Best Bike Locks for Secure Cycling in 2023

Biking is a great way to get around, exercise, and enjoy the outdoors. However, it’s important to keep your bike safe and secure when you’re not riding it. That’s where bike locks come in. A good bike lock can give you peace of mind and protect your investment.

When it comes to choosing the best bike lock, there are a few things to consider. First and foremost, you want a lock that is strong and durable. A thief armed with bolt cutters can make quick work of a weak lock. You also want a lock that is easy to use and convenient to carry with you on your rides.

There are several types of bike locks on the market, including cable locks, U-locks, and chain locks. Each has its own strengths and weaknesses. Cable locks are lightweight and flexible, but not as secure as U-locks or chains. U-locks are strong and reliable, but can be heavy and cumbersome to carry. Chain locks offer a good balance of strength and flexibility, but can be heavy and bulky.

In this article, we’ll be focusing on U-locks, as they are generally considered the most secure type of bike lock. We’ve tested and researched dozens of U-locks to find the best options on the market. Whether you’re a casual rider or a serious cyclist, we’ve got you covered.

Best Bike Locks

If you’re an avid cyclist, you know how important it is to keep your bike safe and secure. Whether you’re commuting to work or going for a leisurely ride, having a reliable bike lock is essential to prevent theft. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one for your needs. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best bike locks on the market. From heavy-duty chains to compact U-locks, we’ve got you covered. Keep reading to find the perfect lock for your bike.

Kryptonite Evolution Mini-7 Bike U-Lock with Cable

Protect your bike with the Kryptonite Evolution Mini-7 U-Lock that resists bolt cutters and twisting leverage attacks.

Pros

• The 13mm hardened max performance steel shackle resists hand tools, bolt cutters, and leverage attacks.
• The disc-style cylinder with center keyway is protected by a vinyl coating and is pick and drill resistant.
• The lock includes a Krypto Flex 410 (4′ 10mm) double looped braided steel cable for securing front wheel or accessories.

Cons

• The lock’s shackle length may be too small for some bike stands.
• The cable may not provide enough security for high-risk areas.
• The lock may be heavy to carry around.

The Kryptonite Evolution Mini-7 U-Lock with Cable is a great choice for quick stops on college campuses, a couple of hours in major metropolitan areas, and all day & overnight in suburbs and rural areas. The lock also includes patented Flex Frame-U Bracket providing convenient multi-location U-Lock transport.

The lock’s keyway features a sliding dust cover to protect the cylinder from dirt and debris when not in use. It also includes three stainless steel keys with an ergonomic design to reduce torque and keep them from bending or breaking. One of the keys has an LED key fob for added visibility in the dark.

Kryptonite Bicycle Locks offer great support programs including Key Safe, Anti-Theft Protection, and Lifetime, making them the best choice for protecting what you value.

Master Lock Bike Lock Cable

If you’re looking for a basic, low-security bike lock that is easy to use and provides keyless convenience, the Master Lock Bike Lock Cable might be a good option for you.

Pros

• The 4 dial combination security offers keyless convenience.
• The braided steel construction provides flexibility and strength.
• The vinyl coating helps prevent scratching and damage to your bike or other equipment.

Cons

• The cable is only 4 ft. long, which might not be long enough for some users.
• The basic security level might not be sufficient for high-risk areas.
• The preset combination might not be as secure as a customizable option.

The Master Lock Bike Lock Cable is a versatile outdoor cable lock that can be used to secure not only your bike, but also other outdoor equipment such as skateboards, sports equipment, tool boxes, ladders, and gates. The combination locking mechanism provides keyless convenience, and the flexible steel cables offer strong cut resistance.

One thing to keep in mind is that the cable is only 4 ft. long, which might not be long enough for some users. Additionally, the basic security level might not be sufficient for high-risk areas, and the preset combination might not be as secure as a customizable option.

Overall, if you’re looking for a simple and affordable bike lock that provides basic security and keyless convenience, the Master Lock Bike Lock Cable is worth considering.

Kryptonite Kryptolok Standard Bike U-Lock with Cable

Protect your bike with the Kryptonite Kryptolok Standard Bike U-Lock with Cable, which is a great choice for those looking for a reliable and secure bike lock.

Pros

• The 12.7mm hardened performance steel shackle resists hand tools, bolt cutters, and leverage attacks, providing excellent security for your bike.
• The included 10mm steel looped cable adds extra security, allowing you to secure your front wheel or accessories.
• The lock comes with a patented FlexFrame-U Bracket, which provides convenient multi-location U-Lock transport.

Cons

• The lock is rated at 6/10 on the security scale, making it suitable for quick stops in metropolitan areas, a couple of hours in the suburbs, or all day and overnight in rural areas.
• The mounting options may be limited for e-bikes if you don’t have a men’s frame shape due to the size of the lock, as the included bracket only affixes to a specific notch on the frame.
• The lock is quite heavy, which can be inconvenient if you need to carry it around with you.

The Kryptonite Kryptolok Standard Bike U-Lock with Cable is a great choice for those looking for a reliable and secure bike lock. The lock’s 12.7mm hardened performance steel shackle resists hand tools, bolt cutters, and leverage attacks, providing excellent security for your bike. Additionally, the included 10mm steel looped cable adds extra security, allowing you to secure your front wheel or accessories. The lock also comes with a patented FlexFrame-U Bracket, which provides convenient multi-location U-Lock transport.

While the lock is rated at 6/10 on the security scale, making it suitable for quick stops in metropolitan areas, a couple of hours in the suburbs, or all day and overnight in rural areas, it may not be the best choice for those living in high-crime areas. The mounting options may also be limited for e-bikes if you don’t have a men’s frame shape due to the size of the lock, as the included bracket only affixes to a specific notch on the frame. Additionally, the lock is quite heavy, which can be inconvenient if you need to carry it around with you.

Overall, if you’re looking for a reliable and secure bike lock that provides excellent security for your bike, the Kryptonite Kryptolok Standard Bike U-Lock with Cable is a great choice.

NDakter Bike Chain Lock

If you’re looking for a secure and durable bike lock, the NDakter Bike Chain Lock is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The 5-digit combination lock provides added security, with 10,000 possible combinations to choose from.
• Made of zinc alloy and 0.24 inch alloy steel, this lock is sturdy and drill-resistant.
• The scratch-proof polypropylene fabric protects your bike frame and the chain, ensuring a long lifespan.

Cons

• The male end of the chain is 1.25″ in diameter, so make sure it fits through the gaps in your bike wheels before purchasing.
• Although it’s long enough to lock multiple bikes together, it may not be long enough to lock your bike to larger objects like trees or thick poles.
• The lock may be a bit heavy for some riders.

This bike chain lock is easy to use and set up, with a resettable combination lock that eliminates the need for keys. It’s also versatile enough to be used on motorcycles, scooters, grills, ladders, doors, lawnmowers, and more. Plus, NDakter offers a one-year warranty, so you can buy with confidence.

In summary, if you’re looking for a reliable and secure bike lock that offers keyless convenience and scratch protection, the NDakter Bike Chain Lock is definitely worth considering.

Via Velo Bike U Lock with Cable

Protect your bike with the Via Velo Bike U Lock with Cable, a heavy-duty lock that offers all-weather protection and convenience.

Pros

• Durable all-weather protection with hexagonal PVC cover
• Easy and strong to lock your bike with thickness(including rubber casing):14mm,9.84 in (250mm) x 5.51 in (140mm) U shack
• Amazing convenience and security with 2 keys and quick locking system

Cons

• Lock rattles on the mount
• The bike mount bracket may not fit all bike tubes
• The cable is not as thick as the U-lock

The Via Velo Bike U Lock with Cable is a great choice for those looking for a reliable and convenient bike lock. The lock’s hexagonal PVC cover resists corrosion from water, dust, and dirt, ensuring all-weather performance and better security. The lock’s thickness, including rubber casing, is 14mm, with a U-shack measuring 9.84 in (250mm) x 5.51 in (140mm), making it easy and strong to lock your bike. The lock also comes with 2 keys for convenience, and a quick, no-hassle locking system that ensures amazing convenience and security.

However, the lock may rattle on the mount, and the bike mount bracket may not fit all bike tubes. Additionally, the cable is not as thick as the U-lock, which may be a concern for some users.

Overall, the Via Velo Bike U Lock with Cable is a great value for your money, with a limited lifetime warranty and exceptional customer service.

Sportneer Bike Chain Lock

This keyless bike lock offers high-security with its advanced 5-digit combination lock. It is made from extra-thick manganese steel for cut resistance and has a flexible cloth sleeve to prevent scratches and rust.

Pros

• Keyless secure lock mechanism
• Durable cut resistance cable
• Easy to set/reset

Cons

• May be heavy for some users
• Combination lock may be difficult to reset
• May not fit larger posts or frames

This bike lock is perfect for those who want a high level of security for their bike. The keyless lock mechanism provides added convenience and the durable cable ensures that the lock is difficult to cut through. The easy-to-set/reset feature makes it simple to personalize your own combination.

The long, flexible chain allows you to lock up to two bikes together and the waterproof and dustproof cover ensures that the lock stays in good condition for years to come.

Overall, if you’re looking for a reliable and secure bike lock, the Sportneer Bike Chain Lock is a great option.

Master Lock Cable Lock

If you’re looking for a tough and durable cable lock for your bike, the Master Lock Cable Lock is a great option.

Pros

• Adjustable locking mechanism holds the cable tight at any position for a perfect fit
• Made from braided steel for strength and flexibility
• Rust-resistant lock and vinyl-coated cable provide superior weather and scratch resistance

Cons

• Cable can be difficult to uncoil
• Mounting bracket is not very secure
• Lock can revert back to its coiled form, making it hard to use

The Master Lock Cable Lock is a great choice for those looking for a durable and reliable cable lock for their bike. The adjustable locking mechanism ensures a tight fit, while the braided steel construction provides strength and flexibility. The rust-resistant lock and vinyl-coated cable also make it resistant to weather and scratches.

One potential downside of this lock is that the cable can be difficult to uncoil, which can make it challenging to use. Additionally, the mounting bracket is not very secure, which can make it difficult to transport the lock when not in use. Finally, some users have reported that the lock can revert back to its coiled form, which can make it difficult to use.

Overall, if you’re looking for a tough and durable cable lock for your bike, the Master Lock Cable Lock is a great option.

Sportneer Bike Lock Set

If you’re looking for a heavy-duty bike lock that will keep your bike safe and secure, the Sportneer Bike Lock Set is a great option.

Pros

• The lock is made of high-quality alloy steel and is cut-resistant, leverage-resistant, and drill-resistant.
• The lock comes with a 5ft double-looped steel cable that you can use to lock the frame, wheels, helmet, or other bikes.
• The lock is portable and comes with a mounting bracket that you can attach to your bike.

Cons

• The lock is quite heavy, which may make it difficult to carry around.
• The lock may not fit around thicker bike frames or tires.
• The rubber cover on the lock may wear out over time.

The Sportneer Bike Lock Set is a great choice if you’re looking for a lock that will keep your bike safe and secure. The lock is made of high-quality alloy steel and is cut-resistant, leverage-resistant, and drill-resistant, so you can be sure that your bike will be protected from theft. Additionally, the lock comes with a 5ft double-looped steel cable that you can use to lock the frame, wheels, helmet, or other bikes, giving you added security and peace of mind.

The lock is also portable and comes with a mounting bracket that you can attach to your bike, so you can easily carry it with you wherever you go. However, the lock is quite heavy, which may make it difficult to carry around, and it may not fit around thicker bike frames or tires. Additionally, the rubber cover on the lock may wear out over time, so you may need to replace it periodically.

Overall, if you’re looking for a heavy-duty bike lock that will keep your bike safe and secure, the Sportneer Bike Lock Set is definitely worth considering.

Buying Guide

When looking for the best bike lock, there are several important factors to consider. Here are some key features to keep in mind:

Types of Locks

There are several types of bike locks available, including cable locks, U-locks, chain locks, and folding locks. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to choose the one that best suits your needs.

Security Level

The security level of a bike lock is determined by its ability to resist attacks from thieves. Look for locks that have been independently tested and certified by organizations such as Sold Secure or ART. These organizations rate locks on a scale of Bronze, Silver, and Gold, with Gold being the most secure.

Size and Weight

The size and weight of a bike lock can have a big impact on its usability. Look for locks that are easy to carry and store, but also provide enough length to secure your bike to a variety of objects.

Additional Features

Some bike locks come with additional features such as anti-theft protection plans, key replacement services, or built-in alarms. While these features can add to the cost of the lock, they can also provide additional peace of mind.

Overall, when choosing a bike lock, it’s important to balance security with usability and convenience. By considering the factors above, you can find a lock that provides the right level of protection for your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which bike locks offer the highest level of security?

The highest level of security is offered by U-locks or D-locks. These locks are made of hardened steel and are difficult to break or cut. They come in different sizes, so make sure to choose a size that fits your bike frame and the object you’re locking it to.

Can you recommend a bike lock that’s tough to break or cut?

Yes, we recommend the Abus Granit X-Plus 540 U-lock. It has a 13mm hardened steel shackle and a double-bolt locking mechanism that makes it very difficult to break or cut. It also comes with a key that has a code card for easy replacement if lost.

What’s a reliable yet affordable bike lock for everyday use?

For everyday use, we recommend the Kryptonite Kryptolok Series 2 Standard U-lock. It has a 13mm hardened steel shackle and a disc-style cylinder that is pick and drill resistant. It also comes with a 4-foot flex cable that allows you to secure both wheels and the frame.

What type of lock is best suited for electric bikes?

Electric bikes are more expensive than regular bikes, so we recommend using a U-lock or D-lock for maximum security. Make sure to choose a size that fits your bike frame and the object you’re locking it to. You can also consider using a chain lock or a folding lock for added security.

How should I lock my bike to ensure maximum safety?

To ensure maximum safety, you should always lock your bike to a fixed object, such as a bike rack or a sturdy pole. Make sure to lock both wheels and the frame, and avoid leaving any gaps that could allow a thief to insert a tool. You can also consider using a secondary lock, such as a cable lock or a chain lock, for added security.

Are combination bike locks as secure as key locks?

Combination bike locks can be just as secure as key locks if they are made of high-quality materials and have a strong locking mechanism. However, they are more vulnerable to being guessed or cracked by a determined thief. If you choose to use a combination lock, make sure to choose a lock with a high number of possible combinations and avoid using obvious or easy-to-guess codes.