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Brighter weather, more accessible e-bikes, and resurgent interest in outdoor recreation have brought about a surge in cycling. But with increased riding comes an increase in bike theft. It's time to get yourself the right bike lock.
There are a ton of great reasons why you should be riding your bike more — lowering your carbon footprint, working on your health and fitness, saving money, and quietly flexing on folks in traffic as you zip by them on your two-wheeled freedom machine. Bikes aren’t cheap, and your unguarded daily commuter is easy to steal and easy to resell. Our guide to the best bike lock is here to help keep your trusty steed safe and ready to ride.
Cycling surged in popularity during the pandemic as one of the few ways to get out and exercise while everything was shut down. In 2022 alone, between 17 and 20 million bikes were sold in the U.S., and with an estimated 52 million bike owners in the U.S., more people have bikes now than ever before.
It follows that bike theft is also on the rise with somewhere between 170,000 and 190,000 bikes being stolen in the U.S. every year. One statistic we found claimed that a bike is stolen on average every 30 seconds in the States. It’s estimated that less than 5% of stolen bikes are returned to their owners and almost half of the bikes reported as stolen are used in secondary crimes.
With such dismal statistics surrounding bike theft, having a good lock is imperative. Fortunately, there are a ton of great lock options on the market that fit a variety of needs and budgets to help keep your bike(s) safe. Our testers carefully tested and evaluated each of the locks in this guide to find the best options for every rider.
In our selection, you’ll find nine of the best locks on the market. We’ve included traditional, super secure chain and U-locks, along with more novel choices like folding and wearable locks. Check out our buyer’s guide to help you hone in on a lock that best suits your needs and have a look at our comparison chart for a breakdown of prices and features.
Editor’s Note: For our March 1, 2024, update we’ve included the unique Tex-Lock Eyelet with X-Lock. This versatile, lightweight lock is a tester favorite and provides more security than the average cable lock.
Chain locks are considered by many to be the premier option for securing your bike, but they have a few drawbacks — specifically, chains are heavy and unwieldy and can be a real pain to bring with you everywhere. The Hiplok Gold ($140) solves this problem with an innovative carry option that keeps its 2.4 kg centered and secure around your waist as you ride.
Hiplok designed this lock with an adjustable seatbelt-like clasp that adjusts to waists between 30-44”, which eliminates the need to size your chain according to your belt size, and also keeps the weight down. Additionally, the chain is wrapped in a durable and highly reflective nylon chain cover which increases your safety and visibility as you ride.
The diameter of the Hiplok chain and shackle is 85 cm, which is enough to lock a frame and wheel to a stand or pole, but it may be difficult to make larger-diameter objects such as trees work. The links measure in at 10 mm thick while the shackle is slightly thicker at 12 mm and while this lock is not impervious to vandals, hooligans, and/or rapscallions sporting nefarious intent, it will certainly slow down any would-be bike thief trying to make off with your whip. The Hiplok Gold is sold Secure rated with a Gold security rating (level 3 of 4, able to withstand a 5-minute attack with hand tools) and a lifetime warranty.
While some folks may prefer a different style lock or something that weighs a little less, our testers were highly impressed with the Hiplok Gold for its combination of safety and security in a compact and innovatively portable (albeit slightly heavy) package, which is why it’s our favorite bike lock.
The OnGuard Bulldog is another solid option for folks looking for a reliable and trustworthy U-lock. At $35, it swings well above its weight class for the price. Our tester has long since been a fan of OnGuard locks, and the Bulldog U lock is a welcome addition to this round of testing.
At 9 x 4.5″, the shackle is similar to both the ABUS and the Kryptonite U-locks featured in this guide albeit slightly wider. While half an inch isn’t a game changer, the extra space is a welcomed feature on this lock. The shackle clocks in at 11 mm thick, which should offer plenty of protection against bolt cutters and grinders. Like other locks on this list, Onguard uses a double lock shackle feature for enhanced security, and Onguard claims the cylinder is resistant to bumping and lock picking.
The Bulldog is substantially heavier than its competitors at around 8 lbs and loses some points in the portability department, but our tester felt the added weight just added to its sense of security. If you ride with your lock in your pack or bag, this is definitely a consideration, but for those of you who strap the lock to your bike, you likely won’t notice it. Like both the Kryptonite and ABUS locks, the Bulldog comes with a frame mount to keep your lock with your bike.
Of the tested lock mounts, the Onguard scores best by offering the easiest and smoothest operating frame mount. Onguard also offers theft protection on registered locks — up to $1501 on most models of the BullDog. All Onguards locks come with five keys — one with an LED for use after dark, and four more standard keys to stash as you see fit.
Our tester was impressed with the simple, no-fuss function of the Bulldog, and doubly so for the included mount. At $35 this lock offers tremendous value and outshines other locks in its class. If you are looking for a simple and secure lock that won’t break the bank, the Onguard Bulldog might just be the lock for you.
Kryptonite has been a major name in the bike security space for as long as any of our testers can remember, so much so that ‘kryptonite’ locks are often associated with top-tier security. Kryptonite continues to bolster that reputation with the Evolution 1090 ($110).
At 6.5 pounds and 35.5 inches, this is a properly big chain lock that might not appeal to everyone reading through this list. For our uses, however, — securing an expensive mountain bike in a busy resort town — there isn’t much more we could ask for.
Like the Hiplok Gold, the Evolution 1090 is Sold Secure with a Gold rating, meaning that it will withstand up to 5 minutes of attack with hand tools. Kryptonite has revised the link design and the metals to increase the security for this lock, but probably the most important update to their locks is the new end-link design which eliminates a critical vulnerability in other locks by replacing the shackle with a deadbolt.
We’re not going to give you the specifics here, but this lock is essentially air-can and hammer-proof, which is one of the fastest, easiest, and most inconspicuous ways to break a lock. Would-be thieves will have to cause a scene to break this lock or chain. Kryptonite offers anti-theft protection up to $3,000 for registered locks and a lifetime warranty, as well as their helpful key program — which means that when you finally lose your last key, you’ll be able to get a replacement.
We had a tough time deciding between the Kryptonite 1090 and the Hiplok Gold locks, but in the end, the Hiplock won out. The Evolution 1090 is a little bit heavier, and a little bit less portable than the Hiplok Gold, which kept it from taking best overall.
But, we are awarding the 1090 Best Chain lock for its super high-security rating and the piece of mind it offered our testers, and also because the deadbolt end link is more secure than the shackle on the Hiplok (which is also why it is heavier). If you are going to keep a lock in your car for an après bike beer, the Kryptonite 1090 is the lock to buy, but if you need portability, check out the Hiplok Gold.
U-locks are popular among bike commuters in metro areas for a good reason — they strike a great balance between portability and security. You’ve probably seen someone utilizing the popular belt-carry, and there are even some cycling pants on the market that come with a loop to slip your U-lock in while you ride. The Kryptonite New-U ($71) is the latest iteration of the Kryptonite U-lock. We had that standard model, also known as the Kryptolock, in for this round of testing, and to nobody’s surprise, it scored high in both security and portability.
The New-U has received a few upgrades to make it more secure, namely the new “double deadbolt” locking mechanism which Kyrptonite claims is more resistant to twisting attack. At a little under 3 pounds, and measuring in at 9 x 4″, the New-U is easy enough to throw in your bag, slip in your belt, or as our tester did — strap it to your pannier rack. The New-U also comes with a frame mount to more easily tote your lock on your rig, but our tester found it to be a little more finicky and less secure than a ski strap on the rack.
One of the downsides to the U-lock is the lack of security for things like your front wheel (go ahead, ask us how we know). Fortunately, the New-U is available with a cable lock to secure your front wheel or loop through a bag or basket. We wouldn’t consider cable locks secure because of how easy they are to cut through, but for a quick pop-in to the grocery store or brewery, we’re confident of its ability to at least deter would-be thieves.
The New-U is on the larger side of the U-locks that Kryptonite makes and has ample room to loop through the chainstay/seat stay and rear wheel of most bikes, though mountain bikes for the most part were too large, and we’d recommend a different lock for your shred sled anyway.
The New-U comes with $1,750 theft insurance and is supported by the Kryptonite key program (two free keys in the event of losing them) and a 6/10 security rating. This might not be a great option for long-term security, but we think it offers excellent peace of mind at a good price.
The Tex-lock ($159) is an innovative u-lock and cable system that meets a particular niche in the cycling security world. We tested the X-lock and large Tex-lock cable, but there are a variety of sizes and lock options available. If you live or ride in an area where security is an issue, the Tex-lock is an excellent contender for your next U-lock and cable combo.
What makes the Tex-lock particularly innovative is the textile sheath which covers the 6mm chain. Not only does the sheath prevent damage to your frame or paint, but also it is cut-resistant, saw-resistant, and fireproof. The cable by itself receives a sold-secure silver rating and when combined with the 12mm X-lock mini U-lock, the system receives a Sold Secure gold rating.
Of the cable locks included on this list, the Tex-lock cable is far and away the most robust and secure that we’ve tested. Like other chains and cables on this list, the Tex-Lock carries well over the shoulder and riders can purchase a frame mount separately if they wish. Our tester threw the Tex-lock in his bike basket and had few complaints about portability. The cable and U-lock weigh in at 1,300 g, making this a lightweight, portable, and highly secure option.
The folks over at Tex-lock clearly thought out the design of this lock. Immediately upon receiving the lock, our tester noted that the eyelets are shaped and sized differently; this is so users can loop the cable through a wheel and around a rack before securing it with the X-lock. While the X-lock is pretty small (currently the smallest and lightest sold-secure gold lock on the market), it’s more than adequate in size to secure the frame of your bike to a rack and the end of the cable.
Indeed, this is how the Tex-lock is intended to be used. And, our tester was impressed by the easy and intuitive design of this combo. We also like the X-lock by itself. It’s super compact and transports easily — a great option for an evening spin to the brewery or a quick stop at the market.
In terms of security, the eyelets on the cable are likely the most susceptible to attack in this latest iteration. Tex-Lock has switched to hardened steel to slow down attacks with saws, however, it’s likely that a good strike with a heavy hammer could break the eyelet at its smallest point if positioned properly.
The X-lock’s 12mm hardened steel shackle is significantly more secure but also likely susceptible to the classic freeze-and-smash attack. It’s also important to note that like every lock on this list, the Tex-lock isn’t meant to completely prevent theft, but rather to deter and slow down would-be thieves.
The ABUS Bordo 5700 ($85) is a nifty piece of kit for folks with limited space. It’s super easy to slip into your bag, or even to stick in a back pocket for a quick rip down to the pub. At 1 pound, 9 ounces, the Bordo is far and away the lightest and most portable lock we’ve tested, but don’t let its small size beguile you into thinking it isn’t secure.
ABUS rates this lock at 7/15 on its in-house scale, which we think is excellent considering its small size and ease of portability. Our tester likes to think of the Bordo as “light-duty” security.
ABUS also tests its locks using the spray method to ensure appropriate protection against modern break-in tactics. While it is definitely not as secure as a U-lock or a chain, the Bordo is far and away more secure than a simple cable.
Available in 60 or 80 cm, the Bordo offers a convenient and super portable way to protect your bike, and it’s available in eight different colors and two different configurations — keyed or combo. The 60cm version has plenty of room to slip between your seat stays and wheel, providing your anchor is small enough. Trees, pylons, or thicker anchors may require some creativity, but our tester had very little trouble finding a secure spot to lock up.
We tested the combo version of the Bordo. Setting the combination was super simple, a theme that carried with both the ABUS combo locks we tested. The Bordo also scored well in ease of use — fold it up and slip it in a secure pocket and off you go. Like we said — super simple. Our tester did have some concerns about the 5mm thick shackle, though, as it is substantially thinner than any other lock on this list.
We’d hate to see what a pair of bolt cutters or grinder could do to this thing. Additionally, our tester felt that the rivets between shackle segments presented a potential vulnerability and wondered if the ABUS Spray Test included the rivets in addition to the combo.
Those concerns aside, the Bordo 5700 is a great little lock for quick trips and could be an excellent option as a backup lock for your front wheel or panniers in less secure areas. We wouldn’t recommend leaving your bike locked up and unattended with this lock for extended periods of time, however, if you live in an area with low theft rates, leave your bike locked up in sight, or need the convenience and portability of a lock like the Bordo, it’s an enthusiastic yes from us.
We liked the Abus 8808C ($85) for its combination (get it?) of ease of use and solid security rating. Combo locks are great for folks who are frequently locking and unlocking their rigs in suspect areas, and also for folks who regularly lose or misplace their keys. Our lead tester thinks the Abus 8808C is the perfect lock to throw in the front basket for a quick run to the grocery store.
At 5.22 lbs and 110 cm, the 8808C is a little lighter and a little bit longer than other locks on this list. It is certainly easier to carry than the Kryptonite 1090, but it does not carry anywhere near as well as the Hiplok Gold. It’s also less secure, offering a 9 out of 15 security rating from ABUS.
The combination shackle is also quite a bit less robust than a standard steel hook or deadbolt like the one found on the Kryptonite 1090. At 8 mm, the chain isn’t as thick as other chains on this list which makes it more vulnerable than both the 1090 and the Hiplok. That said, the 8808c is still a great lock.
Our tester appreciated the lighter weight and simplicity of the combination tumbler. The 8808C is fully wrapped in a nylon chain cover and the combo tumbler has a helpful dust shield that keeps dirt, water, and debris from gunking things up. While it’s certainly not the most robust lock on this list, the 8808C offers more than adequate protection for beer runs or quick lock-ups between stops in town, and if that sounds like you, the 8808C is definitely worth your consideration.
For those of you looking for a budget-oriented option to keep your trusty steed safe, there is the ABUS Ultra 410 U Lock and Cable System ($60). ABUS has a solid reputation in the market for making sturdy and reliable locks and the 410 Ultra is no exception. Our tester found it functionally comparable to the Kryptonite New-U, but felt that it might not be on the same level in terms of security. It’s a little lighter than the Kryptonite Version and a little thinner, but the hardened steel shackle still inspires confidence.
Like the New-U, the Ultra 410 also comes with a cable lock to secure your front wheel, or at the very least deter someone from trying to make off with it. Again, we don’t consider cable locks secure, and urge users to exercise caution and good judgment when using one to protect their valuables.
With a 9″ by 4″ shackle, the 410 happily accommodates a wide range of frames and offers enough space to lock through your frame and rear wheel providing the structure you’re using isn’t overly large. It comes with two keys that lock and unlock smoothly, but it doesn’t have a dust cover for the keyhole, so users will need to be attentive to keeping their lock clean.
The 410 has a “double-locking” mechanism which ABUS claims decreases the ability of thieves to pick the lock, and their website claims that the lock passed the spray ice test with flying colors. ABUS rates this lock at 8/15 on their in-house security scale. That said, we struggled to find any information pertaining to theft insurance from ABUS, and in that regard, Kryptonite definitely wins out.
Another gripe we had with this lock is the frame mount — it isn’t great. It broke almost immediately and our tester found himself back to relying on a ski strap to tote the lock. In the end, however, these are minor complaints, and the 410 is a solid lock at a solid price. And, while it might not offer the same fit and finish or the same kind of insurance as other locks on this list, the ABUS 410 is still a great option — especially for folks on a budget who need to protect their bike.
So, you’re in the market for an inexpensive cable lock. Maybe you need a lock to keep your panniers safe, or to lock the kid’s bikes to yours on your ride to the park. Cable locks are a simple and practical way to add a margin of security to your ride when you need it, but lack the same kind of security and peace of mind offered by more substantial locks and chains.
There is certainly a value to having a small cable lock on hand, and the ABUS Numero 5510C ($30) is an excellent option to keep wrapped on your bike for quick trips or to bolster another lock. At $30, it’s inexpensive and weighing just over a pound the Numero is almost unnoticeable in your bag or on your bike.
As far as features go, the Numero is a pretty standard cable lock with good ergonomics and a few well-thought-out features. Its 70.9″ 10 mm cable is wrapped in a PVC coating to avoid damaging your frame. The tumbler indexes well and is easy to see after dark thanks to the ABUS darktouch feature.
ABUS rates the Numero at a 3/15 security rating, meaning that it’s the most vulnerable lock on our list. We definitely wouldn’t recommend locking your rig up out of sight with this lock, and doubly so for high-end bikes. But, if you need a cable lock for securing your front wheel or a bag to your bike while you’re away, the Numero will certainly serve in that application.
We vetted the most popular locks on the market and ordered a selection of different styles — chains, U locks, folding locks, and cables. We then evaluated them for fit, finish, and function. Our testers carted these locks all over town looking for secure locking points and evaluated portability, security, and ease of use for each lock.
Then they put some of the manufacturer’s security claims to the test and attempted to break into some of the featured locks to see if they really stood up to attacks. What we came back with are the best options for the different styles of locks on the market today. We stratified our results into the Best Overall lock, Best Chain lock, Best U lock, Best Budget, Most Portable lock, and the best of the rest.
Our expert testing team is composed of experienced cyclists and outdoors-oriented people looking for the best products on the market. Our staff includes former bike racers, recreational cyclists, folks who bike-commute 60 miles a week, and everyone in between — people who care about fit, finish, and function in every product we use.
Lead tester Paul Mandell has 2 decades of experience in the saddle as a competitive racer and recreational rider. He completed his master’s degree in exercise science where he studied the critical power model for cycling. These days, he prefers lift-accessed gravity riding and long adventure rides with plenty of descending. He still finds time to get out for the occasional gravel grind or single-track loop near his home base in California’s Eastern Sierra.
Bike locks traditionally come in four different styles.
U-locks (also known as D-locks) have a hardened steel U-shaped shank that fits into a straight lock that closes the loop. These can have a locking mechanism on one or both ends of the U shape. If it locks both sides, it usually means that the lock must be cut twice to be removed. For most folks in most situations, a solid U lock like the Kryptonite New U will be more than adequate.
U-locks offer the best combination of security and portability, but you’ll want to ensure that the lock you choose fits your specific bike. Folks considering a U lock may also want to pick up a cable lock to help secure your other wheel and/or bags while you are away from your bike.
Chain locks are a chain with a locking mechanism that locks the two ends together. Some chain locks come with a padlock, and others have a built-in locking mechanism. Chains also must be cut twice to remove, making them difficult to break, but not impossible. The value of a chain lock is that it takes a long time to cut through, and usually draws attention. Chain locks offer more flexibility when locking. They allow you to lock up more bikes at once or lock your bike to a larger item.
Chains are only as good as their weakest link, so choose one with a strong padlock or locking mechanism. Additionally, some chain locks like the ABUS 8808C have a combination lock which isn’t as robust as a padlock or shackle. Padlock-style locks are susceptible to attack with the wrench and cutter methods. Locks like the Kryptonite 1090 which uses a deadbolt are more secure than padlocks and traditional shackles.
Folding locks like the ABUS Bordo are composed of a set of hardened steel bars that are attached by pivot hinges at each end and a lock that connects the two free ends. These allow the same flexibility as a chain lock but at a lighter weight.
The pivot hinges are designed in a way that hinders leverage at those points. In theory, they force the thief to cut through a bar to break the lock, but some hinges on some locks may present a potential vulnerability. Be sure to do your research when considering this style of lock — did the company test the shackle and the pivots?
We here at GearJunkie don’t consider cable locks secure on their own, and neither should you. They are only meant as an accessory to your main lock and can be used to lock your wheels or other gear that’s on your bike.
These locks use a braided steel cable that’s attached at each end with a lock. Cables can be cut extremely easily and silently, which makes them the number-one lock we have seen bike thieves seek out when stealing bikes.
Each lock style works differently, and finding the one that fits your needs is pretty easy. Our tester is a big fan of combination locks because they’re quick and easy, and there’s no chance of losing your keys.
U-locks are an excellent option for most people. Super simple, quick to lock and unlock, and easily portable, U-locks are awesome.
When buying a lock, take a good look at how the locking mechanism works, as well as how easy it is to lock and unlock before deciding which one is right for you. All of the locks featured in this guide scored well in ease of use, but individual preferences may vary. Do bear in mind that combo locks are usually more susceptible to attack than deadbolts and shackles, but offer a slightly easier locking and unlocking situation.
Locks come in a variety of shapes and sizes, you’ll want to choose the one that fits your specific needs. U-locks come in sizes that fit one bike or up to five bikes. Chain and folding locks come in different lengths and generally larger and stronger locks make for less portability but are more secure. Then there are highly portable folding locks like the ABUS Bordo, or easy-carrying U locks like the Kryptonite New U — what do you need out of your bike lock?
You’ll want to have a solid way to transport your lock, which is why frame mounts like the one included with the OnGuard Bulldog are so handy. Other considerations include the available objects to secure your bike to; is there a dedicated rack where you’re going, or will you need to use a sign or even a tree, and can your lock accommodate it?
Every lock company has its own security ranking system, but they all seem to be pretty accurate when compared and averaged. An easy way to know if the lock you are buying has a high-security rating is to look for the “Sold Secure” logo, which is an independent-party rating system. Some, but not all of the locks we featured in this article are vetted by Sold Secure — multiple locks from Kryptonite, ABUS, and Hiplok come with this rating
Sold Secure has four categories: bronze, silver, gold, and diamond. We suggest looking at either gold or diamond if you are in a metro area or college campus.
In general, as the price increases, so does lock security. To find the right value for you, a balance of price and security, consider the value of your bike and your security risks. No one wants their bike stolen, but obviously, if you have an expensive bike, it will fetch a higher price, and thieves are more likely to risk cutting a flimsy cable lock or even going after a sturdier D-lock with an angle grinder.
You’ll want a lock system that allows you to secure the frame and the front wheel of your bike. Remember, any lock can be cut eventually, and security comes from the amount of time it takes to break a lock. A sturdier lock like the Hiplok Gold will do the trick, especially if you leave your bike in a highly visible area where someone going at your bike lock with a grinder will attract attention. A cheap parts bike for around-town cruising won’t have the same appeal, and you can probably get by with a less expensive, lighter-duty lock.
If you live in a college town or larger, you’re likely at a high risk of bike theft. A larger population means thieves will have an easier time reselling your bike as well, making bike theft a more enticing hustle. Even if your bike is inexpensive, it could be your primary way to commute, making it very valuable to you, so consider a lock that’s heavier and more secure, like the tough, yet affordable OnGuard Bulldog.
Finally, you can extend the value of your lock by considering the lock manufacturer’s “insurance” policy. For example, Kryptonite offers an Anti-Theft protection program that will cover the cost of your bike if you fill out the registration and your Kryptonite lock is broken by force. While there is definitely some fine print to consider, it increases our confidence in the brand’s secure, albeit expensive, bike locks.
Lock your bike through one of the two triangles made by the frame with a high-security lock. Using a cable or chain lock, also lock the wheels to the frame or to the post you are locking up at.
Never lock your bike using the seat post, handlebars, or just a wheel, as the bike can still be easily stolen leaving that part behind.
No. With enough time and the correct tools, any lock can be cut.
Depending on the situation, you can lock your bike frame to its wheel for a very short time. If it is an extended period of time, you should find a pole, tree, gas meter, or another item to lock to, even if it means you have to walk a block or two.
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Paul Mandell is a climber, cyclist, skier, and well-rounded mountain athlete. He hails from Bishop California, where he helps the remarkably fit townsfolk get even fitter through his strength coaching program. Paul is a big, hard-charging fella who routinely destroys his gear, so his assessments are solid, especially when evaluating aspects like durability and build quality. When he’s not running around in the mountains, Paul can be found tinkering with his bike and feeding feral cats.
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