Best Bike Alarm for 2023: Our Top Picks
What is the best bike alarm system out there?
There are a number of options for you to choose from depending, of course, on what you're searching for but we've had a look at what we think are the best choices out there at the moment and we've made some recommendations for you.
The two main bike alarm product types are standalone bike alarm systems and then we have bike lock alarms that integrate the alarm into the lock itself.
In addition, there are alarmed wheel locks which I'll look at in a separate post.
So you can see there's a potential minefield to wade through. I'll help you through that.
The alarm systems we've reviewed below range from a loud 100 decibels to a scary 130 decibels (each 10 additional decibels means it's 10 times louder!) and are either standalone alarms or integrated bike lock alarms.
So first off we'll cover the Bike alarms then move onto bike lock alarm systems.
What's Important To You In A Bike Lock Alarm?
As far as alarmed bike locks are concerned what does that mean to you and what are the most important factors to consider?
Is it the loudest alarm, the strongest lock or are there other factors that you need to consider such as bike lock type, weight, security rating (if they have one) , practicality and, of course, the cost?
These factors mean we have to figure out what's important to you first.
The Alarm!
What's the point in getting a bike alarm or a bike lock alarm unless it's going to alert you or others that someone's trying to steal your expensive bike and scare the thief away?
You really want it to be good and loud with the obvious, and loud, alarm if I was you.
Something that will form an important part of the package that will help to deter a would-be thief.
You also need to know how sensitive the alarm is and, moreover, how it's triggered and also how configurable these functions are.
Security Ratings
Security ratings have become a big selling point for bike locks as they are a standard(ish) way of measuring a lock's effectiveness at resisting being broken into or hacked.
Many manufacturers use these ratings as one of the main selling points of a bike lock.
The main external security testing agency would be Sold Secure.
They have a number of levels of security grading ranging from Bronze, Silver and Gold through to Diamond with Diamond being the most secure.
Some manufacturers use them but others, including many quality manufacturers, don't as they have there own security rating systems.
Sold Secure are a solid mark of security but you can also depend on the big brands like Kryptonite, Abus and Sigtuna to provide an honest assessment of security standards.
My advice is to go with the highest security rating you can afford, especially if you are leaving your bike unattended for long periods.
You can get away with lower security ratings for shorter periods for instance, when you are leaving your bike unattended briefly, but the risk is nearly always higher the lower you go.
A determined thief, given the right opportunity, will always be able to get through any lock you throw in their path so best give them second thoughts by putting the most awkward obstacle in their way; the best lock you can afford and with an alarm for good measure.
Just note here that cost isn't always related to its security rating or ability to fend off an attacker.
Type of Bike Lock
There are a few different types of bike locks; Chain, U Locks, and cable locks and I cover the main pros and cons here.
The best of them are generally U Locks with some good chain locks also able to go the distance.
I think you'll see that with the recommendations I make here and elsewhere on the site.
What's Your Bike Alarm Budget
The cost of a bike lock alarm is generally proportional to its ability to deter and stop a thief, right?
Nope, not always. It's an indicator, for sure, but other factors come into play such as design, added functions (such as the alarm) and of course how cool it looks!
It should be their ability to fend off a bike thief that should be the main concern. In conclusion, prioritize the lock's effectiveness over other factors.
For a standalone alarm system, it's the alarm that counts and you'll see they are certainly a cheaper option than a lock but you also need a good bike lock to immobilize your bike as well.
What I've done is broken down my recommendations into alarm only systems and then bike lock alarms.
Best Bike Alarms
Bike Alarms
The following 3 products are standalone alarm systems for a bike. One of them comes with a locking cable but I haven't included that as a bike lock as this would be easily overcome by a casual thief if I discounted the alarm.
And the point about a bike alarm is that it will deter a thief precisely because it is an alarm.
Quick Comparison - Basic Alarms
Product Name | Onvian 2 in 1 Smart Bike Tail Light | Wsdcam Bike Lock Alarm with Remote | WSDCAM Anti-Theft Bike Alarm with Mount and Remote |
Manufacturer | Onvian | Wsdcam | Wsdcam |
Decibels | 115dB | 110dB | 113dB |
Weight | 2.3 oz (66g) | 11.2oz | 8.1oz |
Dimensions | 5.51 x 4.33 x 1.85 inches | 9.1 x 4.5 x 1.9 inches 0.39 inch cable diameter, 31.49 inch cable length | 4.53 x 3.9 x 2.4 inches |
Pros | IP65 Waterproof | Strong, durable, and reliable | IP55 waterproof 7 level adjustable sensitivity. 3 levels of Alarm. Vehicle search function. |
Cons | Lack of instructions might be a barrier too much for some. Perhaps a little too sensitive USB Charging cable quite short | Batteries require changing regularly | Range often less than advertised. Some Durability Issues. You can Silence it by putting hand over speaker. |
Other Features | Remote controlled search function (up to 80m) | IP55 Water proof | SOS function. 3 Different ringtones for vehicle search function. Bracket mount Included. Low battery indicator |
My Rating | |||
Cell |
Onvian 2 in 1 Smart Bike Tail Light |
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Decibels: 115dB |
Weight: 2.3 oz (66g) |
Dimensions: |
Pros: |
Cons: Perhaps a little too sensitive USB Charging cable quite short |
Other Features: Search function (up to 80m) |
My Rating |
Wsdcam Bike Lock Alarm with Remote |
Decibels: 110dB |
Weight: 11.2oz |
Dimensions: 0.39 inch cable diameter, 31.49 inch cable length |
Pros: |
Cons: |
Other Features: |
My Rating: |
WSDCAM Anti-Theft Bike Alarm With Mount And Remote |
Decibels: 113dB |
Weight: 8.1oz |
Dimensions: 4.53 x 3.9 x 2.4 inches |
Pros: 7 level adjustable sensitivity. 3 levels of Alarm. Vehicle search function. |
Cons: Some Durability Issues. You can Silence it by putting hand over speaker. |
Other Features: 3 Different ringtones for vehicle search function. Bracket mount Included. Low battery indicator |
My Rating |
Onvian 2 In 1 Smart Bike Tail Light
The Onvian 2 in 1 Smart Bike Tail light has an integrated 115dB alarm and COB LED bulbs.
It is IP65 water resistant and comes with Smart Brake Sensing Technology which will cause the light to brighten as you brake.
A remote control is included for setting/unsetting the alarm and can be used to find your bike up to 80m away.
Review
The unit is IP65 Water resistant, but not waterproof and on a full charge it can give you up to 40 hours of use depending on the light setting used.
Those settings are Slow flash, Breathing flash, Steady on. You can get a full charge in about 3 hours.
It also detects ambient light levels which automatically change the intensity of the light depending on those light levels. This saves the batteries from unnecessary usage.
It comes with a silicone strap for mounting on the seat post or saddle bracket mounting.
This unit functions as a good rear light and uses COB LEDs which are a modern form of LED which are low in energy use.
The alarm itself is quite sensitive. It will detect a knock or vibration and provide you with a warning siren. Then further disturbances will give you the full 30 seconds at 115dBs.
The USB Charging cable is quite short and a bit fiddly to connect.
Installation and use instructions aren't too clear so a second read and a little experimentation will help.
However, once you get the hang of how it works it will keep working for you.
It comes with a search function which will sound the alarm when you press the ringtone key. This can work up to 80m away.
It's a pity this unit doesn't come with a front light to pair it with.
There's actually a horn built into the remote, with three different sounds, as well which is a bit of fun if not that useful.
This is a good, inexpensive, option for a bike alarm.
PROS
CONS
Wsdcam 110dB Bike Lock Alarm with Remote
This alarm lock is a very popular and highly-rated product.
It is water resistant, loud, and remote-controlled.
If you are searching for a durable, strong, and reliable bike alarm, this may be the product for you.
Review
This product can be used on motorbikes, bicycles, cars, doors, and gates. In fact, it can be used on basically anything that you wish to protect.
The bike alarm lock is triggered by vibration.
Once it is set off, it will repel any thieves with a 110dB loud alarm.
The alarm cable lock is made of braided steel with a PVC coating - this makes the lock more durable and more reliable. The cable diameter is 0.39 inches thick and 31.49 inches long.
You shouldn't however think of this as your primary bike lock as bolt cutters will make short work of this cable.
It has a secure keyless lock that requires four digits to open - this means that there will be 9,999 possible combinations which you can set.
That's not impossible of course but will take a thief some time.
Additionally, the alarm will alert you if a wrong pin code is entered.
The alarm lock comes with a remote that can arm and disarm the lock from up to 66 feet away.
It is also an IP55 waterproof lock, meaning that it's protected from ingress of dust particles and a good level of protection against water.
You shouldn't have to worry about it malfunctioning on most rainy days but it's not fully waterproof.
It uses 3 x AAA batteries for the alarm lock, 1 x CR2032 battery for the remote.
PROS
CONS
WSDCAM Anti-Theft Bike Alarm with Mount
The WSDCAM Anti-Theft Bike Alarm is a fully adjustable system with 3 different alarm levels and 7 sensitivity levels.
This product is reliable and highly-rated. It has many functions and features that can be easily adjusted.
If you are in search of a durable and robust bike alarm, this could be the perfect product for you.
Review
The product can be used to protect bicycles, electric bikes, motorcycles, scooters, cars, gates, and doors.
Any vibrations trigger the alarm.
You can adjust how sensitive you want the alarm to be - it could be set to be triggered by just a gentle touch or by a hard push.
Once triggered, the alarm emits an ear-piercing 113 dB alarm, which will be more than enough to deter the thieves.
This product is also an IP55 waterproof lock, making it suitable for outdoor use.
The alarm functions in temperatures between 70 and 140 degrees Fahrenheit.
This system makes finding your car easy as it has six different kinds of bells, which can be wirelessly controlled by a remote. The alarm is also super easy to install.
The alarm requires three AAA batteries.
One set of batteries is included when you first purchase the product.
Additionally, the remote requires a 12V/27A battery, which also comes included.
The product also has a low battery indicator and an SOS function.
The remote can be detected by the alarm from up to 66 feet away.
Additionally, this product is also very affordable.
Of the three alarm locks, this Wsdcam Wireless Anti-theft Bike Alarm is generally the cheapest.
PROS
CONS
Best Bike Locks with Alarms
Quick Comparison - Bike Lock Alarms
Product Name | Crystal Vision SHBLA | Abus Bordo 6000 | Abus Unisex - Adult 440A/150HB160 USH alarm bicycle lock | Abus 770A SmartX Keyless U-Lock |
Manufacturer | Crystal Vision | Abus | Abus | Abus |
Lock Type | U Lock | Folding Lock | U-Lock | U-Lock |
Security Rating | None | 10/15 (abus) | 8/15 (Abus) | Sold Secured Gold 15/15 (abus) |
Decibels | 130dB | 100dB | 100dB | 100dB |
Weight | 2.9lbs/1328g | 3.2lbs | 2.6lbs | 4.41lbs |
Dimensions | 11 1/4in Long | 9.5 x 3.9 x 1.5 in | 8.51 x 6.23 x 3.47 in | 230 x 108 mm |
Pros | Weather-resistant and waterproof | 5mm steel bars made of special hardened steel 100dB Alarm Soft-touch Coating | 3D position detection | Sold Secured Gold 13 Mm Hardened Square Shaft Keyless |
Cons | No security rating | Cost. Sold Secured Bronze. | Range often less than advertised. Some Durability Issues. You can Silence it by putting hand over speaker. | Top end in terms of cost Keyless so battery must be charged Quite heavy |
Other Features | Comes with 3 Keys Adjustable lock holder provided | 1 CR2 batteries (included) AVailable in 3 sizes: 75cm, 90cm & 130cm | Hardened 12 mm round shackle | Bluetooth enabled Access Control for other users |
My Rating | ||||
Cell |
Crystal Vision SHBLA |
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Lock Type: U Lock |
Security Rating: None |
Decibels: 130dB |
Weight: 2.9lbs/1328g |
Dimensions: |
Pros: |
Cons: |
Other Features: Adjustable lock holder provided |
My Rating |
Abus Bordo 6000 |
Lock Type: Folding Lock |
Security Rating: 10/15 (abus) |
Decibels: 100dB |
Weight: 3.2lbs |
Dimensions: 9.5 x 3.9 x 1.5 in |
Pros: 5mm steel bars made of special hardened steel 100dB Alarm Soft-touch Coating |
Cons: Cost. Sold Secured Bronze. |
Other Features: 1 CR2 batteries (included) Available in 3 sizes: 75cm, 90cm & 130cm |
My Rating |
Abus Unisex - Adult 440A/150HB160 USH alarm bicycle lock |
Lock Type: U-Lock |
Security Rating: 8/15 (Abus) |
Decibels: 100dB |
Weight: 2.6lbs |
Dimensions: 8.51 x 6.23 x 3.47 in |
Pros: 3D position detection |
Cons: Some Durability Issues. You can Silence it by putting hand over speaker. |
Other Features: |
My Rating |
Abus 770A SmartX Keyless U-Lock |
Lock Type: U-Lock |
Security Rating: 15/15 (Abus) |
Decibels: 100dB |
Weight: 4.41lbs |
Dimensions: 230 x 108 mm |
Pros: 13 Mm Hardened Square Shaft Keyless |
Cons: Top end in terms of cost Keyless so battery must be charged Quite heavy |
Other Features: Access Control for other users |
My Rating |
Crystal Vision SHBLA 130db Bike Alarm
This alarm is very loud, highly-rated, and reliable.
It is also waterproof, strong, and durable, making it a perfect option.
You can purchase this product from bike shops, certain hardware stores, and online.
Review
This is a super loud alarm. If the lock is broken or disassembled, the alarm will emit a deafening 130dB siren.
It will also be triggered if the cable of the lock is clipped or if it registers any vibrations.
This lock is also very strong and durable.
The lock is made of stainless steel and is secured with a 14mm Quattro-locking, carbide-reinforced hardened-steel locking pin.
The entire alarm lock is waterproof and can operate in temperatures ranging from 14 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit.
Batteries (CR2 ), which are initially included, can last up to a year.
The premium holder of this lock is adjustable.
The bracket of the product is suitable for a bicycle ellipse frame tubing from 1.5 inches to 3 inches.
One of the only downfalls of this alarm lock is its price.
Out of the three products, it is the second most expensive.
PROS
CONS
Abus Bordo 6000 Bike Lock and Alarm
Review
This lock has a 100bB intelligent alarm with corrosion resistant 5mm foldable steel bars made of special hardened steel.
As with all locks it must come into contact with your bike frame so it has a soft touch coating on the bars and a silicone cover on the main body which will protect your bike from accidental scratches.
It comes with two keys and Abus’s Plus cylinder which allows you to re-use the same keys with other Abus locks, although you have to get them set up for you with Abus.
The lock itself is rated 10/15 for security by Abus which isn’t bad on its own but independent tests by Sold Secure gives it a disappointing Sold Secure Bronze rating.
The lock was once given a Sold Secure Silver rating but has since been downgraded.
At the price we’re talking about here this shouldn’t be used as your primary lock especially if your bike is expensive and your pride and joy.
While the alarm may go some way to protecting your bike I would question the wisdom of using this lock as your only lock.
The lock is a thing of beauty. It shares its looks with other foldable locks but I love the innovation and thought that has gone into this.
I love the simplicity and, yes, the weightiness of the lock, quite hefty at 3.4 lbs.
It comes with a lock holder which can be either screwed to your frame or it comes with Velcro fixings.
Either way works just as well but a thinner frame might struggle to hold with the Velcro.
There are two settings for the lock.
The first, you can lock your bike without using the alarm. Just unfold the lock and secure it to a bike post or similar.
This vlock is flexible as you’d expect with a good reach around.
The second setting is for the alarm, you click the last bar into the head, turn the key to lock and at once you get an audible beeping to tell you the alarm is being set.
This is where the clever bit starts.
Once the alarm is set it will detect a minor disturbance and let you know with a similar set of beeping as when it was being set. That’s your warning.
Obviously, if you knock another bike while setting up your own you don’t want to set off that bike alarm.
If the lock determines that this is a serious attempt to break into the lock with its 3D position detection technology or it finds that someone is trying to pick the lock then all hell breaks loose and a 100dB chorus will fill your ears.
This will continue until either the key is inserted and turned or the battery runs out.
The alarm uses a CR2 battery which will last about 3 months under normal circumstances.
You’ll get an audible notice if this needs replacing.
Replacing that battery is simple enough, you just need to get to it under the silicon head cover.
Would I recommend this lock? Well it is beautiful, interesting and innovative but also not as secure as I would like for the price.
It’s on the higher cost side of the locking world and I would expect it to be more capable for that price.
That said, the alarm part of the lock isn’t part of the Sold Secure test and you could argue this makes the difference.
However, for the price and security it gives me I think there are cheaper options.
PROS
CONS
Abus Unisex - Adult 440A/150HB160 USH Alarm Bicycle Lock
It has a Sold Secure Silver rating which is better than the more expensive Bordo 6000A reviewed above.
The name of the lock is a bit strange, i.e. Abus Unisex, but if you can get over that then we can get down to the important part which is how the lock works as an alarmed bike lock.
The shackle is made of 12mm hardened steel as well as the housing and supporting bits of the locking mechanism.
You lock it like any U Lock and once set the alarm will give you a polite 15 second 100dB warning if the lock is disturbed.
If it lays undisturbed at that point it will reset.
If a thief is continuing to have a go the lock’s 3D positional technology comes into play and knows when the lock is being moved around. Once the alarm goes off it won’t stop until the key is used.
The lock uses CR2 batteries
This is a good looking, capable, lock and can’t be considered second class to the more expensive Bordo 6000A.
In my view this is a winner.
Forget about the Unisex title of the lock.
This is a decent bike lock whether alarmed or not.
PROS
CONS
Abus 770A SmartX Keyless U-Lock
The Abus 770A SmartX Keyless U-Lock is a high quality, very secure, bike lock which comes with some very innovative features.
This is a heavy weight (literally at 4.41lbs) in it's class.
It is Bluetooth enabled when paired to your phone and allows for the automatic unlocking/locking of your lock when in the vicinity of your mobile phone.
It has a 100dB alarm and 3D Position Detection technology to determine if your lock is being moved.
A short warning is given if your bike is knocked but in the event of a proper attempt to move your bike then the alarm will trigger and it will get louder and louder until 100dB pierces your ears.
That's not a pleasant experience.
Review
You can also give others access to the lock via their own mobile phone.
That's under your control so you can give temporary or permanent access to your lock.
This is up to you and controlled via the Abus SmartX app on your mobile phone.
This can be really useful if you need lend out your bike to your other half or a friend.
Are you ready for a keyless bike lock? Trust in the product is essential.
Abus have a reputation to uphold so I have no doubt this system works.
I do worry about losing power to the lock so I think you would need to be disciplined in charging it regularly.
A keyless bike lock also has no lock picking entry point so this can only be a positive.
The U bar is made of 13mm hardened steel and the lock itself is certified as Sold Secure Gold which is a mark if a very secure lock.
So would I buy this lock? It is certainly a very good lock even without the alarm.
If I could justify the cost and overcome any hesitancy with it being a keyless system then this is a great option.
PROS
CONS
FINAL VERDICT
Have you decided on whether you're in the market for an alarm only system or a bike lock?
If you are searching for a decent bike alarm lock, the three very good options to choose from including the Onvian 2 in 1 Smart Bike Tail Light, Wsdcam Bike Lock Alarm, and the Wsdcam Wireless Anti-theft Bike Alarm are all solid options.
The decibel levels are all comparable to each other and all have some sensitivity detection.
I have to say I do like the Onvian.
Its dual nature as an alarm and a rear light with some clever features win this one for me.
Each product has its own features, pros, and cons.
The Wsdcam Wireless Anti-theft Bike Alarm is cheaper than the other two alarms.
However, the Crystal Vision SHBLA Anti-theft Bike Alarm emits the loudest sound, which can be crucial in the event of someone trying to steal your property.
The Wsdcam Bike Lock Alarm has the softest alarm, but it is also the strongest and most durable lock.
Considering all the features and pricing, the best option for most people would probably be the Crystal Vision SHBLA Anti-theft Bike Alarm.
It is not the most expensive alarm, but it is also not the cheapest.
It emits the loudest alarm (130dB) and is waterproof, long-lasting, strong, durable, and reliable.
As for bike lock alarms, there are two winners here for me.
The Abus Unisex - Adult 440A/150HB160 and the Abus 770A SmartX Keyless U-Lock.
Cost wise the Abus Unisex wins.
It's a good all rounder; it's a solid lock with medium theft protection.
The alarm is sensitive enough to work effectively.
The Abus 770A is the winner purely on security grounds.
It's got a Solid Secure Gold rating Plus the alarm.
The only potential downside is that it's a keyless system.
My recommendation then for a solid bike lock alarm is for the The Abus Unisex - Adult 440A/150HB160.