok is our best lightweight and portable lock and is well-suited to coffee stops

Hiplok Z Lok Combo bike lock

The Z Lok weighs only 70g, so you’re not going to feel burdened by it if you stuff it into your pocket or clip it round your frame. The design is like an oversize zip tie and inside the plastic covering is a steel ribbon.

We reckon that if you use the Z Lok to secure your frame to a post or railing, it’s enough to stop a thief from walking away with your bike, although it’s unlikely to stand up long to a bolt cutter and its security level is unrated. Its steel band design is significantly more robust than other lightweight locking options, which tend to use thin cables, though.

At 40cm long, our reviewer found that there’s enough length to secure your frame to something immovable and possibly your rear wheel too. Because of its zip tie-like design, you can also shorten the loop to make it harder to get leverage with a cutter. There’s a release lever to undo the ratchet when unlocked.

In summary, we found that it’s a clever, useful bit of kit to carry around for the coffee stop or quick errands on the bike and cheaper than a full-strength lock too.

Read more: Hiplok Z Lok Combo bike lock full review

How we test and what to look for

How do sold secure test security and award ratings.

Sold Secure is an independent lock testing company based in the UK and its ratings are the industry standard for the security of bike locks. At the purpose-built laboratories in Rugby, locks are put through their paces against a variety of different attacks including—but not limited to—drilling, sawing, wedging and lock picking. 

Sold Secure is cagey about exactly how it tests, for obvious reasons, and it liaises with police forces to identify new attacks and incorporate them into its protocols.

Depending on how a lock performs in these tests, it is awarded a rating of Bronze, Silver, Gold, or Diamond. As a broad rule of thumb, Bronze is only deemed to be effective against opportunistic theft, Silver is good for bikes up to £1,000/$1,000 and Gold and Diamond are for bikes more valuable than £1,000/$1,000 and for particularly high crime areas.

SingerGM / Getty Images

How our bike locks are tested

We put the locks through the varied rigours of urban and utility cycling, using them for locking up outside work, the supermarket, pubs and running errands around town. 

In use, we consider aspects such as the weight, shape, locking mechanism, mounting attachment, tactile feel, security rating, price, and general user experience – essentially every quality of the lock, in real world situations. 

We don't try to cut through the locks ourselves – and there's a good reason for this. As we've mentioned in many places in this guide, no bike lock is ultimately unbreakable. The actual best way to protect the worth of your bike is through an insurance policy – and that will stipulate which level of security rating your bike lock should have.

Just to underline this point, it's the security ratings given by third-party testing companies, such as Sold Secure in the UK, that are important here.  Aside from the fact that these companies have professional testing protocols beyond what might be applied in a backyard test, insurers don't care about the results from anyone other than these companies. As they only use established third-party testers, their results are the only thing that's relevant here. 

For more details on how Cycling Weekly tests products, check out our How We Test page.

How do I choose the right level of security for me?

The first thing to make clear is that no bike lock is 100 per cent effective. With the right tools, enough time and the know-how, a concerted bike thief will be able to get through any lock. So, with that as the starting point - what exactly is the purpose of a bike lock?

The most basic function bike locks provide is a deterrent. It might be possible to ultimately get through any bike lock, but if it looks difficult, could take a lot of time, and might come with a much higher risk of getting caught, most thieves will leave it alone.

The most effective way to protect the worth of your bike is through an insurance policy, so if your bike does unfortunately get stolen, you'll at least not be out of pocket. Insurers will stipulate the level of security your bike lock needs to meet in order for them to pay out.

So, the level of security you need will depend on what’s required by your insurance. Some insurers will always require a lock of at least Gold Sold Secure standard. Others will be happy with Silver rated locks for bikes under £1,000/$1,000 - but you’ll need to check the wording of your own policy first.

Lightweight locks that are Sold Secure Bronze or not rated at all can be good for a bit of extra peace of mind when at a cafe, with your bike in sight. But beware, if your bike were to be stolen, then you wouldn’t be insured. Lightweight locks can also be good for a bit of extra security for low value accessories, such as helmets or a cheap front wheel.

How do I lock my bike securely?

First we'll run through the minimum required by most insurers, then how to go better than that. Don't forget to keep your bike secure at home, not just when out and about - we've covered that too.

Typical insurer requirements

Not only will your insurer require you to use a certain level of lock, but you’ll also have to lock your bike in a particular fashion in order to be covered.

This isn’t to try and catch you out, it’s just there’s a very different level of risk depending on the way in which you’ve locked your bike up. We’ve all seen lonely front wheels securely locked to railings with the quick release undone and the rest of the bike long gone.

You’ll need to lock your bike through the frame – and preferably the rear wheel – to an immovable object. An additional cable may need to be used to secure the front wheel as well. This generally applies both to bike security at home and when locking the bike away from home.

Ultimate security

Sometimes the worth of a bike is measured in more than money – if your bike has sentimental value or is a model that can’t be replaced, an insurance payout is not going to cover what was lost. In this case, prevention is much, much better than any ‘cure’.

For the ultimately secure set up, you should use two Diamond rated locks and use them to lock each wheel to the frame and through to an immovable object. When locking each wheel, make sure to go around the rim rather than just through the spokes – these can be cut and replaced very easily.

You’ll want to be sure that the object you’re locking to is genuinely immovable, being at least equally as secure as the locks. Depending on your garage setup, you may need to purchase a ground anchor to ensure this is the case when your bike is parked at home. Check out our piece on bike security at home for more.

Also, don’t overlook the security of the place you are locking your bikes, you may need to upgrade the locks to your garage, for example. But equally, don’t go overboard. Five sets of locks on a door and three security cameras are only going to intrigue a thief. Discrete but high security is the best combination.

This is well in excess of what any insurer would ask you to do. If you would be satisfied with an insurance payout should your bike be stolen (provided it was locked to the insurers’ standards), then this level of security is completely unnecessary. But if your bike is genuinely irreplaceable, these are the step to take.

For a cheap and simple, pared down town bike, you could get away with using a small Silver rated lock and some lockable quick release skewers to keep the wheels safe. This is a lighter and simpler solution than the lock and cable method preferred by insurers, but as a consequence, you may not be covered locking your bike up in this way.

Either double check with your insurer that they will cover you locking your bike in this way, or make sure your bike is cheap enough that if it does get stolen an insurance claim wouldn’t be worth it anyway.

What is the best style of bike lock?

There are many different styles of bike lock, each designed with a particular use case in mind.

D- / U-locks

D- / U-locks with their simple and robust design lend themselves to high security applications, although with a consequential high weight. But the same elements which make U-locks an easier design to make high security, also means that mid-level security can be offered at a sometimes surprisingly low weight. This versatility is why the U-lock design is so popular for bike locks.

Folding locks

Folding locks bring a different set of benefits. Not only does their design allow folding locks to pack down smaller for easier transportation, but they also tend to come with a larger lockable area and their flexible nature greatly increases the range of objects you can lock your bike up to. The typical downside of a folding lock is that with so many hinging parts, they tend to be less secure than a simpler design - the rivets are an easy target and it's quite easy to apply leverage between the links.

Chain locks

Chains go some way to merge the benefits of folding locks and U-locks, tending to have a similar security level to U-locks but being flexible like a folding lock. The downside mainly centres around the weight, which is often considerable (over 3kg) and therefore limits them to use only at home.

Having said that, there are options like Hiplok's range that are designed to be carried, it's just that the lock may be a bit weighty. Most chains come with a fabric covering too, so they shouldn't damage your bike when in use.

But for securing multiple bikes, using a couple of U-locks is much safer than a single chain – and with Gold rated options such as the Zéfal K-Traz U17, the total price and weight will probably even be similar.

Lightweight locks

Lightweight locks tend to use a cable design. These are pretty vulnerable to cutting attacks, but are effective against opportunistic thieves without specialist tools. These are good for providing a bit of extra security at a café stop, so someone can’t just sneak off with your bike while you’re looking in the wrong direction.

However, they aren’t robust enough to use in high crime areas when you are leaving your bike for any length of time, and your insurance probably won’t cover you if your bike is stolen while locked up with one.

For extra security you can combine a lightweight lock with a bike alarm like the Alterlock , which sounds a siren if your bike is moved.

Do I need bicycle insurance?

Unfortunately, perfectly secure bike locks simply don’t exist. With the right tools, know-how and inclination, a determined thief will be able to get through any lock.

As such, it is important to make sure that you have the best bicycle insurance to suit your needs so that if your bike is stolen, you are at least covered.

Many home insurance policies will only cover bikes up to £1,000/$1,000, so if your bike is worth more than that, you really should take out some specific bike insurance. These policies also tend to include other benefits such as public liability and personal accident cover, so are well worth the investment.

Different insurers will have different requirements, so make sure to check the policy wording of your own insurance, but typically, if a bike is worth over £1,000 it will need to be locked using a Sold Secure Gold rated lock. If the bike is worth under £1,000/$1,000, it will need to be locked with a Silver rated lock. Few insurers will cover a bike locked with a bronze or unrated lock.

Should I fit a bike tracker? 

I would say, Yes! Bike trackers are a great way to retrieve your stolen bike but also just to check it is still where you left it. There is a whole host of trackers out on the market that offer a variety of services. From just a dot on a map like Apples Airtags to subscription based services, that will recovery or replace your bike. 

It is worth noting that you should never go after a thief yourself. If your bike is stolen, report it to the police and allow them to do their job. Bike trackers provide the police with the information they need to act swiftly.  

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Simon Smythe is a hugely experienced cycling tech writer, who has been writing for Cycling Weekly since 2003. Until recently he was our senior tech writer. In his cycling career Simon has mostly focused on time trialling with a national medal, a few open wins and his club's 30-mile record in his palmares. These days he spends most of his time testing road bikes, or on a tandem doing the school run with his younger son.

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These are the best bike locks to keep your bike safe

Most cyclists that I know have had their bikes stolen. Stolen from a college campus, an apartment basement, a front porch, the list goes on. The worst was a bike stolen during a job interview. They didn’t get the job, and they never found their bike.

Bike locks don’t completely prevent bike theft. With the right tools and enough time, a determined thief can defeat nearly any lock. But securing your bike properly, with a quality bike lock, can deter and reduce the chance of theft, according to our experts.

To find the best bike locks, we spoke with experts across the biking industry to better understand different types of locks, bike theft, bike storage and more. Plus, I tried top-rated options for months on my two bikes in the Tri-State area.

SKIP AHEAD Staff-favorite bike locks in 2024 | How to lock and secure your bike | Why trust NBC Select?

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What are the different kinds of bike locks.

There are four main types of bike locks: u-locks, folding locks, chain locks and cable locks.

• U-lock: A U-shaped metal shackle that slots into a metal crossbar and unlocks with a key. U-locks are convenient and easy to carry in a bag or on your bike, says Chris Nolte, founder of e-bike shop Propel Bikes. They are thick and offer a good balance of security and convenience, according to our experts.
• Folding lock : A series of flat steel plates connected by rivets, typically locked and unlocked with a key. This lock is easy to fold, which makes it great for transit. This is one of the most convenient kinds of locks, in my experience.
• Chain lock : This is exactly what it sounds like, a metal chain with a locking mechanism, usually involving a key. The ends of the chain are connected with a deadbolt or miniature U-lock. Chain locks are very versatile, but they can be large and unwieldy making them a challenge to transport, says Nolte.
• Cable lock : Lightweight, flexible cable made of metal cords, typically wrapped in soft rubber or plastic. Unlocked with a key or number pad built into the cable. Cable locks are lightweight and very easy to carry. They are easy to cut through using bolt cutters, a tool commonly used by bike thieves, according to experts. If you live in a dense urban city, I would not recommend using a cable lock as your primary lock.

How we picked the best bike locks

We spoke with bike industry experts who helped us identify what to look for when buying and using a bike lock. Based on their guidance, we selected locks by keeping the following in mind: 

• Variety : Our experts recommend different types of locks depending on your needs. Whether you’re based in a major metropolitan area or tend to bike in more off-road settings, we included a variety of locks in our recommendations.
• Independent certifications : Bike lock manufacturers often create a scale or rating system to explain their locks’ toughness. Instead of taking their word at face value, we picked locks independently tested and certified by organizations like the UK’s Sold Secure and the Netherlands’ Art Foundation.
• Price : Bike locks can cost anywhere from $10 to $350. We selected locks at various prices, but our favorites were around $100.

The best bike locks in 2024

Our favorite bike locks came from large lock manufacturers like Kryptonite and Hiplok. We list specs like weight, shackle thickness and independent certification ratings below each recommendation. We also discuss how easy each lock is to carry or mount to a bike’s interior triangle: the empty, triangular space in the bike’s center most often used to mount gear.

Best U-lock: Kryptonite Evolution Mini 7 U-Lock with Cable

Kryptonite Evolution Mini 7 U-Lock with Cable

• Ease of use
• Works best with smaller frames

This high security rating u-lock costs under $100 and comes with a cable lock you can use to more easily secure your front or back wheel.

I received it from the brand to get hands-on experience and used it to lock my commuter bike. I used the U-lock to secure my frame and the cable to lock down my front wheel. I rode around locking my bike to racks and parking meters. I also used this lock to secure my bike for overnight storage (along with a bike cover ).

Locking and unlocking are easy: Both shackles smoothly slide in and out of the crossbar, and the keys never jam. I especially like that the keyhole has a sliding plastic cover that keeps out dust and debris.

This lock mounted easily on my hybrid bike , but proved more difficult for my gravel bike, which has a thicker frame and a smaller interior triangle. Depending on your bike, mounting this lock may take space away from accessories like bottle cages.

Weight: 3.55 lbs | Shackle thickness : 13mm | Sold Secure rating : Gold | Art rating : 2 stars | # of keys included : 3, one with built-in light | Mounting hardware : Included

Best folding lock: Foldylock Compact

Foldylock Compact

• Compact folding design
• Nothing to note at this time

This folding lock lives on my gravel bike . I’ve used it for years to lock up at cafes and rest stops in the suburbs and towns outside New York City. It’s flexible enough to wrap around my bike frame, rear wheel and most fixtures, such as bike racks or parking meters.

I love this lock because it is lightweight, compact and has great mounting hardware. My gravel bike has little interior triangle space, but this lock is compact enough to fit in line alongside my bottle cage and frame bag . It comes with a hard plastic mounting case, two mounting screws and two plastic mounting ties. I have mine screwed into threaded mounting points on my seat tube — it never rattles, even on gravel descents.

Weight: 2.2 lbs | Shackle thickness : 5mm | Sold Secure rating : Silver | Art rating : N/A |  # of keys included : 3 |  Mounting hardware : Included

Best chain lock: Kryptonite New York Fahgettaboudit Chain 1415

Kryptonite New York Fahgettaboudit Chain 1415

• Long length
• Thick chains
• Best for long term storage
• Heavyweight

I have tried and enjoyed the Kryptonite New York 1213 chain , but it appears to be less widely available than the brand’s other, similar heavy-duty chains, like the New York Fahgettaboudit Chain 1415 above.

The 1415 is five feet long, more than long enough to secure your bike frame and wheels to most fixtures. Its chain links are thicker than many U-locks, making them more time-consuming for would-be thieves to cut through. The chain locks together with a heavy, miniature U-lock that works like the brand’s full-sized U-locks.

Because it’s so heavy (over 15 pounds), I recommend using this lock for long-term storage or overnight parking, leaving it in your preferred parking spot and taking a smaller lock on the road. Carrying a heavy chain lock while biking can be uncomfortable and inconvenient, according to our experts.

Weight: 15.25 lbs | Shackle thickness : 14mm | Sold Secure rating : Diamond | Art rating : N/A | # of keys included : 3, one with built-in light | Mounting hardware : N/A

Toughest to cut: Hiplok D1000 U-lock

Hiplok D1000 U-lock

• Lightweight and secure
• Highest Art rating
• Not good for thick frames

No lock is impenetrable, but heavy-duty locks like this one are some of the toughest on the market, according to our experts. The D1000 has the highest Sold Secure and Art rating of all our recommendations but doesn’t weigh much more than a typical U-lock.

The D1000 is made of hardened steel reinforced with graphene, making it more resistant to portable angle grinders, one of the most powerful tools bike thieves utilize, according to the brand.

It is smaller than many u-locks — some customers report that it is too small to easily secure large cargo bikes with thicker frames to some fixtures. D1000 mounting hardware is sold separately.

Weight: 3.97 lbs | Shackle thickness : 20mm | Sold Secure rating : Diamond | Art rating : 4 stars | # of keys included : 3 | Mounting hardware : Not included

Best lightweight lock: FoldyLock Clipster

FoldyLock Clipster Folding Bike Lock

• Best for e-bikes and scooters
• Wearable bike lock
• Not good for larger bikes

The Foldylock Clipster is the lightest bike lock within our guide, weighing only 1.98 lbs. You can clip it onto your bag or on your belt making it less of a hassle to carry around. The Clipster isn’t as long or as large as our other locks, which means it’s best used on thinner bike frames or e-scooters. 

Despite its smaller size it still has Folylock’s patented protective rivets and is tested to stop bike theft, according to the brand. The wearable nature of this lock means there’s a higher chance you’ll remember to bring it with you because it’s so convenient, which is exactly what you need to protect your bike on local rides or longer trips. 

Weight: 1.98 lbs | Shackle thickness: N/A | Sold Secure rating: Silver | Art rating: N/A | # of keys included: 3 | Mounting hardware: Not included

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How to lock and secure your bike.

You can have the best bike lock on the market, but if you don’t use it correctly, it is about as good as wishful thinking. All of our experts spoke at length about the importance of proper locking technique. Below is some of their key advice:

Lock your frame first, wheels second

Always make sure that you lock your bike’s frame to a steady fixture. Your bike frame is generally the most valuable part of your bike, says Nolte. If a thief can take your frame, they can walk away with everything on it too.

If you can, lock both your frame and your front wheel. The front wheel is one of the easiest things for a thief to steal, according to our experts. Depending on how big your bike is and what you are locking to, you may be able to lock your frame and front wheel with the same lock. If not, you can supplement a U-lock with a cable add-on, or carry two locks.

The frame and the front wheel are the two pieces our experts highlighted most. After those two, the rear wheel and seat post are worth considering. Long chain locks can often secure the frame, front wheel and rear wheel simultaneously. For your seat post, consider a supplemental cable lock or cable add-on.

Park smartly

It’s best to lock your bike in a well-lit, well-trafficked area in public view, says Alison Dewey, the director of education at the League of American Bicyclists. Be sure to lock it to something immovable — do not lock it to something like a patio chair or sandwich board sign. Inverted U bike racks are one of the best places to park, and let you lock your frame and front wheel more easily with one lock, says Dewey.

Lock your bike in plain sight. If you are going into a coffee shop or deli, lock it somewhere where you can see it from inside the store, if possible.

For commuters, Nolte and Neile Weissman, the public relations director at New York Cycle Club, recommend bringing your bike inside when possible. If your workplace does not accommodate bikes, some parking garages have bike storage options, usually for a monthly fee, says Nolte — see if there is one near your workplace.

Take accessories with you

Anything that is easy to take on and off your bike, think GPS units, bike lights, water bottles and saddlebags, is easy to steal. After locking your bike, be sure to take these accessories with you as you go, says Dewey.

Carry your lock on your bike, not your body

Large chain locks and U-locks don’t always come with mounting hardware and can be uncomfortable to carry while biking. But you should avoid wearing your bike lock on your body, says Weissman. If you crash and fall, the hard metal bike lock may sandwich between your body and the ground, leading to a worse injury. 

Also, wearing a U-lock or chain lock isn’t very comfortable, and can get your clothes dirty, in my experience.

Thankfully, most U-locks and folding locks come with mounting hardware that makes affixing them to your bike’s frame easy. For chain locks, consider riding with a backpack, frame bag or pannier. You can also wrap small chain locks around your seat post or handlebars in a pinch, just be sure it doesn’t interfere with moving parts like pedals, gears and brakes.

Meet our experts

At NBC Select, we work with experts with specialized knowledge and authority based on relevant training and/or experience. We also ensure all expert advice and recommendations are made independently and without undisclosed financial conflicts of interest.

• Chris Nolte is the founder and owner of Propel Bikes , an e-bike retailer located in New York, California and Delaware. He founded the company in 2011 with an emphasis on e-bike education.
• Alison Dewey is the director of education at the League of American Bicyclists , a 501(c)3 organization dedicated to creating safer roads and stronger communities for bikers in America.
• Neile Weissman is the public relations director at New York Cycle Club , one of the biggest cycling organizations in New York City.

Why trust NBC Select?

I am a reporter at NBC Select who covers technology and fitness including guides to cycling shoes , fitness trackers and workout headphones . I spoke with biking industry experts to better understand different types of bike locks. As a cyclist myself, I also tried top-rated bike locks with my two bikes.

Catch up on Select’s in-depth coverage of personal finance , tech and tools , wellness and more, and follow us on Facebook , Instagram and Twitter to stay up to date.

Harry Rabinowitz is a reporter for Select on NBC News.

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Reviews: We Tested the Best Bike Locks With Bolt Cutters and Angle Grinders

By Taylor Galla

Taylor Galla

Contributor

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Before we get into our bike lock reviews, we have to start with some bad news. Even the best bike locks aren’t 100% secure, and there is always some degree of risk when storing your bike outdoors.

No one knows for sure how many bikes are stolen every year across the United States, but by any estimate, it’s a lot . Bike theft is so common, in fact, that many thefts are never reported to the police. It’s just a fact of life for bicycle owners.

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To protect your bike from thieves, we recommend registering your bike, using a high-quality bike lock, and following best practices for securing your bike. When shopping for the best bike locks, we recommend sticking with top brands such as Kryptonite, OnGuard, and OTTOLOCK. These companies make locks that can deter thieves with their look and construction — but do they work? In the middle of the night on an empty street corner, would your bike stay put?

The sad truth is that a determined bike thief, armed with bolt cutters or portable angle grinders, can hack their way through any bike lock. We should know — we bought an angle grinder and tested it on the most secure bike locks for sale in 2022.

Keep reading to find out which bike locks offered the best security.

Finding the Best Bike Lock of 2022

We decided to put the toughest and overall best bike locks we could find up against both a bolt cutter and angle grinder, tools frequently used by the savviest thieves, to see which of them will best protect your investment. We tested how quickly and easily they can be locked and unlocked, and, more importantly, how easy they are to break into.

You can find our full ranking below, as well as notes on the strength of each product’s construction. But if you’re looking for our TLDR conclusion — the safest place to store your bike is inside your home . While many of the locks below will put up a good fight and provide time for a passerby to notice someone trying to saw through them, none of the bike locks we tested were impossible to break with enough time and determination .

At a Glance: The Best Bike Locks of 2022

• Best Overall: ABUS Bordo Granit XPlus 6500 —  $101.62 on Amazon
• Runner Up: Kryptonite Fahgettaboudit Mini Lock — $135.90 on Amazon
• Best Chain Lock: Kryptonite Evolution 1090 Chain Lock — $79.92 on Amazon
• Best Budget:  OnGuard Pitbull STD U-Lock — $48.49 on Amazon
• Most Efficient Design: Kryptonite Evolution Lite Mini 6 — $60.07 on Amazon
• Best for Tire Protection: Kryptonite Mini 7 With 4″ Flex Cable — $79.99 on Amazon
• Quality Pick: Kryptonite New York Lock — $133.84 on Amazon
• Best for Travel: OTTOLOCK Compact Sidekick U-Lock — $34.99 on Amazon

Also Tested: 

• Sportneer Combination Lock
• Master Lock Bike Cable Lock

The Best Bike Locks of 2022

1. abus bordo granit xplus 6500.

Why We Chose It: Its design is easy to use and it was the only bike lock we tested with an alarm.

• Dimensions:  12.01″ x 5″ x 3.27″
• Type of Lock: Key
• Insurance Policy? No

The ABUS Bordo Granit XPlus 6500 lock was the best bike lock we tested with one of the most unique, foldable designs. It expands with a flexible build that’s easy to wrap around your bike’s body, tire, and bike rack. It uses a key lock, the superior locking mechanism, and comes with a mounting device so you can store it on your bike between uses.

During testing of the ABUS bike lock, our biggest impressions were that it’s made of sturdy, durable metal and folds into itself for compact and easy storage. The biggest plus of this bike lock is its built-in alarm designed to sound off if someone tampers with the lock. During testing, the lock’s alarm sounded off when we inserted the key and tried to unlock it but did not sound off when trying to cut the alarm with bolt cutters and an angle grinder. Because these are some of the most popular techniques for thieves, it’s important to note that the alarm didn’t respond.

However, when the alarm sounded it was very loud and would definitely deter theft, especially in daylight or in public.

• 100 dB alarm
• Foldable, compact design for storage
• Secure key lock
• The lock’s design is unique, so it might not be intuitive for new users
• Key lock requires keeping track of a key, lost key inhibits your ability to unlock it

2. Kryptonite Fahgettaboudit Mini Lock

Why We Chose It: Kryptonite’s most impressive bike lock is as lightweight and portable as possible

• Dimensions: 3.25″ x 6″, 18mm thickness
• Weight: 4.55 pounds
• Type of Lock: Key lock
• Insurance Policy? Yes, $5,000

Kryptonite is known for making some of the world’s best bike locks and we tested all of them during these trials. This New York Fahgettaboudit one was definitely our favorite out of their entire line for its thick, heavy, and intimidating design. It was one of the easiest locks to lock and unlock, and the bolt cutters didn’t stand a chance with it. The angle grinder definitely struggled to cut through this lock and wouldn’t have been able to cut through it without making a lot of noise, sparking, and drawing lots of attention to the fact that you’re breaking a bike lock.

The key lock works very smoothly with this bike lock, and while its hefty width makes it heavier to carry the small size makes it more convenient to travel with. The lock doesn’t have a J-lock design when attaching which makes it easier to slide the U-lock on and off the locking base.

• Very thick, intimidating design
• Small, portable size
• Easy to lock and unlock
• Very heavy due to the thickness of the metal

3. Kryptonite Evolution 1090 Chain Lock

Why We Chose It: Chain bike locks offer a more flexible locking experience, and this one is thicker, heavier, and stronger than other ones we tested.

• Dimensions:  10 mm thick, 35.5″
• Weight: 6.10 pounds
• Insurance Policy? Yes, 2700 euros

Chain bike locks have a reputation of being weaker and less protective than U-locks, but anyone who believes that hasn’t met this 1090 Evolution lock from Kryptonite. It’s thicker, stronger, and heavier than many of the other chain locks we tested. It has the big pro of having a flexible design that makes it easier to park your bike at a variety of different racks and saves you time and stress in the process. The lock was very easy to lock and unlock and the chain wrapped around the testing bike easily.

The chain is heavier than other options which makes it slightly harder and clunkier to use. However, the increased protection brought by the thicker metal is definitely worth the added bulk. The bolt cutters didn’t stand a chance against this chain lock, and the angle grinder ripped through the protective fabric covering easily and definitely made a dent in the chain.

• Flexible chain design
• Comes with $2700 of insurance
• Very heavy and bulky

4. OnGuard Pitbull STD U-Lock

Why We Chose It: The addition of the cable makes the standard U-lock even more protective

• U-Lock : 115mm x 230mm (W x H x Diam) (4.53″ x 9.06″) x 14mm (0.55″)
• Cable: 120cm x 10mm (4′ x 0.39″)
• Insurance Policy: Yes, $751 sport coverage

The OnGuard Pitbull lock impressed us with its sturdy U-lock design and flexible cable for wheel protection. It’s also built with silicone grips that make it more comfortable to hold and manipulate. It uses a key lock that was more difficult to manipulate than other locks we tested, but once we got it locked and unlocked it definitely felt protective.

The bolt cutters cut through the cable easily, putting the wheel at risk, but didn’t cut through the U-lock. The angle grinder would’ve cut through it eventually but would have taken a while due to the thick size. The lock also comes with a mounting device for on-bike storage that would make this lock easy to keep track of between uses.

• Thick, protective design
• Flexible design includes a cable for wheel securing
• Key locking didn’t operate as smoothly as the Kryptonite locks during testing

5. Kryptonite Evolution Lite Mini 6

Why We Chose It: Kryptonite’s slimmer lock that’s just as protective in a lighter package

• Dimensions: 2.75″ x 6″
• Weight: 1.60 pounds
• Type of Lock:  Key
• Insurance Policy: Yes, $2500 Anti-Theft Protection

The Kryptonite Evolution Mini 6 is another one of the best bike locks from one of the top brands in the space that, like the others, is operated with a key and has a sturdy, sleek design. It slides in and out of its base easily, like the Fahgettaboudit lock, without a J-hook that can slow down use.

It’s not as thick as the Fahgettaboudit but just as narrow, and the rigid shape makes it harder to loop around a bike and rack than a chain lock or something with more flexibility. That being said, its slimmer design gives you more room to maneuver and it’s slightly lighter so it’s easier to travel with.

The Fahgettaboudit is probably more protective due to the thicker metal, but this one provides almost as much protection in a slimmer package, does more with less, and is overall more efficient. In terms of testing how easy it was to break in, it performed similarly to other locks in that the bolt cutters did very little and the angle grinder would’ve broken through it with a lot of time, effort, and noise.

• Narrow width and rigid design give you less room for attaching it to your bike and bike rack
• Expensive price tag

6. Kryptonite Standard New York Lock

Why We Chose It: It’s another solid option from Kryptonite that was worth including in the round-up.

• Dimensions: 4″ x 8″
• Weight: 4.45 lbs
• Insurance Policy? Yes, $4,000

The New York Standard lock from Kryptonite was super user-friendly and easy to use, with a smooth lock and unlock operation that was the quickest of all the locks we tried. It’s more lightweight than other options from Kryptonite and is perfect if you want a simple bike lock without a lot of bells and whistles. It uses a key to lock and unlock, and protected the bike just about the same against the bolt cutters and angle grinder.

• Very simple, standard design
• Kryptonite insurance policy
• Heftier anti-theft protection than other Kryptonite locks
• Not as thick as other options, could be less protective

7. Kryptonite Evolution Mini 7 Lock With 4″ Cable

Why We Chose It: Kryptonite’s lock that includes cable protection functions very similarly to others, with the added benefit of insurance protection

This lock from Kryptonite functioned similarly to their other products with a smooth lock and unlock function, easy operation, and the added bonus of a cable for looping through a wheel and attaching it to the main lock. The cable, like all of the others we tested, didn’t stand a chance against bolt cutters or even a strong knife, but if someone was just planning on unscrewing and walking away with your wheel it would definitely deter them from that.

• Dual functionality of a U-lock and cable accessory
• Easy lock/unlock

8. OTTOLOCK Sidekick Compact U-Lock

Why We Chose It:  OTTOLOCK makes a chic bike lock that’s small and easy to travel with.

• Dimensions: 2.75” x 5.75”
• Weight: 1.65 lbs

OTTOLOCK makes a beautifully simple lock with a powdered silicone exterior and a U-lock design that’s very easy to operate. It’s also a key lock and functioned just as smoothly as Kryptonite’s best locks with the added benefit of a more grippable surface. This makes it easier to hold and grab while locking and unlocking, and the bright orange color helps identify your bike in a sea of others.

The bolt cutters cut through the silicone exterior but couldn’t cut through the lock itself. The angle grinder, similar to all other locks, would’ve been able to cut through the lock easily with enough noise and time while producing plenty of sparks.

• Chic, stylish simple design that’s less clunky and metallic than other bike locks
• Very easy to use
• Not as hard or durable as Kryptonite locks
• No insurance policy

Other Bike Locks We Tested

We tested a few bike locks that didn’t meet our security and protection expectations that would serve the needs of those locking their bike in a secure location indoors. We decided to not include them in the main round-up because they were easy to break into but still wanted to discuss their basic pros and cons to give our readers as extensive an overview as possible of the product category.

Sportneer Bicycle Chain Lock

Sportneer makes a chain bike lock that locks and unlocks via a 5-digit code. The bolt cutters came close to cutting through this lock, and if a stronger person was testing they definitely would’ve made it through the lock with just sheer brute force. It’s a weaker, lighter chain than Kryptonite’s one but still comes with the perks of a flexible design that’s easy to fit around a bike and through a tire. The 5-digit code worked well and was faster to lock and unlock than using a key. As we mentioned above, however, chain locks are easier to break into than key locks, so with quicker function comes a potential sacrifice in security.

Master Lock Bicycle Chain Lock

This was the one lock we were able to snap quickly and easily with just the bolt cutters, which doesn’t bode well for its strength against other, stronger tools. It’s a combination lock, which isn’t as secure as a key lock and is very thin. It’s super flexible and can wrap around a bike and bike rack easily, but it’s not as long as other locks which limits its reach. This is the only bike lock we wouldn’t recommend for any outdoor use whatsoever, as it would be very easy to break into compared to some of our top bike lock picks.

How We Tested the Best Bike Locks

In order to test the strength of the best bike locks we tried as hard as we could to break into them. Using a tester bike in one of our editor’s garages we locked up the bike to a cable fence and unlocked it afterward to test how easy the lock is to use. Then we took bolt cutters and tried to clip each lock open. If the bolt cutters didn’t work, we moved on to an angle grinder and tried to saw through the bike lock.

Angle Grinding Bike Locks: Effective, But Obvious

One of our largest takeaways from using the angle grinder to test the best bike locks is it’s effective at breaking bike locks but is not subtle whatsoever. If you’re using an angle grinder on a bike lock and anyone sees you, it’s going to be incredibly obvious what you’re trying to do and draw attention to your thievery. The only way this would work is in the middle of the night on a dark alleyway not near any apartments, bars, or restaurants, as it makes a ton of noise and produces sparks.

After testing both break-in methods we made a judgment about the bike’s security and ranked them accordingly.

Keys vs. Combination Locks 

There are two big categories of bike locks: key locks and combination locks that open with a 5- or 6-digit code. While both offer a certain level of security, key locks are safer due to the fact that they’re statistically harder to break into. They do, however, require you to keep track of a key, so if you’re a forgetful person who frequently loses track of things a combination lock might work better.

Testing the Best Bike Locks: Our Criteria

The testing criteria we used to determine the best bike locks available was of a mix of objective specs, subjective criteria, and most importantly: how easy would it be to break into?

We gathered data on the following objective factors during our testing.

Lock Construction

• What is the lock made of? Titanium steel? Another metal? 
• Does the lock use a combination or key to unlock? 
• Does the lock have a small, rigid fit that makes it difficult to attach to a variety of bike racks? Or is it bigger or more flexible, making it easier to use? 

Ease of Use

• How easy and quick is it to lock and unlock? 
• Is it lightweight and easy to carry? Or heavier and harder to store?
• Does it come with an attachment accessory so you can store it on your bike when you’re not using it? 

Breaking In

• Did the lock break with bolt cutters? Did the angle grinder make a dent? 
• How long did it take to break into the lock?
• How easy would it be to break into it subtly? Would you make a bunch of noise or could you do it without anyone noticing? 

We also considered subjective factors related to the best bike locks.

• How trustworthy does this lock feel? Would you feel secure leaving your pricey investment with it during the day? Overnight? 
• How intimidating does this lock look from the outside? If a thief were to approach your bike, would they try to break into it or move on to the next one? 

We noted the following bonus factors that increase the security of locks, but only some locks possessed them.

• Insurance Policy : Some bike locks come with an insurance policy for which if your bike is broken into they will pay you a certain amount to replace it. The fact that brands feel confident enough in their product to offer financial compensation if it fails is a plus and factored heavily into our rankings. We’ve noted which brands offer an insurance policy below and how much money they’ll give you if you lose your bike.
• Alarm:  Our top pick for the best bike locks of 2022 comes with an alarm that sounds off if it’s tampered with. It went off during our testing, and would definitely sound if someone tried to break into it. This was also an excellent bonus factor that played into our ranking.

What to Consider When Purchasing a Bike Lock

1. Level of Security

One of the first things you should consider when choosing the best bike lock for you is how much security you’re looking for. Do you live in a fast-paced, crime-ridden city where any bike placed outdoors is at risk of being picked up? Then maybe you opt for an option from Kryptonite or another one that offers an anti-theft insurance policy.

If you live in a quieter suburb and need a lock for your kid to store their bike at the library? Thousands of dollars worth of protection and a lock north of $150 with thick titanium metal is probably not necessary.

2. Rigid or Flexible Fit

The next consideration is what type of fit you’d like your lock to have. U-locks are more protective, generally, but their rigid structure can make them harder to use when locking your bike. Chain locks save time and are easier to maneuver but can be easier to saw through or break into. Chain locks are also heavier and harder to travel with, whereas U-locks can be easy to clip onto a backpack or throw in a purse depending on the size.

3. Price and Insurance

The price range of the best bike locks is not nearly as large as other product categories, as most options are between $30-$150. The more expensive locks tend to come with insurance policies wherein the brand will compensate you if your bike is stolen while the lock is in use, and can pay out as much as $4,000 depending on how much your bike costs.

Therefore, in our opinion, it’s almost always worth it to spend more for this protection, as well as the sturdier lock that tends to come with it.

Why Trust SPY

Here at SPY, we’ve written extensively about bikes and bike accessories from the best mountain bike helmets to locks for e-bikes . We’ve tested the best accessories for cross-country and long-distance biking and have fine-tuned our review process to weigh the cost/benefit for things like weight vs. portability, convenience vs. security, ease of use vs. cost and more.

About the Author

Taylor Galla, the author of this piece, has reviewed other high-ticket product categories including spin bikes , fitness mirrors , weighted jump ropes and adjustable dumbbells . She herself is a long-distance road biker who lives in a building a neighborhood riddled with bike thefts. She’s never had her bike stolen, because she stores it behind her locked door in her apartment.

Taylor Galla serves as an E-Commerce Editor at SPY. She writes most often about health and fitness products, workout equipment. She's a RYT 200 certified yoga instructor and an enthusiastic guinea…

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The best bike locks 2024: Tough bicycle locks from Kryptonite, Abus, and more

The best bike locks will ensure your bike stays where you left it – tough, dependable bicycle locks tested and reviewed

The best bike locks might not be the cheapest bike accessory you're going to buy this year, but they are essential to ensure your bicycle stays where you chained it. A tough, dependable bike lock will is a worthwhile investment; if you can stretch to buying a new two-wheeler, then it’s also prudent to factor in some extra cash to cover security, and buying the right bike lock to suit your cycle should be part of the bike-buying process.

There's been a huge increase in cycling over the last few years and the extra demand for bikes that are much more appealing to thieves. The best electric bikes , in particular, are at risk of being nicked if not secured properly, and while some have an immobilizer that stops them from being activated and ridden away without you present, that won't stop someone picking them up and stashing them in a van.

All that means it’s never been more important to get a quality bike lock to ensure your cycle doesn't go missing, and we’ve collated the best and most secure bike locks you can buy here in this buying guide. We’ve tried to mix it up a little, too, with a selection that caters for different scenarios, while others offer a little more convenience thanks to their innovative designs.

The best bike locks

Why you can trust TechRadar We spend hours testing every product or service we review, so you can be sure you’re buying the best. Find out more about how we test.

1. Litelock x1

Our expert review:

Specifications

Reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

The Litelock X1 is a premium-priced, premium-feeling D-Lock, dependable with a practical edge. The key entry point is covered by the rubber coating, preventing it from seizing up in the cold, while the steel d-lock is said to be reinforced against angle grinders thanks to its 'barronium’ composite metal layer.

During our tests, we loved the d-lock, finding it well-engineered, with a convenient twist-and-go bike mount, and it's practical too. No fuss, no frills, simply a premium-feeling, premium-performance lock you can depend on.

Our one gripe was its tight spacing issue: if you want plenty of room and don't like the idea of your bike's frame getting slightly scratched, this is a smallish lock, so you may want something with a bit more give. However, small locks are that much more awkward to break. It also comes with two keys, so you're covered if you lose one. 

Read the full Litelock X1 review

2. Kryptonite KryptoLok 685

This Kryptonite offering is one of the best extendable locks, which are bars of metal secured together by hinges. The concertina lock reaches up to 85cm when fully extended, allowing you to loop through wheels and frame, and collapses into a single rod when not in use. 

It can take a variety of shapes so can help to lock around unconventional shapes and thick lampposts, its barrel lock is excellent in terms of build quality, and the included bracket offers easy mounting. However, like all extendable locks of this type, the hinges are natural weak points in the design, and probably wouldn't stand up to a concerted effort with an angle grinder for very long. 

Its a good lock and one of the best of the extendable lock family, reasonably priced and comprised of hardened steel - an excellent deterrant, even if it won't stand up to dedicated or professional thieves. 

Real the full KryptoLok 685 review

3. Kryptonite Evolution Mini-7

It makes sense to go for a decent bike lock brand, and Kryptonite is up there with the best of them. This great little bundle comprises a 13mm hardened steel shackle, which features a double deadbolt anti-rotation design. The U-lock design doesn't weigh too much either (3.55lb/1.61kg), while the revised design is more secure than earlier editions.

The Mini-7 is much smaller than Kryptonite's standard locks, which makes it easier to mount on your bike's frame if space is limited (and gives a would-be thief much less room to manoeuvre their tools). The mount attaches to the frame securely using a rugged fabric strap that won't damage the paintwork, and the lock slides and clips into place with minimal fuss.

The Evolution Mini-7 comes complete with a Kryptoflex 410, a 4' 10" double-loop braided steel cable. This can be used to secure other bikes, wheels or accessories, which is essential since the Mini-7 U-lock is too small to attach to your bike's frame and a wheel. While it's not impregnable, the fiddly aspect of this combination makes the lock package a solid option for short-stay park-ups in cities and suburbs.

In our tests, we found that the lock can sometimes rattle a little within its holder when riding over bumpy ground, but it's firmly fixed in place and never in danger of coming loose, so this is a minor complaint.

4. Kryptonite New York Fahgettaboudit Mini

Another bike lock from the Kryptonite security stable, the New York Fahgettaboudit Mini, is sold without a cable but beefs up the security with an extra chunky design. It's seriously weighty (4.55lbs/2.06kg), which is something to bear in mind if you cannot mount it on your bike and carry it in a backpack, but that heft comes with security benefits.

The main difference between the Kryptonite New York Fahgettaboudit Mini and the Evolution Mini-7 is the oversized hardened steel sleeve, which is built to withstand attack from bolt cutters and leverage attacks. It makes the Fahgettaboudit Mini a lock that will keep your bike secure all day, even in busy cities.

Like the Kryptonite Evolution Mini-7, this lock's smaller design means you won't be able to hook it around your bike's frame, wheel, and whatever sturdy piece of street furniture you're attaching it to, but you could supplement it with an additional Kryptoflex cable if you like.

5. Kryptonite New York Fahgettaboudit Chain

This package includes the Kryptonite New York Fahgettaboudit Chain (with 14mm six-sided links) plus a 15mm steel shackle. Both elements are super strong, using hardened steel to ward off attacks. The disc-style cylinder locking mechanism is also pick-proof and drill-resistant. It has the same top-level security rating as the Kryptonite New York Fahgettaboudit Mini D-lock above. You can also use it to secure multiple bikes.

However, the chunkiness comes at a price, as this weighs 10.8lbs/4.91kg, which means it's better suited to locking your bike up at home than carrying it with you on the go. There's also a risk of the parts of the chain not covered by the nylon cover scuffing your paintwork if you're not careful.

6. Titanker Bike Lock Cable

Cable locks are known to be weak and easy to snip through with a pair of bolt cutters, but that's not the case with the Titanker Bike Lock Cable, which bucks the trend thanks to its durable steel core.

Unlike D-locks, this Titanker model offers between four and six feet of flexible freedom, allowing it to be threaded around, through or under a bike and a mounting point. The four-digit combination lock mechanism means there's no key to worry about. However, bear in mind that the cover is plastic rather than metal, making it less durable than more expensive, heavy-duty bike locks like those from Kryptonite.

It's not a lock that'll let you leave your bike outside day and night, but it's light, convenient, and a good choice for making quick stops. Better still, it can be easily attached to your bike's frame while you ride using the mount included.

7. Litelok One Bike Lock

Bike locks can be awkward, so having one that you can wear offers a great solution to awkward mounts and means you won’t scratch your frame. This LiteLok offers convenience on all fronts as it can be closed with a simple click. You’ll need one of the two supplied keys to unlock it again, but the click-and-go idea works a treat if you’re making a quick pit-stop while you’re out on a ride.

The LiteLok comes in three colours, Boa Green, Crow Black and Herringbone, and small, medium and large sizes. Although it’s good on the eyes, the LiteLok is robust too, with the composite strap able to fend off bolt cutters effectively and the hardened steel alloy lock housing proving very durable too. A neat take on the usual bike lock.

8. Abus Granit X-Plus 540

For some, the Abus brand is the last word in security, and this German-made lock certainly lives up to expectations. It’s big, beefy and feels very well engineered, with a construction that looks very able to fend off attacks. The trade-off for this is its weight, which at 3.30lbs/1.45kg makes it pretty heavy to lug around. Although considering its brilliant capacity for deterring thieves, that may well be a cost worth paying. 

The other aspect is its price tag, which is not cheap. Again though, if you have a very valuable bike, then the cost of the Abus Granit X-Plus 540 is probably going to feel relative. The design is superb, and the use of hardened German steel is a big part of the appeal. Meanwhile, the neat double-bolted shackle makes it a nightmare for thieves to cut through—one of the best.

9. Seatylock Foldylock Compact

The Foldylock Compact is just one of a range of innovative locks from this brand, and it’s exactly what the name suggests. Bike locks can be unwieldy and, in some cases, a pain to store when they’re not in use. Foldylock has come up with a neat twist on the bike lock design by producing something that can be stored easily; plus, its weight (2.2lb/1kg) makes it reasonably portable too.

The collapsible design is comprised of hardened steel plates, which make it suitable for harnessing your bike around larger objects, such as lampposts or cycle racks. Likewise, there’s a quality feel coming from the lock, which comes with three Sidewinder keys, which have been cut by laser. Add it all together, and you’ve got a practical bike lock that also impresses with its use of rust-resistant components.

10. Abus 770A SmartX Keyless U-Lock

While Abus is well respected for its range of conventional bike locks, it has also ventured into the high-tech world with this smart system option. You get all of the trademark Abus design features, as seen on the excellent Granit, and that means a nifty parabolic shackle and hard-as-nails construction. The big difference, however, is the locking system that uses tech to take control.

There’s a keyless Go card that allows you to register yourself as an administrator and pair the device to your phone. From there, the Abus app and Bluetooth functionality deliver quick and easy control of the locking mechanism. There’s even an alarm, too, while the app can also help you find your bike if you’ve parked up and can’t remember where you left it. It happens. Clever stuff.

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Rob Clymo has been a tech journalist for more years than he can actually remember, having started out in the wacky world of print magazines before discovering the power of the internet. Since he's been all-digital he has run the Innovation channel during a few years at Microsoft as well as turning out regular news, reviews, features and other content for the likes of TechRadar, TechRadar Pro, Tom's Guide, Fit&Well, Gizmodo, Shortlist, Automotive Interiors World, Automotive Testing Technology International, Future of Transportation and Electric & Hybrid Vehicle Technology International. In the rare moments he's not working he's usually out and about on one of numerous e-bikes in his collection.

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Bikepacking & Adventure Cycling

Best Lightweight Bike Lock For Touring & Bikepacking

Updated at May 30, 2024

At a Glance

Kryptonite evolution mini-5:.

• Provides security from bolt cutters and leverage attacks
• Compact and well-protected by a rubbery coat
• Main use case: Stronger security for longer stops
• Lightweight (145g – 260g) and compact (coils to a 3-inch diameter)
• Combination lock
• Main use case: Quick stops and deterring opportunistic thieves, best used with a U-lock for maximum security
• Combines the stability of a U-lock with the flexibility of a cable lock
• Folds into a compact size and can angle around objects
• Main use case: Versatile lock for various situations, good balance between security and portability
• Made from lightweight titanium (0.9 lbs to 1.7 lbs)
• Comes in three designs: TiGr Mini, TiGr Mini+, and TiGr Bow-Lock
• Mounts on the bike frame along the top tube
• Main use case: Lightweight option for securing multiple bikes or both wheels and frame to a rack

When looking for bike lock for bikepacking or touring, you ideally want something that is theft proof and is lightweight. But unfortunately if someone want to steal your bike they will make all the efforts possible to make that happen. No matter how ‘good’ your lock may seem, there are some strong tools that if in the wrong hands are no match with some of the best bike locks out there.

But having that said this blog post is dedicated to those who are looking for a bike lock that its main purpose is to keep the beginner thief from stealing your bike.

It seems the lighter weight a bike lock is the less it is able to perform as a strong lock compared to some bulky and heavier options out there. Depending if you have to have something lightweight them you may need to keep an eye on your bike or be quick when you take off to leave your bike locked. As these lightweight locks are great for deterring the casual thief, but someone who carries around specialised tools will be able to cut through just about anything. And this pretty much goes for bulkier locks to. So at the end of the day it is worth it to get a lightweight lock option that is still fairly good quality and holds up to those people who are just trying to pinch your bike.

Below I have compiled a list of some great lightweight bike lock options for bikepacking and bike touring. All that have been suggested by people who have used them on bike tourers themselves. There are quiet a few different option when it comes to lightweight bike locks that are great for use when bikepacking or touring.

Kryptonite Evolution Mini-5

This lock has a anti-theft rating of 7 out of 10. I am not sure if it is possible to get a rating for all the locks on this list but I will try my best. That seems like a fairly good result for such a lock that weighs in at 2.65 lbs (1.20 kgs). Which is not the lightest of options out there but it provides some security from bolt cutters and leverage attacks with the 13mm hardened MAX-PERFORMANCE STEEL SHACKLE.

This lock is lighter then some options and obviously not bulky to carry. Some users reported that the on bike mount rattles a little. But this is user error. If you are going to install the mount it is suggested to watch the “How to Install Kryptonite’s Transit FlexFrame-U Bracket” by KryptoniteLocks. The detail and up close views are perfect for figuring out that pesky little rubber piece.

The lock is as expected by Kryptonite as it is compact, well-protected by its rubbery coat, and smooth to operate. it fits in the back jean pocket easily. Again the only real downside is the instructions for installing the mount on the bike, it is a little confusing to get your head around it, but once you do this lock is a great option at $108.56 (on Amazon) for bike touring or bikepacking adventures.

Ideal for opportunity thief and quick stops, not the best solution for a lock that needs to secure your bike when you are a long time away from your rig. Again there are much better locks in terms of strength out there. But you will struggle to find anything that can match a weight of only 145g – 260g and is easily stowed away, coiling to a compact 3 inch diameter.

It is a great portable option, it is recommended that this lock is not a replacement for a U-Lock. For maximum security, use a redundant locking method with both a U-Lock and a secondary lock.

A combination lock that is priced from $50.00 depending on what size you get. Keep in mind that this lock is not the best for securing like a U-Lock but it is targeted to cyclists who want a lightweight, less bulky solution.

This Abus lock is probably a better option out of the previously mentioned locks in my opinion. It has better ratings and it offers a lock the is much less bulky them traditional bike locks and works rather well at securing your bike. It is described a lock that has the stability of a U-lock combined with the flexibility of a cable lock.

The design of the lock, includes six 5mm steel bars connected with special rivets, which fold together like a yardstick. This lock is up there with the U-Lock and arguably a better lock. It is compact when folded and versatile, as it is able to angle around stuff. It is preferred compared to the U-Lock as it can be readily fit around more things and things with odd shapes.

Another great thing about this lock is how it folds nicely into a bag or the mount that comes with it. Some users have mentioned that it does rattle but it packs fairly small that you could just stow it away in a bike bag. There are thicker and more secure locks out there, but this one strikes a nice balance. And is probably one of the best bike locks for bikepacking and touring. Costing $59.43 on Amazon (at the time of writing this article, prices may change, it is 54% off!)

Protect your bike without compromising your ride. That is the TiGr Locks motto. A very lightweight lock option that is built from Titanium weighing from 0.9 pounds to 1.7 pounds depending on what type you opt for. They come in three different designs, TiGr Mini, TiGr Mini + and the TiGr Bow-Lock (this lock is able to secure both wheels and frame to a rack.)

You may be wondering where does this lock longer lock store on the bike? Well it is quiet interesting it comes with mounts that allow for it to store on the bikes frame. Along the top tube. So it is out of the way when not in use. It does come with mounting straps. It does come in a couple different sizes. However it is long enough to secure both wheels and frame to a rack without having to remove a wheel on most road bikes. Long enough (at 24 in – 61cm ) to secure multiple bikes. Price starts at $115.00 for the mini version of the lock.

About The Author

Codey Orgill, a seasoned bicycle adventurer, has been exploring the world on two wheels for over 10 years. Since embarking on his initial cycling journey, Codey Orgill has traversed numerous countries, experiencing a series of epic adventures.

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The Best Bike Locks, According to Cycling Experts

Whether it’s to find an alternative to mass transit or a means of socially distanced exercising , bicycling has seen a huge surge in popularity during the pandemic. Unfortunately, so has bike theft. In October, the New York Times reported a 27 percent increase in the number of stolen bikes between March and September of last year, compared to the same period in 2019. Adam Bernstein, a sales representative at Echelon Cycles , says that, recently, one to three people have been coming into the store each day because their bike (or a part of it) has been stolen. Along with replacement parts or a new bike, they need locks. Bike thieves equip themselves with everything from bolt cutters and hammers to hacksaws and crowbars to break through weak locks, so it’s important not to skimp here. While no lock is totally theftproof, the best ones are the most difficult to cut through, and their appearance alone may be enough to deter potential thieves.

Keep in mind, too, that locking your bike’s frame with a standard U-lock doesn’t protect parts like wheels and seats that can often be removed without any tools. Susi Wunsch, founder of the cycling lifestyle site Velojoy , sent along this diagram illustrating how multiple types of locks — including cables, chains, and skewers — can be used together to safeguard all parts of your bike. Below, Wunsch, Bernstein, and seven more cycling experts recommend the best locks for safeguarding your bike and all of its parts.

Best U-locks

Nearly everyone I spoke with considered the Kryptonite New York lock the most secure option out there. The company introduced the lock in 1994 to rise to the challenge of increased reports of bike thefts in the city. Charles McCorkell, owner of Bicycle Habitat , said Kryptonite’s New York lock is extra secure because “the locking mechanism turns and locks on both sides — so it can’t just be cut once — and takes twice the effort to break into. The larger diameter of the U also takes longer to cut, and the keys are almost unpickable.” The 16-millimeter-thick steel is extremely difficult to cut with standard bolt cutters. While Kryptonite makes several different lock series of varying thicknesses, Emily Wendorff, a sales associate at Ride Brooklyn , says models from the brand’s New York line, like this one, are “the safest locks you can get from them.” The lock comes with three keys, including one with an LED light for easily unlocking your bike in the dark, and a bracket for mounting the lock on your frame for easy transport. For best results, loop the lock around both the bike’s frame and rear wheel.

This hardened steel U-lock from the German brand ABUS comes recommended by Joseph Nocella, owner of 718 Cyclery & Outdoors . “In my experience, this is the lock that most bike-shop employees use,” he says. “It’s small, light, and strong.” Wendorff uses one herself. Compared to Kryptonite locks, she says ABUS’s equally heavy-duty models are “lighter weight and easier to carry around.”

It’s more expensive than most locks, but if you want a “smart” option, Bernstein recommends the ABUS 770. It’s equipped with a motion-detecting alarm and Bluetooth, which allows you to unlock it through an app on your phone instead of using a key.

If you live in a relatively safe area or will be locking up your bike for only a few minutes at a time, Wendorff says you can get away with a lock from Kryptonite’s entry-level line. Although it’s thinner than the New York U-lock, it’s also a lot cheaper at well under $100, and it comes with a cable to connect your wheel to your frame.

Best chain and cable locks

If you’re locking your bike for a long period of time in an especially high-theft area, Rich Conroy, director of education at Bike New York , recommends Kryptonite’s Fahgettaboudit steel chain and dead bolt. “The advantage of a cable or chain is that they can go around larger objects that a U-lock won’t fit,” he said, and “cables can be easy to cut though.” While this set is extremely effective at protecting your frame and wheels, all that impregnable steel does come with some heft, though, and with this set, you’ll be riding around with an extra ten pounds. Some choose to loop the chain around their waist for easier carrying — just don’t lose your key à la Ilana Wexler .

For quick lockups on relatively safe streets, you may not need quite as much protection as the Fahgettaboudit offers. Kryptonite’s Evolution lock is one step down in terms of thickness, but should still offer enough protection for most riders. It’s also cheaper and lighter, weighing a little over six pounds. Andrew Crooks, owner of NYC Velo , recommended it as an alternative to the New York lock if that one’s out of your budget. As always, connecting the chain to a U-lock makes your lockup safer.

For a chain lock that’s actually meant to be worn as a belt, Chase McElroy of Hilltop NYC Bicycles recommends Hiplok, especially for people who ride frequently. “You have your lock literally around your waist at all times,” he says. “It’s not in a bag. It’s not on your bike. It’s just on you.” The ten-millimeter-thick chain is encased in a nylon sleeve that’s more comfortable against your body and won’t pull on your clothes. The adjustable-fit belt has a quick-release buckle so there’s no risk of getting locked in, and at just over five pounds, it’s about half as heavy as the Kryptonite chain.

Wunsch also uses the Kryptonite New York U-lock and pairs hers with an affordable cable to protect her bike’s front wheel. “A U-lock will affix your frame to the bike rack, but say you have a quick-release front wheel — you don’t need a tool to take it off, just flip a little lever,” she said. “If you use a simple cable lock and you run that through the U-lock and the front wheel, then you’ve also safeguarded that. It’s going to give a possible thief pause.” Bernstein agrees that a cable is helpful for securing your front wheel, and he adds that it can be more flexible and easy to maneuver than a chain.

Best folding locks

Folding locks are newcomers on the scene. Devotees love that they’re so lightweight and easy to carry, but because they’re thinner than U-locks, not all models are as reliably safe. Crooks said Foldylocks “have put out a great folding lock that improves on its competition and is priced fairly.” The compact model weighs under three pounds and can easily be mounted on your bike until it’s time to unfold it into a hexagon shape that loops around your frame and wheel.

McElroy likes the ABUS folding lock, which can be mounted to your bike’s water-bottle holder for easy portability. “It’s always secured on the bike,” he says, “and then you can just pull it apart and lock it up.” Kryptonite makes similar folding locks in its Keeper series .

Best accessory locks

Quick-release bike parts — like wheels, seatposts, and saddles — can be removed without tools and are often stolen piecemeal. For securing accessories, experts recommend Pinhead skewers, small locks for individual parts. “Essentially, you make it extremely difficult for thieves to target specific parts of your bike when your frame is locked to something,” said Sam Polcer, communications director for Bike New York. “It replaces quick-release components with components that require a special coded key that comes with each lockset.” John Keoshgerian, owner of Zen Bikes , is also a fan of this “no muss, no fuss” option. Wendorff agrees that they’re a must-have if you regularly leave your bike unattended. “It’s a great option for keeping your wheels safe,” she says. “Replacing a wheel is a lot more expensive than people think, and it’s a really easy steal for a bike thief.” If you choose to purchase additional Pinhead locks, the company will design them to fit your existing key.

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Lewis N. Clark TSA Approved Padlock & Bike Lock for Luggage + Travel, Set Your Combo w/30in Retractable Steel Cable, Blue, One Size

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• SAFETY FIRST: Keeps luggage, bikes, guns, work equipment, briefcase, purse, doors, gates, and many other items safe. Group items together and protect them, don’t fumble with keys.Note: Measure your door's backset, cross bore and thickness to ensure you find the right fit.
• TRAVEL ACCESSORY: Whether you are taking public transportation, flying across country, touring the city or on your daily commute, keep your prized possessions safe and secure
• SUPERIOR DESIGN: Durable rugged construction with thermoplastic rubber and ABS housing, means its build to last. Our flexible steel cable provides ease of use while protecting your belongings
• EASY TO RESET COMBO: Reset your combination easily anytime with our three-dial code. The re-programable lock makes it simple to change your combo and protect your valuables
• LEWIS N. CLARK has been a leader in the Travel & Outdoor Gear for over 30 years, helping you to enjoy the journey as much as the destination. We are passionate about travel and exploring the wonder of the world around us, and our designs focus on making any trip more organized, secure, comfortable and convenient

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Product description.

Featuring a flexible 30in braided stainless steel cable, this lock is ideal for both grouping items together and securing them to fixed objects. The combination is easy to reset and its bright blue color also makes it stand out at the luggage carousel.

The thermoplastic rubber provides a comfortable grip, and the sturdy ABS housing will withstand the wear and tear of multiple trips. The coated steel cable is also simple to retract and won’t harm the finish of the object you’re using it on.

You can easily secure a suitcase to a fixture such as a pole on a train or bus, chair at an airport, or desk at a hotel room. You can also attach a duffel bag to a backpack or a helmet to a bike. Additionally, this lock is good for grouping items together, like a pair of skis or hiking packs.

At home, you can use it to lock up medicine drawers, alcohol cabinets, gun cases, or other areas that should not be easily accessible to others.

With durable construction, a flexible cable, and a resettable combination, this retractable cable lock can be used for securing your belongings to fixtures or grouping them together in a tight fit – both at home and abroad.

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Customer Review: Great product. Easy to use and good for simple ...

Customer Review: Pointless! 8 yr old & 6 yr old can open

Customer Review: works fine, feels low quality

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• 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 5 star 63% 17% 7% 4% 9% 63%
• 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 4 star 63% 17% 7% 4% 9% 17%
• 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 3 star 63% 17% 7% 4% 9% 7%
• 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 2 star 63% 17% 7% 4% 9% 4%
• 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 1 star 63% 17% 7% 4% 9% 9%

Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.

To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.

Customers say

Customers like the value, length and versatility of the lock. For example, they mention it's a great investment, it extends fairly long and is handy in all kinds of situations. That said, they are happy with performance. That being said, opinions are mixed on size, ease of use, and quality.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

Customers like the performance of the lock. They say it works well, is easy to use, and provides light security. Some say it's lightweight and perfect for their needs.

"...In the image, everything still works properly except for the fact the cable needs to be repaired and maybe I can have a guy down the road fix it at..." Read more

"...Overall it works okay , but I wouldn't buy it again.Like most people, I rely on honest product reviews to make purchase decisions...." Read more

" These are working well . Sturdy and capable for keeping some cabinets locked in an Airbnb...." Read more

"...to set my combination of worked for a while then all of a sudden it stopped working I couldn't put the cable into the lock so I tried resetting the..." Read more

Customers find the lock versatile and useful in all kinds of situations. They say it's easy to use and suitable as a deterrent. Some mention it'll work as tether lock to their bank bag. They also say it works as snatch and grab type situations.

"... Perfect for day rides where you are close to the bike!I say buy if it fits the above!" Read more

"...Nonetheless cheap and useful ." Read more

"It's great for locking many zippers together on a travel backpack. I am using it now traveling in South America...." Read more

"...Cable long enough to lock skis at most ski racks. Slows down the thief’s but I am sure they could break or cut if they really wanted your skis." Read more

Customers like the value of the lock. They say it's a great investment, and a good value for the money.

"...Pro: Discreet, easy to carry/travel, good price Con: Only a deterrent in low theft risk areas. Need to use appropriately...." Read more

"...Or maybe it spontaneously reset itself, though I doubt it. Nonetheless cheap and useful." Read more

"...But so far, it seems worth the money ...." Read more

"... Definitely worth it and debating buying another one." Read more

Customers like the length of the lock. For example, they mention it's the perfect length, the cable is long, and adjustable. Some appreciate the size and adjustability of the product.

"The length and flexibility allows this little lock to be used in different places...." Read more

"...The cable is long enough to go through six zipper tabs, but I, also, wonder how long the retractability of the cord will last...." Read more

"The cable is to short " Read more

"...It locks and releases easily, and is lightweight and takes up hardly any room . It's not heavy duty, but will do the job briefly which is all I need." Read more

Customers have mixed opinions about the quality of the lock. Some find it great, sturdy, and easy to use. They also say it holds up through multiple airport security and provides just enough security for hooking bags together. However, others say that it's not quite as sturdy as other portable locks and is difficult to use because the cable cannot be shortened after locking.

"... Not flimsy at all and I’ve tried to stress test it by pulling the cable while it was locked in place as well...." Read more

"...The only con is that it feels delicate , as though it would not be durable, but it is actually quite strong...." Read more

"Recently traveled Europe and stayed in hostiles and this was a great added security ." Read more

"So just be aware that this is not meant to be a high security lock ...." Read more

Customers are mixed about the ease of use of the lock. Some mention it's super easy to use and can get into tight places where other locks can't, while others say it'll be a little tricky to set the code, and difficult to move the reset button.

" Super easy to use and can get into tight places where other locks can’t...." Read more

"...After that I decided to look for alternative cable locks. This comes with instructions and so easy to use while being small/compact to fit in your..." Read more

"...Very happy with this purchase. Also there are no instructions in the package . To learn how to use the lock come back to this page for instructions." Read more

"...N. Clark Cable Luggage Lock for anyone looking for a reliable and easy-to-use lock to keep their luggage safe during travel." Read more

Customers are mixed about the size of the lock. Some mention it's easy to use with its compact size, and fits easily in pants pocket. However, others say that they wish it was a little bit longer, and the body seems a bit big for a travel lock. They also say the end is too large to fit through the standard holes.

"...It’s small and discreet.Took a few minutes to figure out how to use. But once I did, it’s simple to use" Read more

"...is very thin so a thief could easily cut it but that’s what makes this small , lightweight and easy to keep in my purse and backpack 24/7...." Read more

"...with no instructions on how to use or reset the combo and it was a little bulky . After that I decided to look for alternative cable locks...." Read more

" Fits easily in pants pocket . Cable long enough to lock skis at most ski racks...." Read more

Customers are dissatisfied with the retractability of the lock. They mention that the cable doesn't retract half the time when they press the retract button, and that it's difficult to retract. Some say that the cord recoil started not retracting during its first use.

"Even after it is locked/secured in place, the cord expands . Not good if you are trying to keep 2 things tightly closed (drawers/cabinets/etc)...." Read more

"...The cable is a pain in the neck when it gets stuck when trying to retract it . It tends to slip or not engage the internal spring." Read more

"This lock is easy to use, and the extendable cable will allow you to use it in different situations...." Read more

"Hard To get it to retract, Have to pull more cable out and work it back and forth. Not worth the hazzle, returning it...." Read more

Reviews with images

Good for Exrra Layer of Security, but Not Good for Main Layer of Security

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Where to put your bike lock when riding

Last Updated on  August 21, 2022 |  9 Comments

Where and how to carry your bike lock when you’re actually cycling around on your bicycle is one of the biggest headaches when it comes to bike security.

Bike locks are often big, bulky and heavy. And if you prefer to travel light and look sleek, the last thing you want is an awkward weight on your bike frame or your body.

Luckily, there are lots of options (some of which you may not have thought of before). And since bike lock brands are aware of this issue too, the more forward thinking ones are coming up with their own innovative new solutions.

So let’s have a look at some of the best places to put your bike lock when you're riding around…

1. In a Frame Mount

Most u-locks and folding locks come with a plastic mount that you can fix to the frame of your bike. The lock can then be clipped or slid into the mount when you’re riding and easily removed when you get where you’re going!

Kryptonite's (in)famous frame mount

You can usually attach them to various different parts of your frame. However the seat tube, top tube or down tube are normally your best bet (if you’re not sure what these are check out my bike parts diagram !)

Frame mounts are designed to attach to all sorts of places on your bike

Since these mounts are specifically designed for the locks they come with, they’re usually the best choice of where to put your bike lock when you’re riding around.

However, not all bike locks come with frame mounts and many cyclists have problems with the ones they do get!

Chain Bike Locks

Chain locks rarely come with frame mounts, as most chains are just too big, bulky and heavy to be able to mount onto a bike frame. The exception is the Kryptonite Transit Tube which is a kind of canister which will fit Kryptonite’s lighter locks.

Kryptonite Transit Tube for shorter chain locks

There are also many complaints about frame mounts, especially those that come with u-locks.

But to be fair to the manufacturers, it’s actually quite difficult to design a frame mount that will be both compatible with the endless different frame shapes and sizes, and hold a rigid, heavy piece of metal securely as the bike bumps around the streets.

Because their centre of gravity is further from the frame, u-locks tend to move about more while we’re riding and over time, this can loosen the frame mount and in some cases the lock can even fall off the bike!

Because their center of gravity is further from the frame u-lock are less stable

And these problems are often exacerbated by people not fitting the frame mount properly.

So my advice is: if your u-lock comes with a frame mount and you have available space on your frame, try this first. But make sure you follow the installation instructions carefully. And if you have any doubts, there’s usually tons of helpful advice and videos available on the internet.

Folding Bike Locks

Most folding locks come with a frame mount that screws into the holes that are designed for a water bottle cradle (either on the down tube or the seat tube). This is a great solution as they’re really easy to install and they attach very securely to the frame, so they never work loose.

Very stable: folding lock frame mounts can be screwed into your frame

If you don’t have the screw holes for a water bottle cradle on your bike (and many bikes don’t), then don’t worry, because folding bike locks also come with Velcro straps to fasten the frame mount securely to your frame.

This solution isn’t as tidy or secure, but its still works well, because when folding locks are folded down and in their case on the frame mount, their centre of gravity is so close to the frame that they don’t swing about in the same way a u-lock might.

If you haven't got screw holes, folding lock mounts also come with Velcro straps

But for some people a frame mount just isn’t going to work. They may have a strange shaped frame, or there may be no spare space on the frame to attach one. They may not like the aesthetic of a plastic frame mount on their bike!

Perhaps past bad experiences with frame mounts have put them off. Or the lock they choose (eg the Kryptonite Fahgettaboudit Mini), may not come with a frame mount!

If any of these reasons resonate with you, then don’t worry, because there are plenty of other places to put your bike lock when you’re riding…

2. In a bag or backpack

If you habitually carry a bag or backpack when you’re riding, then this is pretty obvious place to keep your bike lock! However, since you’ll be carrying the weight on your body, be aware of how much the lock weighs.

U-locks and folding locks will easily fit into most bags and in most cases they’re not so heavy that they’re going to be a pain to carry while you’re riding.

Even the gigantic SkunkLock easily fits into the average backpack!

Just remember that bike locks can get wet and grimy. So it’s definitely best to keep them in a plastic bag within your bag or backpack to avoid everything else in there getting wet and oily too!

Depending on their size, chain locks can be more difficult to carry in a bag. They tend to be much heavier and bulkier than u-locks or folding locks. However, shorter chains with links that are less than 12 mm thick should be OK in most bags.

If you intend to carry your bike lock in a bag while you’re riding, I’d recommend checking the weights carefully. Luckily, I include the weights in all my guides.

3. In a pannier, saddlebag or basket

This is actually a better option than a bag or backpack for transporting a bike lock while your cycling, as the weight will be borne by your bike rather than your body!

However, most people don’t have either panniers, saddlebags or baskets so it’s a bit of a niche option.

If you do, then most locks will fit into panniers or baskets. However, just be careful that the weight is evenly distributed across the bike so it doesn’t throw your balance off.

My saddle bag easily fits the pretty big Kryptonite Evolution Standard

I’ve got a lovely Carradice saddle bag that’s just big enough to carry a regular size u-lock. It would struggle with anything bigger though, so if you’re thinking about a saddle bag (and I think they’re great!), then make sure you check the dimensions of your bag and lock.

As ever, I always include weights and dimensions in my articles so you can easily compare different locks.

4. Hung on the frame somewhere!

Sometimes it’s possible to carry a bike lock on the frame without using a specially designed frame mount. However, you need to be careful that it stays firmly in place as you certainly don’t want it falling off while you’re riding!

The most common option is probably wrapping a chain lock around your seat post. Since chain locks don’t come with frame mounts and many people don’t carry bags on their bikes, if you’ve got a chain, then in most instances the only place to put it is wrapped around your seat post.

A chain lock wrapped around my seat post

How well this works will depend on how long the chain is and the set up of your bike. But I’ve used this method successfully in the past. Be careful it doesn’t interfere with your brake cables though, and that if you care about your paint work, it’s not banging against the frame.

U-locks are more difficult. I’ve threaded them through my seat rails before so that they’re hanging down behind my saddle. And that can work really, really well. However, whether that will work for you, will depend on the size and thickness of the u-lock and the space inside your rails.

U-locks can be looped through saddle rails...

...but this won't work for everyone

You could hang the u-lock on the handlebars. But in general I wouldn't recommend this as they’re just not very stable there, so you and up anchoring them with your hand. And your hand should really be concentrating on steering the bike!

This should only be a temporary solution, for short journeys, when you haven’t got any other options.

5. Wear it on your body

Wearing your bike lock somewhere on you body while you’re riding can actually work really well.

Smaller u-locks can be tucked into (or fastened through) a belt band. Or even fastened through a belt loop on your jeans or trousers. Really small u-locks may even fit into a pocket. Again, be aware that locks get wet and oily!

Longer chains can be worn around your shoulders like a bandolier. This is not going to be comfortable for long journeys. It is likely to stain your top. And will be dangerous if you fall on it, if you’re involved in an accident.

So be aware of these drawbacks!

However, some enterprising lock companies have started to produce wearable locks. Indeed, Hiplok have built their entire brand around locks that you can wear on your body. Their u-locks come with clip that makes them easy to fasten to your waistband or any other strip of fabric.

All the Hiplok u-locks can be clipped onto your belt

And their chain locks can be worn around your waist like a belt. As far as I know these are the only bike chains that can be worn like this.

All the Hiplok chain locks can be worn like a belt

However, Litelok make wearable versions of both of their Boaflex bike locks, the Litelok Silver and Litelok Gold . They come in three different sizes and like the Hiplok chains are worn around your waist like a belt.

Litelok now make wearable versions of all their bike locks

It’s worth noting that both the Hiplok chain and the Liteloks don’t lock around your waist; they are held in place by clips. And this is for safety reasons: if your involved in an accident, they’re going to come off easily.

If you’re looking for a wearable folding lock then Seatylock make a version of their Foldylock called the Clipster , which comes with a (yes you guessed it), clip that allows it to be attached to your waistband.

There is also a version of the Foldylock that can be clipped onto your belt

And finally while it’s not really designed to be worn like this, I found that the fabric and chain hybrid lock that is the very interesting Tex-lock , can be worn quite comfortably (due the fabric case) around you shoulders.

Due to it's soft case, the Tex-lock can be comfortably worn across the shoulders

Wearable locks are great because they’re really quick and easy to access, there’s no permanent mount uglifying your bike, and since they’re worn close to your body, you don’t notice the weight so much.

However, just a final reminder: bike locks will get wet and sometimes they get oily. If you’re precious about your clothes, this might not be the best solution!

6. Third party solutions

If you’re not happy with the frame mount that comes with your bike lock and none of my other suggestions work for you, then you could look at some of the alternative frame mounts, holsters and clips that are made by other companies.

I will review these in more detail in a forthcoming article. But there are quite a few options available...

Transit H-Bar Carrier: best thing for a Fahgettaboudit

From things like the Transit H-Bar Carrier from big companies like Kryptonite (which allows you to carry a u-lock securely attached to your handlebars, and even works with the Fahgettaboudit Mini).

The Oopsmark leather u-lock holster

To more artisan like solutions like the all leather Oopsmark Holster that fits nicely to the back of your saddle, although it can also be attached to other places on your frame.

There’s a whole load of different third party solutions that will give you lots of new possible places to keep your bike lock when you’re riding. So do check them out if you’re stuck!

Finally: make sure you’re safe.

Finally, however you choose to carry your bike lock around while you’re cycling, make sure it’s safe. The last thing you want is it falling off and getting entangled in your bike or bouncing around the road, as that could cause a terrible accident.

So if you’re using a frame mount (many of which can be attached to all sorts of places on your frame), make sure you keep it away from the pedals or the wheels, where, if it came loose it could easily get tangled up and knock you off.

Don’t carry it around in your hand: as I’ve already mentioned, your hand should be steering and braking!

And always ensure wherever it is, it’s securely fastened in place.

For sure: it can be tricky to find a good place to put your bike lock while you’re riding. But there are plenty of options and with a little experimentation everyone should be able to find something that works for them!

About the author 

I've had bikes stolen in London, New York and Barcelona. Yep, I was a serial, international, bike theft victim. In 2015 I decided to stop the rot. And not a single bike's been stolen since! Brakes, yes. Bells, yes. But they're another story. Everything I learn, I document on this website. More about my story . Contact me . LinkedIn .

I usually take my bike lock with me when I go out of the house to make sure my bike stays safe. Therefore, I discovered several where to put my bike lock while riding. First, use a rucksack or backpack to contain it. If you do not have a bag, you can lock them around the bicycle frame or you can mount the lock to the top frame or seat post. Another way you can do it is by placing locks on the handlebars. This way, you can keep an eye on them, and at the same time, you can store the lock properly.

Storing and putting the locks in a secure place should also be your major concern. It will give you peace of mind when you ride and remove unnecessary disturbances.

I have a small half-frame bag I am going to be using for a bike tour. I’d like to store my u lock in it but it doesn’t quite fit. I’m wondering if you see any issues with storing the u lock in there in two pieces? I don’t imagine there will be any small bits (i.e. rocks/pebbles/debris) that would be getting into the frame bag and then interfering with the u lock itself. What do you think of this option?

Sorry for the late reply.

I think that should be fine to be honest. If you tap the the cross bar to knock out any debris and give the holes a wipe out with a rag now and again you’ll be fine.

In fact, if you wrap the cross bar in a rag, I can’t see you even needing to do that, as nothing will get in in the first place!

The u-lock under the seat is simple but effective. Trying it out!

Good article! Alas, I have an older Ongard Beast chain lock and honestly I haven’t found any practical way to carry the thing on my MTB. It weighs a tonne. If I put it in a backpack or on me I’d be knackered by the time I got out of my street lol. I think I need to get a rear rack and a pannier just to carry it but that’s just more stuff to steal. If I had a dedicated place I rode to I’d leave it there but I don’t. It’s a real conundrum! I’m honestly tempted to get a $100 Kmart bike and a d-lock just to get my shopping done!

Hi Anthony,

Yep you’re probably best replacing the chain with a high security d-lock. Much lighter and they don’t have to cost a lot.

Check out: https://thebestbikelock.com/cheap-affordable-bike-locks/

I hope that helps

The problem with wearing them is what happens in a crash. In many crashes it won’t be a problem, but in some crashes the impact on the lock or chain, and then your body could do some serious unanticipated damage. Same goes with wearable D-Locks like the Hiplok DX which otherwise looks like a really good option for an affordable but secure D lock (and can also be bought with a frame mount but it looks flimsy). Who knows what that could do to your body if it bears the brunt of an impact (I’d wear it offset to the side in any case, keeping it away from my spine).

The litelok wearables seem the best compromise here, as there aren’t chain links, but I would always keep the buckle out front, close to my stomach (I feel like landing on one’s sides or back is the most common crash outcome anyway). Also, apart from the Core Plus, those locks can be pretty easily compromised in anything but low-risk situations.

I’d probably only really wear a lock if I knew the routes I was riding well, that their conditions were okay, and I was riding pretty defensively and attentively (which I tend to do in traffic anyway).

Frame mounting or putting in a bag is the best option but this can come with compromises (weight, bottle cages, relatively insecure locks, poor mounts for D locks, potential adverse effects to bike handling)

I have a Litelok X1 for my main bike and it’s excellent. Somebody attacked it with an angle grinder in my apartment bike locker and didn’t come close to getting through it (and had several tries). It has a frame mount but this isn’t compatible with my somewhat unusual frame, but by all accounts it’s very good. I just keep it in my pannier.

I’m in the market for a somewhat cheaper lock for a new entry-level hardtail. X1 is a bit too expensive and I won’t be using it as a commuter, just for quick stops as needed, so I will probably go with a frame mounted SS Silver folding lock with a Knog Scout for peace of mind.

Great comment Basil!

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Product Features

• The folding bike lock features hardened steel links that resist cutting, sawing, and prying
• Links are bound by stainless steel rivets for maximum pry resistance
• Protective vinyl covered body for superior weather and scratch resistance
• Includes a Velcro strapped carrier bracket for convenient storage and easy transportation

Best Used For: Outdoors

• Product Number: 8335EC
• Description: Ecommerce Packaging
• Master Carton Qty: 12
• Body Width: 1-1/2 in (4 cm)
• Exterior dimensions (H x W x D): 7 in (18 cm) x 1-1/2 in (4 cm) x 3/4 in (2 cm)
• Color: Black

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