Dion Lewis
After spending countless hours with a panel of 15 of the best bikers I know, we ascertained that the Kryptonite Kryptolok Standard Bicycle U-Lock is the best when it comes to securing your bike. It not only used to lock and unlock bikes but provides the key elements of a good lock ranging from reasonable pricing, resilience, ease of locking and unlocking, multipurpose use and ease of carrying.
>Kryptolok has for a long time been the gurus of locks, and there was almost no way a product from them would have missed on the list. These locks are ideal thanks to a manageable weight, convenience, and ease of use. The locks are also some of the fastest moving products in stores for a reason. We subjected them to all kinds of pressure similar to what thieves do on a day to day basis, and they lasted longer than expected.
The best U Lock in the market
- 13 mm hardened MAX-Performance steel shackle
- 4′ KryptoFlex™ double loop cable
- Protective vinyl coating
- 2 stainless steel keys
My riding friends and I set out to find out which U locks are the most reliable on the market today. One of the reasons we took this quest is due to the myriads of locks out there that claim to work exceptionally well but do not. Bike safety is paramount especially if you come from an area that is theft-prone.
This may not be the only reason since you may also need to travel to places where security is an issue. Bikes cost a fortune which is why it is wise that you invest in a good lock to safeguard it.
Safety locks come in all shapes and sizes. Some of the most reliable forms of these locks are the U-locks. Our focus was identifying locks that are not only pocket-friendly but tough enough to dare risky neighborhoods.
The fact of the matter is that all locks are breakable to some degree. Some will, however, take forever to hack which is what makes them the best. A thief does not have the time to figure out locks and so will use wit which involves picking locks and brutal force which may include a few blows onto the lock without drawing attention.
A lock that will take more than the needed blows to break will be left alone. One that takes forever to pick will also be avoided, and this is what makes these locks worth having. Here is our list of the best U Locks for bikes.
Bike lock buying guide
There are factors to consider before the purchase of a U-lock. These guidelines will enable you to make the right choice when it comes to securing your bike for a very long time.
The price
This is, of course, the first thing every buyer will think about. Locks will range in price depending on quality and brand. Companies like Kryptonite have been at the forefront of fabricating some of the most reliable locks. Others such as Hip lock are coming up well giving the best a run for their money. The best locks will cost more than $100. This does not mean that you do not have a chance of finding a good lock for much lower. This will, however, be a huge gamble on your side. The best locks will cost a little extra. This is a cost worth undertaking especially if you have a costly bike. Pro bikes will cost close to the value of a car and so need valuable lock-up systems. A cheap lock will be okay for a cheap bike. This will still be risking your asset no matter the cost. It is advisable that you go for a good lock since you will not only be using it to secure your bike. The fact that locks are multipurpose gives you a reason to get the best no matter how cheap your bike is. Cheap locks will also need replacement over a short period making them an expensive venture. Costly locks are designed to last and ensure. They will also auger well in case of an attempt to break them.
The locking mechanism
Different U-locks will come with various locking mechanisms. The one you choose will be determined by a number of factors including the length of time taken to unlock as well as the ease of doing the same. It is also a matter of preference. Most riders nowadays prefer using a keyless system believing that they are harder to hack hence more secure for the bike. Combinations are also ideal where one needs a combination code to open the lock.
Duality
The most recent options have the choice of using a chain link. This allows the user to lock the bike in two ways. The extra security ensures that the bike is locked to one of its parts as well as a pole or post nearby. The ability to use the lock in more than one way increases its value for money which makes it worth having at the end of the day.
Brackets
Brackets are important when it comes to carrying your lock around. Pick a lock that has a brace that will enable you to move around without the need for a bag. Braces will attach the locks to the frame. They can then be detached and re-attached at will. This also reduced the inconvenience of extra weight when moving around.
Sheaths/ seals
Ensure that your U-lock comes with a seal or sheath to protect your bike from scratches. The best will be rubber. These last longer and work best in situations where you need to store your locks. The sheaths protect the locks from weather elements that are lily to cause rust over the long haul. Most U-locks if not all will come with this cover which also provides a good grip while handling.
Size/weight
A good-sized lock is a good idea. This is about the spots where you will park it. Small poles will leave huge gaps that will make it easy for thieves to pry them open using metal bars. Small locks may not work for poles that have large diameters; it is wise that you do a small survey of the poles set up at places you frequent so as to buy a lock that will work for most. A lightweight lock is also ideal for your needs. Heavy locks are not only cumbersome but will add extra weight on the bike slowing you down. Big ones are also cumbersome and look awkward on a bike whether there is a brace or not.
Space allowance after fastening
It is important that you get a lock that cannot be easily vandalized using metal bars. U-locks are exceptionally easy to snap open the moment the thief gets a metal bar through the lock. The lock will come undone when a considerable amount of force applied to a pole or post. Locks that leave as little space as possible will work best. There should, in fact, be no space just to be safe. This may be a tricky situation to achieve due to the fact that different parking lots will have differently sized metal posts and bars. Very slim poles or posts will leave a gaping space which makes the bike vulnerable. Wide diameters will make it impossible to fasten the bike if your lock is small in size. It is at this point that getting some locks becomes necessary. This allows you to secure your bike with more than one lock so as to improve the security of the same.
Position of fastening
Different locks will be used in various parts of the bike. Some will be multipurpose but some will only work on the wheels while others will work on both the wheels and the frames. Some will work on the frames and the external fastening point while others will not. Those that will fasten on the wheel only expose the bike to being carried away whole. Securing the bike onto something other itself will keep it safe even after you lock the wheels in place.
Compare the selections
Can use multipurpose (gates, sports equipment, bikes, motorcycle, etc.)
Protective from leverage and cutting attacks. (shackle)
Durable and Flexible loop cable
Center keway gives the protection from leverage attacks.
The lock has anti-rattle bumpers that make transportation of lock noiseless
Protective vinyl coating makes it durable
Disc-style cylinder makes the security system high
Central keyway gives the protection from leverage attacks
Sliding dustcover keeps the cylinder safe and durable
Flexible and durable Cable
Highest protective from hitting and pulling attack (U -Lock)
U-Lock Also Great protective from manipulation
Anti-dirt and anti-corrosion keyhole cover
Can give high security in the highly crime area
Cable Diameter is 10 mm
Flexible and durable cable
U-lock also durable and strong
Can make sure high security in the highly crime areas (protect from twist and cut attack)
Weather guard feature protect from rusting
Easy to install and carrying
1-years manufacturer’s warranty
Can use multipurpose (gates, sports equipment, bikes, motorcycle, etc.)
Protective from leverage and cutting attacks. (shackle)
Durable and Flexible loop cable
Center keway gives the protection from leverage attacks.
The lock has anti-rattle bumpers that make transportation of lock noiseless
Protective vinyl coating makes it durable
Disc-style cylinder makes the security system high
Central keyway gives the protection from leverage attacks
Sliding dustcover keeps the cylinder safe and durable
Flexible and durable Cable
Highest protective from hitting and pulling attack (U -Lock)
U-Lock Also Great protective from manipulation
Anti-dirt and anti-corrosion keyhole cover
Can give high security in the highly crime area
Cable Diameter is 10 mm
Flexible and durable cable
U-lock also durable and strong
Can make sure high security in the highly crime areas (protect from twist and cut attack)
Weather guard feature protect from rusting
Easy to install and carrying
1-years manufacturer’s warranty
6 best u locks you can buy today for your bikes
1. Kryptonite Standard Bicycle U Lock
Our overall best choice
Kryptonite Kryptolok (12.7 mm U-Lock with FlexFrame-U Bracket)
We felt that this was a great addition thanks to the pricing and a few other factors including the anti-rattle design. Riding with metal lined looks can be quite annoying which is why this lock comes in handy. It is also a tough one making it an excellent lock to have in high and low-risk areas. The metal is reinforced with a rotating dust cover to protect a highs security disc styled cylinder. The lock does well when faced with leverage attacks and cutting which is a good thing. It is also easy to carry and handle suitable for security quite a large number of valuable devices. These include gates, fences, sports equipment, bikes, motorcycles, mopeds and so on.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Price | This is a moderately priced lock with great attributes though more expensive than the first two. |
| Locking mechanism | You get a lock and key locking mechanism. |
| Resilience | The lock is tough resisting both physical and elemental forces adequately. |
| Duality | It comes with a flexible cable for dual point securing. |
| Brackets | The lock does not come with brackets, but these can be bought separately for securing the lock to the bike frame. |
| Sheaths/seals | You get a lock seal to protect the locking mechanism and a sheath to protect the bike frame form external damage. |
| Size/weight | The lock weighs 3.4 pounds. |
| Space allowance after locking | The space allowance depends on your point of fastening. The lock, however, keeps this at minimal. |
| The position of fastening | The lock comes with a convenient position f fastening. |
2. Kryptonite New York Fahgettaboudit Mini Bicycle U-Lock
Mini U-Lock
Kryptonite New York Fahgettaboudit Mini Heavy Duty Bicycle U Lock
Despite the weight that this lock comes with, we felt that it had earned a place on our list. This is an excellent lock for people with valuable items without care for a little extra weight including bikes. The design is built to resist leverage attacks and cutting by bulky gauge handheld devices. It also comes with double-bolting features, a high-security disc-style cylinder, a sliding dust cover, and a dual deadbolt locking system. This is a robust lock to go through which is why it is one of the most sought after. It weighs a whopping 2 kgs which may be a turn off for road bikers but ideal for mountain bikers. It is also ideal for motorbikes, mopeds, tools and sports equipment among many other devices and tools.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Price | This is our most expensive option but worth the pricing due to its heavy-duty features. |
| Locking mechanism | You get a lock and key mechanism. |
| Resilience | The lock boasts a maxi steel build with an oversized hardened steel sleeve over a crossbar. |
| Duality | The lock does not come with a flexible cable but can be bought separately. |
| Brackets | No brackets available but can be acquired separately. |
| Sheaths/seals | The U lock is sheathed and sealed at the locking mechanism to protect it and the bike frame. |
| Size/weight | The lock is the heaviest weighing at 2kgs. |
| Space allowance after locking | The lock provides minimal spacing keeping levers out. |
| The position of fastening | You get a convenient point of fastening |
3. SIGTUNA Bike U Lock: Our choice for heavy-duty
16 mm thick with 1200 mm Steel Flex Cable Lock
SIGTUNA Bike locks – 16mm Heavy Duty U Lock
The Sigtuna bike lock won the first place for some reasons all of which we fund crucial for a good lock. The lock not only proved resilient under pressure but played the part of convenience remarkably. Most locks will compromise on one notion while maximizing on the other making it tough to make a choice. The quality of the steel used to design this lock proved tough enough to withstand an intensive hit as well as good enough to retain its integrity.
The extra cable is a bonus worth noting especially if you do not have more than one locks to make a thief work for it. The cable also designed with braided steel offers the qualities of a chain lock. This is more like killing one bird with two stones. The lock allows the owner to secure the bike to its parts as well as onto a post comfortably
Despite the rise in keyless options, the two Abloy cut keys provide rust-free access to the lock mechanism for a long time. We also noted that the key mechanism held onto the key while the lock was open.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Price | The lock costs slightly more than most but is worth every penny. The fact that it can be used to lock many other items in the home is a huge bonus. |
| Locking mechanism | The locking mechanism uses two Assa Abloy cut laser keys which are rust-resistant. The keys will remain I the locking mechanism as long as the lock is open and release when the lock is secure. |
| Resilience | The double bolted mechanism on both sides of the crossbar aids in providing resistance to prying, pulling and jacking. The shackle is made of high-performance steel that is resistant to cutting and bending. This enables you to lock up your bike in two places especially around poles and points that have large diameters. Anybody looking to go through this lock will need some extra time and extra special tools. This is a time that no thief has making it a must-have U-lock. |
| Duality | The lock comes with an extra flex cable that is braided with steel for an extra layer of security. |
| Brackets | You get a sturdy mounting bracket that allows you to bring the lock wherever you go with a. The mechanism releases with a one-button press laced with a Velcro strap. This makes it easier to handle and parks the bike faster than ever before. |
| Sheaths/seals | The lock is covered by a PVC seal that makes it friendly for frames hence no scratches. The seal is also waterproof keeping damage and rust away for a very long time. |
| Size/weight | The lock weighs about 1.7kgs which is about the weight of most U-locks. It is also 9.45 inches in length and 6 inches wide. |
| Space allowance after locking | It is an ideal lock if you use it on a standard pole. The best way to reduce the space between the shackle and the lock is by locking it to some components is the bike including the wheel, and frame and then to the pole. |
| The position of fastening | The lock allows you to secure it to any part of the bike right from the handlebars to the wheels and the frame thanks to its size. |
4. OUTERDO Bike U Lock
No products found.
OUTERDO Heavy Duty Combination Bike U Lock
This is one of the best choices we came up with thanks to some features. The bike lock is reasonably priced with an environmentally-friendly build made of silicon. It is also ergonomically designed for ease of handling and maneuverability. The lock is also hard to crack making it one of the best there is for high and low-risk areas. The lock block is hard to cut and resistant to brutal forces while the flex cable is resistant to cutting. It comes with a sturdy flexible cable that allows it to not only lock to itself but objects around. The lock is applicable for a large number of valuable items ranging from bikes, skateboards, motorcycles, gates, fences, sports equipment, tools, lawnmowers, mopeds, carriages and much more.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Price | This is one of the best-priced locks for the value it provides to the buyer. |
| Locking mechanism | The lock uses a key locking mechanism and comes with three spare keys. |
| Resilience | It is made of 16mmm reinforced and toughened steel alongside a 10mm of reinforced steel cable. |
| Duality | The lock is dually allowing you to fasten the lock onto the bike and the flex cable around and securing point. |
| Brackets | The lock comes with a bracket for carrying around that can be easily installed. |
| Sheaths/seals | You get an environmentally friendly silicone sheath that allows ease of handling and protects the bike frame from damage. |
| Size/weight | The lock weighs about 2.5 pounds which is pretty reasonable for a heavy-duty lock. |
| Space allowance after locking | The 1.2 m flex cable allows you to secure the bike onto a wide range of points and also limit the space in between for leverage. |
| The position of fastening | The fastening position is convenient for the user. |
5. SIGTUNA Bike U Lock
16 mm thick with 1800 mm Braided Flex Cable Lock
SIGTUNA Bike locks – 16mm Heavy Duty Bicycle U Lock
Sigtuna U locks have been at the forefront of providing excellent products for a very long time, and it is not shocking that this one made it on our list. These are some of the most affordable locks in the market if you are looking for something that meets some criteria. This is a lock that will do amazingly well in high risk and low-risk areas. The body of the lock can withstand serious roughing up, and the flex cable will comfortably resist cutting. This is an excellent lock for your use on some valuable items ranging from motorcycles, bikes, tools, sports equipment and lawnmowers. It can also be used as an excellent lock for fences and gates to keep intruders out.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Price | The lock costs more than our first choice but is worth every cent. |
| Locking mechanism | Lock and key with two lasers cut keys. |
| Resilience | One of the toughest locks in the market withstanding a lot of abuse and handling. |
| Duality | The lock allows you to lock the bike and an external point for convenience. |
| Brackets | The lock does not come with brackets, but these can be bought separately to secure the lock to the bike frame. |
| Sheaths/seals | The U lock is well sheathed and sealed to protect the bike frame and allow ease of handling. |
| Size/weight | The lock is slightly heavier than our first option weighing at 3.64 pounds. |
| Space allowance after locking | The space allowance is primarily determined by the securing point, but the locks build enables you to keep it at minimal. |
| The position of fastening | You get a convenient fastening point. |
6. Cocoweb Heavy Duty Bike Lock
Cocoweb Armbar Bike U-Lock with LotusLock Bicycle Flex Cable
The Cocoweb heavy duty U-Lock takes the third place for obvious reasons. The lock is bulkier than the previous two but provides a lot of strength with the size. A bigger lock is an idea if you encounter extraordinarily big posts and poles but will be heavier than normal.
The good news is that you do not have to carry the weight thanks to a simple bracket that attached the lock to the frame. It also comes with high-performance steel that has been covered with a PVC layer to avoid damaging your bike frame. This lock took almost as long as the Krypto lock which is a slightly smaller challenger. It is a good lock for riders that do not mind the weight and size as long as it comes with a brutal strength to withstand hacksaws and hammers.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Price | The lock is reasonably priced and so worth every penny. The fact that it can be used in some ways makes it even more valuable. |
| Locking mechanism | The lock has laser cut keys for extra security with a convenient clip mount that is easy to install. |
| Resilience | The CocoWeb is a strong U-lock that comes with a durable and resilient bar thickness providing ample bike protection. The steel shackle is 14mm in width and competes well with the former counterparts. This also makes it ideal for other pieces of equipment in the home ranging from lawnmowers to motorbikes. What the U-lock also comes with a reinforced steel flex cable that is braided for extra security. It is also resistant to cutting and drilling. |
| Duality | A steel weaved cable adds extra security allowing you to attach the bike to any pole or post nearby. It also allows you to secure the bike parts to the frame in more than one ways. |
| Brackets | You also get a simple bracket mechanism that helps the lock cling onto the bike frame as opposed to carrying a bag everywhere you go. This makes it very convenient to move around and lock your bike at will. |
| Sheaths/seals | The steel is sealed using a 2 mm PVC layer for ample protection from and extreme damage that may cause scratches on the frame of your bike. The PVC also provides water-resistant properties as well as weatherproof properties preventing rusting all year round. |
| Size/weight | The lock is nearly the size of most locks with a height of 9.4 inches and a span of about 6inches. This allows it to fit snuggly on most frames with a simple bracket. It also weighs 3.25 pounds adding minimal weight to your bike structure. |
| The position of fastening | The cable provides additional locking mechanisms onto anything that is much bigger than the U-lock can handle. |
How I Picked the Top U Locks
Other than the experience of using different kinds of locks, intensive research has shown that the best locks are both hardy and versatile. Companies like Radar.com have spent time breaking every bike lock they can find just to find a weakness. It is amazing that they have not found a lock that they could not hack which means the proof is in the pudding. Locks that take longer to break are the best. These are tougher as well as a nuisance to thugs.
Picking the best lock involved some comparisons putting in mind the attributes of each. The most foolproof way to do this was to subject many highly recommended locks to a ‘theft’ test. This involved hitting them with hammers, cutting the shackles with a hacksaw as well as drilling through the mechanism. These are some of the most common ways thieves will try to dismantle the locks before getting away with the bikes. Outfits like radar.com spend most of their time taking shots at new locks to determine how long they can withstand a brutal or calculated attack. The longer a lock persists, the better it is. They have also proven that all locks are breakable and that the only difference would be the amount of time take to tear one apart.
A lock that will take the thief longer than two minutes is not worth the risk of getting caught and so will translate into a good one. Those that will take away more than this time limit is some of the best in the market. We also determined the best through research and a combined thought process with other riders.
Most of my friends in the field have had encounters with thieves which made it a resourceful point for the study.
Why should you trust me and this review
My experience with bike locks has come with years of trial and error exposing me to a world of pleasure and pain. If you have owned a bike for as long as I have, you will agree with me that experience is the best teacher.
It is a fact that all locks are breakable, but some are simply a nuisance. This is a chance few thieves are willing to take. The only determining factor when it comes to good lock is the amount of time they can withstand an external attack no matter the kind. The fact that these three locks outlasted 3 minutes made them the perfect candidates for the best locks list. My first lock was a chain-linked lock that was made of heavy gauge links that I believed were impenetrable. The padlock was also heavy gauge, and it was until I found it completely cut that I change my mind about the kind of bike locks to use. I did not lose my bike since the thief was interrupted by pedestrians which were only by luck. I knew that this kind of luck would not last as long as I kept using methods from the past. My first U-lock was not exactly a high-end choice but worked to some point. I later found it unlocked and the bike was gone. It was then that I realized that there were people out there that had dedicated their lives to hacking bike locks. It was at this point I acquired a better lock and combined it with a chain lock for extra security. I have not had any regrets since then.
This does not mean that I have not had low-lives attempt to break the locks. I have made it a priority to find good locks and also tested quite a few on the market. The best locks for the user do not come cheap but are worth every penny. I have friends that have lost bikes or lost bike parts, and so I know how it feels to lose equipment you love so dearly.
One of the most common ways thieves will attempt to use to hack U-locks is by taking advantage of the space between the shackle and the locking mechanism. Most try to pry a metal bar in between them to break the lock which means that ample space is more than enough to become a victim. The other way is by trying to pick the lock. This may take longer and is done by seasoned thieves. High-end locking systems will deter any form of picking. I then realized that locks that have more than one locking option would slow down any thief no matter how determined.
Other than the experience of using different kinds of locks, intensive research has shown that the best locks are both hardy and versatile. Companies like Radar.com have spent time breaking every bike lock they can find just to find a weakness. It is amazing that they have not found a lock that they could not hack which means the proof is in the pudding. Locks that take longer to break are the best. These are tougher as well as a nuisance to thugs.
For whom this guide is
This article is for every rider out there whether novice or pro, seeking to understand more about locks so as to make an educated decision at the local locks store. Knowing the difference between the locks and the value of each is crucial. It is wise that you make an informed decision when buying either. Most professionals will encourage you to buy one of each to increase the security level of your bike. Chain locks, unlike U-locks, will provide more versatility regarding flexibility. These can be used to lock the bike to anything as long as the diameter is below 1.8m or so. This makes them a welcome addition. The fact that they are made of reinforced steel is making them harder to cut through which is an added advantage.
Making a decision between chain and U-locks also takes knowledge. Chain links are made using steel links or steel cabling which is woven or twisted together to increase durability and strength. Unlike U-locks, most chain locks will not have braces that allow them to be attached to the bike hence saving space. The most recent innovations enable the cabling to coil around the bike which is as good as a brace, though.
Should I buy these locks?
U-locks have been around for a while and are there to stay. They are still some of the best ways to lock up your bike. They are also getting better with time thanks to more innovative ideas by designers. One of the best attributes of a U-lock is its ability to lock the bike to some components within it. This makes it almost impossible to move the bike. The above-listed locks are not only ideal regarding convenience abut are the best line of defense for your bike. U-locks can be used in other areas which make investing in them a bonus every chance you get. This is for you if you value your possessions as well as prefer simplicity. The compact nature of the lock allows you to carry it comfortably around. The brackets make them easy to carry around, and so you will not have to carry a bag around every time you hit the track. There are more futuristic options coming up for convenience but strength and durability remain King.
