Nothing puts a damper on a solid ride like getting to your destination and not trusting the security of your bike after you walk away. Do you have the best lightweight bike lock? Or did you grab something nominal only to learn the hard way that it’s not theft-proof? Of course you pay attention to your bike, the gear you wear, and what you pack on your ride. But neglecting how you secure your bike once you arrive can negate all that effort if you have no bike left to ride home!
Like most things these days, there are so many options for bike locks, but we want you to have the best bike lock that actually works. It’s unfortunate that you need to be so picky about your bike lock, but these days, it’s true that you can’t be too careful.
That’s why you need to read this guide.
Get the low-down on the best locks out there, suited for your specific needs. That way next time, you can park your bike with confidence.
What’s the Best Bike Lock to Buy?
Big question, but with easy answers. Here’s a great place to start:
ONGUARD Beast Chain Lock with X4 Padlock
Forget minimal, OnGuard went straight to a titanium reinforced chain with this beast of a lock. And we mean beast. This heavy-duty bike lock is big. With a security rating of 99, you get a 3.5 inch chain to keep the X4P boxer short shackle securely fastened. It’s far from being the best lightweight bike lock there is, because this is all muscle and sometimes heavyweight is the way to go.
This OnGuard bike lock is marketed to high-crime areas for a reason. While it is one of the pricier locks on this list, the insurance is worth it to protect your bike. CHECK ON AMAZON
Kryptonite Fahgettaboutit U-Lock Bicycle Lock
Ask this New York bike lock brand if there’s a better option out there than this one and they’ll tell you, “Fahgettaboutit!”
This Kryptonite bike lock is made from hardened, max performance steel and promises to be resistant to hand tools, leverage attacks, and bolt cutters. In fact, back in the 1970s when the lock was created, founder Michael Zane had a bike secured in Greenwich Village with his lock and it clearly withstood multiple attacks and theft attempts, yet remained in place for the 30 days he left it there.
An un-stealable bike in New York City? Now that’s some great marketing.
Kryptonite also has a Key Safe Program that ships you your first 2 keys for free, anywhere in the world, in case you lose the first pair. They really put their money where their mouth is and offer up to $5,000 reimbursement for one year when you use their lock. They’re confident in their lock and you can be too. CHECK ON AMAZON
SIGTUNA Bike locks U-Lock Shackle and Bicycle Lock
This SIGTUNA U-lock shape with flex cable gives you flexibility to lock your bike to nearly anything. Plus, with the 16mm hardened ABS steel, it makes it one of the most secure bike lock options available. It’s no dainty thing. But in this case, size does matter providing your bike ultimate security.
With all this strength and durability, SIGTUNA even provided a super easy locking mechanism. This way you spend less time fiddling with your lock and more time enjoying your day on and off your bike. There’s an easy-to-install mounting bracket holder which gives you a one-push quick release button for the U-lock.
As if that’s not enough, SIGTUNA provides you with a 3-year warranty and excellent customer service to make sure your bike remains in your possession. CHECK ON AMAZON
Kryptonite Keeper 785 Integrated Bicycle Lock Chain Bike Lock, 33.5-Inch
Not only is this Kryptonite lock one of the less expensive options, it’s also got some of the best features.
This integrated bicycle lock has a patent-pending end-link design securing the chain and removing one of the most vulnerable parts of most locks. This hardened deadbolt designs offers extreme holding strength and is pick and drill resistant.
And because not everyone lives in sunny weather, Kryptonite took the elements into consideration. This lock is covered with a nylon sleeve making it weather and scratch resistant. CHECK ON AMAZON
Best Lightweight Bike Lock
When it comes to security for your bike, heavy duty is key, but that doesn’t have to always mean being weighed down. Below are two options worth considering when you don’t want to compromise durability, but can’t pack on any extra bulk.
SIGTUNA Lightweight Foldable Bike Lock
When traveling on a bike, near or far, compactable gear is appreciated. SIGTUNA brings you a worthy option that provides peace of mind in a lightweight package. The foldable construction makes it a small bike lock that expands into a large U-lock that can accommodate two bikes.
The specialized locking mechanism makes it impossible to pick, while the ABS steel material deters bolt cutters. Even though this is small enough to fit in a cycling jersey pocket, you can free up more space by installing it on your bike using its Velcro straps or bottle cage mount. CHECK ON AMAZON
TiGr Mini Lightweight Titanium Bicycle Lock
This lightweight bike lock is made from titanium with PVC coating to protect your bike frame from scratches. This lock’s mounting clip easily attaches to the frame and when you’re ready to use it, you use a simple push-button to engage the lock – no need for keys until you’re ready to unlock your bike and go.
The TiGr Mini weighs less than a pound but packs a serious security punch. It’s been laboratory tested and expert certified. Arguably, this is one of the best lightweight bike locks you can get. CHECK ON AMAZON
Best Cheap Bike Lock
You want a bike lock you can depend on, but does that always mean spending $100 for that security? We don’t think so! Here are your best budget options when you want a legit lock without emptying your wallet.
Titanker Resettable Combination Cable Bike Locks
This inexpensive bike chain lock is made from flexible braided steel. It’s tough and an easy choice for your bike.
This lock is cut resistant and provides a customizable 4-digit combination. For further ease and convenience, it comes with a mounting bracket that can attach anywhere on the frame. The simple release button detaches the lock so it’s quick to use. CHECK ON AMAZON
Via Velo Heavy Duty Bicycle U-Lock with Mounting Bracket
This is your straight-forward bike u-lock. It’s affordable, strong, and will keep your bike safe in all weather conditions. Its built with a burly double bolt crossbar locking mechanism, doubling your bike’s safety against picking; while its hardened steel protects against cutting and leveraging.
A nice added feature? A debris cover keeping all dirt and dust out of your lock for the most proficient function. CHECK ON AMAZON
The Best Bike Lock to Prevent Theft
So what’s the best lock? It depends how intense you need your lock to be. Yes, bigger is better, but maybe you’re parking it in an area less invasive than the middle of Greenwich Village in 1972.
Most of the locks on this list are not cable locks. Are bike cable locks safe? Sure, but be picky (by choosing one from this list, of course). Can bike locks be cut? While we won’t say there’s a perfect guarantee on any one bike lock, the options on this list will get you as close to that guarantee you can get!
Now that you have decided on a secured lock for your, how about seats. On a Budget? Check out our list of comfortable bike seats under $100
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