Whether you’re leaving your bike for a few minutes or overnight, you must lock it up to prevent theft. Find out what the best bike locks are.
Table of Contents
1. Kryptonite Evolution Mini-7 Bicycle U-Lock w/ 4’ KryptoFlex Double Loop Cable
When you pair the Kryptonite Evolution Mini-7 U-Lock with the 4-foot KryptoFlex Double Loop Cable, you get an incredible combination. It gives you high security and peace of mind when your bike is out of your sight.
The 7-inch U-lock has a 13mm hardened steel shackle, which can withstand bolt cutters and leverage attacks. It comes with a cable that’s used for securing the front wheel and accessories.
By having both options, you don’t have to carry around two locks. You can secure the frame and front wheel of the bike with the Kryptonite U-lock and cable.
Kryptonite gives you 3 stainless steel keys and one LED light. They also offer a Key Safe Program, which allows you to register your keys online, and they’ll ship you 2 keys if you lose them.
Buy the Kryptonite Evolution Mini-7 Bicycle U-Lock w/ 4’ KryptoFlex Double Loop Cable from Amazon for $69.99.
2. ABUS Granit X-Plus 540 U-Lock
The Granit X-Plus 540 U-Lock is the flagship bike U-lock from ABUS. It’s 9 inches long and features a 13mm temper-hardened steel shackle that’s shaped into a parabolic square.
Having Power Cell technology, it offers top-notch protection against hitting and pulling attacks. The XPlus Key cylinder protects your lock from picking. It also has excellent corrosion resistance.
With the Granit X-Plus 540 U-Lock, ABUS sends you 2 keys and one has an LED light. You also get a Code Card, which makes it easy to get additional or replacement keys.
Buy the ABUS Granit X-Plus 540 U-Lock from Amazon for $129.
3. Kryptonite New York Fahgettaboudit Mini
Kryptonite’s New York Fahgettaboudit Mini is a U-lock that’s 6 inches long and only has 3.25 inches of space between it. The lock is built with an 18mm hardened steel shackle that provides the ultimate level of protection.
It’s thick and heavy, as it weighs 4.55 pounds. However, it’s one of the most secure locks you can buy. The double deadbolt locking offers extreme holding power, and the patented hardened steel sleeve over the crossbar adds extra security.
Bolt cutters and leverage attacks are useless against the New York Fahgettaboudit Mini. While it’s secure and compact, it’s more expensive than other locks. If security is your main priority, it’s worth the investment.
You’ll get 3 stainless steel keys and one LED light. You can also register your keys into the Key Safe Program, and Kryptonite will ship you 2 keys if you lose them.
Buy the Kryptonite New York Fahgettaboudit Mini from Amazon for $129.95.
4. Hiplok Superbright Wearable Hardened Steel Chain Lock
Hiplok’s Superbright Wearable Hardened Steel Chain Lock is innovative and one of the better-looking bike locks.
It’s built with hardened steel and a toughened nylon water-resistant sleeve. The 8mm chain and 12mm shackle are both made with premium hardened steel.
You can wrap the chain around your waist or toss it in your bag. It also features reflective material, which ensures that you’re seen while you’re on the road. The Hiplok chain lock is heavy-duty, offers a good level of security, and is easy to use.
You’ll also get 3 coded replaceable keys and you’re protected by the Hiplok 10-year warranty.
Buy the Hiplok Superbright Wearable Hardened Steel Chain Lock from Backcountry for $74.99.
5. RockyMounts Maddox U-Lock
The RockyMounts Maddox U-Lock is made of aluminum and offers medium to high security. For being less than $30, it offers plenty of value and protection.
It has a coated shackle and body, which protects your bike’s frame from getting scratched. The Maddox U-Lock also comes with a mount with a button-release to place on your bike.
Overall, it’s an affordable and sturdy U-lock that does what it’s supposed to do. If you live in the city or commute by bike and are looking for a low-cost and effective lock, it’s a must-have.
Buy the RockyMounts Maddox U-Lock from Backcountry for $24.95.
6. Kryptonite New York Legend 1515 15mm Chain
Kryptonite’s New York Legend 1515 Chain features thick 15mm links made of 3T hardened steel. It does an excellent job of holding up when it’s up against bolt cutters. It’s the most secure chain that Kryptonite offers and is one of the best on the market.
The New York Legend 1515 Chain also has a reinforced padlock shell and a 16mm hardened steel shackle. It weighs 15.95 pounds, which makes it one of the heaviest bike locks. Everything that it has is designed for the highest level of protection.
It also has a nylon cover, which protects your bike from getting damaged. The hook-n-loop straps hold it in place and are easy to use.
Like other Kryptonite locks, you’ll get 3 stainless steel keys, and you can enroll in the Key Safe Program.
Buy the Kryptonite New York Legend 1515 15mm Chain from Walmart for $159.99.
7. Foldylock Compact Bike Lock
The Foldylock Compact Bike Lock is outstanding because it offers great security while folding into a compact size for travel. It only weighs 2.2 pounds, which makes it one of the lightest bike locks.
Although it’s light, the hardened steel links and rivets are designed to protect your bike against sawing, drilling, and cutting. It’s not as secure as the thick U-locks. However, it’s one of the best folding locks you’ll find.
While the links are coated with plastic to prevent scratching, it’s a hard plastic that feels rough and could lead to scratches. The metal parts are rust-free, and the plastic offers UV protection.
Along with the lock, you’ll get 3 keys. A great feature is that the keyhole is protected by a steel plate that blocks other items, such as screwdrivers.
Buy the Foldylock Compact Bike Lock from Amazon for $84.99.
8. ABUS Bordo GRANIT X Plus 6500
ABUS makes the best folding lock on the market. The Bordo GRANIT X Plus 6500 has 5.5mm bars that feature a soft casing to prevent damage to your bike’s frame.
The lock is built with specially hardened steel and an ABUS XPlus cylinder, which offers a high level of protection. You won’t have to worry about sawing, cutting, or picking.
By offering maximum security, the Bordo GRANIT X Plus 6500 gives you peace of mind, as it can protect your bike against many forms of attack. It’s built with quality, which means you can trust that it’ll last.
With the lock, you’ll receive 2 sets of keys and a rubber case. You can mount the lock by using the holes for a water bottle mount, or you can use the velcro straps that it comes with.
Bottom line
To prevent your bike from getting stolen, use a lock anytime you leave it outside of your home. Even if it’s just a few minutes, a thief may take advantage of the moment.
That’s why you must use a proven bike lock. The best overall bike lock is the Kryptonite Evolution Mini-7 Bicycle U-Lock with a 4-foot KryptoFlex Double Loop Cable because it’s dual-locking and strong.
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Featured image courtesy of Canva.
About David Em
David Em is the founder and editor-in-chief of Hello E-Bikes, the destination for electric bike reviews, comparisons, gear, and tips.
