Best Bike Lock of 2023 – Complete Reviews with Comparisons
The idea that you need to lock your bike up no matter where you live in the world should be sort of an obvious step in your bike owner duties.
No one wants to spend all their hard-earned money on a nice set of wheels only to have some thief walk off with it because the lock they chose was not secure enough.
So, which lock is the best? What style will be the most effective?
There are so many choices and styles out there that this small detail could become overwhelming.
What are you even looking for in a good lock?
In this buyer’s guide, we will not only break down some of the best bike locks of 2023 but also discuss how to choose the right one for your budget and needs.
Starting with the breakdown of five of the best bike locks available in 2023 we will dissect each one in fine detail.
Then we will move on to talking about what you need to look for when choosing between these awesome choices.
Plus, we will answer some of the most frequently asked questions.
After all that hopefully you will feel more confident about which lock to choose.
So, let’s take a look at some locks that could suit your needs.
Comparison Chart
Best Bike Lock Reviews
Sportneer 5-digit Resettable Bike Lock
Sportneer’s mission of combining sports and engineering has brought about some fantastic products since its inception in 2016.
That definitely includes The Sportneer 5-digit Resettable Bike Lock.
The durability and ease of use are why this lock made its way onto the list of the best bike locks of 2023.
Let’s take a look at some of the highlights of this product.
Product Highlights
This chain lock offers the bike owner a bunch of cool features like an easy to set and reset individualized 5-digit combination lock.
It also offers:
- Keyless with a lock that gives the owner up to 100,000 different combinations
- Cable that is constructed to be cut resistant
- Extended and flexible bike cable good for use with not only bikes
- A chain cover that keeps the lock from being damaged by everything including the elements
With all those amazing features it is no wonder that this lock found its way onto this list.
What’s the verdict?
What's to like about the Sportneer 5-digit Resettable Bike Lock
The best thing about the Sportneer chain lock is the versatility when it comes to the combination.
With so many choices the chances are near impossible that any thief would be able to guess the combination.
The level of security that this lock affords through the uncrackable combination and the super-sturdy manganese cable is adequate for safer areas.
The durability of the lock is what makes this lock shine.
What's not to like about the Sportneer 5-digit Resettable Bike Lock
The budget friendliness of this lock doesn’t lend itself to bringing the amount of safety you may be looking for.
In fact, if you live in a higher crime area this lock is definitely not the right choice for you.
The longer cable though good to use with multiple things is not long enough to lock both wheels.
PROS
CONS
Via Velo Bike U-Lock
Via Velo has been selling on Amazon for a while garnering a stellar reputation for both quality and excellent customer service, which is why they are one of Amazon’s No. 1 sellers.
That passion translates to their product as well.
Product Highlights
The Via Velo U-lock is crafted to be durable and to elevate the level of security of your bike.
To ensure that it reaches these levels of performance the lock offers:
- An extended length cable of 70” that is PVC coated
- A lock mount for your bike frame to keep it out of the way
- Rubber casing around lock to keep it from getting dust and other debris in it
- Mounting bracket that is compatible with a wide range of bike models
- 2 keys included with lock
- Resistant to corrosion and the elements with its PVC coated construction
- Lock your bike easily and quickly with the strongly constructed lock
- 24-hour customer service
- Crossbar with double bolts that makes the locking system more durable
- Lock cylinder that is theft resistant
That laundry list of features and benefits is amazing but let’s look at what boils down to the good and bad of this lock.
What's to like about the Via Velo U-lock
The level of difficulty a thief would have to go through to get at your bike with the Via Velo lock makes this lock one of the best locks out there for your bike.
The team at Via Velo have specifically designed it to be that difficult with the double bolt crossbar, ant-picking technology and the resistance to pull and drilling will make sure your bike stays right where you left it.
What's not to like about the Via Velo U-lock
The cable is a little short for bigger bikes like a men’s mountain bike, but for the price, this lock is a viable security solution.
PROS
CONS
Sigtuna Bike Lock
One of the best-reviewed locks on Amazon the Sigtuna lock is a must for any bets of bike lock list out there.
With its attention to theft deterrence and durability, it is a must research option for anyone looking to protect their wheels.
Product Highlights
This bestselling affordable bike lock option comes with a steel shackle that only serves to make the security of your prized possessions that much better.
The lock also presents its customer these features as well:
- Included is a flex cable made of steel
- Double bolt lock that deters smash and pull theft
- Cover for the keyhole to combat corrosion and offers protection from picking
- 3 keys included
- Coated body and cable to defend against paint damage
In the end, the features of this lock create a high-quality lock that gives its owner a nice level of security.
But the final word on this lock comes down to a few things.
What's to like about the Sigtuna lock
The construction of the lock itself is one of the best things.
The U lock design has always been a high performing and durable model.
The Sigtuna is one of the bestselling, highly rated for this very reason.
The attention to elevating the security against multiple avenues of attack makes this lock one of the best options on the market today.
What's not to like about the Sigtuna lock
The main downside of this lock is the weight of the unit itself.
Not the most lightweight option this lock may be a bad choice for someone looking for safety in a small package.
The only other negative is that it is not universal meaning that it may not fit all sizes of bikes.
PROS
CONS
Kryptonite New York Fuhgeddaboudit
One of the locks that everyone out there talks about is the Kryptonite New York Fuhgeddaboudit and for good reason.
This intimidating lock definitely uses its heft and size to say to the possible thieves out there you might as well Fuhgeddaboudit!
Product Highlights
No matter who you are or what level of security you are looking for when you lay eyes on this chunky bike lock you will be in awe.
Made of strengthened steel this lock is practically indestructible which means that thieves are bound to simply walk away from trying their hand at cracking this lock.
Some of the features that assist in this lock reaching such a high level of security are:
- Disc lock with a steel shackle that can resist bolt cutters
- Double deadbolt
- Cylinder that is smash and pull resistant
- Keyhole protected from dust
- 3 keys included (one with a light for night riding safety)
- Coated to protect your bikes paint job
- The durability of this lock is so great and that is why when you strip the bare fats down to what is good and what is bad you end up with the final words on this lock,
What's to like about the Fuhgeddaboudit
Simply put the security and durability that this lock gifts its owner is the best thing about this lock.
The intimidating stature of this lock is the biggest deterrent to theft.
What's not to like about the Fuhgeddaboudit
The heft of this lock means that carrying it around can be a little cumbersome.
Which means if you are going to use this lock you may want to hit the gym or leave attached to whatever post you will be securing your bike to.
PROS
CONS
Ottolock Steel & Kevlar Combination Lock
A young company founded in 2015 on the idea of crafting innovative product for the cycling market, OTTO Design Works has done just that.
This innovative bike lock is so unique that it definitely needed to be on this list.
Product Highlights
The highlight of this product is its portability.
Along with an easy to carry package it also gives the cyclist these features:
- Good for use to secure any number of equipment
- Easily set 3-digit combination
- Lightweight and durable design
- Great for quick stop safety
Innovation is a buzzword and has been for the last decade when it comes to integrating technology.
This new lock has that and when you think about the final decision on this lock there are a few things that stand out.
What's to like about the Ottolock Steel & Kevlar Combination Lock
If you look at the price tag and the size of the lock, you might be like ‘no way that it’s worth it.’
But you would be wrong.
Comparable to many of the other locks in the same level of security this piece offers so much.
The sheer portability of this lock is enough to make this lock a valuable investment.
It is small and durable and for short term safety is definitely effective.
What's not to like about the Ottolock Steel & Kevlar Combination Lock
There is not much to say about this lock that is negative.
The one downside is if you are looking for a lock that will secure your valuable belongings for a long time frame this is not really the lock for you.
PROS
CONS
BUYER'S GUIDE
Like with any decision there is a lot to think about.
There is your budget, which option is the best for your needs and so much more.
When deciding which lock is the best for your bike, there are a few extra key factors to think about.
Below those will be broken down to help you in your decision-making process.
Type
The choice of type is important and totally dependent on the level of crime in your area. The four types are U-locks, chain locks, folding locks, and cable locks.
Each one of these types of locks has their advantages.
The best way to think about which type is the best for you is by taking a hard look at the rate of crime.
For instance, if you live in the suburbs where there is less crime, then maybe you would go with the simpler cable lock.
Whereas if you are in a metropolitan area where the crime rate is higher than the more secure U-lock would be your best choice.
Security Ratings
What level of protection do you need?
Once again this is where you would look at some key factors to decide what exactly you are looking for in your bike lock.
On top of the crime rate of your neighborhood, you also need to think about the value of your bike and how long you will be locking your bike up in said neighborhood.
Once you have these questions answered, you know what level of security you will need when looking at which lock is the perfect fit for your needs.
Another way to look at the security ranking is by taking a look at one of the online security tests you can find to see where you lock falls on the scale.
Though these tests have not been found to be highly accurate it may still offer you a little more sense of security.
Brand
Now that you have thought about what type and how much security you need then it starts to come down to brand.
The reputation of brands in this field is a big consideration.
There are so many brands that have made their name on their performance.
Brands like Kryptonite and OnGuard are some of the best, though in the end the brand choice really just boils down to your preference.
Material
No material or lock is undefeatable but there are some that make it a little harder to steal your bike.
Not only the hardness of the material but also the thickness of construction should be considered when deciding which lock will secure your bike the best.
Thinking of the tools of the thief trade will help determine which material is best suited for you.
One of the most used tools is bolt cutters.
If you are in a huge theft area, then you may want to purchase a lock that comes within the diameter of 13 -15 mm, though there are thieves out there that carry this kind of weapon there are fewer that do.
If you want to make your lock impenetrable to the bolt cutter than your best option is to go with a lock with 16mm or larger diameter.
Along with thinking about how wide a diameter you have to prevent bolt cutters being an option, there is also the strength to the steel, the design of the lock, and the mechanism used to lock the piece.
All of this will play a part in how strong the lock is.
Size
The size can mean different things with different types of locks.
It can pertain to the diameter of the lock, the sheer size or in the case of a U-lock the area within the lock itself.
The smaller the U-lock typically means a better or secure lock. This type of lock gives an added advantage because it is harder for a thief to get their hands on your personal items.
In reference to the size when not talking about the U-lock does reference the thickness and size of the actual lock; the thicker it is, the harder it is to cut or burglarize using other methods.
F.A.Q.
There are so many questions still running through your head I am sure, and while we cannot answer them all in this guide, we can look at some of the most frequently asked ones.
So, take a look at some of the questions that you may be thinking right now.
How to lock a bike
Locking your bike is dependent on the lock type as well as the bike model you are riding, but there are a few factors that don’t change. Here are those factors:
- Secure the bike frame to a stationary object
- The lock should be as far as possible from the ground
- Do not lock around the top tube
- The lock should be difficult to get to
How to reset a bike lock
Once again, this the answer to their question is lock specific but there is some universal step you take to reset a bike lock.
Here are the steps:
- Flip the rest lever
- Spin the combination dials to the desired new code
- Then flip the reset lever back to its previous position
- Then lock the lock and test the new combination
How to unlock a bike lock
Depending on the model there may be some variation on execution.
With a key lock, you will insert the key and turn, and the lock should release.
If, however you are using one with a combination, simply input your chosen combination and pull the locking mechanism open.
How to use a bike lock
The answer to this question depends on what you are the bike you are locking up and where.
But once again there are a few key factors to making sure you are utilizing it to its fullest potential. Here are those factors:
- Secure the bike frame to a stationary object
- The lock should be as far as possible from the ground
- Do not lock the lock around the top tube
- The lock should be difficult to get to
How to lock a bike on a car bike rack
This depends on the rack, but you should make sure that your bikes are securely fastened with a safety plate of bungee cords to the bike rack.
Then, once it is secured you then use the lock for your bike like you would with any other stationary object.
Once the lock is fastened to the rack you will be able to drive to whatever location you are headed securely in the knowledge that your bike will arrive safely with you.
FINAL VERDICT
All the information laid out in this buyer’s guide is intended nothing more than make your decision easier.
We started with breakdowns of five of the best locks out there to keep your bike secure, running through all the benefits and features that make each stand out.
Once you have a few amazing options it is then that you can take each and run it through a set of categories that will narrow down the field one step further.
By considering the type, size, material, security needs, and the brand you can narrow down the choices to the perfect lock that will meet your needs.
Whether you go with the Kryptonite New York Fuhgeddaboudit or you choose the more innovative Ottolock choicer you will be assured to have chosen just the right one.
Wrapping up the guide there were undoubtedly a few questions and hopefully one of the FAQ addressed will be able to answer those for you.
With all that wrapped up into an easy-to-digest buyer’s guide hopefully you are now prepared to make that final decision and your bike will be safe and secure from the bike thief villains of the world.