Buying guide for Best bike locks

For thieves, taking an unlocked bike is an easy decision. Yes, it'll ruin your day, but if your bike is just waiting unprotected, you've made it oh so easy for them. Selecting a quality bike lock is the first step in preventing bike theft.

We’ll provide you with a brief rundown of what to look for when browsing bike locks, what the advantages and disadvantages of specific locks may be, and we even provide you with some crucial tips on how to stop your bike from getting stolen, even with a lock in place. We also have a section to give you pointers on how to properly lock up your bike.

Read for our guide to selecting a bike lock, and when you’re ready to purchase, take a look at our recommendations to buy with full confidence.

When it comes to bike locks, the thicker, the better.

Elements to consider when choosing a bike lock

When browsing the myriad of bike locks available for purchase, consider the following to ensure you're getting the right amount of protection.

Size

Bike lock sizing is super important. Make sure your chosen lock is large enough to fit around your bike, and whatever object you're affixing it to, but don't pick a lock that leaves a lot of wiggle room. A tight-fitting lock is your best bet for properly securing your bike.

Casing

Some locks are wrapped in protective materials to ensure your bike doesn't get scratched. A soft housing might also be helpful if you plan on throwing your bike lock into your backpack. The casing will protect other objects from getting damaged.

Grade

Check to see if a particular lock has undergone testing. A high-quality lock has been thoroughly tested to ensure it's extremely secure and difficult to break.

Open sesame

There are three different locking mechanisms that you'll find in bike locks: keys, combinations, and electronic locks. It's up to each rider to decide what works best, but there are advantages and disadvantages with each bike lock option.

Locks that utilize keys are the most secure option, but you do need to remember to carry your key with you and not lose it along the way. Sure, a sneaky thief can try to pick a key lock, but they are tougher to crack than combination codes.

A combo lock means you don't have to worry about remembering to bring a key, but they are not super secure. Combination locks can be cracked, and some locks are pretty easy to cut open. Finally, there are electronic locks. This type of tech allows you to unlock your bike just by being near it, or by typing in a code. They're quite cool, but are more expensive than traditional locking mechanisms, and they aren't foolproof. Some models have advanced features, like alarms that alert you that your bike is being stolen. They also look expensive and may attract thieves. Many require a power source and need to be recharged. What happens when the battery runs out?

To make sure we bring you the best bike locks available, we consider models with all major types of mechanisms, including keyed, combination, and electronic locks.

When reviewing the most effective bike locks, we consider each one’s physical specifications in addition to how well it holds up in real-world testing.

Our search for the top bike locks involves researching various styles including cable, chain, and D-locks suitable for fixing your bike to all different kinds of stationary objects.

We carefully note the size of each bike lock so you know you’re getting one big enough to accommodate your bike frame.

While deciding which combination bike locks are best, we consider how long each one is, how smoothly its tumblers work, and how easy it is to set the code.

To ensure it doesn’t damage the pristine finish of your ride, we investigate a number of bike locks with protective coverings that prevent scratches.

In case you like to be on the cutting edge of technology and convenience, we include in our research the newest and most advanced smart bike locks with wireless connectivity.

We go to great lengths to find rugged bike locks with designs that are effective at thwarting thieves.

For bicycle enthusiasts who demand peak protection, we carefully review advanced bike locks that work with permanent bike mounting brackets.

We give special consideration to bike locks with manufacturer guarantees. These essentially act as insurance in the event that the lock is ever defeated.

Types of bike locks

There are a variety of bike lock types available for purchase, each suiting different needs and types of riders.

Cable locks

Cable locks are the least secure of the bunch because they're quite easy to cut through. They're lightweight, which makes them easier to handle than other lock types. They can wrap around anything without much of a fight. They're best for locking up an inexpensive bike in a low-crime area.

U-locks (or d-locks)

These are really hard to cut because they're made of very strong materials and are shaped so that thieves will have a hard time finding space to maneuver their tools.

For a U lock to be effective, you need to select one that fits around your frame, but leaves very little space. Otherwise, you're spending extra money for no reason.

Chain locks

Chain locks look tough, and they are harder to cut through than cable locks, but they're not as resistant as a U-lock. They're heavier than other options, so they aren't a good choice for commuters who might find it annoying to lug around a clunky locking mechanism.

Folding locks

These are great for securing a bike to awkwardly shaped objects. They're light and compact, so they're easy to travel with, but they aren't as secure as a U-lock.

Pricing

A sturdy, quality lock will start at about $50. Those living in low crime or rural areas may be able to get away with cheaper, flimsier lock options under $50, though.

If you have a fancy bike with lots of removable parts, spending money on a super sturdy lock is a smart idea.

If you plan on using extra locks to secure your seat and wheels, that will set you back a little more.

Bike theft prevention tips

• A lock is your first defense when it comes to preventing bike theft, but it's not the only way to protect your ride. Buying the best bike lock out there won't help if you forget to lock up your bike in the first place.
• Keep your lock on your person when commuting, and lock it up even if you're heading inside a building for just a few minutes.
• Using two or more bike locks can help secure your bike even further. More than one lock will make your bike a lot less appealing to potential thieves.
• And don't forget to secure your wheels and other removable peripherals, especially on a fancy road bike. Thieves will be none too happy to walk away with easy to grab tires.
• Avoid the all too common mistake of only locking up your wheel. Make sure to secure your frame! If you'd rather not spend additional dollars on extra locks, take removable parts like wheels, panniers, and lights with you.
• When you're locking up your bike leave as little space as possible between the lock and your bike. That makes it much harder for would-be thieves to gain leverage when trying to cut off a lock. Don't lock up your bike in a low-traffic area. That makes your sweet ride a sitting duck. Try not to leave it overnight, either.
• After you've locked it up, make sure to verify that it's actually locked. Being paranoid is okay — it's your ride!
• Don't be shy, head over to your local police station and ask to register your bike. It'll make it easier to find you, the original owner, should the bike get stolen and find its way to law enforcement.

Lock your bike up next to a fancier looking ride to make it look less appealing to thieves.

FAQ

Q. What's the most secure type of lock?

A. A U-lock with key access is the most secure bike lock option. First, you need a key to open it, and only you have it. Second, it's tough to cut into and, in general, thieves are lazy. They'll go for the bike with the lock that's easier to remove.

Q. I bought a good lock, but I'm still paranoid about getting my bike stolen while I leave it at the train station bike rack. Will it get taken?

A. If you can, lock your bike up around other bikes. At a train station, there's a good chance there's plenty of intermittent foot traffic. But yes, it's true, there will be stretches of quiet. In that case, lock your bike up with two locks if you're worried, or find a fancy bike and secure your bike next to it. Your bike won't look as appealing to thieves. In general, bike thieves target expensive models or whatever is easiest to snag.

Q. I have a key entry U-lock for my bike. What's the best way to place it to secure my bike?

A. Good choice! Make sure to get a tight fit. That makes it tough to find a place to cut through. You can also position the key-entry down or out of the way to make it tough for a thief to pick. It'll make it harder for you to unlock, but if you're in an area where bike theft is common, it's a good preventative measure.