Best bike locks 2025: Quality locks to keep your bike secure
We test the best bike locks to help you keep your bike safe when you leave it
If you are looking for the best bike lock, it can be easy to fall into a rabbit hole of never-ending research. Instead, I've done that for you. I spent months interviewing lock company representatives and polling thousands of cyclists. What I found was that the number of people who had a quality lock actually defeated was small.
Not everyone's lock requirements are the same, so we’ve looked for the best bike lock we could find to cover a wide range of different use scenarios. To avoid having your bike stolen, choosing the best D-lock you can is a worthwhile investment and we have included premium options along with the best budget bike locks too. We also highlight some great chain locks if you're looking for a bit more locking flexibility and some lightweight bike locks that are easier to transport.
As you look through our list, think about your own preferences. You want to look for something that helps you feel secure, even if that's more security than you might absolutely need. Above all else, you need to look for something you find convenient and are going to use every time, even at home, no matter what. It should fit your budget, your style, and your particular use case.
Out of all the locks tested, our top pick is the Litelok X1. If that doesn't suit your needs, keep reading as we highlight loads of other options. Not sure what kind of look you need? Head down to the bottom of the page, where we explain how to choose the best bike lock for your needs.
Quick list
A balance of angle grinder resistance, weight, and price with a high-quality frame mount.
Strong enough to resist everything but an angle grinder packaged with excellent pricing, lots of included keys, and an insurance offer.
Functionally impossible to cut with an angle grinder but small enough to bring with you.
Easier to carry and more flexible than a U-lock while still offering a high level of security.
A 10mm hardened steel chain with a Sold Secure Gold rating and the ability to wear it without locking it. This is the most convenient high-security lock available.
Hardened steel 7mm four-sided chain links with included insurance and a killer price.
Recent updates
Last updated on 26th of March 2025 The latest update includes adding supporting review content and adding the Hiplok Lite to the guide. The guide was also reviewed to ensure the content is up to date and still relevant.
Best bike locks available today
U-locks
A U-lock, or D-lock depending on where you are reading from, is the easiest high-security option to live with in a perfect world. That means if you have a bike with thin tubes and something easy to lock to, they provide a high level of security for the price and are the easiest to transport. The challenge with this type of lock comes when you have unusual anchor points and bikes with large tubes.
Best all-around bike lock
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
✅ You want one of the most secure locks around: The Barronium-coated hardened steel shackle should resist an angle grinder long enough to deter thieves.
✅ You want replaceable keys: The lock comes with two keys and you can buy more if you need them.
❌ You need guaranteed security: It will take a fair bit of angle grinding and multiple blades but if a thief really wants your bike they will still be able to cut through the shackle.
❌ You want a lock that comes with insurance: Some brands like Kryptonite include insurance with its locks however this is not something Litelock offers.
Only a few years ago, if you wanted high security it was all about how thick the shackle on a lock was. Options like the Kryptonite New York Fahgettaboutit Mini and the Abus Granit XPlus 540 reigned supreme. In today’s world, those types of locks offer little security in a world ruled by portable angle grinders.
The Litelok X1 isn’t the most secure lock out there. It’s not even the most secure lock that Litelok offers. Instead, it represents a balance of weight, price and security. This is a Sold Secure Diamond-rated lock and I would consider it angle grinder proof even though that’s not technically true.
What I mean is that I took an angle grinder to the Litelok X1 and I did manage to get through it. That said, I was using a more powerful plug-in grinder and I shredded a cutting blade while cutting through one side of the lock. Like other quality locks, though, there’s a double shackle. It takes a cut through each side to open the lock and I was only able to cut through one side before I needed a new blade. It’s not impossible that a thief would change blades but it’s highly unlikely, hence my reason for calling this angle grinder proof in practical terms.
Aside from that feature, the Litelok X1 is your basic high-quality U-lock. There’s a silicone cover to protect the locking mechanism from the weather and a plastic coating that both slows a grinder and protects the finish of your bike. The Litelok's coating includes a reflective strip, so there's bonus visibility when riding at night and you can buy replacement keys if you lose the two that are supplied. The lock is easy to place rattle-free in the included frame mount.
In terms of negatives, I have to admit I’m stretching here. This lock is hard to fault as long as you understand what it is. It's heavy and, even with that heft, it’s not impossible to cut it with a grinder. I didn’t list either of those as a negative because that’s how it’s being marketed. I can’t really punish Litelok for making a very secure lock that’s not as secure as even heavier, and more expensive options. If you are looking for something light or super secure, this isn’t quite that lock. The Hiplok D1000 is more secure but also heavier. The Litelok is a balance.
The one thing I do find lacking is that there’s no insurance offering. It’s incredibly hard to actually use the insurance that companies like Onguard and Kryptonite offer but it’s still nice to see it available. Litelok made a great lock; they should back up the security with included insurance.
Best high security bike lock
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
✅ You want ultimate security: Hiplok's D1000 is about as close to grinder-proof as you're going to get.
✅ You want a long warranty: Hiplock offers a lifetime (defined as 10 years) warranty against normal wear and tear.
❌ You want a lightweight lock: The thick shackle and overbuilt lock cylinder result in the D1000 tipping the scales at a weighty 1935g.
❌ You want flexible lock-up options: The small locking capacity means you won't be able to lock to large-diameter street furniture or through both frame and wheel.
While the Litelok X1 is portable angle grinder resistant from a practical standpoint, the Hiplok D1000 is as close to angle grinder proof as you can get. When Micah Toll from EbikeSchool tested the D1000 with a grinder he gave up after trashing three blades and making it less than halfway through a single side of the lock. If you want absolute peace of mind for an expensive electric bike then this is the lock for you.
Also, like the Litelok, this is a high-quality lock besides the theft resistance. Despite being quite heavy, it is still portable. It’s also quite well built with a soft-touch outer that definitely will not scratch a nice bike and a cover for the locking mechanism. If you lose your keys you won’t be able to cut the lock off but there is a replacement program. Similarly, if you start having issues with the lock cylinder, don’t risk it getting stuck. Stop using it and take advantage of the lifetime (defined as 10 years) warranty that covers normal wear and tear.
As far as negatives go, the size and weight are the issues. Because of all the security this lock offers, the D1000 is a heavy lock. It's so heavy that Hiplok doesn’t think a frame mount will work and so there isn’t one. Also, because of the weight, Hiplok doesn’t make the D1000 very big. As it is, the lock weighs 1.9kg / 4 lbs. 1.6 oz. and so in an effort to keep it from getting even heavier, the locking capacity is small. It’s difficult to use for more than a single frame tube and even with the already high price, you may need a second lock.
You can read more details about this lock in our full Hiplok D1000 review.
Best medium security bike lock
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
✅ You want a balance of security and cost: 8003 Pitbull STD features a 14mm, double-locking shackle to offer decent security at an affordable price point.
✅ You want lots of keys: For those of you who are prone to losing keys, Onguard includes five keys with the lock.
❌ You want protection from angle grinders: The 14mm hardened steel shackle won't offer much protection from a portable grinder.
❌ You want guaranteed weather protection: There's no cover for the keyhole which could leave it vulnerable to weather damage over time.
I used this lock for years and I used to call it the best all-around U-lock. It was never the most secure, or even the cheapest, but with a 14mm hardened steel shackle, it was enough for most situations. A 14mm hardened steel shackle is thick enough that bolt cutters are going to be ineffective and it locks on both sides, requiring two cuts to break it free. Unfortunately, as mentioned, a high-security lock in today’s climate needs to consider portable angle grinders and this one doesn’t.
Not everyone needs the highest security level though. The Onguard Pitbull is the all-around kind of lock you can feel good using in slightly lower security situations. If you feel like an angle grinder isn’t going to be an issue for you, then this is a good lock at a decent price. The generous five keys included mean you can be less stressed with a lost key and the light on one key is a nice touch at this price level. The coating won’t scratch your bike and there’s a decent frame mount. There’s even a small insurance offer to make you feel a bit better.
You’ll want to keep in mind that the suggested version here is the standard version and there's enough room inside for the frame and a wheel. That also means there’s a bit of extra room and that can make it easier to defeat with a pry bar. Again this isn’t the most secure option anyway and this size makes it easy to use. It would be better if there was a cover for the lock cylinder though, as it will eventually fail because of weather.
For all the details, have a read of our Onguard 8003 Pitbull STD U-Lock review.
Best compact bike lock
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
✅ You want a lightweight compact D-lock: The compact size and 815g weight make this a very portable yet secure d-lock option.
✅ You want to mount your lock to your frame: The compact size and rattle-free design mean this lock should fit most frames using the supplied bracket and not make noise while riding.
❌ You want flexible locking options: The small shackle loop will be limiting when securing your bike to anything but a bike rack.
There are a number of reasons you would want a compact D-lock, smaller size not only makes it easier to pack into a bag or mount to the bike but also makes it harder for thieves to pry it open or manipulate the lock into an easier position to attack. The trade-off is that the Ultimate 420's 140mm shackle won't fit around thick street furniture but if you live in urban areas with plenty of dedicated bike parking, it won't be a problem.
The Ultimate 420 uses a 13mm hardened steel shackle and is secured with a double-locking mechanism. Abus packages the Ultimate 420 with a 120cm Loop Cable to secure your front wheel to the frame and rear wheel as well. For those looking for certifications, the Ultimate 420 has a Sold Secure Gold rating in the UK, plus several European awards, like the Swedish SBSC and Danish Varefakta.
The keyhole is centrally mounted in the locking barrel and has a smooth unlocking action. We didn't experience any sticking when using it in all weathers. The keyhole doesn't have a cover so while we haven't experienced any issues, it could be more vulnerable to weather damage.
Check out our review of the Abus Ultimate 420 for more details.
Best budget U-lock
5. Abus Mini 410
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
✅ You want a basic affordable lock: Not everyone needs the most secure lock, if you just need to lock up your cheap pub bike for a few hours this is a great option.
✅ You want a double locking shackle: It still has a double locking mechanism which requires a thief to make two cuts to break the lock.
❌ You need high-level security: This lock is only Sold Secure Pedal Cycle Silver rated which may not meet your insurer's requirements.
If a product isn't the best, it should at least be cheap. I've been very intentional in putting a bottom floor on that concept here though. The Abus Mini 410 isn't high security but it is acceptable security. I wouldn't leave a bike for much time with only this lock but it's inexpensive and light enough that it's an easy option to bring along if you plan to briefly head into a store. For all the people I spoke to who had a bike stolen, this was because they weren’t going to be gone long. Don’t be that person, use this lock instead.
The 12mm double shackle ensures that no one is going to cut the Abus Ultra mini with wire cutters. You could probably get through it with 36" bolt cutters, and maybe even 30in cutters given the right scenario, but either way that's still a lot more protection than a cable lock will ever give you.
There are also quite a few variants of the Abus 410. The one I’ve included here is the basic Mini 410. It’s too small to lock more than just the frame but it’s less expensive. There are also options that include a cable lock for the front wheel or a bigger space inside the lock. They are all the same 12mm double-locking shackle so if this one is too small, pick whatever works for you.
Folding Locks
Folding locks are less secure and more expensive than either chains or U-locks. What they bring to the table is an ease of use that’s hard to beat. They’ve got the flexibility of a chain and are as easy to carry as a U-lock. If security is your biggest concern then you’ll want to look at a different section but if you are willing to give up some security for convenience, this is a good place to look.
Best high security folding bike lock
6. Abus Bordo Granit 6500 Folding Lock
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
✅ You want locking option flexibility: The folding design allows you to lock around larger objects or multiple bikes together.
✅ You want easy portability: The Bordo 6500 folds down and is easily mounted to the frame using its holster.
❌ You want protection from angle grinders: A portable angle grinder will quickly cut through this lock and only one cut is required to break the lock.
The Abus Bordo 6500 is the highest security folding lock around. It has both a Sold Secure Gold rating and Abus calls it a 15/15 security level thanks to the 5.5mm hardened steel bars and protected links. On top of that, the Lock Picking Lawyer is quite generous in his description of the lock core as being "ahead of the curve" in his video where he does go on to open it eventually.
As with other folding locks though, it's not the security where the Abus 6500 shines. Cargo Bike magazine easily cuts it with a portable grinder and only a single cut is enough to open all folding locks. The trade-off is that there's a lot more flexibility when using a folding lock. This is especially true when you are looking at a busy bike rack with lots of other people and not much room. The big links will look impressive enough to sway a thief towards a less protected target and this lock allows you to manoeuvre it between other bikes or reach farther to get the anchor. When it's time to carry it, you've got a bit less weight and all the weight is closer to the frame, making the mount easier to use.
As long as you understand the security available from this lock, it's a great option that's well-made in almost every way. The one thing Abus seems to have overlooked is that the lock cylinder isn't protected from the weather. If you live in a rainy climate you'll have to accept that eventually the internals may fail and require a replacement.
Best smart folding bike lock
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
✅ You don't want to lose your bike lock keys: Using Bluetooth, the lock is automatically released using an app on your phone.
✅ You might forget where you locked your bike: The lock remembers where you locked your bike and even allows someone else to unlock the bike.
❌ You often run out of phone battery: The lock relies on connecting to its corresponding smartphone app, if your phone runs out of battery you're walking home.
❌ You want the option to also use a key: There is no secondary locking barrel to release the lock with a standard key.
I've already been quite clear that folding locks are less secure in exchange for better ease of use. Abus has an answer to that criticism. The Abus Bordo 6500a Smart X takes everything good about the standard Bordo 6500 and upgrades it with electronics. The result is a lock that's both more secure and more convenient.
Instead of a key, the Bordo 6500a Smart X is a smart lock that relies on Bluetooth. The heart of the design retains the same series of 15.5cm long, and 5.5mm thick hardened steel bars. Each one connects to the next with a shielded joint and there's a rubberized coating to protect the finish of your bike. At the top though, you won't find a lock cylinder, not even for backup.
Instead of a key, there's an app. You have the choice to configure a manual unlock but otherwise as you walk up with your phone, the lock will open. It's all seamless and automatic. There are also the nice side benefits of being able to open the app and see where you parked your bike and being able to allow someone else to unlock the bike. On top of that added convenience, there's also the added security of a 110db alarm built in. Should someone try to tamper with the lock an alarm might not stop them but it might and it certainly doesn't hurt.
The only thing I'd like to see added is a key slot for backup purposes. In my testing, the whole system worked every time but it seems odd to offer no emergency unlock option. It's also worth noting that you do pay extra for the convenience of the smart system.
You can read more details in my full Abus Bordo 6500A SmartX lock review.
Best medium security folding bike lock
8. Kryptonite KryptoLok 610 S
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
✅ You want a compact folding lock: Smaller 5mm bars shave off a significant amount of weight compared to more secure folding locks.
✅ You want an insurance offer: Kryptonite backs up its KryptoLok 610 S with an insurance policy up to $1750.
❌ You want a secure locking solution: Kryptonite only rates the KryptoLok 610 S as a 6/10 using its own scale.
How much security do you really need? In many situations as long as you use a quality lock then you will be safe. If that already sums up your thoughts then shouldn't your folding lock be easy to carry? The Kryptonite 610s is a counter to the Abus folding lock options. While those locks have a design aimed at high security, Kryptonite is very clear that the 610s will work for quick stops in metro areas or suburbs and longer lockups only in rural areas.
If that's enough for you then you get a lower price and even more convenient option. The link bars are 5mm, instead of 5.5mm, saving you almost 600 grams. The lock is also longer and narrower which, again, adds to the ease of carrying, while rotation where the bars connect to the lock means it has a ton more flexibility in how you use the lock as well.
Another thing I really love about Kryptonite locks with better security is that the brand is willing to back that up. Should your bike end up getting stolen, there is an opt-in insurance program that could pay you back a bit of money. These programs are always hard to take advantage of, but it feels like a mark of respect for the customer that it even exists. Unfortunately, there's nothing to help you when the lock cylinder eventually stops working because there's no weather cover for it. You also aren't getting a budget price for this lock despite the lower security.
Best low security bike lock
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
✅ You want an ultralight cafe lock: Pocketable size means you can carry it on any ride.
❌ You want to secure your bike: This lock won't stop a thief stealing your bike, but it might slow them down enough for you to intervene.
If there's a lock that exemplifies why I don't have a cable lock included in this list, this is it. The Hiplok Z Lok Combo offers about the same security but it's far smaller and cheaper. Any attack with a tool would easily cut through the steel band, just like a cable lock, but you can carry this in a jersey pocket and it's there when you need it.
That means for most situations, I don't recommend this lock. If you've got any kind of bike where it makes sense to attach something to the frame, grab an inexpensive U-lock or folding lock and use that instead. The place where this lock shines is on a bike where you aren't going to put it on the frame and you really aren't going to leave the bike alone. Thieves are incredibly fast and good at what they do and this lock is just enough to keep someone from quietly walking away with your bike while you look at it. It's great at a coffee shop where you might even be within reach of your bike, but this way you can relax enough to enjoy your coffee.
When you are going to be close to your bike anyway but want to make sure it doesn't disappear from under your nose, grab the Hiplok Z Lok Combo. Although It’s not a folding lock, we’ve included it in this section because it also trades security for convenience. For more details, check out our Hiplok Z Lok Combo review.
Chain locks
Chain locks are as secure as U-locks, if they are as thick, but they have extra flexibility. If you’ve got a frame that’s extra thick, like an ebike, or if you need to attach to thicker anchors, that’s where chains shine. The downside is that they are heavier and more difficult to carry than both a U-lock and a folding lock.
Best chain lock
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
✅ You want a secure chain-style lock: If you need the flexibility of a chain lock, this is the most secure option we have tested.
✅ You want to easily carry your lock: Hiplock's design allows the Gold chain lock to be safely worn around your waist while riding, rather than mounted on the frame or carried in a backpack.
❌ You want to travel light: At 2274g this is an extremely heavy lock.
Chains are great because it still takes two cuts to defeat them, like a U-lock, but they are also very flexible and easy to lock up. The most difficult part of dealing with a chain is that they are big and heavy. It's never convenient to put one on a bike so it's common to wrap them around your waist. That solution works but it's not very safe.
Hiplok has an answer though. The brand is well known for making locks you can wear safely. The Hiplok Gold is a 10mm chain weighing in at a hefty 2,274 grams but it's got a system that turns it into a belt without locking. Instead, there's a bar on the lock side and a plastic buckle that snaps into the bar on the other side. When you are ready to lock a bike, take it off your waist, open the lock, and connect the lock to the chain that's on the other side of the waist bracket. The super-bright version pictured here also adds visibility while riding.
Not only is the 10mm chain quite secure but it's convenient and safe. If you need to lock something up that isn't easy with a U-lock, this is your answer. The only downside is all that security does mean you've got to deal with a bit of weight. Wearing it mitigates that to some extent but the weight doesn't disappear and you'll notice it. The reflective cover will also degrade over time. It looks great when new, and it's incredibly bright, but I've had a number of products with that coating and eventually, they all start to flake. You’ll want to consider that if you like the look of it.
You can read more details in my full Hiplok Gold bike lock review.
Best higher security bike lock for using with a car rack
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
✅ You want to protect your bikes on your bike rack: The fabric-covered chain is 140cm long giving it plenty of length to easily reach around multiple bikes.
❌ You want guaranteed security: The 9mm links won't be a match for a prepared bike thief equipped with large bolt cutters or a portable angle grinder.
When I talked to cyclists who had bikes stolen while locked there was one story that stood out: a brand-new bike stolen off a rack while filling up gas on the way home. The integrated cable lock on the rack got clipped while the owner was inside buying a snack. For me, it was confirmation of a scenario I'd already worried about in the past. It was also a challenge. What would be the best solution in this scenario?
Having spent time studying the design of racks and the needs, my thought is that you need something longer than normal and it has to be quick to get on. The Abus CityChain 1010 is what I ended up settling on. It's fast to get on because it's got a fabric cover that means you won't scratch your frame. Most chain locks have that feature but it's important here because you don't want to spend a bunch of time carefully placing a chain just to go pay for gas. It's worth saying though, that you shouldn't drive with the lock on.
The Abus CityChain 1010 is also a good choice for locking to the rack on your car because at 140cm, it's longer than many options out there. That's important because, unlike most locking situations, both the bike and the anchor are immovable. You can't move the bike into position to make a smaller chain work.
If you are driving any distance, you will likely stop for food as well as gas. If that's the case, the 9mm links are enough to stop a lot of attacks. Larger bolt cutters and pry bars, are still an issue but you can probably get some food and come back to a bike. It's also nice to see a protected lock cylinder even if this use case won't see it sitting in the rain for long periods of time.
You can read more details in the full Abus City Chain 1010 lock review.
Best budget bike chain lock
12. Kryptonite Keeper 785
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
✅ You want an affordable chain lock: If you're looking for a cheap chain option, this is the one we would recommend.
❌ You want to lock a desirable bike: Sold Secure Bronze and Kryptonite 5/10 rating is about as low as we would trust, even then a prepared bike thief won't be deterred.
I prefer high security in a bike lock. Even my city bike is worth more than enough that I don't relish the idea of replacing it. Instead of worrying, I'd rather go for more security. That said, I also live in an urban area and bike theft is common in a bike city like Portland Oregon. In each section, I like to include an option for those who don't need much security. Although I recommend not under-sizing your security, you might not need the highest. If that's where you find yourself, Kryptonite Keeper 785 is your answer.
The Keeper 785 is an inexpensive option for lower security situations. The sides of each link use a square profile that helps resist bolt cutters even though 7mm still falls within what’s possible for the right bolt cutters. Nylon covers protect your bike's paint and 85 cm / 33.5 in length makes it easy to lock up both wheels and accessories. There's also a Key Safe Program if you lose a key and, like other Kryptonite products there is an insurance program of, in this case, $500 if you do lose a bike while using the lock.
While this isn't the most secure lock out there, it's inexpensive and still offers decent protection. Make sure you keep the lock away from the ground and wrapped securely to help up the security level and for some that will be enough. The only criticism I have is the lack of a cover for the keyhole. It seems to be a common misstep but not everyone needs the highest security and not everyone needs to worry about rain.
Best wearable bike chain lock
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
✅ You want a wearable lock for easy transportation: At around 1kg in weight and with the option of an ultra-reflective sleeve makes this is a comfortable option.
❌ You want the best security: Sold Secure Bronze is enough for locking inexpensive bikes for short periods, but it's not enough for longer time frames.
The Hiplok Lite is a great balance of versatility, transportability and security. If you want maximum security in a wearable format, then the Hiplok Gold is the one to go for. Not everyone needs to carry around the weight of a full-strength lock, so if your looking for a low weight and versatile option for locking your bike when running errands around town or in low theft areas.
By speccing a 6mm chain, Hiplok drops the weight to roughly 1kg, making it more comfortable to wear and easy to carry. The Velcro fastening has plenty of adjustability to accommodate a wide range of body shapes, keeping the Hiplok Lite securely in place when cycling.
Locking my bike with the Hiplok Lite is a simple process as the chain gives plenty of versatility to lock to bike stands, lamp posts and or other miscalanius street furniture if required. The padlock mechanism is a little fiddly as it needs to be properly aligned to engage, but it's more of a minor annoyance than an actual issue.
Again, this isn't a lock for securing your bike overnight, but it still offers Sold Secure Bronze security and the versatility of being able to ride into town without a backpack or securing a lock to the frame makes the Hiplok Lite very convenient.
To find out more, head over to our Hiplok Lite review.
Cable-locks
As noted in our discussion of how to choose below, cable locks are in general easier to defeat than other types of locks. A bolt cutter can cut the majority of cables quickly and silently.
Many cable locks are not security-rated or receive the lowest bronze rating from Sold Secure. You can find cable locks offering greater security though; many of Litelok's cables are diamond or gold-rated by Sold Secure, for example.
A cable lock can have its place. If you're just making a short stop and your bike is within your view, you may be satisfied with a lightweight, low-security option. It can provide a useful adjunct to a more secure lock and many U-locks can be bought packaged with a cable to help keep wheels from going astray.
So if you are looking for a cable lock, here are three to consider.
The Litelok Core Plus is available in two lengths, 75cm and 100cm, so you can choose an option to secure most bikes. It's Sold Secure Diamond rated; the downside is a weight of around 2kg.
Squire follows a similar design to Litelok with its Sold Secure silver-rated Straplok. As with the Litelok, it's wearable, with an 85cm locked area. It also weighs less at 1.26kg claimed and can be daisy-chained to other locks.
A souped-up zip tie, the Z Lok is super-easy to carry, weighs just 20g and is cheap as chips. It won't stop a thief but may provide enough protection for coffee stops, securing accessories or as a back-up lock.
How to choose the best bike lock for you
When I write a buyer's guide, I endeavour to become an expert if I'm not already. I share what works and what doesn't and I get to look at every product in a category to help draw those conclusions. The problem with doing that for the best bike lock is that I'm not a bike thief and there's no real way for me to become an expert on bike theft. With that in mind, I took a different approach to this section of this buyer's guide.
While I spent time with every lock here, I also reached out to law enforcement and talked to as many people who had experienced bike theft as possible. I pulled together that communal knowledge of having a bike stolen and formed that into questions and answers to help inform you on how to keep your bike safe and what locks to buy.
How are bikes being stolen?
When you think about protecting with the best bike locks it's important to have an understanding of how bikes are being stolen. You can't protect against every attack in every situation so understanding what you need to worry about is step one. To that end, I did a lot of research to try and understand the issue and present options that cover the bases. Keep in mind that it's constantly evolving and it's not as well studied as we'd like it to be. Here's what I found though.
The most obvious tools are bolt cutters. They are inexpensive and low-tech, as well as silent and easy to hide. They've been around for a long time as a tool of choice but they are actually beginning to see less use.
The biggest reason that bolt cutters are seeing less use is the rise of inexpensive portable angle grinders. Bolt cutters are most effective against very low-security U-lock designs, chains, and cable locks. Given that medium-security U-locks are the most used type of lock it makes sense to invest a little money into an easy-to-carry angle grinder. They are just as effective against a cable lock and very fast at handling higher security options as well.
The other common tool in use is a breaker bar of some kind. Something like a steel pipe is common but really anything that's long enough to give leverage is ripe for use. The technique is to jam it into a lock and take advantage of the leverage to twist it until it breaks open.
One attack method you might notice missing from this list is lock picking. If you are researching locks, you've no doubt stumbled on demonstrations of lock picking but the reality is that it's not a common attack method. It's a skill that requires a lot of technique and there are much easier ways to steal a bike. The people I interviewed to find out how bikes were being stolen were very clear that this was interesting to watch but uncommon in practice.
What is the right type of bike lock?
Deciding what type of lock you buy is all about understanding how bikes are being stolen and then applying that to your situation. What level of risk are you willing to take on? What situation are you defending against and what is going to work for you? Through all of my research, the number one thing that continued to come up was that the large majority of bikes stolen weren't locked at all. That means it might be less important to worry about ultimate security than it is to worry about what you will use all the time. Here's some info to help make the decision though.
The most common choice for medium or high security is a U-lock. They are very secure, and easy to carry in a backpack, and there are a lot of choices across a wide range of price points. One of the biggest challenges with chain locks is the size. They are already heavy and a smaller lock will be more secure but they don't have much extra room to accommodate larger anchor objects. U-locks are most effective when you have access to a bike rack to lock against. The one important caveat when choosing a U-lock is to always look for a double shackle. You want it to lock both sides of the U so that it takes two cuts to free the bike.
The second most common option for security is a chain. Chains tend to be more secure for less money. They are also more secure against angle grinders because they are hard to hold still. They are less secure against bolt cutters because individual links often don't match the diameter of a U-lock. They tend to be bigger and heavier than a U-lock design and carrying them can be more difficult. Where they excel is in their flexibility. If you need to lock your bike to a signpost or any kind of non-standard anchor, chains can do it for you.
Another common locking solution is a folding lock. Folding locks are less secure than chains or U-locks because they have a lot of pieces that allow for attack vectors. Quality folding locks do their best to protect the hinges but there will always be vulnerability there. The wide hardened steel makes them difficult to cut with bolt cutters so it's not like they are pushovers and they are convenient. They can be flexible enough for non-standard anchors and they are easier to carry than other options.
Remember, don't get too caught up in the details of which lock is technically more secure. The Los Angeles Police Department summarized it nicely when it said " Many bikes that are stolen are NOT secured" and that's what I also found when polling cyclists. Find a lock that you are going to use every single time and you've already got a huge leg up.
How are bike locks rated?
In the UK, Sold Secure is an independent testing organisation. Lock makers submit samples of their locks to Sold Secure, who then use a variety of methods to try to break them. They talk to the police to identify trends in bike theft methods and any novel approaches are incorporated into their test protocols.
Sold Secure will rate a lock on four levels from Bronze through to Diamond on the strength of protection it affords and lock brands will show the rating on the packaging for their locks. A very low-security lock might be unrated.
What is the difference between a U-lock and a D-lock?
U-locks and D-locks are the same thing. They are both named in relation to their shape. Without the brace fitted, the shape resembles that of the letter U, and when the brace is fitted, it resembles the letter D. The term 'U-lock' is widely adopted in the USA, while D-lock is used more in the UK.
Why is there no recommended cable lock on this list?
Chains, U-locks, folding locks, why not cable locks? There are a lot of cable locks sold in the world so why don't we recommend any? The easiest answer to that is that most aren't secure. Many cable locks use steel cables not hardened steel. Cutting them is so trivial and so fast that they only provide the most minimal protection. When I polled cyclists who’d had a lock defeated, it was almost universally a cable lock. In most of those situations, they understood the low security but they thought it would be enough for a quick stop and it wasn’t. You can defeat other types of locks too but not as fast and not without making noise.
That only partially answers the question though. Not everyone needs a high-security solution all the time. There are plenty of situations where covering theft of opportunity, what you might call a walk away theft, is more than enough security. Think about a long ride with a snack stop far away from the city. In those situations, you might get away with a low-security option but there are better low-security options. You can come close to matching the price of a cable lock and you can find options that are easier to carry while offering similar security.
Having said that, there are more secure cable locks available, as we've highlighted above.
Are key or combination bike locks better?
The two most common locking methods utilise either a key or a combination. Both have their merits, and both have their pitfalls.
A combination lock can be susceptible to prying eyes. If the wrong person knows your combination, expect your steed to bolt from the stable. At the cheaper end of the market, a combination lock can be hacked without the need for tools.
A key lock can be less prone to compromise, however, if ever you leave your keys on the train, you could be left having to 'steal' your own bike from the station.
No matter the variant, bike locks are like front door mechanisms: they work on the principle of very close mechanical tolerances and don’t enjoy too much water or environmental contaminant ingress, which can lead to rust or jamming.
The best bike locks have weather-proof covers which protect the keyhole, but all bike locks can benefit from similar care to what you’d apply to any drivetrain chain or suspension stanchion in terms of preventative maintenance. Clean, dry and lube them for longevity and frustration-free locking performance.
How to lock your bike
I wrote a full article about how to lock a bike and there's more detail there. What's important to understand in this context is that you want to limit extra space between the lock and the bike. You also want to keep the lock farther from the ground. These small changes in how you use the chosen lock will make it more secure. Keeping the lock farther from the ground makes it more difficult to use the ground as leverage on a bolt cutter. Limiting extra space between the lock and the bike means it's more difficult to get a tool positioned for a leverage attack.
What about insurance?
Some bike locks come packaged with insurance offers. These are nice for peace of mind, but there are a few details you should be careful about. The biggest thing to remember is that these are insurance offers and that means they are very specific. There is no wiggle room for not quite meeting some requirements. Make sure you follow the instructions exactly. In the case of both Kryptonite and Onguard that means you need to have registered at the time you bought the lock so make sure you start there.
Another good option for insurance is to add your own bike-specific insurance and we have an article covering the best bike insurance. More coverage is better than less so doubling up won’t hurt.
Make sure you register your bike
While you are following the directions for registering your new lock, make sure you also register your bike. Bike Index is a US non-profit that works to register bikes and then helps with recovery if something happens; in the UK Bike Register and in Australia the National Bike Register provide a similar service. There's no guarantee of anything but they are doing amazing work and it doesn't hurt.
If a bike goes missing you can access a community of people who will keep their eyes open and help you recover it. It's also a great opportunity to record the serial number of your bike and make sure you have it on hand. If law enforcement happens to recover a bike it will only come back to you if you've filed a police report and given them a serial number.
You can also have your bike indelibly marked, which helps to deter theft and makes identification easier if your bike is stolen then recovered by the police or others. It's part of the Bike Register service in the UK and some police forces will occasionally have free registration campaigns.
Consider a bike tracker
If your bike does get stolen, it's rare that you'll recover it. You can increase your chances by hiding a bike tracker somewhere in your bike. The best bike trackers include passive devices like an Apple Air Tag or Tile sticker, which rely on proximity to a Bluetooth-enabled phone.
There are also GPS-enabled devices that will broadcast their location over a mobile network, although you'll need to pay a recurring subscription for these.
How we tested the best bike locks
There is no perfect solution to bike theft. Particularly with the continued prevalence of portable angle grinders, every lock is vulnerable. With the exception of the Litelok X1, I haven't taken an angle grinder to these locks because I know without a doubt that it's possible to cut them. The Litelok is the exception because the technology rides on the ability to resist an angle grinder, so I decided to see how it worked. There are also a lot of people who have tried to cut the Hiplok D1000 so I’ve seen that demonstrated both personally and via plenty of videos.
The other thing I didn’t try was cutting locks with bolt cutters. Bolt cutters will defeat locks but it’s dependent on the size of the tool and the size of the lock. There’s no testing to be done because it’s a mechanical fact with no room for error. Instead, what I’ve done is put these locks to the test from the standpoint of usability and helped set expectations. Locks that are low security are listed as such and everything here is a quality option that will work as expected.
Third-party testing organisations such as Sold Secure will be much better at testing security as well, so their rating is a good indication to follow.
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Josh hails from the Pacific Northwest of the United States but would prefer riding through the desert than the rain. He will happily talk for hours about the minutiae of cycling tech but also has an understanding that most people just want things to work. He is a road cyclist at heart and doesn't care much if those roads are paved, dirt, or digital. Although he rarely races, if you ask him to ride from sunrise to sunset the answer will be yes. Height: 5'9" Weight: 140 lb. Rides: Salsa Warbird, Cannondale CAAD9, Enve Melee, Look 795 Blade RS, Priority Continuum Onyx
