U locks for bikes are the best guarantee of safety. Especially when you use our bike to commute or go for a long ride, no one wants to lose his treasured companion in the middle of nowhere. Getting a U lock means that you can rest assured that your bike will be safe and sound, and stay in the same place where you park it.
However, not all U locks are the same, the quality can be inferior and easy to be cut open, which is terrifying at some levels. Therefore, let’s go and explore all the best and high-quality U locks with us right away!
Table of Contents
Why Do You Need a U Lock?
U lock is one of the safest and most simple ways to protect your bike. This type of lock is portable and light enough for you to carry around, it can sit nicely on the frame when you ride your bike and hop off to lock it when you stop.
The number of bike thefts that go unreported is staggeringly high, and you can not imagine how easy it is to steal an unlocked bike. You just take your eyes off your bike for a few seconds, and it’s gone. Therefore, you should at least prepare a countermeasure, a U lock to protect your own belongings.
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What Are The Best U Locks?
You cannot randomly pick a U lock – anyone would want durable, strong, and uncuttable ones to safeguard his bike. And for those who travel a lot on the bike, a portable one would be more favored. Therefore, I prepared some of the best choices for reliable U locks that you can check out:
- Best Overall: Abus Granit X-Plus 540 U-Locks
“Sleek and minimalist design, virtually one of the strongest U-lock, total anti-thief.”
- Best For The Money: Kryptonite New York Fahgettaboudit U-Locks
“Durable and sturdy shackle, good price for high quality, sliding dust cover included.”
- Best Cheap Price: Bell Catalyst U-Locks
“Reasonable price, simple and effective design.”
- Best For Ebike: DINOKA U-Locks
“Affordable and durable lock, good design for e-bike type and silica gel dust cover for better protection.”
- Best For Scooter: Amazer Heavy Duty U-Locks
“Good deal with password lock, scooter-compatible, and dust cover for better longevity.”
- Best With Cable: Kryptonite KryptoLok Series 2 U-Locks
“Max-performance steel shackle and reinforced long cable for the best protection, the disc-style cylinder is desirable”
- Best Kryptonite: Kryptonite New York LS U-Locks
“Elegant and bold design, best of Kryptonite line and anti-theft protection offer included.”
- Best Lightweight: Kryptonite Evolution 11-14mm U-Locks
“A wide variety for size, lightweight and strong at the same time, lifetime guarantee included”
- Best For Mountain Bike: Kryptonite Kryptolok 12.7mm U-Lock
“Good design, especially for mountain bikes, durable and hardened shackle for the utmost safety, a key safe program offered.”
- Best For Electric Scooter: Via Velo Shackle Weatherproof U-Locks
“Heavy-duty with a lightweight design, preferable for electric bike, mounting bracket included”
- Best Keyless: Titanker U-Locks
“No key, no hassle, proper-thickness shackle, good range of accessories included.”
- Best With Chain: Sigtuna 16mm U-Locks
“Triple keys for better insurance, long cable and chain for greater protection, mounting bracket included.”
- Best With Mount: Via Velo Heavy Duty U-Locks
“Mounting bracket included, triple key for better safety, reinforced cable to secure your bike.”
Best U Locks Comparison Chart 2021
For further information, you can read through this chart to get a gist of what the U lock is like, and how good it is. This U lock comparison chart contains all of the rankings and the best aspect of each product, all reviewed by the fellow bikers:
Top 13 Best U Locks Reviews In 2021
Now, I am going to reveal some of the best options for u locks that you can ever find on the market. If you are searching for a reliable, strong, and durable lock to keep your bike safe, look no further!
Best With Cable: Kryptonite KryptoLok Series 2 U-Locks
Pros
- Reliable material can resist thieves
- Good design for strength and durability
- Cable included to increase versatility
Cons
- A quality piece comes with a high price
This Kryptonite KryptoLok Series 2 U-Locks is one of the newest models from the manufacturer, boasting its ability to resist the majority of bike thief’s tools. No matter what, this lock with hardened max-performance steel material is unbreakable, even if thieves try to leverage or cut through it.
Moreover, the crossbar design makes it even harder to break. With the flexible bike cable of 4 feet, you can secure your bike and accessories without worry. Two stainless steel keys are also included in this product, and if you register online, you can also receive another pair if you happen to lose your key.
Product’s Specifications:
| Brand | Kryptonite |
| Product Dimensions | 9.02 x 4.02 x 1.18 inches |
| Item Weight | 3.59 Pounds |
| Feature | hardened max-performance steel shackle |
To find out more about this U Locks, you can watch this video here:
Best With Mount: Via Velo Heavy Duty U-Locks
Pros
- Reliable lock with light but strong shackle
- Lots of accessories, including, mounting bracket and cable
Cons
- No major disadvantage
Next is this Via Velo Heavy Duty U-Locks, one of the U locks with a lot of accessories. You will get a mounting bracket, 1.8m cable, 2 keys, and the lock itself in this package. This one is suitable for the all-weather ride since it is waterproof with the PVC cover, which also keeps all the specks of dirt off your lock.
This product includes a mounting bracket, so you can lock up your bike without any hassle. Moreover, the shackle is well-made and quite lightweight, you can stick it on the bike frame when traveling. The woven steel cable helps you to secure other parts of the bike too.
Product’s Specifications:
| Brand | Via Velo |
| Product Dimensions | 2.2 x 8.07 x 10.24 inches |
| Item Weight | 3 Pounds |
| Feature | Steel shackle and cable |
To find out more about this U Locks, you can watch this video here:
Best Lightweight: Kryptonite Evolution 11-14mm U-Locks
Pros
- Wide range of size to suit user’s purpose
- Reliable and portable to carry along
Cons
- No major disadvantage
This interesting Kryptonite Evolution 11-14mm U-Locks comes in many sizes to fit your needs. It can be the compact and lightweight one that you can stuff in your backpack or the full-size lock that chains down your mountain bike perfectly.
This U lock can work against all types of bike thief’s tricks, from hand tools, leverages, bolt cutters, and so on. This model also has a durable cable so that you can loop it around your whole bike for additional security.
Product’s Specifications:
| Brand | Kryptonite |
| Product Dimensions | 14.5 x 8 x 0.09 inches |
| Item Weight | 2 Pounds |
| Feature | Many sizes available |
To find out more about this U Locks, you can watch this video here:
Best Cheap Price: Bell Catalyst U-Locks
Pros
- Good for commuting purpose
- Sweet-to-the-wallet but still reliable
Cons
- The lock can get stuck sometimes, you may need to put more force into it
The Bell Catalyst U-Locks is the best choice for people with a limited budget, this product only costs you a small amount of money and still guarantees that your bike is well-guarded. With a total length of 8 inches, the shackle is decent enough to resist popular kinds of thieves.
Especially if you use your bike on a daily basis to commute, you will love this lock. It has a bracket for carrying around and also built with a quick-release system for ease in riding. And if you lose your key, you can always ask for a replacement from the manufacturer.
Product’s Specifications:
| Brand | Bell |
| Product Dimensions | 5 x 6 x 3 inches |
| Item Weight | 2 Pounds |
| Feature | Hardened steel shackle |
To find out more about this U Locks, you can watch this video here:
Best For Scooter: Amazer Heavy Duty U-Locks
Pros
- Cheap and lightweight, ideal for long journey and commuting
- No key needed, password is much less hassle
Cons
- The shackle is a bit short, but it can still protect your bike well
Weighing under 2 pounds, the Amazer Heavy Duty U-Locks is cheap, portable but still offers good safety for your bike. Unlike other models with only steel shackles, the shackle of this model is covered with PVC outer coating to increase durability. This cover also helps the U lock to be free of dust and dirt, making it look shiny all the time.
Another thing about this lock is its safety scheme – no key, no worry. If you are somewhat absent-minded and may forget your keys now and then, this is the solution for you. You can set your own 4-digit password to lock and unlock this product easily.
Product’s Specifications:
| Brand | Amazer |
| Product Dimensions | 10.3 x 7.9 x 1.3 inches |
| Item Weight | 1.8 Pounds |
| Feature | Alloy steel, PVC-covered shackle |
Best Keyless: Titanker U-Locks
Pros
- Durable and lightweight shackle
- Weather-resistant lock for better function
- No key needed, easier to lock and unlock
Cons
- Minor problem with the release button
The Titanker U-Locks works best with electric bikes and scooters since it is a mobile and lightweight model that can be carried around freely. The shackle is 16mm thick of alloy steel, promising the best security for your bike. Also, a cable is included so you can protect other parts and accessories of your bike better.
As a password-type U lock, no key is needed. And the cover of this lock is weatherproof, it stays the same after a long time baring downpour and snow. However, the release button is not quite quick, you may sense a bit of delay when using it.
Product’s Specifications:
| Brand | Titanker |
| Product Dimensions | 9.6 x 6.3 x 2.6 inches |
| Item Weight | 3.5 Pounds |
| Feature | Alloy steel shackle, cable, no key |
Best Kryptonite: Kryptonite New York LS U-Locks
Pros
- Strong and reliable, it can last for a long time
- Elegant design that will compliment your bike
Cons
- No accessory included only solid shackle so you might want to purchase some accessories to go with it
The Kryptonite New York LS U-Locks will never let you down with its power. No matter which method the thieves try to use, it won’t even budge. The strong and simplistic hardened max-performance steel shackle won the hearts of countless cyclists.
This heavy-duty U lock comes in alone, no cable or chain included, so you have to make do with this bare minimum. However, it can win against all types of picking and breaking, so it is still worth the investment.
Product’s Specifications:
| Brand | Kryptonite |
| Product Dimensions | 4” x 10.25” |
| Item Weight | 4.55 lbs |
| Feature | Hardened max performance steel shackle |
To find out more about this U Locks, you can watch this video here:
Best For Ebike: DINOKA U-Locks
Pros
- Good for protecting electric bike
- Cheap but have good design with gel silica cover
Cons
- A bit small, so it will fit the small and lightweight models of bike more
If you have an electric bike, this delicate-looking but strong DINOKA U-Locks is the perfect match. This may look thin and weak, but in fact, it is one of the most stable and durable types of U locks. The package of this model includes a mounting bracket and a flexible cable for better security.
And this lock is sold at a reasonable price, just around 20 bucks and you can protect your bike from all kinds of thieves. The design of this product is outstanding too, the outer layers of silica gel enhance the function of this lock, making it more durable and free from scratches and dirt all along.
Product’s Specifications:
| Brand | DINOKA |
| Product Dimensions | 8.9 x 5.5 x 2.6 inches |
| Item Weight | 2.59 pounds |
| Feature | Alloy steel shackle, mounting bracket, cable |
To find out more about this U Locks, you can watch this video here:
Best Overall: Abus Granit X-Plus 540 U-Locks
Pros
- Durable and corrosion-resistant for longer working life
- Simple design but proved effective
Cons
- The high price is on par with the quality
On the higher price range, the Abus Granit X-Plus 540 U-Locks is truly to die for. It has all of the desirable specs of a U lock, being stern and simple at the same time, it is strong enough to withstand most types of attacks. This Germany lock possesses a 13mm hardened steel shackle with a big round U shape, allowing you to chain your bike comfortably.
This model is corrosion-resistant, meaning that you can trust its strength and durability. Its weight is a bit on the heavy side, but for utmost protection, this one is still our best recommendation.
Product’s Specifications:
| Brand | ABUS |
| Product Dimensions | 1.38 x 6.89 x 11.61 inches |
| Item Weight | 3.43 Pounds |
| Feature | Steel shackle |
To find out more about this U Locks, you can watch this video here:
Best With Chain: Sigtuna 16mm U-Locks
Pros
- Well-forged shackle for better quality and anti-thieves
- Good range of accessories to help you protect your bike
Cons
- The shackle is a bit heavy, but it is for a better guarantee against thieves
With the proper mounting part, you can hang this Sigtuna 16mm U-Locks perfectly on the bike frame without the hassle of it getting in the way when riding. This U lock has all of the basic properties of a good lock, its shackle is firm and well-forged, being able to sustain damage but still does not break easily.
The design of this product is more than you can be expected with the disc-style cylinder and double deadbolt locking system, making it the top quality U lock for all types of bikes. Moreover, the durable chain included in the package is a wonderful piece of accessory, allowing you to secure your bike properly. The chain is on the unbreakable level – thieves should give up their bad intention when they see it.
Product’s Specifications:
| Brand | SIGTUNA |
| Product Dimensions | 9.45 x 6.97 x 1.89 inches |
| Item Weight | 3.1 Pounds |
| Feature | Mount, steel shackle, cable |
To find out more about this U Locks, you can watch this video here:
Best For The Money: Kryptonite New York Fahgettaboudit U-Locks
Pros
- Heavy-duty and reliable, no one can break it
- Strong and cool design that suits mountain bikes
Cons
- The shackle is tough and a bit heavy
In case you want a heavy-duty U lock, I suggest this Kryptonite New York Fahgettaboudit U-Locks. The shackle of this model is thicker than most other products on the market, at 18mm with the famous hardened steel material, making it also unbreakable. As its name tells you, thieves can forget about trying to unlock it, because the shackle won’t lose to any trick.
On seeing the price of this lock, many people can think that this one is expensive, but when comparing with other lines from the same brand, and judging from its quality, it is worth every penny. You will get a solid lock that can protect your treasure bike properly, and it even goes with thoughtful guarantees to back you up and pay back a large sum under unfortunate circumstances.
Product’s Specifications:
| Brand | Kryptonite |
| Product Dimensions | 1.97 x 5.71 x 9.25 inches |
| Item Weight | 4.53 pounds |
| Feature | Steel shackle |
To find out more about this U Locks, you can watch this video here:
Best For Mountain Bike: Kryptonite Kryptolok 12.7mm U-Locks
Pros
- High quality with minimalist and modern design
- Anti-theft protection provides the utmost safety
Cons
- The shackle may feel a bit heavy to touch
- The high price is reasonable for its quality
Boasting supreme quality and pride of being one of the most latest models from the famous manufacturer, the Kryptonite Kryptolok 12.7mm U-Lock is produced with all the features enhanced. The 12.7mm steel shackle seems thin, but it is as sturdy as a thick one, you can not use the thief tool to cut through it.
The manufacturer also offers anti-theft protection, which allows you to register online and get spare keys when you lost it. Furthermore, it will cover to some extent the value of your bike when it gets stolen with this lock product on it.
Product’s Specifications:
| Brand | Kryptonite |
| Product Dimensions | 9.02 x 4.02 x 0.51 inches |
| Item Weight | 1.27 Kilograms |
| Feature | Steel shackle |
To find out more about this U Locks, you can watch this video here:
Best For Electric Scooter: Via Velo Shackle Weatherproof U-Locks
Pros
- Easy locking even at night with the LED-lit key
- Good range of accessories for better usage
Cons
- A bit heavy for the shackle, but it ensures better protection too
Lastly, this Via Velo Shackle Weatherproof U-Locks is the versatile U lock that can fit most types of bike, from the scooter, electric bike to mountain bike. The mounting part of this product allows it to sit tightly on the frame and not get in the way when riding. Besides, this one comes with three keys, and the more the better for certain situations.
The release and lock mechanism is quick and without hassle, you can use this trouble-free. Moreover, the strong shackle and cable guarantee that your bike will stay in the same place when you lock it down. And for cyclists who enjoy night riding, the LED-lit key is such a great deal, it allows you to see better in the dark, thus locking your bike will be much easier.
Product’s Specifications:
| Brand | Via Velo |
| Product Dimensions | 2.17 x 7.48 x 11.02 inches |
| Item Weight | 3.33 Pounds |
| Feature | Steel shackle, cable, LED-lit key |
To find out more about this U Locks, you can watch this video here:
The Ultimate Guide To Choosing Best U Locks In 2021
For many bikers, a U lock seems just like an unnecessary accessory, but that thought only lasts until they lost their bike. Yes, it is not likely for every bike to get stolen when the owners take their eyes off them in a few seconds but it is highly likely that bikes can be taken away quite easily without a lock.
So to ensure the safety of you and your own bike, let’s see how can you choose a high-quality and reliable bike lock that you can trust:
Size
U lock can be in many sizes, though it stays in one general shape. the diameter of the shackle can vary from 11mm to over 18mm, depending on the model. You should choose a U lock with a decent shackle in this range, to ensure that thief tools like bolt cutter and leverage can not break it.
Material
U lock does not work like the thicker the shackle is, the stronger it gets, the key to protection also lies in the material. Hardened steel is the best material for U lock since it offers better density and strength for the lock. Besides, alloy steel and original steel are often common materials for U locks too.
Key or password
U lock can be chained down with either keys or password, both are great choices for private protection. The Key is the traditional option with high reliability, but if you lost the key, it will be troublesome. The 4-digit password is the new trend, but you can also forget the password in some cases.
Accessories
Some of the products come alone with the shackle, but others can go in the package with other accessories like cable and mounting bracket. Depending on what you need, you may want to get some more features for your U lock or not.
FAQs
What are the most secure bike locks?
Some of the most secure bike locks are:
- Abus Granit X-Plus 540
- Kryptonite Fahgettaboudit Mini
- Onguard Pitbull 8005 DT Bike Lock & Cable
- Abus Bordo Granit X-Plus 6500
- Litelok Gold Wearable
Which is better: Abus or Kryptonite?
It’s a tie, Abus and Kryptonite are the best brands for U locks.
Are U locks better than cable locks?
Yes, they are. U locks are stronger, heftier, and bigger than cable locks.
Can U locks be cut?
Low-quality, soft U locks can be cut with a hacksaw.
What is the best bike lock on the market?
The best bike locks on the market are:
- Abus Granit X-Plus 540.
- Kryptonite Kryptolok New-U.
- Kryptonite Kryptolok 955 Mini.
- Hiplok Gold Chain.
- Foldylock Compact.
- Abus Bordo Granit 6500.
My Top Pick
Onto my personal viewpoint, I would love to go with the Kryptonite Evolution 11-14mm U-Locks. This U Lock is such a tempting deal that you can ever wish for: durable and anti-thieves shackle, a good range of accessories, and modern design that can pretty suit all types of bikes.
To pass on this Kryptonite Evolution 11-14mm U-Locks is such a pity, you can never find such an ideal choice of U lock like this. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s grab it when it’s still there!