Last Updated on 10 July 2024 by Cycloscope
7 Best eBike Locks! Ensure top-notch security for your ride with the best locks for electric bikes – Cable, electronic, keyless, chain, U-Locks, smart, wearable
Got your dream electric bike? It’s time to protect it with the best lock for e-bikes that money can buy.
In the era of electric bikes, where convenience meets eco-consciousness, the need for reliable security has never been more critical.
Electric bikes, or e-bikes, do not come cheap but are an incredibly valuable investment, both financially and environmentally.
To protect these assets, choosing the right lock is paramount. This article delves into the world of the best e-bike locks, exploring types, essential features, sizes, materials, prices, and portability, and comparing the 7 best ones, the safest and most convenient for each type, to ensure your e-bike stays safe and sound.
Before diving into specifics, let’s explore the primary types of locks for e-bikes:
- Cable Locks: These are flexible, lightweight, and easy to transport. While they offer some security, cable locks are best suited for low-risk areas.
- Chain Locks: Robust and durable, chain locks provide excellent protection. Their flexibility allows you to secure your e-bike to various objects.
- U-Locks: Known for their exceptional strength and resistance to tampering, U-Locks are a favorite among cyclists. They are available in various sizes to accommodate different e-bike frames.
- Folding Locks: Compact and versatile, folding locks offer a blend of security and portability. They unfold to provide a rigid barrier when in use.
When selecting an e-bike lock there are a few crucial features you want to consider, we’ll discuss them thoroughly in the next paragraphs but here’s a quick overview:
- Security Ratings: Choose locks with high-security ratings (e.g., Sold Secure or ART). These ratings indicate their effectiveness against theft.
- Material: Opt for locks made from hardened steel or titanium, which is highly resistant to cutting and sawing.
- Size and Length: Ensure the lock is long enough to secure both your e-bike and the object you’re locking it to, but also portable enough not to be a nuisance.
- Locking Mechanism: Select locks with secure and reliable mechanisms, such as disc detainer or keyless combinations.
Lock prices vary, with some being quite expensive and others surprisingly cheap. It’s crucial not to compromise on quality for a cheaper option. A high-quality lock is an investment in the safety of your e-bike, some say you should spend on a lock not less than 5% of the value of your bike. Consider it a small price to pay for peace of mind.
Protecting your e-bike is a responsibility that shouldn’t be taken lightly. The right lock can be the difference between enjoying a worry-free cycling experience and dealing with the unfortunate loss of your valuable e-bike.
By considering lock types, essential features, size, material, price, and portability, you can confidently secure your e-bike and keep it safe from potential theft, ensuring that your eco-friendly ride remains a reliable and cherished companion. So, without further ado, let’s dive into the comparison of the best locks for electric bikes in 2023/2024!
Check Also:
> How to Lock & Secure a Bike Properly?
> Bike Storage Ideas To Keep Your Bicycle Safe
7 best bike locks in a nutshell
- Kryptonite New York 1210 Chain Lock
- best chain lock for e-bike
- Sigtuna U-Lock Heavy Duty w. 4ft/1.2m Cable
- best cable and U-lock combo bundle
- Hiplok Gold Maximum Security Wearable Chain Lock
- the best wearable chain lock
- Bordo Granit XPlus 6500 Folding Lock
- safest folding lock for electric bike
- Hiplock Switch Folding Lock
- lightweight and compact folding lock
- OTTOLOCK Cinch 18in Combo Lock
- best lightweight keyless lock
- Abus SmartX 770A U-Lock
- safest smart lock for e-bike
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How we compile our gear guides: during the almost 10 years of cycloscope.net our team personally tested dozens of similar pieces of gear. For what we can't test personally, we involve other people in the cycling community to give their feedback and opinion about gear they have used. Our decade-long experience in bicycle touring enables us to find the key cons and pros of every product we mention.
Key Considerations for Choosing the Ideal eBike Lock
Selecting the perfect eBike lock is a blend of security, convenience, and practicality. Dive in to understand the crucial factors guiding this choice.
Security Features
You’ll want to prioritize materials like hardened steel for unmatched strength. Double deadbolts and anti-drilling components are non-negotiable for the best protection. Always check for a Sold Secure rating – trust me, gold is where you want to be.Â
On a lighter note, U-locks and folding locks offer a blend of security and portability. Whereas, chain locks offer that needed flexibility for diverse locking situations.
Lock Size and Design
Here’s a tip from experience: Ensure your lock is sizable enough to secure a wheel, a chunk of the frame, and an external anchor like a pole or bike rack. Many locks fall short in this aspect. And while some might have the size, they’re often a burden to tote around. Striking the right balance is key.
Weight
It’s a constant trade-off. Lighter locks are a breeze to carry, but can sometimes compromise on security. Make your choice wisely.
Weather Resistance
If, like many of us, you park your e-bike outdoors, this is a must. Ensure your lock stands tall against the elements—be it rain, snow, or sizzling sun.
Locking Mechanism
You can go with a tried-and-true key mechanism or a combination system. But whichever you choose, it should laugh in the face of tampering attempts.
In my time navigating the maze of eBike security, these factors have proven invaluable. Use them as your compass, and you’ll find a lock that’s both a guardian and a companion for your e-bike.Â
7 Best eBike Locks
As eBikes gain popularity, safeguarding them becomes paramount. With myriad locking options available, choosing the right one can be a challenge. Read on as I list the 7 best eBike locks to ensure your electric companion remains secure and protected.
The Safest Locks For Electric Bikes
1. Kryptonite New York 1210 Chain Lock
best chain lock for e-bike
Sold Secure Rating: Gold
Price: USD 154
Weight: 8 lbs. 9 oz.
In my recent experiences, the Kryptonite New York 1210 Chain Lock stood out as a premier choice for eBike security. The 12mm, 6-sided chain links, crafted from 3t hardened manganese steel, provided exceptional strength. What I appreciated was the protective nylon cover, not only ensuring durability but also safeguarding the bike’s finish. I found the Evolution series U-lock, with its 14mm hardened steel shackle to be resilient against common threats like bolt cutters. Its disc-style cylinder offered high-security protection that was both pull- and drill-resistant.
Personally, I was impressed by the centrally placed key slot that guarded against leverage attacks, and the built-in light on one of the three stainless-steel keys was a thoughtful touch. According to Kryptonite’s rating system, this lock scored a commendable 9 out of 10. Cherry on top, the Key Safe Program was an added bonus for those like me who tended to misplace keys. For urban cycling and at a price of 154 USD, I highly recommend it.
2. Sigtuna U-Lock Heavy Duty w. 4ft/1.2m Cable
best cable and U lock combo bundle
Sold Secure Rating: Gold
Price: USD 50
Weight: 3.1 lbs.
The SIGTUNA Bike U-lock truly stood up to its reputation. Investing in a lock that not only looked robust but performed strongly was essential for me. This 16MM high-performance steel U-lock had been a game-changer, boasting an impressive 85/100 security rating against cut and leverage attacks. I had grown fond of its high-security disc-style cylinder and double deadbolt mechanism; I felt confident leaving my bike locked up in urban settings.
What was even better was the ease of use: the lock came with an intuitive mounting bracket, a protective coating that was gentle on my bike’s paint, and three laser-cut Abloy keys, which was always a plus. Some might have found it heavy, but for me, that weight screamed quality. And at 50 USD with a 100% money-back guarantee, it was truly value for money. If you cherish your ride as I do, I’d genuinely recommend you give the SIGTUNA U-lock a try.
3. Hiplok Gold Maximum Security Wearable Chain Lock
the best wearable chain lock
Sold Secure Rating: Gold
Price: USD 140
Weight: 5 lbs. 4.7 oz.
During my past cycling escapades through the city, the Hiplok Gold Maximum Security Wearable Chain Lock had become an indispensable part of my gear. The standout feature for me was undoubtedly its distinctive speed buckle fastening, complemented by a removable, washable sleeve adorned with reflective detail.
Initially, the idea of wearing a chain lock seemed quite daunting, but to my surprise, it adjusted effortlessly, catering to waists ranging from 24 to 44 inches. Its construction was impressive, boasting a 12mm hardened steel shackle coupled with a 10mm chain; the Sold Secure Gold rating it held only solidified my trust in it. Weighing just over 5 lbs., it might have seemed hefty to some, but the waist-wearable design made it feel reassuringly secure. The added convenience of three keys and a meticulously coded replacement program was extra frosting for me. For a tag of USD 140, its blend of convenience with unwavering security was unparalleled. It had been my top recommendation for fellow urban cyclists.
4. Bordo Granit XPlus 6500 Folding Lock
safest folding lock for electric bike
Sold Secure Rating: Diamond
Price: USD 210
Weight: 3 lbs. 7.7 oz.
Back when I frequently ran errands in the city, the Abus Bordo Granit XPlus 6500 Folding Lock became my trusted ally in ensuring my bike’s safety. This lock had been a constant companion, especially during pit stops at the brewery or grocery store runs. Its compact nature when folded was a real charm, expanding smoothly whenever needed.
An added convenience was the mounting bracket, which snugly fit into the unused water bottle holders of my bike, making it a breeze to store. With its robust 5mm thick steel bars, I felt confident against potential theft attempts. The inclusion of two keys and the impressive max Level 15 Abus security only enhanced that trust. Priced at 210 USD, the blend of top-tier security and unmatched convenience was worth every penny. The added benefit of a lifetime manufacturer warranty sealed the deal for me. I would definitely recommend it to fellow riders.
5. Hiplock Switch Folding Lock
lightweight and compact folding lock
Sold Secure Rating: Bronze
Price: USD 90
Weight: 2 lbs. 4.8 oz.
During my daily rides, whether tackling trails on my mountain bike or commuting through the city, the Hiplok Switch Folding Lock proved indispensable.
Its distinctive SWITCH clip carry system had introduced a convenience I hadn’t known before, letting me effortlessly alternate between wearing it and attaching it to my bike.
The clever bracket and plate design, capable of holding the lock or a water bottle, was particularly beneficial during extended rides. Its six hardened steel bars always gave me confidence in the security it provided, stretching up to a substantial 33.46-inch locking length.
The three coded replaceable keys added an extra sense of trust. When folded, its compactness stood out, measuring a mere 7.5 x 1.65 inches and weighing just 2lbs 4.8oz.
Priced at 90 USD and backed by a lifetime warranty, this lock had been a tremendous value. I would give it my thumbs up to anyone looking for a reliable switch folding lock.
6. OTTOLOCK Cinch 18in Combo Lock
budget lightweight keyless lock
Sold Secure Rating: Gold
Price: USD 55
Weight: 4.2 oz.
During my urban escapades, I frequently turned to the OTTOLOCK Cinch 18in Combo Lock for protection, and it consistently stood up to the task.
Its exceptional blend of security and portability was immediately noticeable. While lighter than many U-locks I had used before, it was decidedly tougher than the usual cable locks.
The robust combination of steel, Kevlar, and Santoprene plastic always granted me peace of mind, especially given its durability against standard theft tools.
I valued how the Cerakote paint and Santoprene plastic protected my bike’s finish from any damage.
The personalized three-digit combination was both a convenience and a security measure, making keys unnecessary. Its compact nature, coiling down to just 3 inches, made storage effortless, whether in my saddle bag, backpack, or even my pocket.
For its 55 USD price tag, this 4.2oz lock offered undeniable value for those quick stops. It remained a top recommendation for fellow city cyclists.
7. Abus SmartX 770A U-Lock – editor’s pick
safest smart lock for e-bike
Sold Secure Rating: Diamond
Price: USD 250
Weight: 3.5 oz.
The Abus SmartX 770A U-Lock completely transformed my bike security experience. Gone were the days of misplacing keys or struggling with forgotten combinations.
My smartphone was all I needed. Before I headed out for my ‘go by bike’ errands, I ensured my phone was fully charged, and I was good to go.
Connecting the lock via Bluetooth was seamless, and I was particularly impressed by the encryption that kept hacking concerns at bay. The alarm feature was a brilliant addition; I had gained extra peace of mind knowing that any tampering would be loudly announced.
I also found the Bluetooth-GPS integration super handy in marking my bike’s location. The no-touch unlocking mechanism was the epitome of convenience, and it was great that multiple users could gain access.
Weighing a mere 3.5oz and boasting a sturdy stainless steel build, this U-lock was both lightweight and robust. At 250 USD, with a lifetime warranty, it had been a top-notch investment for every urban cyclist. I would definitely recommend this to bike enthusiasts!
Wrap-Up About the Best Ebike Locks
Choosing the right lock for your e-bike isn’t just about preventing theft; it’s about peace of mind every time you park your ride.
It’s easy to get overwhelmed with the sea of options out there, but I have trimmed down the forest to bring you the best of the best.
While these seven eBike locks each have their strengths, the ultimate goal is the same: to keep your bike safe and sound. So, pick a lock that feels right for you, and enjoy every journey knowing that your trusty eBike awaits your return, safely locked and ready for the next adventure. Safe riding!
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