Bicyclists have long been concerned about bicycle theft when parking their bikes in congested public areas. By using one of the best bike locks available, you may substantially reduce the chances of your bike being stolen.
I know how difficult it is to choose the best bike lock. Fortunately, we've compiled a list of the top 8 bike locks so you can make an informed decision concerning the safety of your bike.
Finding the perfect bike lock for your scenario may be a nightmare with so many different kinds and models to select from. I'll go through the different types of bike locks and what each lock is good for in greater depth down below.
What Types Of Bike Locks Are There?
D Locks
The most popular style of a bike lock is the D lock, often known as a U lock. They're popular for a reason: they provide complete protection while being extremely practical and affordable. The majority of riders, including myself, utilize this style of lock.
The majority of D locks come with a mounting method that allows you to attach them to your bike's frame. The Huldit Bike Lock Holder is the ideal choice for transporting your bike lock with you when pedaling for D locks that don't come with the mount.
D locks are unable to secure your bike to some bigger objects, such as thick lampposts, due to their powerful metal shackles. On the other hand, finding anything else to lock your bike to is never a problem. A foldable bike lock is ideal if you want to be able to secure your bike to any object.
D locks have long been considered one of, if not the most secure and reliable type of bike lock available. With a solid metal shackle that completely encircles your bike and its components, D locks are practically unrivaled in terms of strength.
D locks don't have the moving parts that a chain or folding bike lock has, such as links and rivets. Because moving parts are a weakness and are typically targeted by thieves, the D lock's absence of outward moving parts adds to their dominance.
Because D locks are one of the oldest types of bike locks, they are manufactured by a number of well-known and reputable firms.
Chain Locks
Chain locks are another popular choice for bicyclists. Chain locks are widely used to secure bicycles at home overnight (in bike sheds and garages). This is because they are usually too heavy to transport.
Chain locks are long and may be used to secure a variety of bikes. Although most chain locks are heavy, others, like the Kryptonite 1055 Mini seen above, are lighter and more portable.
Due to the greater amount of metal used, chains are more expensive than D Locks. In terms of security, only stationary chains with thicker links can rival D locks. If you're always on the move with your bike, a D lock is a better option.
Bike chains that can be utilized on the go are called portable bike chains. Finally, the mobility of a lock is governed by your strength; nevertheless, some chain locks are rather heavy, and carrying such a big piece of metal about would be unpleasant.
Portable chain locks can be carried in a purse or worn on the shoulder. Some chain locks may be worn around the waist like a belt, substantially boosting their use and mobility.
It's important to keep in mind that portable chain locks aren't as secure as permanent chain locks. This is due to the fact that they employ smaller, thinner chain links to reduce the chain's overall weight and increase its mobility.
Stationary chain locks are more secure than moveable chains because their chain links are stronger and bigger. It would be a really miserable voyage if you choose to carry one in your bag. Instead, stationary chain locks are preferable for remaining put and regularly locking up your bike.
Many people use a heavy stationary chain lock to keep their bikes locked up at home overnight. If you ride your bike to work every day and lock it up in the same area, a very secure stationary lock that you can leave secured when not in use may be a good option.
If you do it this way, you won't need to bring a lock on your commute and will have access to a more secure chain for your bike while at work.
Folding Bike Locks
Bike locks that fold provide a good blend of security and convenience. Folding locks provide the same number of locking options as chain locks and provide the same level of security as D locks, but they are far more portable.
Although the Foldylock Compact is the best folding bike lock available, it is not the most robust. Check out my comparison of the best folding bike locks if you're interested in learning more.
The foldable lock is one of the most popular types of bike locks. We recommend utilizing a folding lock if you don't like carrying a lot of weight when cycling. The foldable lock is the handiest type of bike lock!
Folding bike locks have quickly become a popular choice among riders due to their convenient, compact, and collapsible design.
No one likes to be hauling along a bulky bike lock when out riding. Traveling with heavy locks is cumbersome, and even if you could hide one in your backpack, carrying one would be inconvenient.
The best folding bike locks include a well-thought-out mounting method that makes attaching and moving your lock while cycling a breeze.
Folding bike locks may also be used to secure your bike to almost anything. If you secure your bike using a D lock, you'll almost surely come across an immovable object that is too large to attach your bike to at some point. Because the solid metal shackle is insufficiently large.
With folding bike locks, shackle space isn't an issue. The lock can easily fold over larger things since each plate is kept in place by a spinning rivet.
The best folding bike lock is smaller and lighter than the best D lock, with more locking area. Over the majority of D locks, folding bike locks give a modest increase in locking space. Although the distinction is little, it may be quite beneficial at times!
If you've never used a folding bike lock before, it may take some time to get used to it. Because most folding locks have a similar but somewhat different design than a regular D lock, they are not as straightforward to operate. However, after a week or two of using a folding bike lock, you'll get the hang of it.
Cable Locks
Because cable locks are cheap and weak, you should never use one as your primary bike lock. Instead, use a cable lock in addition to your primary bike lock to secure other items. Cable locks are a great way to safeguard expensive bike components like wheels that you can't lock with your main lock.
While wires only provide a basic level of security, they are helpful in deterring opportunist robbers. Cable locks are also affordable and light, making them easy to transport when cycling.
Thieves will not hesitate to steal an unlocked wheel or the seat post from your bike. Make sure you're not caught off guard! If you can secure as many components as possible, that's ideal.
Combination Locks
Bike locks that may be used in a number of ways are handy. They don't require keys and can secure your bike to massive, immovable objects in most cases.
A valid combination must be entered before a combination bike lock may be unlocked. The most popular bike locks have three, four, or five digits, although there are some with more. The majority of combination locks have a ten-sided wheel with a number (0 to 9) on each side, however, others employ letters or symbols instead.
The majority of individuals who use combination bike locks do so to avoid having to carry keys, which I admit is really convenient! You may also share your bike lock's combination with others, which is useful if you're riding with family or friends.
If you forget the code to a combination bike lock, you'll be in trouble because most combination locks don't contain a key to override the locking system.
As previously stated, combination locks require the correct code to be entered before the cylinders align and the lock may be opened.
Combination with a lower cost A pre-programmed code or combination is generally included with bike locks. This is typically stated on a tag or on the box's interior.
The code for a combination bike lock is normally found on a tag like this.
On a cheap and colorful combination lock, you won't be able to change the code. The code on more "upscale" combination locks, on the other hand, maybe change to anything the user desires.
To use your combination lock, just enter the code and, once you've memorized it, slide the lock open. You'll need to enter the correct code to lock a combination bike lock, so don't fiddle with the dials while it's open. If you have the correct code, you should be able to slide the lock together.
After you've installed the lock, make sure the dials are jumbled. If the code is left in the dials, the combi lock will not be locked.
Turning only one of the dials on your combination lock is never a good idea. Many motorcyclists do this in order to save time while unlocking their bikes. However, it may save a thief time! Make a complete mess of those dials.
A flexible metal threaded cable is used in most combination bike locks. Because they're constructed of hundreds of tiny metal strands, they're flexible, but they don't give much security for your bike.
Which Bike Lock Is Best For Me?
Choosing the right lock for your bicycle might be tricky. There's enough to choose from. And making the wrong decision might be disastrous! The key to success is to select a lock that is both secure and easy to use on a daily basis. This balance of power and practicality is critical, in my opinion.
Any lock's primary objective is to prevent your bike from being stolen. As a result, the first and most important step is to figure out how much protection you'll need.
It's not merely a case of picking the most difficult lock. When it comes to bike locks, higher strength means more weight or smaller size. Or, more often than not, both! Your bike will almost surely be stolen if you use a lock that isn't secure enough.
If you purchase a bike that is more secure than you require, the lock's additional weight or limited size will render it worthless for no reason. As a result, you may use it less, wrongly, or not at all as a result of this!
Then your bicycle is taken from you! As a result, the lock's strength must match your actual risk level.
Because the sort of lock you select has an influence on how simple it is to use. You'll quit using it if it's too tough. Your bike will be confiscated at that point!
As a consequence, you should choose a lock that is neither too big nor too little. A bike lock that is difficult to move, secure, or significantly restricts where you may lock your bike is one alternative.
Obviously, your own situation will determine this. However, if we look at the benefits and drawbacks of each type of lock, it should be evident which one is ideal for you.
What Are The Best Bike Locks Available?
Because your particular scenario will define "The Best Bike Lock," it will be different for everyone. The same concept applies to locks as it does to anything else: the more money you pay, the better the lock. But, in this case, what does quality imply?
The first and most important aspect of a high-quality lock is its dependability. When it comes to bike locks, this is extremely critical. A broken key, a jammed mechanism, or a trapped shackle are all things you don't want. When locks fail to function properly, they can cause a slew of issues.
If it breaks down while attached to your bike, it will render your bike useless until you remove the lock. It's likely that your bike will be stolen if it breaks down before you secure it. If you get a higher-quality lock, these issues are less likely to arise.
Many lock manufacturers recommend investing 10% of your bike's worth in your lock. You'll have problems if you buy a $200 bike but only spend $20 on a lock. Remember that a decent bike lock may endure for years and several bikes.
You may have a low-cost bike today, but you won't need a stronger lock if you upgrade in a few years!
I understand that purchasing a bike lock isn't the most fun activity. It's also inconvenient that you have to spend so much money to keep your belongings safe. On the other hand, a low-cost lock is a waste of money.
The OnGuard Brute takes the top spot in our list of the best bike locks. This bike lock just took top place in my review of the best cheap bike locks, outperforming the competition.
If you're worried about your bike while you're away, the large 16.8mm reinforced steel shackle on the OnGuard Brute can survive even the most savage attacks.
As a consequence, the OnGuard Brute is among the safest bike locks on the market. Shackles/links wider than 16mm are used in bolt cutter-proof bike locks. As a result, the OnGuard Brute joins a restricted club of locks capable of surviving even the largest 42" bolt cutters.
The OnGuard Brute is far less expensive than most of the best bike locks, and it offers a lot of locking space. Having said that, OnGuard has given the Brute a 97OnGuard Brute Grade 97/100 security rating, making it their most secure bike lock.
The Kryptonite New York Lock Fahgettaboudit Mini U-Lock has an 18 mm hardened max performance steel shackle with a double deadbolt anti-rotation design that resists bolt cutters and twisting leverage attacks.
The crossbar is wrapped in a steel sleeve for further protection.The lock's disc-style cylinder with central keyway is protected by a vinyl coating, making it pick and drill resistant.
The keyway features a sliding dust cover that protects the cylinder from dirt and debris when not in use. It comes with three ergonomically designed stainless steel keys that reduce torque and avoid bending or breaking.
One of the keys has an LED key fob for visibility at night. Key Safe and Anti-Theft Protection, for example, is a wonderful combination of these amazing features. The Fahgettaboudit Mini, like the OnGuard Brute, has a shackle that is resistant to bolt cutters.
The Fahgettaboudit's shackle, on the other hand, is stronger and made of higher-quality hardened steel!
The Fahgettaboudit is another bike lock that cannot be cut with hand-powered bolt cutters. It can also withstand a competent burglar with a full toolkit, thanks to its 18mm Max-Performance steel shackle and double deadbolt locking mechanism.
Because only the highest-quality materials are used, Fahgettaboudit is more expensive. If you're on a tight budget, the OnGuard Brute could be a better option.
SeatyLock's FoldyLock Compact is the world's lightest and most popular secure bike lock. It's the lightest in its class, foldable, portable, and simple to operate without compromising security.
SeatyLock's revolutionary ultra-protective Rivets keep an area that is frequently assaulted safer than before. The FoldyLock Compact resists a variety of typical theft attempts and approaches by concentrating on hardening and strengthening the rivets.
Everything you need to get started is included in the FoldyLock Compact, including a carrying case, keys, and more. Our ingenious mounting bracket is designed to provide an ultra-quiet ride - no more annoying rattling!
They put the FoldyLock Compact to the test by putting it through a series of stress tests that were designed to simulate real-life thief attack scenarios. Bolt Cutters, Crowbars, and Freeze Attacks are among the FoldyLock Compact beat tests.
Anyone who has read about the finest folding bike locks or the best lightweight bike locks would recognize the Foldylock Compact. A biker who seeks increased mobility while retaining a fair level of security can use folding bike locks.
With a weight of only 2.2 pounds, this little folding bike lock is the lightest of the best bike locks (1 kilogram). When not in use, the Compact may be folded and put in its mounting bracket for a comfortable and quiet way of transportation.
The Foldylock provides more locking options than the OnGuard Brute and Fahgettaboudit Mini because of its 33.5" (85cm) hardened steel, flexible shackle.
The Foldylock Compact provides remarkable protection for a lock of its size and weight. However, compared to a D lock, you'll receive substantially less security.
The Foldylock is surprisingly inexpensive for such a sophisticated bike lock. It isn't as inexpensive as the OnGuard Brute, but it is one of the most cost-effective locks in our review.
The Foldylock is best employed in settings with a low to moderate risk. Use the Compact for shorter periods of time while securing your bike in high-risk zones. This is the bike lock for you if you're weary of hauling about a hefty bike lock.
The Skunklock is a one-of-a-kind and one-of-a-kind bicycle lock. It's the first bike lock in the world that can fight back against thieves, and it's really effective at stopping them in their tracks. A pressurized vomit-inducing material is poured into an 11mm hollow section in the heart of the shackle.
If a thief cuts through to the center of the 19mm robust steel shackle, the pressurized compound will swiftly spread across the surrounding area, temporarily incapacitating the thief and forcing them to run.
The Skunklock's 19mm shackle can withstand almost any attack. Unlike all of the other best bike locks, it can also be defeated by crooks employing power tools. The Skunklock, on the other hand, is a completely new concept with extremely advanced engineering.
This means it'll set you back more than other locks, but bear in mind that it's one of the few bike locks that can stand up to power tools.
Secure and protect your traveling buddy from being stolen. Folding bikes, mountain bikes, road bikes, e-bikes, motorcycles, and other comparable vehicles benefit the most from this product.
Bolt cutters are resistant to high-tensile carbon steel, and it locks up swiftly and effortlessly. High-quality pick-and-drill resistant disc cylinder locking mechanism. Designed to be long-lasting and resist all sorts of weather.
Only lock designed to withstand angle grinder attacks, including a proprietary dual stripe design and several warnings about the dangers of cutting.
A chain lock is probably the best alternative for you if you want the security of D locks (U locks) but require a bigger securing area for your bike. While the 1055's shackle is a little short for a chain lock at 21.5" (55cm), it does give more locking choices than smaller D locks.
The 1055 is extremely light, weighing only 4.4 pounds, due to its reduced length (2kg). I had no trouble sliding this top-rated bike lock into my luggage when I tested it.
The 10mm hexagonal manganese steel links of the Kryptonite 1055 Mini chain lock are used. Due to the greater cross-sectional area, hexagonal chain links give a higher level of security than circular chain links.
The Foldylock Compact is lighter than the 1055 Mini, but it provides more security. It can also hold large items that D locks wouldn't be able to handle (see slider above).
If you're looking for the most secure chain available, keep reading. Following that, I'll discuss the best and most durable (stationary) bike chain. If you need a chain that you can bring with you everywhere you go, the 1055 is the bike lock for you.
The Kryptonite new York legend chain is made out of massive 15mm round chain links made of 3T hardened steel with a protective nylon cover held in place by hook-and-loop fasteners.
A 15mm hardened max performance steel shackle and a twin deadbolt anti-rotation design defend the new York disc lock from bolt cutters and twisting leverage attacks.
A unique hardened oval crossbar design, which is more robust than a typical round tube, is also included in the lock. The lock's disc-style cylinder with central keyway is protected by a vinyl coating, making it pick and drill resistant.
The keyway features a sliding dust cover that protects the cylinder from dirt and debris when not in use. It comes with three ergonomically designed stainless steel keys that reduce torque and avoid bending or breaking. One of the keys has an LED key fob for visibility at night.
The Kryptonite New York Legend Chain 1515 is not only the best (stationary) bike chain lock on the market, but it's also one of the safest. According to Kryptonite, the 1515 New York Legend is their hardest chain, giving maximum protection in high-risk areas.
Every 3 tonne hardened steel link is 14.5mm thick and provides outstanding resistance to all sorts of assaults. Due to the high quality of the metal used to construct each 14.5mm link, it would be almost impossible to beat this chain without the use of power tools.
The Kryptonite New York Disc lock secures both ends of the New York Legend Chain. The Disc lock, which is essentially a smaller version of the Kryptonite Fahgettaboudit Mini, uses a 16.5mm hardened steel shackle.
This is the best bike chain for securing numerous bikes at once on the market. There is no better (or less expensive) method to lock your bicycles in your garage or bike shed.
Unlike the 1055 Mini, this chain lock is clearly not portable. If you ride to the same area every day, leave this chain where you secure your bike.
You'll have access to the top-rated bike chain lock and high levels of security when you arrive if you leave the 1515 chain secured at your location. This bike lock is great for bike sheds and garages.
This is the lock to have if you need to secure a big number of bikes safely. Keep in mind that this chain is pricey because of the enormous amount of high-quality metal it contains.
The ABUS Granit XPlus 54 Mini is a compact bike lock that packs a punch. ABUS gave the 54 Mini a 15/15 security rating, putting it in the "Maximum-Security" category.
These levels of security are exceptional for such a little bike lock. With a weight of 2.68lb (1.21kg), the ABUS 54 Mini isn't as light as the Foldylock Compact, but it's a better option if you require more security for your bike.
The 54 Mini's smaller shackle, like the Fahgettaboudit Mini's, makes it more difficult to defeat this lightweight D lock using hydraulic and twist attacks. This is accomplished by wrenching the shackle open with a long metal tool such as a crowbar or scaffold pole.
Because it combines security and mobility, the 54 Mini is excellent for use in high-risk scenarios. Even if it isn't the cheapest, this D lock is reasonably priced [Amazon] when you consider its excellent all-around capabilities.
The 54 Mini will appeal to every biker. If you need outstanding security in any situation, this is the lock to have.
The ABUS Granit Extreme 59 is the most powerful bike lock on the market, and it has easily earned a place among the best bike locks.
Before I continue, I must point out that the Extreme 59 is not inexpensive. It's built exclusively for high-end bicycles and motorbikes. Customers who are always concerned about the security of their bicycle and want a lock that would prevent burglars will appreciate this D lock.
The only other D lock on the market that rivals the Granit Extreme 59 in terms of strength is the Fahgettaboudit Mini (the best D lock). The Extreme 59 includes a 16mm square, hardened steel shackle that resists bolt cutters and provides excellent security.
It's worth noting that the Skunklock is around the same price as the Extreme 59 and can combat thieves, but the 59 cannot. If you keep your bike in an area where there is a high risk of theft, this is a great solution.
The shackle offers enough space for securing additional gear and may even be used to hold multiple bikes.
This is a big D lock, weighing in at 5.95 pounds (2.7kg). As a consequence, I lock the Extreme 59 to the frame of my bike with my Huldit Bike Lock Mount, allowing me to take it with me everywhere I ride!
If money isn't a problem and you need the hardest bike lock to safeguard your bike, the ABUS Granit Extreme 59 is the lock for you.
If you need a more portable lock with equal levels of protection, the Kryptonite Fahgettaboudit Mini is the lock for you. Keep in mind that the Fahgettaboudit has less locking area than the Fahgettaboudit.
Final Thoughts
When buying a new bike lock, it's vital to consider your specific situation and choose the lock that best meets your requirements. If you ride a cheap bike with no real value, buying the most expensive lock on the market makes little sense.
When deciding which bike locks were the best, we took into account all aspects of security, functionality, and cost.
One of the more affordable locks in this study is the OnGuard Brute. However, because we're talking about the best bike locks on the market, the bulk of them will set you back more money.
Instead, you could be better off going with a less costly lock that still protects your bike adequately. I would always advocate locking your bike with two separate locks if you have the finances.
Your bike would be extremely vulnerable to theft even if you had the world's thickest bike chain lock if it was made of glass.
This means that you should think about the materials used while selecting the best chain lock for you. The bulk of the best and most secure chains are made of hardened steel. Steel is extremely tough and difficult to work with.
Nothing is more aggravating than a jammed bike lock, as any rider knows. It's bad enough that you're fumbling around in the dark searching for the keyhole to your bike lock. Your day may be spoiled if your bike lock clogs and you can't unlock it.
If your bike lock is jammed, we'll have to experiment with it to figure out what's wrong. Insert the key into your bike lock and try to rotate the key to release the shackle to find the source of the jam. If you can't insert or twist your key into your bike lock, the locking mechanism is probably broken.
The cause of the jam is most likely the lock's body/shackle if you were able to fully insert and rotate your key. Over time, a shackle can get worn and rusty, causing the lock to jam shut.
Being a helicopter parent is totally fine in this situation. To make it more difficult to break, it's a good idea to vary up the types of locks. In addition to the frame, make sure the rapid-release wheels are fastened.
Check to determine if it will be simple to relocate. Because locks are bothersome, purchasing a mounting bracket or ensuring that it can be securely connected to your bike while riding is a smart option. It's a good idea to look into how other riders felt about the lock you're considering.
Many riders use D locks because they are the toughest and longest-lasting locks on the market. If you're new to the sector, folding locks are highly dependable and compact.
The lock is composed of a link construction design that allows it to fold from a compact and transportable item into a long, sturdy lock.
Chain locks are usually made of resistant materials that can't be cut with a chainsaw. Make sure you acquire a nice padlock to go with it, though.
Combination locks, which do not require a key, are often locked using a digit code approach. We recommend avoiding them because they are considered easy targets for burglars.
Cable locks are more adaptable and affordable than traditional locks, and they're also easier to carry on your bike. They should not be utilized in areas where there is a risk of bike theft.
Hi, my name is Andrew Daniels, and I have been cycling as a hobby for the last 10 years. I love all types of cycling, and it is one of my biggest passions. The Monster Cycle will be an extension of my passion for cycling, and everything related to it.
I will be focusing on the best accessories to purchase, and the best bikes. In addition to this, I will be providing informational content to answer any questions or queries surrounding cycling that you may have.
