Bike locks are a must-have item for every cyclist in today’s world. Bicycle thieves are opportunistic and will always go for the easiest available targets. You can make sure your bike doesn’t become an easy target by equipping it with a reliable bike lock, or maybe even two. The best bike locks are nearly impossible to break open, and they are made even more secure when multiple locks of different styles are used in tandem.
We reviewed dozens of bike locks and have identified the best available for keeping your bike, and all of its vulnerable parts, safe from thieves. As we examined these bike locks we considered features such as component strength, locking mechanisms, overall versatility, and size in choosing our top picks. Then, we put together a detailed list of many more quality bike locks for your consideration.
After reviewing a long list of bike locks we have chosen the Seatylock Foldylock as our overall top pick. Cute name aside, this is a surprisingly strong and flexible lock that cannot be easily tampered with.
In This Article
The 5 Top-Rated Bike Locks
| Editor’s Picks | Brand | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Best Bike Lock Overall | Seatylock Foldylock | 4.7 |
| Best Chain Bike Lock | DadyMart Chain Lock | 5.0 |
| Best Budget Bike Lock | Titanker Bike Lock | 4.7 |
| Best Bike U Lock | Seatylock Mason | 4.9 |
| Best Cable Bike Lock | Swissii Combination Cable Bike Lock | 4.6 |
*Ratings are from Amazon at the time of publication and can change
Best Bike Lock Overall: Seatylock Foldylock
Combining the rigid strength of a U-lock with the flexibility of a chain or cable lock, the Seatylock Foldylock is the most practical and versatile bike lock for most cyclists. The thick steel bar links are held together by equally tough steel rivets which have been designed to resist sawing and cutting. The bar links themselves will be as difficult to cut through as would a standard U-lock, but, unlike traditional U-locks, the Foldylock’s folding design gives it a less bulky profile that won’t be bumping your knees when you have it mounted to your bicycle’s frame.
The steel bar links have been coated in plastic to give them a more comfortable feel and to protect your bike’s paint. Multiple color options are available. Every Foldylock has been fitted with an automotive industry-standard cylinder lock that comes with three keys and a key duplication card. Mounting hardware, a storage case, and associated tools have been included as well. A rattle eliminating mechanism prevents the lock from vibrating as you bike.
Because of its flexible design, this lock can be woven through multiple components of your bike to secure all of its parts, and it can secure your bike frame to larger structures than can a typical U-lock. Additionally, you could lock multiple Foldylocks together if you want to extend its reach. Everything about this lock has been engineered for security and convenience. Customers rave about its high-quality design, ease of use, and how it is incredibly easy to transport.
Seatylock Foldylock Key Features:
- 32″ long when unfolded, 10″ long when folded
- Automotive industry-standard lock cylinder and kets
- Plastic coated steel bar links and steel rivets
- Multiple units can be attached together
Best Chain Bike Lock: DadyMart Chain Lock
Nothing says secure like a steel chain. The DadyMart Chain Lock is a 3.3-foot long steel alloy chain with 6mm thick link crossbars. The high-strength chain has been made to be drill and cut resistant. The durable polyester cloth sleeve that covers the chain protects your bike’s paint, and on top of that it adds yet another layer of strength to the overall design. The alloy steel has undergone multiple heat treatments to harden the metal, making it more resistant to impacts and corrosion.
At the business end of this chain is an ABS-coated steel alloy cylinder lock. This lock has double internal grooves, making it harder for thieves to pick, and the ABS coating acts as a protective layer from dust and weather while also behaving as a visible shield so that potential thieves cannot easily examine the cylinder lock. A dust-proof cover also protects the key access from grime that could damage the lock over time. This lock also features convenient keyless locking functionality by utilizing a mechanism that self-locks as soon as the locking bolt is inserted into the lock.
Two double-grooved serpentine keys are provided with the lock. The design of this DadyMart Chain Lock enables you to secure your bike frame around large objects, and it can also be woven across seat brackets, through wheels, and over handlebars to tightly lock down every easily removable part of your bicycle.
DadyMart Chain Lock Key Features:
- 3.3-foot steel alloy chain
- Easy-to-use keyless locking mechanism
- ABS-coated lock cylinder
- Protective polyester cloth sleeve over chain
Best Budget Bike Lock: Titanker Bike Lock
The Titanker Bike Lock is a versatile and flexible lock that can be used to secure your bicycle to just about anything. It’s a 4-foot long braided steel cable that has been coated in PVC that is soft to the touch in order to protect your bike’s paint. At 12mm thick, this cable is hard to cut through with anything other than a dedicated heavy-duty pair of cable cutters. Its long reach enables you to secure your bike to large objects and can be woven through multiple parts of your bicycle for enhanced security.
Much like the aforementioned DadyMart Chain Lock, This Titanker Bike Lock has an ABS-coated cylinder lock with a convenient keyless locking mechanism that makes securing your bike a breeze. It also features a dust and waterproof cover that protects your lock from corrosion and rust. Two dual-groove serpentine keys are provided with the lock, as is a customizable mounting bracket that allows you to mount this lock on your bike’s frame or the thinner seat post.
There is also a 6-foot edition of this lock available for those who desire the extra length and don’t mind spending a couple of extra bucks. Overall, this Titanker Bike Lock stands out as an excellent value option that doesn’t sacrifice any material build quality in order to achieve its affordable price point.
Titanker Bike Lock Key Features:
- 4-foot long braided steel cable
- Easy-to-use keyless locking mechanism
- Dust and waterproof locking cylinder cover
- Mounting hardware included
Best Bike U-Lock: Seatylock Mason
The patented triangular crossbar design of the Seatylock Mason utilizes the strong structural foundation inherent to triangular architecture while also shaving off weight when compared to the more common circular crossbar U-locks. It’s a double-whammy of awesome engineering, and it’s unique to the Seatylock line of U-locks. That heavy-duty structure is connected to the locking cylinder by a double deadbolt design that virtually turns the two-piece lock into a single solid steel object that no one will be breaking through.
At 17mm all around, the crossbars are impressively thick, and the drill-resistant locking cylinder is nigh unbreakable. All of these robust security features add up. As a result, this lock has been approved by Sold Secure, a testing company owned by the Master Locksmiths Association that weighs locking devices against rigorous standards. The Seatylock Mason happens to be one of the lightest bike locks the organization has ever approved.
All of the extraneous bases are covered, too. This lock is weather-resistant and rustproof. It has an auto-shutter that closes over the locking mechanism when no key is inserted. The entirety of the lock has been covered in a durable plastic that not only protects your bicycle paint, but also acts as a deterrent to freeze attacks where thieves freeze a metal lock in order to make it more fragile. This 7.1″ version is versatile because of its roomy size, but if you’re concerned about bottle jack attacks there is a smaller 5.1″ version available as well.
Seatylock Mason Key Features:
- 7.1″ length and 17mm thick crossbars
- Double deadbolt locking mechanism
- Drill-resistant and rustproof cylinder
- Auto-shutter waterproof cover
Best Cable Bike Lock: Swissii Combination Cable Bike Lock
There’s no need to carry a key or install a mounting bracket with the Swissii Combination Cable Bike Lock. The 4-digit combination lock is completely customizable, allowing you to set your own unique numerical passcode and change it as often as you wish. This eliminates the need to carry any keys around. The neat, compact loop design of the lock allows you to strap the lock directly to your bicycle’s frame without any mounting hardware. That’s some slick engineering.
But, of course, the security factor is what’s most important. That dial combination lock is fitted with large, easy-to-read and spin number dials. There are thousands of possible numerical combinations to choose from, making it no easy task for a thief to crack your code. The 3-foot long braided steel wire is a 1/2″ thick and it has been covered in a durable PVC layer that for weather protection and additional security. These details amount to a secure and reliable cable lock design.
Numerous customers have praised this lock for its quality construction and solid feel. Swissii backs up this lock with a 12-month warranty, ensuring its craftsmanship. Those who want a simple and effective cable lock will find none better than this Swissii Combination Cable Bike Lock.
Swissii Combination Cable Bike Lock Key Features:
- 3-foot long braided steel cable
- 4-digit customizable combination lock
- Large and easy-to-spin number dials
- 12-month warranty
Who Should Buy A Bike Lock
Anyone who owns a bicycle needs a bike lock, if not two. The simple truth of the matter is that if you ever intend to leave your bicycle unattended out in public it will need to be locked to a secure structure so that it does not get stolen. It’s the world we live in.
Another great safety and security feature that all bikes should have is a brilliant set of bicycle lights. We also have rounded up the best bike brakes, bike racks, and many more bicycling articles that will help you get the most out of your bike.
Important Features to Consider
There are a few important considerations to think through before purchasing a bike lock.
- Style. Which style works best for your needs? U-locks are the most rigid and secure, while cable, chain, and folding locks are more versatile and have varying degrees of strengths and portability. You’ll have to weigh the pluses and minuses of each, or go with multiple locks.
- Length. The length of your lock is important, especially if it is a U-lock, because you need to know how much space you have to lock up your bike, and how big of an object you can lock it to. The length of chain and cable locks will also determine whether you can weave it through all of your bike’s vulnerable components or not.
- Thickness. How thick a lock is, whether it be a solid U-bar or a bendable chain or cable, does factor into how easy it will be to cut through. Potential thieves may be deterred by the sight of an extra-thick lock before they even decide to test its durability.
- Key or combination. This is really a matter of preference. Key locks, in general, are more secure, but less convenient than a combination lock. Which do you prefer?
- Multiple locks. The most secure way to lock up your bicycle is to use a combination of locks. Combining a U-lock with a cable or chain will greatly reduce the chance that your bike, or any of its parts, will be stolen.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best style of bike lock?
The primary styles of modern bikes locks are U-locks, chain locks, cable locks, and folding locks. There is no be-all-end-all best style as each has its own benefits. U-locks are the most rigid and often the most robust. Chain locks can also be quite robust and more versatile, but they are more cumbersome to transport. Cable locks are more convenient to carry, and they can be quite strong, but they are ultimately easier to cut than other styles of locks with a pair of cable cutters. Folding locks cannot be easily cut and are very portable, though with enough force a person could break apart a folding lock at one of its many joints.
Are any bike locks theft proof?
No bike lock is completely theft-proof. All locks, eventually, can be picked or destroyed. Most modern locks use steel alloys that are incredibly difficult to cut or break. Your best bet is to use multiple styles of locks to make it most difficult for a potential thief to steal your bike.
What is the best way to lock up a bike?
The best way to lock up a bike is to use a combination of a rigid U-lock that is paired with a long cable or chain. Locking your bicycle frame to a secure structure with a U-lock is the best way to keep your entire bike from being stolen, but opportunistic thieves may still be able to easily steal components from your bicycle, like its seat or wheels. To prevent this, you should connect a chain or cable to your U-lock that weaves through your vulnerable components so that no one piece can be easily taken.
Are key locks or combination locks better?
Key locks are considered to be more secure, but less convenient. Not only is it a hassle to have to carry around yet another key on your person, but the lock must be oiled and maintained to ensure that it never seizes up. A combination lock is more convenient because you do not need to carry around any extra equipment. However, combination locks can potentially be decoded, especially if you do not take the time to thoroughly spin every numbered dial each time you lock up your bicycle.
Other Bike Locks We Reviewed
We looked at 20 other bike locks. Even though they didn’t make our five best bike lock list, they’re the best of the rest and each is still a great option for securing your bicycle. The information you’ll need to compare each one is included with the listing.
Cable Bike Locks
Five-digit combination locks like the FOSOM Bike Lock Cable have 90,000 more combination possibilities than do common four-digit combination locks. That extra layer of security makes your password nearly impossible to decipher.
Key Features:
- 6-foot braided steel cable
- 5-digit combination lock
- Lifetime warranty
Cost: $17
Customize your ride with an NDakter Bike Cable Lock. There are seven vibrant colors to choose from. The thick braided steel cable is coated in PVC, making it extremely secure and comfortable to touch. It also features an improved five-digit combination lock.
Key Features:
- 4-foot braided steel cable
- 5-digit combination lock
- A rainbow of colors to choose from
Cost: $14
Though the Via Velo Bike Lock has one less digit in its combination lock, it’s still highly unlikely that anyone would ever be able to crack the code. The zinc alloy lock is a tough one to crack, and the 1/2″ steel braided cable is as strong as it is flexible.
Key Features:
- 4-foot braided steel cable
- 4-digit combination lock
- Three-year warranty
Chain Bike Locks
It will take more than a single snip from a pair of cable cutters to completely sever the Bukm Bike Lock. The manganese and steel coil chain is made from tick links, and the tough nylon cover provides yet another layer of security that potential thieves will have to tear through.
Key Features:
- 3-foot manganese steel chain
- 5-digit combination lock
- Durable black nylon cover
Cost: $25
The Dsteng Bike Lock is comprised of steel cables rather than a linked chain, but it’s still coated by a thick nylon cover for added protection. That cover features reflective straps that will keep you safe and be easy to see in the darkness.
Key Features:
- 3-foot steel cable chain
- 5-digit combination lock
- Reflective straps make it safe and easy to see at night
Cost: $16
Rather than a combination lock, the Kryptonite Keeper has a deadbolt lock design that is key activated. This is an incredibly secure method of lock that will ensure potential thieves won’t have a chance of figuring out a numeric passcode.
Key Features:
- 3-foot manganese steel chain
- 5-digit combination lock
- Deadbolt and key design
Cost: $40
A sturdy chain made with 0.24″ thick steel alloy chain links, the Ubullox Bike Chain Lock is quite secure. This lock also features a zinc-plated locking mechanism that prevents corrosion, rust, and wear from damaging the lock, extending its lifespan.
Key Features:
- 3-foot alloy steel chain
- 5-digit combination lock
- Zinc-plated lock
U-Lock Bike Locks
When deciding between a U-lock and a cable lock, you might come to the conclusion that you might as well have both. Get both forms of security with the Aibirisk Bike Lock. This uses a serpentine key deadbolt copper lock.
Key Features:
- 8″ U-lock with a 4-foot cable
- 3 serpentine keys and a copper lock
- Mounting hardware included
Cost: $22
The DadyMart Bike U Lock is a 9″ long, 5.7″ wide sold metal U lock that has been metal plated and coated in a soft PVC layer. It features a 4-digit combination lock with a dust cover so that dust and dirt don’t interfere with the locking mechanisms.
Key Features:
- 9″ long U-lock
- 4-digit combination lock
- Lock features a dustproof cover
Cost: $20
With two layers of security, the DINOKA Bike U Lock will make it extra difficult for would-be thieves to steal your bike or any of its components. The 4-foot steel cable can be woven through your wheels and seat bracket to make sure that someone cannot simply walk off with them.
Key Features:
- 7.6″ U-lock with a 4-foot cable
- Copper key lock
- Bike mounting bracket included
Cost: $22
Stout and robust, the Kryptonite Evolution Series is a strong U-lock with a double deadbolt design for enhanced security. Its small size makes it difficult to cut. With a 2″ by 2″ U loop, this is better suited to connected two ends of a thick chain than directly securing a bike to a bike rack.
Key Features:
- 14mm hardened steel shackle
- Three provided keys, one with an LED light
- Double deadbolt locking design
Cost: $45
Kryptonite New York Fahgettaboudit Lock
The Kryptonite New York Fahgettaboudit Lock will have potential thieves looking elsewhere once they see this burly beast wrapped around your bicycle. It has a pick and drill-resistant cylinder housing, making it extra theft-proof.
Key Features:
- 6″ U-lock with a double deadbolt design
- Three provided keys, one with an LED light
- Pick and drill resistant disc cylinder
Cost: $120
Kryptonite New York HD Bike Lock
Extra-large for a long reach, the Kryptonite New York HD Bike Lock has the same security features as the aforementioned Fahgettaboudit, but was made with a longer U bar. Both models feature a dust cover over the lock to keep grit from rusting and corroding the locking mechanism.
Key Features:
- 10.25″ U-lock with a double deadbolt design
- Three provided keys, one with an LED light
- Lock dust cover
Cost: $80
Yet another excellent U-lock and braided steel cable combo, the Ulock Shackle is straightforward in its design and very effective. The included mounting hardware enables you to store the lock right underneath your seat.
Key Features:
- 7.9″ U-lock with a 4-foot steel cable
- The serpentine keys included
- Mounting bracket included
Budget Bike Locks
Lightweight, affordable, and easy to carry, the Allnice Bike Cable is a convenient and handy lock that deters opportunistic thieves. Though the thin cable may be easy to cut with the proper tools, it’s still too strong for anyone to break who isn’t equipped with a pair of cable cutters.
Key Features:
- 47″ expandable coiled rope cable
- 4-digit combination lock
- Weighs 3.2 ounces
Cost: $11
The AmazonBasics Bike Cable Lock is a no-nonsense braided steel cable lock. It has a 4-digit combination lock, the code of which is entirely customizable, and mounting hardware is included so that you can store it on your bike’s frame.
Key Features:
- 4-foot long 12mm braided steel cable
- 4-digit combination lock
- Mounting hardware included
Cost: $11
The Jade Cloud Bike Lock truly goes the extra mile, especially for a budget bike lock. This cable is a foot longer than most, has an extra secure 5-digit combo lock, and comes with a multi-bit screwdriver to help you install the mounting bracket.
Key Features:
- 5-foot PVC-coated steel cable
- 5-digit combination lock
- Multi-bit screwdriver included
Cost: $13
Quite similar to our top overall budget pick, the Titanker Cable Lock is a solid value option. This 12mm steel cable lock is PVC coated for weather protection, and the locking mechanism has a dustcover to preserve its own longevity.
Key Features:
- 5-foot PVC-coated steel cable
- Two serpentine keys included
- Customizable mounting bracket
Cost: $13
The willceal Bike Lock has a 1/2″ thick braided steel cable that is available in a variety of PVC-coated colors. The 5-digit combination lock is secure and customizable. Mounting hardware is included as well.
Key Features:
- 4-foot braided steel cable
- 5-digit combination lock
- Multiple color options to choose from
Cost: $13
The XZSUN Bike Lock has a vinyl-coated steel braided cable that is 1/2″ thick and available in a spectrum of bright colors. It has a customizable 5-digit combination lock and a customizable mounting bracket.
Key Features:
- 4-foot braided steel cable
- 5-digit combination lock
- Multiple color options to choose from
Cost: $13
