10 Best Bicycle Locks – Comparison & Reviews

 

The Essential Guide to Finding the Best Bicycle Lock + Reviews

 

The best bicycle locks should be able to offer you enough protection that you won’t even think of the risk of the bike being stolen, which is why we looked at some models out there, to see which one is for you. An interesting choice is the Kryptonite Evolution Mini-7 Bicycle U-Lock Double Loop Cable which has plenty of advantages. Having a cable with a steel shackle means the risk of being affected by leverage attacks, bolt cutters, etc, is reduced to a minimum, while the double loop cable is going to offer security to the front wheel or to your accessories that you have on the bike. While riding the bike, the anti-rattle bumpers will keep things quiet for you. On the off chance that this product is not available, you could try the Kryptonite Keeper 785 Integrated Bicycle Lock Chain, which also has many advantages and could also be to your liking.

 

 

Comparison table

 

 

 

10 Best Bicycle Locks (Updated Reviews) in 2021

 

 

Whether you’re looking for a cheap bicycle lock or money is not a problem and you just want a trusted model to keep your bike safe when running errands through the city, we’ve come to your help. We’ve picked the most popular models, from bicycle wheel locks to U-locks and chains to ensure that you have a wide selection of top-quality ones to choose from.

 

 

1. Kryptonite Evolution Mini-7 Bicycle U-Lock Double Loop Cable

 

Safety is the thing that we are looking for when we are interested in a bicycle lock – safety for your bike when you leave it unattended and safety for you when you ride it. So the saying “safety first” rings especially true when it comes to such a device, which you wouldn’t think could be so complex.

Case in point is this product, which has several key features that are meant to attract you toward buying it, such as a cable with a steel shackle that is not going to be affected in the least by bolt cutters or leverage attacks, which is a very good reason to use such a product in the first place.

But, taking a look at the good and at the bad, do they even out? Is it worth it to buy this product? Does it rise up to your expectations? Let’s take a detailed look at it!

 

Pros

As mentioned, the product has a steel shackle that is going to resist with excellent results in the face of bolt cutters or leverage attacks.

The presence of a double loop cable is going to secure the front wheel or, if you have any, your accessories, which is a really cool and helpful idea!

When you ride the bike, you don’t want the product to be loud, so the manufacturers have added anti-rattle bumpers which will reduce the level of the noise while you’re in action.

The product also has a high-security disc-style cylinder for extra safety, so you are always going to be sure of good safekeeping.

 

Cons

The U-lock on this device can be a bit small-ish for some models of bicycles, such as mountain bikes or even regular men’s bikes, so you must take this into consideration before you buy anything and pay extreme attention to the measurements.

Buy from Amazon.com for ($69.99)

 

 

 

2. Kryptonite Keeper 785 Integrated Bicycle Lock Chain

 

Alongside the aforementioned safety that such a device should give you, it’s really nice when you have the possibility to personalize it to a certain degree. This is why this product is really interesting for many, as you can buy it in different colors: black, grey, red, or purple, so you can accessorize it with your bike or overall style easier.

Of course, going back to what is really the most important aspect of such a device, the safety measures, we don’t think you ought to have much to worry in that regard, since this device was created with certain features in mind that are bound to stop your bike from ever being stolen, no matter how hard the thief tries.

Among those features is a deadbolt design, but, let’s take a closer look at some of the things that work and some that don’t in the case of this product.

 

Pros

The possibility of accessorizing the product after your own taste and style, as you can pick from 4 different colors – red, purple, black, and grey – is a rare thing for these devices.

The deadbolt design was created so that it ensures you aren’t going to have to deal with theft, as it gives it more holding power.

Adding to that is the link design, which also makes the possibility of your bike being stolen being closer to 0 than in other cases.

On top of that, the product has four-sided chain links of 7 mm that were created using 3T manganese steel, for better overall resistance.

 

Cons

The manufacturers were so busy creating a device that stops all theft, that they focused less on your overall comfort as a rider. This product is rather heavier, when compared to other locks, so it’s not really pleasant to ride with it on your bike.

Buy from Amazon.com for ($39.95)

 

 

 

3. Kryptonite New York FAHGETTABOUDIT 1415 Chain & Lock

 

In order to make sure that the bicycle lock does its job, you must pick one that has certain features that would guarantee you the safety you want. One of them is choosing a material that is known for its resistance, such as manganese steel, and this product has the chain links made exactly out of that.

The black and white design makes it really cool, almost elegant, which is not something you would have expected from a bicycle lock, but it’s sure a very nice and pleasant added bonus. The whole product looks like it is a quality one, which may be a sign of actual quality, and this is why you should check it out.

So, taking a closer look at it, what are the pros, and what are the cons when it comes to using this device? Does it have more pros than cons? Is the price they are asking for it worth it?

 

Pros

As mentioned, a quality material is necessary in this case, which is why the product is created using manganese steel, so the thief has chances closer to 0 to steal anything.

In order for this lock to have even more power, the manufacturers have added a hardened double deadbolt, which looks like it does its job.

Furthermore, the device has a disc-style cylinder that has super helpful features, such as anti-pull and anti-drill protection systems which guarantee even more safety.

The product is covered in nylon, which is also known as a durable material, that is going to keep it safe from rain and similarly bad weather.

 

Cons

The chain of this bicycle lock is bigger than the average, making it more useful for big bikes like mountain bikes or even motorcycles, but your average rider is probably going to encounter some issues when using it for day-to-day activities.

Buy from Amazon.com for ($134.99)

 

 

 

4. Via Velo Bike U Lock with Strong Cable

 

This device has, for the lack of a better word, an upgraded look, that makes it seem like it could be more fitting for a motorcycle or other big vehicles, and less for a regular bike, but let’s take a look at the features, and figure out for ourselves. After all, a bicycle lock that looks like it couldn’t be broken is going to discourage some thieves from even trying.

The PVC cover that was used to make the product gives it protection all through the day, in different kinds of weather, making it avoid corrosion easier. This is going to help the device resist with success when exposed to water, dirt, or dust, which, of course, means you will have the possibility of continuing to use it for many years to come.

Naturally, this gives it a level of higher security as well, since it won’t start falling apart in bad weather.

 

Pros

The PVC cover makes sure that the lock is protected from all sorts of corrosive elements such as water, dust, or dirt, prolonging the use of the device for years to come.

Locking or unlocking such a device in the night could be a hassle, but not with the LED-lit multifunctional key that will let you see things clearer and better even in the darkest nights.

The U-lock of this product has 3 keys, one of them being a LED one, while another has a key replacement code which lets you replace it faster in case you’ve lost it.

This bicycle lock is pretty thick (as mentioned, it looks like it could be used for motorcycles even), which is surely going to discourage many thieves from trying anything.

 

Cons

The mounting system used for this device is a bit on the cheap plastic side, which is not a huge issue, but not everybody is going to like that.

Buy from Amazon.com for ($41.46)

 

 

 

5. Kryptonite New York Lock Fahgettaboutit Mini 18mm U-Lock

 

When you buy a bicycle lock, you do want to be able to use it for a long as possible, at least for a couple of years – it’s not exactly the type of product that you want to spend money on again and again. Well, what if we told you that a manufacturer promises that you can use such a device forever?

This is the device that the manufacturer promises it’s going to last a lifetime, and, while that is something that we can’t really test, it is an interesting promise and we can check the features that are presented in it, in order to see if it does really have the potential to last you for such a long period of time.

So, let’s take a closer look at the pros and cons of this product and decide together if you are going to use it forever from now on.

 

Pros

The device is hardened and has steel shackles that are meant to offer resistance when thieves use hand tools, leverage attacks, or bolt cutters on it.

This product has a Key Safe Program, which means you will receive 2 separate keys, regardless of where you live in the world, which can be replaced freely if you lose them.

Really surprising is the anti-theft protection offer that the manufacturer gives, meaning a reimbursement of up to 5,000 dollars, which is rather unheard of!

The promise of a lifetime may be hard to test, but the features the device has seem to point to a really long time in which you can use the lock, to which we add the anti-theft protection offer.

 

Cons

In some cases, the product seems to be a bit exposed to developing rust, which should be covered by the manufacturer, but, then again, it’s also something that you can deal with yourself easily.

Buy from Amazon.com for ($124.95)

 

 

 

6. Schwinn Cable Bike Lock

 

While modern bicycle locks with plenty of features may be of interest to some people, others are less impressed by them and prefer models that are simple, yet effective. After all, why spend a lot of money on a cable when you can spend little money on a very similar cable? If you are in the second team, we have one product that you may like.

This bicycle lock, available from Schwinn, is one that is as simple and basic as they come, but that is what some people are looking for – simplicity. People have been using this type of locks for decades and they clearly work, since not everybody was left without a bicycle, fortunately.

So, taking a look at this product, you are bound to ask yourself if it’s risky to invest in one, compared to the ones that are almost high-tech or if it really does give your bike the protection you want.

 

Pros

The outside of this device has a tough protective cover that is made out of vinyl, which makes it resistant to weather, regardless if it’s really sunny or really rainy.

You can choose a combination of a padlock or key lock, which is going to let you feel safer when you are about to leave your bike.

The product comes with a mounting bracket included, which means the installation process should be easy and safe enough.

The whole design is really simple, and if you think that less is more, then this could be the one that you could try.

 

Cons

The only real con to this product seems to be the fact that it’s not that long, which is frustrating for bike areas that don’t allow you to get the bike too close to the place where you want to park it. The idea of tying two bikes with only one lock of this kind is out of the question.

Buy from Amazon.com for ($9.99)

 

 

 

7. Kryptonite Evolution Series-4 LS Heavy Duty Bike Lock

 

Another device that is presented as being able to last a lifetime is this one, from the famed Kryptonite company. Again, like with the previous model, it’s hard to actually tell if this product really does last decades after decades, as it’s a fairly new model, but checking out the features it comes with should give us some ideas about it.

We will look at that when talking about the pros and cons of the device; meanwhile, it is worth mentioning that this product has the locking dimensions on the interior of 4 x 11.5 inches, which could be great for some people, depending on the bicycle model you are planning to use it on.

So, does the promise of a lifetime of use hold up? What are the things that work for and against this device? Let’s take a look and we will be able to get the main idea, for sure.

 

Pros

Just like with the previous models mentioned, you have the possibility of being reimbursed for up to 3,000 dollars, for a period of one year, thanks to the Anti-Theft Protection Offer included with this device.

The Key Safe Program can also be found here, which involves the company shipping you the first 2 keys, globally, for free, in case you lose them, which is a really thoughtful idea!

The device is hard ended and has steel shackles that will resist any sort of activities around it that involve bolt cutters, leverage attacks, or various hand tools.

Also, the promise of being able to use this device for decades on end is really enticing and will surely make you more interested in it.

 

Cons

The main drawback of this product seems to be the fact that the U lock is really heavy, which is not very comfortable, but it does give you the feeling of security for your bike.

Buy from Amazon.com for ($94.95)

 

 

 

8. Master Lock Set Your Own Combination Bike Lock

 

Now, this is a model that looks like you wouldn’t want to mess around with, and one which seems to combine the best of both worlds when we talk about classic bike locks and modern ones. This model seems to have found a way of making both sides happy, thanks to simplistic but efficient features, and a similar design.

In order to understand the product better, we are going to take a look at some of the pros and cons of it, as every product in the world has them. Sometimes, they may be relative and depend on personal expectations, while sometimes it is a thing that is generally agreed upon by the public and experts.

So, let’s check out what makes this product one that unites the two camps in order to focus just on it, from the design to the features that come with it.

 

Pros

First, we have a certain universality when it comes to this device, as you can use it not just for your bicycle, but also for various other products, such as lawnmowers, ladders, or sports equipment.

Using a four-digit combination bike lock is an advantage, as you don’t have to carry a key with you at all times. You can personalize the code to your own liking.

The cable lock was created using braided steel, which gives the product much more flexibility and strength.

The coating of this product is made out of protective vinyl, which doesn’t let scratches appear, while also playing a role in resisting when dealing with bad weather.

 

Cons

Both ends of the cable are fat, which means that in some instances, it could be hard to lock the product, as there’s a chance it wouldn’t be able to fit, but that depends on the space you are given.

Buy from Amazon.com for ($13.77)

 

 

 

9. Kryptonite Kryptoflex 1018 Combo Cable Bicycle Lock

 

The color black is a favorite of many people who want to have a more serious-looking bicycle lock, so this model here could be one that is fitting for those with that request. Similar to the previous model, this one also combines classic elements with modern ones, which makes it stand out easily in the crowd.

Among the things that can be seen as being classic in this product are the design and the black color the exterior has, while among the more modern aspect of the product are the decision to include a resettable combination lock and the Combo Safe Program, all of them working together to give you the safety you want for your bike.

Despite its strong build, it’s quite flexible which allows you to secure the wheels, the saddle, and other components, and not only the frame. The braided steel cable is protected by a vinyl cover that will prevent rust and mechanical damage.

 

Pros

The product has a resettable combination lock that is made up of 4 digits with indexed number dials so there is no chance of an error combination setting ever occurring.

This device is created out of a flexible braided steel cable which has the goal of increasing the total level of resistance of the product against being cut.

The exterior is covered in a protective vinyl cover, which aims to protect the product from the harmful effects of weather, regardless if it’s sunny or rainy.

The product looks like it will be hard to deal with if someone was planning to steal a bike, so the chances of that happening are lowered by the design by default.

 

Cons

As you will commute with the bike and have this lock with you, you will certainly feel pretty soon that the product is more on the heavy side, which makes it less comfortable.

Buy from Amazon.com for ($22.95)

 

 

 

10. Kryptonite Keeper 790 Chain Combo Bicycle Lock

 

Another product we would like to talk about in this guide is one that seems to be a combination of several others that we have reviewed – in the best way possible, naturally. As we take a closer look at the features of this device, you will notice the similarities too, which should make you pretty interested in it.

On top of that, the similarities even come from the design part, as this product is, again, pretty similar to others on the list. By now, you may have gotten used to some of these designs, which is going to make you, again, more willing to try something maybe a little bit more modern in certain regards.

So, by looking at the design and details of this product, what can we tell? What are the things that make it similar to the others on the list and what are the things that make it unique?

 

Pros

In order for the device to have an even better holding power than your average bicycle lock, this product has an end link locking point, which will prove to be very useful in keeping your bike safe.

The product has steel chain links with 4 sides that are made out of 3T manganese steel, a common and resistant material for these types of devices.

You have the possibility of choosing between more than 10,000 codes when setting up the 4-digit resettable combination code.

The design of this product is very cool, modern, and urban, so it’s fitting for a person who has a similar style.

 

Cons

This device doesn’t seem to have many things working against it, but if there is one thing that could be mentioned here, it’s the fact that it’s a pretty heavy product, which will make carrying it around with you less comfortable than you would wish it to be.

Buy from Amazon.com for ($39.08)

 

 

 

Our Comprehensive Buying Guide

 

Anybody who has ever owned a bike has thought of that moment in which they return to where they left their two-wheeled buddy and it’s not there anymore. For some of us, unfortunately, it has really happened, which is why it’s so important to pick the best bicycle lock that you can afford.

If your bike gets stolen, it’s frustrating, heartbreaking even, but also expensive as you have to replace it.

As a result, if you choose to invest in bicycle security locks, you need to do it properly, as a model that looks like it could be too difficult to handle already has the chance of discouraging the thief. There are different types of bicycle locks, so let’s take a look at some of them.

Main types

Judging by the types of bike locks you have available in stores, you’ll notice you have plenty to choose from. Many bicycle locks reviews will mention the D-type locks (or U-type locks), which are more robust and harder to break, but have the downside of being rather heavy to carry.

Still, some people see them as the best bike lock available on the market since they are made of hard materials such as steel.

Another type is the chain lock, which is among the most popular at the moment, despite its increased weight. They are also a bit more on the affordable bicycle locks side, so you may be interested in such a device. While also robust and hard to break, the security chains are also rather heavy and you’ll require an excellent lock to keep the chain safe.

 

Affordability

But what about the cheap bicycle locks like the bicycle cable locks? Firstly, you’ll be drawn to such a product because it’s, by far, an affordable bicycle lock as pretty much any bicycle lock review is going to indicate. A cable lock is easy to carry around and it’s great in areas with a low risk of theft, but it is also much easier to cut through.

This is the biggest con for any cable bicycle locks, even when talking about famous brands like the Schwinn bicycle locks.

So, between these types, we’ve established that a cheap cable lock is a budget choice but less likely to keep the bike safe in certain neighborhoods, the chain locks such as the popular Specialized bicycle locks are safer, but far from the lightweight bicycle locks group, and that many people see the D-types or U-locks as being the top bicycle locks.

Other aspects to consider

Looking at brands, it’s also a great idea of learning how to pick such a product, as there’s a bigger chance that Wordlock bicycle locks will do a better job than some from a no-name company, but, then again, sometimes not even the biggest names can offer you the most secure bicycle locks, so the decision is up to you.

A really cool idea is to pick bicycle combination locks as their outside is really hard to cut, and in order to open them, you’ll need a code, which the thief is highly unlikely to guess. If you are looking for locks for bicycle riding in a remote area, though, you probably don’t need as many safety measures, as when it comes to locks, bicycle owners understand that these tend to be more needed in urban areas.

Still, if you want to be sure 100% that your bike stays where you left it, just follow our help guide.

 

 

Frequently Asked Questions:

 

Q: Is there a bike lock that cannot be cut?

To keep things as short as possible, no, there has yet to be any commercial bike lock invented for greater use that literally nobody could ever break. Who knows what goes on in some secret lab, but if you will go to any store, you won’t find a model that is 100% guaranteed not to be cut somehow or someway.

But the good news is that many of the available products on the market are the closest thing we have to locks that cannot be cut using some angle grinders, bolt cutters, chains, or some other similar devices that would aid a thief. They can be cut, but for that, you’d need some industrial-level cutting machinery, so that is a bit unlikely for the thief to have on them.

So, basically, no, there aren’t any bike locks that can’t be cut but we are really close to that with some of them.

Q: Are bike locks weatherproof?

Rain can create a lot of damage to bicycle locks, as many of them are made out of steel or similar materials that, while they may be tough to break, they are also more exposed to being affected by difficult weather conditions, such as rain or extreme heat. This will lead to rust and corrosion starting to appear.

In order to make sure the lock stays safe, you can use some lube or oil to rub it, thus keeping the watery elements away from the parts that can rust. Other bike locks have a PVC or nylon exterior, which may make them harder to bend over sometimes, but they keep the steel and other similar materials safe from being touched by water.

In conclusion, yes, there are some bike locks that are weatherproof, but if you don’t want to invest in them, you can just take a lot of care of the one that you already have.

 

Q: How many types of locks are there?

When talking about bike locks, there are three main types that can be brought up for discussion: chain locks, U-locks (or D-locks), and cable locks. The combination locks are not really considered to be part of a different type, as they are mostly cable locks, which is why they are included in that category here as well.

All three types have their pros and cons, from the price to the level of security, and everybody may need different things, depending on where they live, which is why we’ve included all three types in our top reviews for this article. After all, a bike in a small rural community is less likely to be stolen than one in the center of a busy city.

Pick the one that fits your necessities the best as even this guide has shown you that there are plenty of choices available for you, anytime.