Bike Locks

A solid , dependable bike lock could be the difference between riding that nice bike around town and reporting it as stolen. It's peace of mind you can't get anywhere else, but how do you select the right bike lock? There are expensive and less-expensive varieties; combination  and key locks ; chains ,cables  and u-lock  formats; and portable vs. heavy models. You can even find electronic alarms  to notify you when your bike moves! Don't let the options stress you out, use this guide to choose the bike lock that best fits your biking lifestyle! 

Low-Security Locks

If you plan to lock your bike up in a well-lit area, or a low-crime neighborhood, then you can rely on lighter, simpler locks.

• Cable Locks :These locks are made of flexible cables that you wind through the spokes and frame of your bike when you lock it. You can get cable locks that are simple key  or combination  varieties, you can get u-locks with cables  that have the added component of the inflexible u-lock for security, or you can get retractable cable locks  for ease of carrying. Cable locks are great for a kid riding to school or an adult riding to a public, safe place because the locks are lightweight and can be wound around the frame  of the bike for storage when not in use.
• If you already have a padlock  or u-lock and you just need the cable, you can get strong cables with no locks  attached that you can thread through anything and secure with your own lock.

High-Security Locks

If you have reason to worry about your bike's safety, such as parking it in a low-lit area, less-secure neighborhood or college campus, you might want to go for a stronger, less breakable lock. 

• Chain Locks : Chain locks are far stronger than cables. They come in a variety of sizes and thicknesses, depending on your needs; some are as thin as cables, while others look strong enough  to restrain an elephant. They usually come covered in a fabric  or plastic  sheath to protect your bike from scratches that the chain's links could leave behind. Chain locks are heavier and less portable than cables, but if you have a bike that's of high quality, or if you live or ride in a higher crime area, a chain lock might be the best option for you. If you have a motorcycle, then the chain lock  or an electronic alarm  is by far the best choice, as a cable lock is rarely a deterrent to a motorcycle thief, and motorcycles can cost a lot of money to replace.

Other Lock Options

There are other ways to secure your bike, most of which include a lock plus additional components:

• Bike Cover/Lock : This is a protective cover that goes over your bike or motorcycle and then locks into place, securing the cover and the bike safely. Covering your bike is a good choice if you're worried about the elements, or if you have a bike that's a desired brand or style that is very likely to be stolen if seen.
• Car Rack Bike Lock : When securing your bike to your car's bike rack, you need to lock it into place safely so that it doesn't fall off and so that no one wanders off with it.  

Top Sellers

Avenir Coil Cable Locks  These cable locks are popular and available in a variety of lengths and thicknesses.	Kryptonite U-Lock  Kryptonite has a broad selection of secure, reliable u-locks, with or without cables.	OnGuard Bulldog Lock  Resistant to both cutting and lock picks, this is a great choice for keeping your bike in your hands.	Abus Steel-O-Chain Lock  A heavy-duty sheathed chain lock that will foil cable cutters.	Mongoose Cable Lock  A combination lock for security; a trusted brand for bikes.

Related Guides

• Bike Covers
• Bike Chains
• Bike Pumps
• Bike Racks
• Bike Tires