The Best Bike Locks

Master Lock Combination Bike Lock

Got It on Lock

It would take some pretty serious thieves to be able to crack this lock.

Best Overall

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Tough as nails and designed to stand up to even the most hardcore thieves, the Master Lock Combination Bike Lock works as an awesome theft deterrent whether you’re locking your bike up for a few minutes while you dash into the grocery store or overnight at your apartment. Crucially, the sturdy, reliable four-dial combination lock allows for keyless convenience, and the self-coiling cable features braided steel for flexibility and strength. Not to mention, this lock is relatively lightweight, easy to carry, and is available at an accessible price point. What’s not to love?

Pros:

• Preset four-digit combination lock is as sturdy as they come
• Self-coiling, extra-long cable
• Protective vinyl coating prevents the cable from scratching up your bike
• Exceptional value

Cons:

• The dials get a little sticky after long-term use

Via Velo Bike U-Lock

Lock It Up

U-locks are some of the most widely-used options out there, and this one proves why.

Best U-Lock

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Stave off potential thieves with the Via Velo Bike U-Lock, which boasts supreme all-weather protection to help prolong the lifespan of your lock. Its 14 mm hardened shackle is hardy enough to withstand bolt cutters, and the double bolt locking mechanism provides true security. Conveniently, you can even mount this lock on your bike, so you don’t have to tote it around in your backpack.

Pros:

• Resists corrosion from water, dirt, and dust
• Has a pull- and drill-resistant double-bolt locking mechanism
• Comes with two keys (a handy just-in-case feature)
• Mounting bracket means your lock goes with you

Cons:

• It’s a little on the heavy side

Kryptonite Integrated Bike Lock

Heavy-Duty and Designed to Last

This chain lock is bound to deter thieves.

Best Chain Lock

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The Kryptonite Integrated Bike Lock holds up incredibly well against cutting attacks, thanks to its hardened deadbolt design that can resist a variety of tools, including bolt cutters. Based on looks alone, this lock is imposing enough to scare off thieves — the heavy-duty chain is enclosed by a thick black sleeve that outlines the brand name in block lettering. This lock also comes with an adjustable strap bracket, along with two keys, just in case.

Pros:

• The end-link design is very sturdy and can withstand any tools
• The disc-style cylinder is pick- and drill-resistant
• Comes with two stainless steel keys
• Adjustable strap bracket
• The nylon sleeve helps prevent scratching

Cons:

• On the pricey end

Titanker Bike Lock

Anytime, Anywhere

Secure your wheels wherever you are, thanks to this extra-long cable.

Longest Cable

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Available in several bright colors, the Titanker Bike Lock is outfitted with an extra-long, extra-durable cable that’s designed to be tough enough to resist cutting, yes, but also scratching and the elements, so your lock can last for years. The clever mounting bracket design allows you to securely attach the lock to your bike, and it’s easy to set your personalized combination on the smart four-digit resettable coiling lock. This super-secure lock is bound to keep the thieves at bay.

Pros:

• Cut-resistant, durable cable can extend up to 3′
• Keyless convenience lock (perfect for those who tend to lose keys)
• Upgraded mounting bracket
• Comes in several vibrant colors

Cons:

• It’s definitely stiff at first

Sportneer Bike Lock

The Utmost in Protection

This lock is tough enough for even the most high-crime areas.

Best Anti-Theft Protection

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If you live in a particularly high-crime area, the Sportneer Bike Lock is the perfect lock to deter thieves. Crafted to withstand all types of attacks, this portable U-lock is completely resistant to drilling and cutting, and it’s covered in a silicone sleeve to protect it from wear and tear. Lightweight yet extremely sturdy, this lock also comes with a double-looped steel cable, so you can lock the frame of your bike, your helmet, the wheels, and even other bikes.

Pros:

• Cut- and drill-resistant
• Zinc-alloy lock cylinder adds an extra layer of protection
• Silicone cover helps this lock stay protected from wear and tear
• Comes with a long, double-looped steel cable
• Heavy enough to keep your bike safe, but light enough to tote around

Cons:

• The mounting bracket sticks out a little to the side

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the different types of bike locks, and which one is right for me?
There are three main types of bike locks: U-locks, chain locks, and cable locks. U-locks are the most common, as they tend to be portable, customizable, and available in a variety of shapes and sizes. Using a cable lock alongside a U-lock is a good idea, unless you live in a particularly low-crime area. You can also use a cable lock to secure multiple bikes. And, although they weigh more than others, chain locks are the most heavy-duty of the bunch.

Are there indestructible bike locks, or can every bike lock potentially be picked or cut?
The unfortunate truth is that there’s no such thing as an “indestructible” bike lock — although some locks, like the ones on this list, come as close as possible. All bike locks are vulnerable to being broken, cut, or picked, which is exactly why it’s so important to get a high-quality lock that’s been widely tested and approved.