Abus vs Kryptonite Bike Locks: Which Brand Wins?
Kryptonite and Abus locks are arguably the two biggest bike lock brands in the world.
However, there is plenty of debate over which company produces the best locks.
To decide which company puts out the best products, we have to look at the best and most popular products of each company.
For Abus, the most highly rated product is the Abus Bordo Granit 6500.
For Kryptonite, the best and most popular product is the Kryptonite Evolution Series 4 Standard.
So let's take a look at these two brands when they go up against one another.
What Makes A Good Lock?
When comparing the two lock companies, there are three main indicators that can be looked at to determine which is the best.
These factors include build quality and reliability, price, and customer service.
Build Quality And Reliability
Abus
Abus is the favorite in this department.
Their locks are of impeccable quality - they perform well in any weather conditions and are extremely long-lasting.
These locks are also known for being difficult to pick.
Many people believe that the quality of this brand is so good because of where the products are manufactured.
Unlike with Kryptonite, these locks are designed and built in Europe.
This makes a difference because European steel is known to be some of the best steel in the world.
The fact that the products are produced in Europe also makes a huge difference in the manufacturing process.
As Abus headquarters are in Germany, it means that there is closer control over the production of the locks, which are made not too far away - this makes it easier to ensure that the locks are high quality and reliable.
Kryptonite
Kryptonite locks don’t quite meet the standards of Abus locks, but they are not too far off.
These locks are still made well and are of good quality.
They also perform decently in different weather conditions and can last you a very long time.
Kryptonite is a US brand that has its locks manufactured in Taiwan and China.
The steel from these countries is not of the same quality as European steel, which, as discussed, is used for Abus products.
This also means that headquarters cannot oversee the production process, which could result in more faulty products being shipped out.
Price
Abus
With quality comes hefty costs.
Although Abus locks are the best quality of the two, they are also the most expensive.
In the United States especially, you are very unlikely to find an Abus lock that costs less (or even the same) as its Kryptonite counterpart.
In Europe, where these locks are produced, the price difference is usually a little bit less noticeable.
Kryptonite
Kryptonite locks are the cheapest of the two brands.
The quality of Abus and Kryptonite locks are comparable, but the prices differ quite a lot.
Many people chose Kryptonite over Abus simply because of the pricing.
They claim that the difference in quality between the two brands is not worth the additional cost.
Customer Service
Abus
Abus offers a key replacement service and the option to buy key alike locks.
Moreover, the company is known for replacing broken parts and even lost locks for free.
You can purchase Abus locks from a variety of places.
They are sold at many hardware stores, bike shops, and even online.
Kryptonite
Although Abus has an excellent customer service record, Kryptonite has an amazing one.
If you lose your keys, you will receive a replacement set for no cost at all.
If you lose your keys and don’t have a key number, Kryptonite will send you a brand new replacement lock for only 20 dollars.
If the key breaks off into the lock and you have to call a locksmith to break it, they will replace your lock for free and pay the locksmith fee.
Additionally, you can apply for anti-theft protection for your lock.
Kryptonite locks can be bought from any hardware stores, bike shops, online, or at any lock supplier.
The Best Abus Lock - Abus Bordo Granit 6500
This is the best high-security folding lock available.
The folding steel plates are an impressive 5.5mm thick.
The lock is also 85cm long, which should allow you to lock your bike basically anywhere.
It weighs about 1.58kg - it is heavy, but not too heavy to carry around with you for daily use.
Folding locks are a great option as they give you extra locking options.
These are also the easiest bike locks to carry around with you - you can simply screw it into your water bottle holster.
The Best Kryptonite Lock - Kryptonite Evolution Series 4 Standard
This reliable lock features a 14mm hardened max-performance steel shackle that is designed to resist bolt cutters and has a high-security disc-style cylinder.
Its double deadbolt design also gives additional protection against twist attacks.
The lock has a vinyl coating which will protect it from harsh weather conditions.
If you purchase this product on the Kryptonite website, you receive a lifetime warranty for the lock.
You also have an anti-theft protection offer.
Summary
So, Abus vs Kryptonite Bike Locks: which one wins?
Out of the two brands, we have established that Abus is the go-to brand for quality and reliability.
We also know that they are the most expensive and, although their customer service is good, it’s not as good as Kryptonite.
For these reasons, it is probably safe to say that Abus produces the best bike locks out there.
Although they are more expensive, the quality is still the best.
They are also nearly impossible to pick.
This makes them the best bike lock producer as their products are the most likely to prevent your bike from being stolen.
However, if you don’t have the extra money to spend on locks, Kryptonite is still an incredibly good brand that will be sure to leave you satisfied.
They are known for their good customer service and, if you are someone who will lose your lock or key often, this might actually be the better option for you.