Best Bike Locks For Maximum Safety In 2022
If you’re like us, you spent a lot of time picking just the right bike to get you around and it wasn’t cheap either. To make sure your new bike stays out of the hands of bicycle thieves you need a lock you can count on. There’s a common misconception that just about any old piece of hardware that will attach your bike to a parking meter, light pole or bike rack will do, but in fact an experienced bicycle thief can get through a poorly designed lock in seconds. With that unfortunate fact in mind we present one of our most important 10-best lists to date: the 10 best bike locks of 2020. As always keep in mind that this list represents the consensus opinion of our panel of product review experts.
The Best Bike Lock
1Kryptonite New York Standard Bicycle U Lock
When you’re choosing a bike lock, you want to know that it’s going to be able to protect your bike from thieves. The Kryptonite New York Standard Bicycle U Lock protects your bike in two ways. First, it’s a super tough, 6mm hardened steel shackle lock, which is resistant to hand tools, bolt cutters, and leverage attacks. Basically, if a thief decides to try and steal your bike, they’re going to have a real tough time getting it loose. The second way your bike is protected is with Kryptonite’s Anti-Theft Protection Offer. For the first year, if a bike thief does manage to take your bike, the company will reimburse you, up to a maximum value of $4,000. They’ll even ship you new keys if you happen to lose the originals. In short, this bike lock is one of the best ways to keep your bike safe. You may also like some of these amazing bike baskets from our list, so check them out.
6mm hardened steel shackle lock
Resistant to tools, bolt cutters, & leverage attacks
Anti-Theft Protection Offer
Key Safe Program
Interior Locking Dimensions – 4″ x 8″
- BrandKryptonite
- Model002154
- Weight4.54 pounds
One of the toughest locks on the market
The company provides extra protection with their Anti-Theft Protection Offer
Comes with three stainless steel keys
Not a huge amount of interior space
A skilled lockpicker could get inside
2Titanker Coiling Resettable Bike Lock Cable
Sealing the deal of the Titanker Coiling- Resettable Mounting Bike Lock is the complimentary mounting bracket. This item was made with the aim to protect what you value and offers a flexible braided steel cable for strong cut resistance. The lock, used together with the mounting bracket, has an easy release attachment mechanism that lets you hook one to the other while not in use. To start using it, all you need do is push the button and the lock is usable.
The 4 digit combination allows for endless possibilities which are also resettable. Cracking the code is quite impossible which also allows you to set your own password at will. With PVC coating this bike lock is protected against paint scratches and dust and its PVC coating safeguards against scratching whilst also offering a combination lock as anti-theft protection. All these features and more is what makes it Amazon’s yop choice. To keep your valuables safe while traveling, be sure to invest in some of the best luggage locks from our list.
Combination lock is easy and resettable
Multi-purpose and can be used not only for bikes
Flexible strong braided steel for maximum protection
Bracket for the lock to be safe and usable
- BrandTitanker
- ModelUShake
- Weight11.2 ounces
Can be used for more than just a bicycle
Steel cable is long
Can still cut it open with the right tools
Has a strong plastic smell
3Master Lock 8143D Combination Bike Lock
The next item on our list is the Masterlock 8143D combination bike lock. It’s a 4 feet long cable combination lock that comes in black with gift wrap available upon purchase. It is a discounted item with an 18% price slash for additional savings. With prices starting from $ 4.49, it comes both used and new with a Masterlock that is very durable and secure. It is a factory preset 4 digit combination lock and cannot be changed. This security mechanism serves as a theft deterrent. Although no security regiment is 100%, this combination lock provides the best multi-purpose security for your bike and other properties.
Like the Titanker, this product is self coiled with the addition of a limited lifetime warranty. The product is simplicity at it’s best. Once acquired, the security of your bike is assured. And as for versatility, the Masterlock also be used as locks for lawnmowers, ladders, gates, and bikes. You may be interested in some of the best trailer locks from our list, as well. Check them out.
Self-coiling flexible design for easy use, folding, and storage
Preset factory combination makes for a keyless experience serving as a theft deterrent
Quality high performance braided steel cable made for maximum strength and security
- BrandMaster Lock
- Model8143D
- Weight6.4 ounces
Really affordable
Easy to set up
Can be used to lock more than just bikes
Can still be cut open with bolt cutters
The lock can get jammed
4Kryptonite New York Fahgettaboudit Chain 1415 Bike Lock
The Kryptonite New York Fahgettaboudit Chain comes at a discounted price by 44%. Made with hardened bolts, crossbar, and high-performance shackle, peace of mind is yours knowing that your precious bike is in safe hands. In the unlikely event that the item fails to protect your bike when properly used, the manufacturer has promised to pay up to a certain value depending on the value of the product.
For additional safety, the product offers a sliding dust cover to protect against debris and dust. There are 3 stainless steel keys available on purchase. This includes a new key design and an LED replaceable key fob. Providing lighting key convenience after dark, this all-round bike lock has all it takes from strong chains, locks, and keys with complimentary light and sliding dust cover. You must register for anti-theft protection within 15 days of purchase to validate the service.
Hardened double deadbolt and oval crossbar to give additional protection against twist attacks
3T manganese steel for strength
Hook – n-loop fasteners with a durable, protective nylon cover to hold in place
3 stainless steel keys including one lighted fob for users
Six-sided stainless steel chain and lock for ultimate protection
Replaceable key fob
- BrandKryptonite
- Model999492
- Weight1.1 pounds
Thick chain is difficult to cut through
The size is intimidating to thieves
Not that long so you’ll have to choose carefully where you park
If you lose your key, you’ll need to get a locksmith out
5Knog Bouncer U-Lock
If something isn’t broke you shouldn’t try to fix it and that’s the case with the Knog Bouncer U-Lock. The Bouncer acknowledges the strength and practicality of the U-lock design and doesn’t try to re-invent the wheel. What it does instead is refine the wheel and it does so in an interesting and laudable way. The Strongman is incredibly difficult for the typical bolt cutter to crack and yet it’s easy as pie to deploy. Be sure to also check out our list of the best bike seats for more great items like this.
Double locking mechanism
Available in three colors
Made from plated hardened steel and silicone
Resistant to bolt cutters
- BrandKnog
- Model10961
- Weight2.43 pounds
Key mechanism is smooth and the double lock means 2 cuts will be needed to remove it
13mm hardened steel stands up to the toughest bolt cutter
Lots of attractive colors so there’s sure to be one to match your bike
This lock is going to set you back a few bucks
Like it or not keys get lost so you’ll need to always carry 2 or risk being locked out
6Oxford OF159 Bike Lock
There are 2 simple truths about the OF159 “HD Chain”. The first is that it’s among the more expensive bike locks on the market at more than $150. And the second is that it’s worth every penny if you want to make sure your bike is safe from bike thieving weasels. This 9.5mm hardened, cloth covered, square link chain lock won’t buckle under the pressure when a bike thief has targeted your pride and joy. You can sling the HD Chain over your shoulder as you ride or stow it in your backpack. In any case you’ll have all the bike lock you need to secure your bike when you reach your destination and can go about your business knowing it will be there when you return.
Hardened 9.5-millimeter square link steel chain
Padlock can be used as a disc lock
Key replacements available
Dust cover for keys
Chain cover
- BrandOxford
- ModelOF159
- Weight8 pounds
The OF159 is available in various lengths so there’s one that will suit your needs exactly
Cloth covering protects your bike’s paint job from chipping and scratching
The key replacement service can be a bike saver if you find yourself in a tight spot
You may find it a tad heavy to tote about if you ride long distances
It’s going to cost you real money so you need to be sure it’s the right lock for you before forking over the cash
7Hiplok Gold Bike Lock/Wearable Chain
The Hiplok Gold is the company’s toughest bike lock system to date. There’s no messing around with this piece of security hardware that is as rugged as it is attractive. The 32-inch chain is plenty long to fit around any standard bike rack as well as lampposts and most other common anchors you’ll find in an urban setting. Our handy guide to the best car bike racks features more great products like this.
10mm hardened steel chain
Available in two colors
Designed to be worn
Speed buckle fastening
Comes with three keys
- BrandHiplok
- ModelLK5018-P
The thick cloth cover ensures the Hiplock Gold always sits comfortably on your waist
A nylon strap can be extended from under the cover to provide a proper fit around the waist
The 10mm thickness will thwart even the most determined thief wielding a bolt cutter
Can be a bit heavy on long rides
Because the chain and shackle are designed to pretty close tolerances, locking the whole thing when the chain is pulled tight can be tricky
8Kryptonite 994589 New York Bike Lock
The Kryptonite M-18WL New York Lock is a serious piece of security technology designed to repel even the most determined bicycle thief. There’s a reason they call this the “New York” lock. Because it’s been battle tested in that city’s most notorious bicycle theft areas and passed with flying colors. The M-18WL New York Lock features an extra-long shackle because there’s not always a bike rack when you need one. This bike lock is a great gift for cyclists.
18mm through-hardened Kryptonium steel shackle
Resistant to bolt cutters and leverage attacks
Comes with three keys
Lighted key for night use
Limited lifetime warranty
- BrandKryptonite
- Model994589
- Weight5.73 pounds
Due to the 260mm shackle length you’re never far from a secure anchor
The LED lit key makes things a lot easier on you when you arrive back at your bike after dark
The hardened steel shackle is resistant to even the highest grade industrial bolt cutters
You wouldn’t call this a lock ‘light’ so be prepared to lug around a bit of weight
Not big enough to secure both front and back wheel without removing the front wheel
9Kryptonite Kryptolok
There’s little doubt that the 13mm hardened steel shackle of the Kryptonite Kryptolok Series 2 lock will repel all thieves who aren’t sporting a portable welding device. The rest of this Kryptonite lock is just as thoughtfully engineered and tough with one exception: the 4’ extension cable, which seems more of an afterthought. The rest of the lock, however, is rock solid.
13mm hardened steel shackle
Includes a 4” double-loop cable
Two keys included
Anti-rattle bumpers to reduce noise whilst riding
- BrandKryptonite
- Model3.59 pounds
- WeightLK41051
The disk cylinder is engineered to be both drill and pick resistant
13mm thick shackle isn’t going to succumb to some weasel with a bolt cutter
At just under 3 pounds it’s not going to be a problem over the course of a long day
The cable is basically useless against a seasoned bike thief
The shackle on this lock is not double bolted meaning it might be more susceptible to leveraged attacks than some of the company’s more upscale models
10Etronic Security Bike Lock M6
The Etronic M6 Security Bike Lock with resettable combination locks is the easy, dependable way to secure your bike from even the most determined thieves. The 10mm thick cable is resistant to all but the most robust bolt cutters and the resettable combination lock is impervious to leveraged attacks. The heavy-duty cable is a full 6 feet long to ensure you’re always able to find a place to lock your bike.
10mm diameter braided steel cable
Six feet long
Available in five colors
Protective vinyl coating
Four-digit combination lock
- BrandEtronic
- ModelM6
- Weight1.2 pounds
2 cables buys more time for the police to arrive and catch the thief
Easily reset the combination locks if you feel your code has been compromised
No need to remove your front wheel in order to secure your bike
While stout, the cables themselves are not a very formidable opponent for an experienced thief
The two cables can be a fairly heavy load to be toting around
11ABUS Bordo Chain Bike Lock
The Abus 6100 Folding Lock is available in either 75cm or 90cm lengths so it’s easy to secure your bike to a wide variety of potential anchors. The lock itself comes with its own rattle-free carrying case and folds up into a very manageable size that every type of bike owner will find relatively easy to transport.
5mm steel bars
Silicone lock body
Four-digit combination
Compact design
- BrandABUS
- ModelAbus
- Weight2.66 pounds
The combination lock on the 6100 can be easily reset should you feel the need to
The effect of this lock is like making your bike a part of the anchoring item
Very difficult to compromise this type of lock in any ‘traditional’ bike theft way
The fact that you have to physically carry this bike lock is a bit of an inconvenience
Not always a snap to deploy or remove, which it should be for more than $100
12Hiplok Lite v1.0
The Hiplok Lite v1.0 Wearable Bike Lock is nothing if not convenient. When you’re ready to go for a ride just secure the lock around your waist and you’re off. Once you arrive just pop the Hiplok off and secure your bike to the desired anchor point. No need to carry the lock in a backpack or attach a carrying mechanism to your bike frame. Your lock is part of your wardrobe. This can even be a nice gift for mountain bikers.
Winner of the Eurobike Design Award
75cm locking length
Wearable design
Lifetime warranty
- BrandHiplok
- ModelHiplok LT1 BW
- Weight2 pounds
Light, easy to transport, looks good and works like a charm
Hardened steel chain beneath the outer fabric resists bolt cutters
No need for carrying around keys and no emergency should you lose your key
Not as robust as other Hiplok models
Can be a chore to secure the lock as tolerances are very tight between lock and chain
13UShake Bike Lock Cable
The UShake Bike Lock Cable is made for the biker who doesn’t ride into bike theft hot spots but still needs to secure their ride against opportunistic thieves. Considering this lock cost less than a large pizza with everything and will likely save your very expensive bike time and again over the course of its life.
Four-digit combination
Flexible steel cable
PVC coating
Resettable lock
Four feet long
- BrandUShake
- ModelUShake
- Weight11.2 ounces
Personalized combination can be reset as often as necessary with up to 10,000 combinations
Hardened steel cables will resist all but the most heavy duty bolt cutter
Comes with a handy mounting bracket
Need to always remember to tumble the numbers after securing the lock
Handy mounting bracket isn’t compatible with every make of bicycle
14SIGTUNA Bike Locks 16mm
The Sigtuna team take bike security seriously and put all of their locks through rigorous quality control checks before they’re allowed to hit the market. This 16mm hardened steel lock with supplementary cable is no exception. While the cable by itself won’t do you much good in high crime areas full of experienced weasels, the U-lock component is rock solid and dependable as other bike locks that cost many times more.
16mm steel cable
Double deadbolt locking mechanism
Protective coating
Comes with three laser-cut keys
100% money-back guarantee
- BrandSigtuna Gear
- ModelFBA_Wodan 16mm
- WeightSigtuna Gear
The double bolted U-lock provides an added protection not normally seen at this price point
The one button release from the mounting bracket is a nice touch
The shackle is pretty short so your anchoring options using it are limited
The cable alone isn’t going to scare any determined bike thief away
Bike Lock Buyer Questions
Types of Bike Locks
D Locks - These locks from appearance are designed in the shape of letter D. There are several types of D locks on the market and the Amazer bike lock is one brand. It is shackle not cable.
Folding Locks - Folding locks come in flexible shapes and sizes. They can be both coils or cords. Popular self coiled folded locks are the Titanker and Masterlock.
Chain Locks - Chain locks are made of steel chains and come as flexible braided chains attached to your bike for secure fastening.
Combination Locks - An alternative to cables and chains are the combination locks. They provide keyless experience and come both as factory preset and resettable combination locks.
Cable Locks - Another type of lock is the cable locks. These are less heavy and are preferred by a wide variety of bike riders. Self-folding cables are on high demand due to easy use and storage.
Bike Locks FAQ
Q: What are bike locks made of?
A: Bike locks are made of quality stainless steel or durable coils and cables.
Q: What is the most secure bike lock?
A: Depending on brand and preference, an all-around option is the chain lock. For keyless lock, it's best to opt for the combination lock whilst the U or D locks are an option for shackles. Ultimately, all locks work best to provide maximum security for your property.
Q: Is there an unbreakable bike lock?
There is no known unbreakable bike lock. Combination locks are not impossible to hack or break into and chains, cables, and shackles are all prone to theft or cutting. These products do not provide a 100% guarantee but enough to secure your properties.