Finding the best bike lock for your 2021 cruising tours? I constantly spent multiple days testing security levels of over 50 most potential candidates on the market, using different specialized tools and unlocking techniques to test their protection.
I also put them through durability tests to see how long they would last under harsh environments. If you want to know which are my final choices, keep reading.
Table of Contents
Why Do You Need A Bike Lock?
Bike locks are a special device to protect your bicycles from thieves, either by fastening it to a fixed object or locking one of the wheels.
Which Are the Best Brands of Bike Locks?
Before choosing the best bike lock, it’s worth casting through these highly-recommended brands:
ABUS: Top of this list is ABUS – the 1924-founded German bike lock manufacturer that never disappoints its customers about either quality, operation, or reliability.
Master lock: Their products are trusted because the brand themselves has been widely recognized globally as the authentic, enduring name in this industry. Aside from producing high-quality keys that meet strength standards, they continually set new standards for lock performance, application, and design.
Via Velo: They’re popular for manufacturing heavy-duty chain locks and U locks with the best quality. Due to the long period of time in this business, they’ve developed a strong understanding of the demands of their customers.
Kryptonite: Aside from their 40 years’ expertise in this industry, Kryptonite constantly develops, innovates, and guides their experts to provide their customers with the most secure bike locks in the world.
Read more:
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- Top 14 Best Bike Rack For Jeep Wrangler Reviews In 2021
- Top 16 Best Bike Racks For Suv Reviews In 2021
- Top 15 Best Hitch Bike Racks Reviews In 2021
- Top 14 Best Bike Racks for Garage Reviews In 2021
What Are the Best Bike Locks to Buy?
In a hurry? Below is a brief of the strengths and applicability of my 16 best bike locks. Take a look!
- Best Combination Bike Lock: Master Lock 8143D Bike Lock
“Affordable & offer basic security; Prevent scratches & stay durable; Easy to use or store”
- Best for Colleges: Via Velo Bike Lock
“Easily mounted on your bike to be with you all the time; Quick and easy to lock it with hassle-free; Resist dust, water, dirt, and corrosion; Very good after-purchase services”
- Best for E-Bikes: Kryptonite KryptoFlex Bike Lock
“Strong and hard to be hacked; Versatile enough to be used with other lock types; Long-lasting and durable”
- Best for Beach Cruisers: Titanker Bike Lock
“Suitable for short-term use; Flexible, lightweight yet cut-resistant, scratch-free, and strong; Resettable combination; Simple transportation”
- Best Multiple Lock: Kryptonite Evolution Bike Lock
“Backed by an industry-leading lifetime warranty; Offer anti-theft protection; Very well-built, strong and resist leverage attacks, bolt cutters, and hand tools”
- Best Bike Chain Lock: Sanwo Bike Lock
“Not require a key to unlock; Easily set it to your own favorite, easy-to-remember number combination; Easy to store when not in use”
- Best To Prevent Thieves: Abus Bordo Granit 6500 Bike Lock
“Offer a security level of 15 in the ABUS Security Level System; Unparalleled protection & resistance to attacks involving sawing; Flexible and easy to use”
- Best Cheap Bike Lock Under $50: NDakter Bike Lock
“Safer and more secure than the 4-digit bike locks; Easy and simple to use; Able to withstand 7KN shear force and 2.4KN tension”
- Best for Mountain Bikes: SIGTUNA Bike Lock
“Offer 85/100 Security Rating; Keep the bike against leverage attacks; Easy to use”
- Best U Lock: Kryptonite Kryptolok Bike Lock
“Convenient for multi-location u-lock transport; Resist drill and pick & prevent single cut style attacks and twist; Offer higher holding power; The keys aren’t easily broken or bent”
- Best for Los Angeles: Kryptonite New York Bike Lock
“10/10 rating on Kryptonite’s security scale; Offer double protection and resistance to cutting or single cut style attacks; Increase holding power efficiently”
- Bell Catalyst Bike Lock
“Ideal for campuses or high-crime areas; Anti-theft efficiently; Portable and flexible”
- Schwinn Bike Lock
“Affordable yet durable and protective, ideal for inexpensive bikes; Scratch prevention and weather resistance to the last longer; Simple transportation or storage”
- Kryptonite Keeper 12mm Bike Lock
“Offer moderate security; Resistant to leverage attacks, bolt cutters, hand tools & good twist attack prevention; The keys are good at breaking or bending resistance”
- UBULLOX Bike Lock
“Ideal for beginners; Good for multiple uses & flexible; Offer the highest protection & technical opening prevention; Lightweight and compact for easy storage”
- Abus Granit X-Plus 540 Bike Lock
“Offer security level of 15, ideal for high-quality bikes or urban settings; Prevent picking, pulling and hitting attacks; Capable of creating multi-bike households or multi-lock”
Bike Lock Comparison Chart 2021
Here is a detailed comparison chart including dimensions, material, and weight of my 16 best bike locks.
Top 16 Best Bike Locks Reviews In 2021
You might have some favorite choices in your mind now, let’s see if they are suitable for your needs and budget or not. Below are detailed reviews of my best bike locks for 2021:
Best Combination Bike Lock: Master Lock 8143D Bike Lock
Pros
- Affordable & offer basic security
- Prevent scratches & stay durable
- Easy to use or store
Cons
- You can’t preset combination
At this low price point, this keyless, convenient preset four-digit combination bike lock is a steal. It is 5/16 inches in diameter cable with four feet long protected by a scratch-resistant vinyl coating.
For flexibility and strength, it features braided steel and is self-coiling. This nice feature also makes storage or use a lot easier as well.
All-in-all, for basic security, this bike lock does its job excellently.
Product Specs:
| Dimensions | 6.75 x 4 x 1.33 inches |
| Material | Braided steel, vinyl coating |
| Weight | 4 Ounces |
| Highlight Features | 5/16 in. (8 mm) diameter cable + 4 ft (1.2 m) long
A scratch-resistant vinyl coating braided steel + self-coiling four-digit combination |
Note: Each individual lock has its own combination and can’t be changed
Watch Master Lock 8143D Bike Lock review video here:
Best for Colleges: Via Velo Bike Lock
Pros
- Easily mounted on your bike to be with you all the time
- Quick and easy to lock it with hassle-free
- Resist dust, water, dirt, and corrosion
- Very good after-purchase services
Cons
- Slightly overpriced
A bit pricier, you’ve got the Via Velo Bike Lock. It is priced a bit expensive but its exceptional reliability and security make me feel like it’s the best overall performer here.
It is easily attached to any bicycle tube within 20 to 42 millimeters thanks to its universal, high-quality mounting bracket so the lock could be with you anytime. It’s also strong, well-secured, and fast to use.
The no-hassle system features a 10mm x 180cm cable and 14mm, 250mm x 150mm lock-and-go U shack. To enhance the bike lock’s durability, it is wrapped by a corrosion-resistant, waterproof hexagonal PVC coating.
Aside from a high-quality bike lock, your purchase will be under 24-hour online customer service, a 90-day full refund policy, and a 3-year warranty for your satisfaction.
Product Specs
| Dimensions | 2.2 x 8.07 x 10.24 inches |
| Material | Steel with hexagonal PVC cover |
| Weight | 3 Pounds |
| Highlight Features | Backed by 24-hour online customer service, 90-day full refund policy, and a 3-year warranty
high-quality mounting bracket 2 keys 10mm x 180cm cable & 14mm, 250mm x 150mm U shack hexagonal PVC cover |
Watch Via Velo Bike Lock review video here:
Best for E-Bikes: Kryptonite KryptoFlex Bike Lock
Pros
- Strong and hard to be hacked
- Versatile enough to be used with other lock types
- Long-lasting and durable
Cons
- The ends of the cable might be too wide to pass through the metal frame of some bike types
This bike lock will be a nightmare for thieves who intend to steal your precious electric bikes. It weighs 0.15 pounds, features 2.5’ cable length and 3/16” cable diameter, and also has a protective vinyl cover for extra longevity.
The double-looped design makes it easily incorporated with most types of locks, such as padlocks, disc locks, and Kryptonite U-locks.
If being used with another Kryptonite lock, it’s a wonderful choice for quick-release accessory lock-up, seat post component, and seat.
Product Specs
| Dimensions | 3/16” (5mm) cable diameter, 2.5’ (76cm) cable length |
| Material | 5mm BRAIDED STEEL with Protective vinyl cover |
| Weight | 0.15 lbs (0.07 kgs) |
| Highlight Features | Double-looped cable
Thick 5mm braided steel cable Ultra-long 2.5’ cable length |
Watch Kryptonite KryptoFlex Bike Lock review video here:
Best for Beach Cruisers: Titanker Bike Lock
Pros
- Suitable for short-term use
- Flexible, lightweight yet cut-resistant, scratch-free, and strong
- Resettable combination
- Simple transportation
Cons
- The cable holder is a bit flimsy
Summer beach cruising will be a lot more awesome if you equip your bicycle with this reliable lock by Titanker.
Similar to the Master Lock, this is a keyless 4-digit bike lock but the main difference between them is this one is resettable to your own personalized number combination. The price is acceptable.
It is flexible and strong, highlighting a cut-resistant steel cable with scratch-resistant PVC coating. But take note that this is only suitable for short-term use and beach cruising, especially in high crime areas.
When not in use, its free mounting bracket keeps the bike in place on your bike so you don’t need to carry it inside your backpack, which is convenient.
Product Specs
| Dimensions | 3 x 2 x 2 inches |
| Material | Plastic |
| Weight | 11.2 Ounces |
| Highlight Features | PVC coating
Flexible steel cables Resettable 4-digit combination A free mounting bracket |
Watch Titanker Bike Lock review video here:
Best Multiple Locks: Kryptonite Evolution Bike Lock
Pros
- Backed by an industry-leading lifetime warranty
- Offer anti-theft protection
- Very well-built, strong and resist leverage attacks, bolt cutters, and hand tools
Cons
- Require paying a monthly fee if you want the anti-theft protection insurance
If you’re looking for multiple locks, you’ll definitely love this one for both its functionality and price points.
It is consistent across all the manufacturers – smaller to be easier transportation/storage, backed by a lifetime warranty, and the brand name is recognizable.
Above all, it’s extremely secure thanks to the extremely thick 10mm steel looped cable and 13mm hardened steel shackle. It resists leverage attacks, bolt cutters, and hand tools wonderfully.
Besides, you’ll benefit from their key safe program including two keys in case you lose one. I think this option is perfect for those who leave their bike outsides.
Product Specs
| Dimensions | 3.25″ x 7″ (8.3cm x 17.8cm) |
| Material | 10mm Steel |
| Weight | 3.55 lbs (1.61 kg) |
| Highlight Features | Lifetime Warranty
Anti-Theft Protection Offer Key Safe Program 10mm Steel Looped Cable & 13mm hardened steel shackle |
Watch Kryptonite Evolution Bike Lock review video here:
Best Bike Chain Lock: Sanwo Bike Lock
Pros
- Not require a key to unlock
- Easily set it to your own favorite, easy-to-remember number combination
- Easy to store when not in use
Cons
- The instructions are a bit hard to read
This option is a nice lock with a short-chain for inexpensive bikes. The resettable four-digit combination locking mechanism is what I like the most as you can easily set it to your own favorite, easy-to-remember number combination.
The flexible, solid steel cable wrapped around by an engineering plastic shell gives a sturdy and durable hand-feel.
The length is reasonable – not too short to be useless but not too long to be cumbersome. When not in use, it’s easily wrapped below the seat.
Product Specs
| Dimensions | 2′(0.6m) long x 1/2″ (12mm)diameter. |
| Material | flexible steel & plastic shell |
| Weight | 0.34 pounds |
| Highlight Features | Resettable 4-digit combination locking mechanisms
2 feet length flexible steel cables & Engineering plastic shell |
Watch Sanwo Bike Lock review video here:
Best to Prevent Thieves: Abus Bordo Granit 6500 Bike Lock
Pros
- Offer a security level of 15 in the ABUS Security Level System
- Unparalleled protection & resistance to attacks involving sawing
- Flexible and easy to use
Cons
- Very heavy
The Abus Bordo Granit 6500 is not like your ordinary bike locks. It is built to be a real nightmare of thieves, even when you’re living in a high crime area. Its security level is 15.
Such excellent performance is a big thank you to its picking-resistant ABUS X-Plus precision disc cylinder with thick, 5mm specially hardened steel bars connected with special, highly protective rivets. Plus, it incorporates granite”.
While capably resisting the most determined attacks, its rivets are still flexible, which is easy to use.
The folding technology also comes in handy whenever it’s not in use.
Product Specs
| Dimensions | 85cm/5.5mm |
| Material | Stainless Steel |
| Weight | 3.5 pounds. |
| Highlight Features | versatile folding technology
2 keys supplied ABUS X-Plus cylinder 5 mm steel bars |
Watch Abus Bordo Granit 6500 Bike Lock review video here:
Best Cheap Bike Lock Under $50: NDakter Bike Lock
Pros
- Safer and more secure than the 4-digit bike locks
- Easy and simple to use
- Able to withstand 7KN shear force and 2.4KN tension
Cons
- The directions for changing the combination are unclear
This is a nice upgrade for those bike owners who are seeking a more secure way to protect their bicycles, yet, with the most convenience.
It is a keyless 5-digit resettable combination chain lock made of premium braided steel wire that is able to hold up well against 7KN shear force and 2.4KN tension. Besides, the 4’ of length is good enough for securing up to three bicycles at a time.
This bike lock is also praised for its ease of use, thanks to the quick installation button and a free mounting bracket. Its self-coiling design is also a big plus for ease of carrying.
Overall, the NDakter is the most reliable keyless 5-digit resettable bike lock that you can try without flattening your wallet.
Product Specs
| Dimensions | 5.75 x 5.75 x 1.63 inches |
| Material | high strength braided steel |
| Weight | 0.95 Pounds |
| Highlight Features | 4’ long
Smart 5-digit resettable combination chain lock mechanism quick installation button, complimentary mounting bracket, and self-coiling design high strength braided steel wire |
Watch NDakter Bike Lock review video here:
Bell Catalyst Bike Lock
Pros
- Ideal for campuses or high-crime areas
- Anti-theft efficiently
- Portable and flexible
Cons
- The cable is stiff
The Bell Catalyst Bike Lock is a more affordable option for campuses or those people living in high-crime zones. It is pretty heavy, but that’s a good sign of a well-built, secure bicycle lock that you can count on.
The 500 anti-theft protection design boasts an 8” hardened steel crossbar and shackles with a scratch-free plastic coating. There are two keys included in the package in the event you lose one.
I’m glad that it is portable and flexible to offer you more options where you lock your bike. The quick-lease button and carrying bracket, on the other hand, makes transportation like a breeze.
If you intend to use this lock on a more expensive bicycle and also want to give you extra protection, consider their Anti-Theft protection program, which offers up to $1000 if someone steals yours.
Product Specs
| Dimensions | 5 x 6 x 3 inches |
| Material | 8 inch hardened steel |
| Weight | 2 Pounds |
| Highlight Features | 500 anti-theft Protection
Quick-release & Carrying Bracket 8 inch hardened steel shackle |
Watch Bell Catalyst Bike Lock review video here:
Schwinn Bike Lock
Pros
- Affordable yet durable and protective, ideal for inexpensive bikes
- Scratch prevention and weather resistance to last longer
- Simple transportation or storage
Cons
- Not for high-end bikes
Out of myriad bike lock manufacturers, Schwinn is a dependable brand that’s worth a try. Their bike locks are usually budget-friendly yet durable and protective, which has been endorsed by lots of customers globally.
This model is a typical example of my saying.
It is a key lock featuring 8mm x 5-foot braided steel cable with two keys included in the package. There’s a tough vinyl coating for scratch prevention and weather resistance.
It also comes with a carrying bracket for simple transportation or storage when not in use.
Product Specs
| Dimensions | 4.75 x 1.5 x 7.75 inches |
| Material | Vinyl |
| Weight | 12.8 Ounces |
| Highlight Features | A carrying bracket
Tough protective vinyl cover 5 feet x 8 mm braided steel cable |
Kryptonite Keeper 12mm Bike Lock
Pros
- Offer moderate security
- Resistant to leverage attacks, bolt cutters, hand tools & good twist attack prevention
- The keys are good at breaking or bending resistance
Cons
- Big and cumbersome
The Kryptonite Keeper 12mm Bike Lock is a moderate security key lock that gets 5/10 of Kryptonite’s security scale.
It is constructed from a 12mm hardened steel shackle that is resistant to leverage attacks, bolt cutters, and hand tools. Its double deadbolt is also designed with anti-rotation for twist attack prevention.
While not all Kryptonite locks are eligible for the brand’s Anti-Theft Protection Offer with up to $500 reimbursement, this one is. Besides, your purchase is backed by a lifetime warranty and in the event you lost the stock key, just contact them for two more free (Plus, they ship keys globally).
These keys are specifically designed to be ergonomic for torque reduction and keeping them from breaking or bending.
Product Specs
| Dimensions | 3. 25″ x 6″ |
| Material | 12mm Hardened Steel |
| Weight | 1.65 Pounds |
| Highlight Features | Anti-Theft Protection Offer
Key Safe Program 12mm Hardened Steel Shackle Disc style cylinder side mount snap-in bracket include 2 stainless steel keys with ergonomic design Hardened Double Deadbolt design |
Watch Kryptonite Keeper 12mm Bike Lock Review video here:
UBULLOX Bike Lock
Pros
- Ideal for beginners
- Good for multiple uses & flexible
- Offer the highest protection & technical opening prevention
- Lightweight and compact for easy storage
Cons
- Might not fit around many bike racks
Try this easy-to-install bike lock if you’re a beginner. All you need to do is follow the instructions which are really simple to read.
Besides, the 4’ double looped ends steel cable offers multiple uses, meaning that it’s not only able to lock both wheels but also the frame. Either way, it always provides you with the most flexibility and your bike with the highest protection.
It’s also one of those rare bike locks made by a C grade pure copper blade that highlights an accurate structure for technical opening prevention.
Plus, you’ll receive three anti-rust pure copper keys.
If you’re not using it, simply put it into your backpack or mount it on the bike frame. Don’t worry, this lock is pretty compact, measured by 4.9” x 7.68”, and very lightweight.
Product Specs
| Dimensions | 195mm(7.68inch)*125mm(4.9inch) |
| Material | 16mm/0.63inch high-quality alloy steel |
| Weight | 2.8 pounds |
| Highlight Features | 12.2mm/0.48inch whole diameter of the cable
4feet double looped ends steel cable Measured by 4.9” x 7.68” 3 rust-resistant pure copper keys made by C grade pure copper blade |
Abus Granit X-Plus 540 Bike Lock
Pros
- Offer security level of 15, ideal for high-quality bikes or urban settings
- Prevent picking, pulling, and hitting attacks
- Capable of creating multi-bike households or multi-lock
Cons
- The mounting bracket is sold separately
The Abus Granit X-Plus 540 Bike Lock might be what you’re after if you are also a big fan of German products. It is a high pulling-resistant double-locking design with a security level of 15, which is relatively high for high-quality bikes or urban settings that need higher theft protection.
There are three biggest selling points of this bike lock: a double bolting shackle/lock body, a patented 13mm temper hardened steel square parabolic shackle, and patented ABUS power cell technology.
The highlight points of this tech are top-notch security against pulling and hitting attacks.
Another notable feature is its X-Plus Key cylinder for picking prevention. Besides, you can incorporate this with other ABUS locks for multi-bike households or multi-lock.
Product Specs
| Dimensions | 1.38 x 6.89 x 11.61 inches |
| Material | Steel |
| Weight | 3.43 Pounds |
| Highlight Features | high pulling-resistant double-locking design
a double bolting shackle/lock body a patented 13mm temper hardened steel square parabolic shackle patented ABUS power cell technology. X-Plus Key cylinder |
Watch Abus Granit X-Plus 540 Bike Lock review video here:
Best for Mountain Bikes: SIGTUNA Bike Lock
Pros
- Offer 85/100 Security Rating
- Keep the bike against leverage attacks
- Easy to use
Cons
- Bulky and heavy
SIGTUNA Bike Lock is my top choice for mountain bikes or BMXs due to its large construction and ultra-long cable.
The double deadbolt locking mechanism, highly secure disc-style cylinder, and ultra-thick 16mm steel is a great combination to boost this lock’s theft prevention. And, it’s no surprise when the lock gets a whopping 85/100 Security Rating.
It’s an effective solution to keep your bike against leverage attacks and perfect for day-long outings when your bike will be left outdoors.
Regardless, it is very easy to use, thanks to the user-friendly lock mount, three laser-cut Abloy keys, and a protective coating.
Product Specs
| Dimensions | 9.45 x 6.97 x 1.89 inches |
| Material | Stainless Steel |
| Weight | 3.1 Pounds |
| Highlight Features | double deadbolt locking mechanism, highly secure disc-style cylinder, and ultra-thick 16mm steel
user-friendly lock mount, three laser-cut Abloy keys, and a protective coating |
Best U Lock: Kryptonite Kryptolok Bike Lock
Pros
- Convenient for multi-location u-lock transport
- Resist drill and pick & prevent single cut style attacks and twist
- Offer higher holding power
- The keys aren’t easily broken or bent
Cons
- Not for tight-budget people
Introduce to you the best U-lock for bicycles by Kryptonite.
It’s pretty heavy – like most other siblings, but I believe the 12.7mm hardened steel shackle and high-security disc-style cylinder will keep your expensive bicycle safe and sound.
You’ll also benefit from its new hardened double-deadbolts which offer higher holding power, as well as the new “pass-thru” crossbar design for enhanced protection.
Built to last, the provided keys are also durable. They aren’t easily broken or bent like other brands.
If you join their Anti-Theft protection program, you would receive up to $1750 reimbursement if your bike was unfortunately lost. Plus, your purchase is backed by a lifetime warranty.
Product Specs
| Dimensions | 4″ x 9″ (10.2cm x 22.9cm) |
| Material | 12.7mm Hardened Performance Steel |
| Weight | 2.9 lbs (1.32 kgs) |
| Highlight Features | flexframe-u bracket
High-security disc-style cylinder New hardened double-deadbolts New “pass-thru” crossbar design Ergonomic keys 12.7mm hardened steel shackle |
Watch Kryptonite Kryptolok Bike Lock review video here:
Best for Los Angeles: Kryptonite New York Bike Lock
Pros
- 10/10 rating on Kryptonite’s security scale
- Offer double protection and resistance to cutting or single cut style attacks
- Increase holding power efficiently
Cons
- Pricey
This bike lock is a rare choice picked by LockpickingLawyer for its exceptional security and beefy construction.
The extremely-thick, 18mm hardened steel shackle makes it a reliable option to prevent leverage attacks as well as resists those cutting tools like bolt cutters.
Some users who are also students at colleges in Los Angeles have endorsed its protection, and I do, too. What makes it outstanding is the Patented Steel Sleeve over the crossbar and the ‘Pass-thru’ Crossbar Design.
They offer twice the security as well as prevent single cut style and twist attacks like a champ. According to the Kryptonite’s security scale, this one achieves 10/10, which is incredible.
Some other noteworthy features are hardened double-deadbolts and 3 stainless steel keys.
Product Specs
| Dimensions | 3. 25″ x 6″ (8.3cm x 15.3cm) |
| Material | 18mm Hardened Steel |
| Weight | 4.55 lbs (2.06 kg) |
| Highlight Features | Sliding Dust Cover
Highest Security Disc-style Cylinder Patented Steel Sleeve Hardened Double-deadbolts ‘Pass-thru’ Crossbar Design 18mm hardened Steel Shackle |
Watch Kryptonite New York Bike Lock review video here:
The Ultimate Guide To Choosing Best Bike Locks In 2021
Types
There are four well-established types of bike locks to consider:
- Cable lock
- Chain lock
- Folding lock
- U-lock
| Pros | Cons | |
| Cable lock | Affordable
Lightweight Long |
Low protection levels |
| Chain lock | Easy to carry
Versatile enough to be fastened around different objects |
Usually expensive
Heavy |
| Folding lock | A practical length
Easy to carry |
Not sure about its durability
Limited choices |
| U-lock | Lightweight and more affordable than the folding locks | Unable to fasten around big objects
Complicated to carry |
Styles
There are commonly two styles of bike locks at the current: key or keyless, with certain strength and weakness.
Key bike locks are the traditional way to secure a bike, using a key to lock/unlock the cable. Meanwhile, keyless locks are available on the market recently due to the needs of some people who want to eliminate the hassle of key loss.
It is commonly a 4- or 5-digit combination lock mechanism that is either fixed or resettable to your personalized number combination, depending on the line.
But this new type of bike lock requires you to remember your number combination to lock/unlock the bike. That also means once you forget the code, there’s no way to unlock it.
Size
This element is relevant to the lock’s versatility.
A bike lock with smaller size will be more difficult to properly lock your bicycle in different conditions, such as bike racks. So, although a small one means extra convenience for carrying around or storage, I still prefer a larger lock.
That said, can’t deny that a small bicycle lock is harder to break due to its tinier leverage room.
If you own a road bike or a cruiser, and frequently lock around your bike frame, these modest options come in handy.
Material & thickness
To ensure strength, durability, and protection, I suggest choosing bike locks made of max-performance hardened steel. The thicker the material, the harder to cut it.
For U locks, go for 13mm thick as the minimum because anything thinner than 13mm is easily cut by medium-sized bolt cutters. Nowadays, there’re many U locks made with 15mm or 18mm thick for increased strength and cut resistance.
If you prefer chain locks, choose those options featuring hardened steel links of 15mm thick (at least).
FAQs
What is the strongest bike lock?
My recommendations:
- Kryptonite Keeper 12mm Bike Lock
- Abus Granit X-Plus 540 Bike Lock
- Kryptonite Kryptolok Bike Lock
- Kryptonite New York Bike Lock
Is there a bike lock that Cannot be cut?
Yes, there are actually a lot bike locks that can’t be cut, such as:
- Titanker Bike Lock – Best for beach cruisers
- Kryptonite Evolution Bike Lock – Best multiple lock
- Kryptonite Keeper 12mm Bike Lock
- SIGTUNA Bike Lock – Best for Mountain Bikes
- Kryptonite Kryptolok Bike Lock – Best U lock
- Kryptonite New York Bike Lock – Best for Los Angeles
What is the best type of bike lock?
U locks are currently the best types of bike lock because it’s arguably the most secure.
Are U locks better than cable locks?
Actually, cable locks are pretty lightweight and compact, which is ideal for storage or carrying around inside your backpack. They’re secure enough for inexpensive bikes or bike accessories, like helmets.
The U locks are stronger and heftier, however, they’re usually cumbersome and strain down your backpack.
How do you break a bike lock without a tool?
This tutorial video might be helpful for you: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sJjOdUgpDYY
My Top Pick
The Kryptonite New York is the best bike lock for me because it gives the highest security level that can make even experienced bike thieves in trouble. And it also efficiently increases holding power.
So, I really think that anyone, especially those who own expensive bikes or tend to lock it and leave it for a long time, should invest in this fantastic bike lock.
Conclusion
With so many options on the market, it can be daunting to try to find the best bike lock for your needs. My expert tester team researched thoroughly on the internet and tested the shiniest contenders.
They assessed each one’s pros and cons so you can easily pick the right one for your bike, needs, and budget. That’s all for my buying guide, thanks for reading!