The Greatest Bike Locks of 2023

How We Test Bike Locks

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 two 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.

How to Choose a Bike Lock

Bike locks traditionally come in four different styles.

U-Locks

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

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

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?

Cable Locks

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.

Ease of Use

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. 

Size and Portability

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?

Security

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.

Price and Value

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 re-selling 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.

Frequently Asked Questions