5 Best Bike Locks You Can Buy in 2022 (Ranked)

Are you looking for the best bike locks? This post lists the 5 best bicycle locks of 2022 and explains why each one is an excellent choice for cyclists.

Today’s bike thieves are becoming more sophisticated. With this in mind, it is important to have a secure way of securing your bicycle. A good lock can keep your bike safe from theft, and a lousy lock can cost you more than just the money spent on it, making them one of the most important bicycle accessories you can own.

But, finding a good bike lock can be challenging. And bike locks can be costly. So, how do you choose a good lock? And what are the best bicycle locks of the year?

In this article, we’ll list the five best bicycle locks of 2022 and explain why each is an excellent choice for cyclists. We’ll also provide tips on choosing the right lock for your fixed gear or single-speed bike and guide you through using bike locks safely. So whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cyclist, read on to find the best bike locks!

Below are just three of our featured favorites. Scroll further down to see our full roundup, or click here.

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What is a bike lock?

Bicycle locks are used to secure a bicycle during storage, transport, or use. Locks have become more prevalent in recent years as theft of bicycles has increased. Bicycle locks are available in various styles, sizes, and materials. In addition, an ever-increasing range of accessories can be attached to the lock, such as cable cutters or cable reels for locking up the bike in your garage or on a rack. Many bike locks also have built-in security features such as alarm clocks or immobilizers.

Thumbnail for a blog post 5 best bike locks you can buy in 2022 (ranked)
Thumbnail for a blog post 5 best bike locks you can buy in 2022 (ranked)

Regardless of what type of lock you use, you will want to ensure you secure both your bike frame and the wheels; specialist the front wheel, as it’s often the easiest to steal.

Black and yellow fixed gear bike locked properly with two chain locks. Source: adobe stock
Image of a black and yellow fixed gear bike locked properly with two chain locks. Source: adobe stock
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My favorite bike (at the moment):

State Bicycle Co. Black Label 6061

Best overall fixed gear bike state bicycle co 6061 black label v2
My favorite bike (at the moment):

State Bicycle Co. Black Label 6061

This is my daily ride, my trusty Black Label It’s lightweight and beautifully crafted. It looks like a beast and rides like one too. I upgraded the saddle, but everything else is pretty much as it was out of the box. I highly recommend it.

What are the different types of bike locks?

Different bike locks are available in the market, like cable locks, U-locks, and chain locks.

Chain locks

A chain lock is the most common type of bike lock. Chain locks require you to carry around substantial weight to secure your bicycle.

Cable locks

A cable lock can be attached to any surface or object, such as a tree, fence, or doorknob. It consists of a long length of wire with an end-piece that connects both ends and provides an attachment point for a padlock or keyed cylinder locking mechanism. Cable locks are often lightweight and easy to use.

U-locks

U-locks are the most common type of bike lock for fixed-gear cyclists. A U-lock is typically made up of two parts—a U or D-shaped bar that goes through the bike’s frame and a bar that locks both ends together. To secure the bike to a post or rack, you simply insert the shackle into the hole on the bar.

Folding locks

Folding locks are the newest type of bike lock in the cycling world. A folding bike lock is a type of lock that can be compacted and stored in a small space. These ultra-compact locks comprise a series of linked steel plates that can be bent to provide various locking choices before folding down into a small package that’s easy to carry around. 

Various compact bike locks on the market can help you protect your bicycle and do not compromise.

Benefits of a bike lock

Do you want to keep your bike safe and secure? If so, you’ll want the best locks for your needs. Upgrading to a high-quality lock can be an easy way to enhance the security of your bike. If you’re wondering whether you should buy a new lock for your fixed gear bike (or any bike for that matter), consider the advantages listed below.

A good lock has many benefits, including:

  • A bike lock can deter thieves, making them think twice before stealing your bike.
  • Save money by not needing to buy a new bike due to theft.
  • Knowing that your bicycle is always secure (especially when parked outside) can give you peace of mind.
  • If needed, a U-lock can be used as a defense tool (not recommended).
  • Use it as a stand for taking photos of your bike (if you don’t have a kickstand).

The five best bike locks of 2022

Below are the best bike locks that you can buy right now.

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Best overall bike lock

This bike lock is an excellent choice for all cyclists.

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There is no better way to keep your bike safe and secure than with the Kryptonite New York Fahgettaboudit Mini Bicycle U-Lock, especially if you reside in a high-crime area.

Kryptonite is the most well-known brand in the bike lock market. The Anti-Theft Protection Offer is one of the features that distinguishes Kryptonite. Once you have your lock, you must register it with the manufacturer. The company will then pay to replace your bike if it is stolen while covered by anti-theft protection.

The first year of registration for the Fahgettaboudit Mini is free. And it’s $24.99 per year after the first year for five years of coverage.

According to the manufacturer, the New York Fahgettaboudit Mini has the greatest degree of security of all of Kryptonite’s locks. The shackle is made of hardened 18 millimeters thick “MAX-Performance” steel.

The crossbar includes an enlarged hardened steel sleeve for additional security. The lock has three keys that operate a high-security disk-style cylinder to release the lock. A sliding dust cover protects the cylinder. Furthermore, the central keyway is intended to make leverage assaults harder.

Click here to check the most current price of the Kryptonite New York Fahgettaboudit bike lock.

Best value bicycle lock

This bicycle lock is ideal for those on a tight budget that want the most bang for their buck. In other words, this is the best bicycle lock for the money.

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Believe it or not, the OnGuard Brute is resistant to bolt cutters thanks to its 16.8mm TriRadius reinforced steel shackle.

As a result, the OnGuard Brute is our study’s most secure and best-value bike lock. It has a Sold Secure Diamond rating and an OnGuard security rating of 97/100.

The Brute is the ideal bike lock for you if you ride an expensive bike or routinely secure your bike in a high-risk region (big towns and cities).

The Brute is the biggest D lock on this list, weighing 3.59lb (1.63kg). However, whether used in conjunction with its mount or the Huldit Bike Lock Mount (seen below), you won’t feel the increased weight when pedaling!

The generic mount that comes with the Brute is made of plastic and does not seem very sturdy.

The Brute has a lot of locking space for your bike. Unfortunately, unlike the Pitbull, the 8001 Brute STD does not come with an extension cable, but an extension cable can buy these separately for a very affordable price.

You’ll get the standard set of 5 keys (one with an LED), a complete lifetime guarantee, and access to OnGuard’s Anti-Theft Protection Offer. In addition, if your bike is stolen while secured with the Brute, you may be entitled to a refund of up to $5,001.

As previously said, the OnGuard Brute is the lock for you if security is your top concern. I’d suggest utilizing the Brute with an extension cord for convenience of operation.

Click here to check the current price of the On-Guard 8001 Brute bike lock.

Best Lightweight Bike Lock

This bicycle lock is the best for those concerned with carrying extra pounds around.

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The ABUS Granit XPlus 54 Mini is a great lightweight bike lock. The 54 Mini received a 15/15 rating from ABUS on their security scale, placing it in their “Maximum-Security” category. In addition, this lock received the Sold Secure Bicycle Gold rating and the Sold Secure Motorcycle Gold rating! These security levels are excellent for such a lightweight bike lock.

The 54 Mini is a lightweight bike lock that weighs 2.68lb (1.21kg) and is ideal for securing your bike in high-risk regions.

The 54 Mini’s smaller shackle, like the Fahgettaboudit Mini’s, makes this lightweight D lock more difficult to overcome using hydraulic and twist assaults. This is the process of inserting a long metal implement, such as a crowbar or scaffold pole, into the shackle and twisting it to pry the lock.

The 54 Mini does not come with the amount, but it works great with the inexpensive Huldit Bike Lock Holder!

The 54 Mini provides an excellent balance of security and mobility, making it ideal for usage in high-risk environments. While not the cheapest, this D lock is reasonably priced considering its exceptional all-around capabilities.

Click here to check the current price of the ABUS Granit XPlus 54 Mini.

Best chain lock

This is the best chain lock on the market for your fixed gear bike.

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The Kryptonite New York Fahgettaboudit Chain and Disc Lock are what you need if you want a no-nonsense lock that is all about visible and physical security.

It’s the lock you want if you’re storing your bike overnight or for a prolonged time in high-risk zones. You may leave this lock on the rack while you’re gone if you lock up in the same location every day. Every bike lock in our collection is destructible. However, the Fahgettabouit Chain and Disc Lock need specialized equipment and a significant amount of time to cut through. In other words, only the most devoted thieves can compete with this candidate.

However, before you rush to your favorite outdoor shop, let’s be clear about the reality of this lock: it’s large, pricey, and weighs more than 15 pounds, so you won’t want to carry it about town. In addition, the chain might damage the paint off your frame since it lacks a nylon sheath.

You should use a different lock if you prefer to keep your wheels glossy and fresh. Daily journeys with an additional 15 pounds aren’t much fun, so look into lighter-weight solutions that make commuting less of a chore. If you leave your bike outside for a long time, this lock gives you more confidence than most other locks that your wheels will still be there when you get back.

Click here to check the current price of the Kryptonite Fahgettaboudit Chain and Disc bike lock.

Best wearable bike lock

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The Hiplok Original is a novel method to transport your lock. Unlike the other bike locks on the list, this one has a novel and practical design that enables bikers to wrap the chain around their waist, adjust it to fit, and carry the theft deterrent easily. 

The nylon sheath that protects your bike frame and components from the hefty chain (the lock weighs more than four pounds) also features a luminous strip to keep you visible on the road. This wearable design makes transporting the weight simpler than typical U-locks, which weigh down bags. In addition, the lock is simple to operate, with a curved key that easily fits into and unlocks the locking mechanism.

Because of its intrinsic flexibility, it is more adaptable for latching up to irregularly shaped structures.

This type is a user-friendly, mid-to-high-level security lock with a cyclist-first design to meet your bike requirements. Click here to check the current price of the Hiplok Original Wearable Chain bike lock.

What to consider when buying a lock (things to look for)

Choosing a bike lock with the right features for you can be daunting, so here are just three of the most important things you should consider when selecting the best bike lock.

1. Weight

A heavy lock can severely alter your riding experience. Additional weight can lead to a slower ride and tire you out a little faster. So look for a lock that is not too heavy. Consider a lightweight lock or the lightest one you can find. It’s important to note that lightness typically comes at a cost. Lightweight materials tend to be more expensive, so consider your budget.

2. Security material

It needs to be durable and resistant to attack by thieves. This means you will need to consider the material carefully. Hardened steel is used to make the majority of bike locks. Hardened steel is more resistant to cutting, cropping, and abrasion than mild steel.

3. Ease of use

You must choose one that is easy to use (especially if you’re unfamiliar with locks) and ensure the lock securely fits your bike’s frame.

4. Features

Consider picking a lock with an added feature like an LED light or alarm system.

If you want even more tips, check out this video called Which Bike Locks Are Best for You? | Bike Lock Beginner Guide from the Zach Gallardo YouTube Channel.

How I chose these fixie bike tires (ranking criteria and methodology)

We studied hundreds of reviews from real purchasers and expert testers to determine which bicycle locks performed the best and were the most dependable. We selected bicycle locks at various pricing ranges to ensure that everyone can find a bicycle lock that suits their needs. We judged these bicycle locks by the following criteria.

1. Price

While this article covers bicycle locks with varying price ranges, we highlight affordability as a prime benefit. So, we selected these bicycle locks based on how reasonably they are priced and their total value provided for that price.

2. Style

Let’s be honest; we all want good-looking gear. No one wants to attach an eyesore on their bike. We selected these bike locks based on their aesthetic appeal.

3. Features

Every bike lock has a unique set of features. Some are better than others. We ranked these bicycle locks based on their advertised features.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Below are some commonly asked questions regarding bike locks.

How do I choose a bike lock?

Some general tips that may help you choose a bike lock include considering the type of bike you own (expensive or cheap), how much security you need, and whether or not theft is a concern in your area.

How do I set up my new bike lock?

It is essential to ensure that your new bike lock is adequately set up before riding. To do this, follow the instructions provided by the lock manufacturer.

Do bike locks make a difference?

Generally, bike locks make a massive difference in theft prevention. Locks can deter thieves from stealing your bike if they know the lock will hold up to their efforts.

Conclusion

Bike locks are one of the most critical security measures you can take to keep your bike safe from bike theft, and there are a variety of types and brands to choose from.

We know choosing the right fixed-gear or single-speed lock can be challenging. But hopefully, now you have some excellent options to choose from next time you consider purchasing a new lock.

This article outlined the basics of a bike lock, why it’s crucial to have a good bike lock, and how to choose the best locks for your needs. Here are some key takeaways:

Key takeaways

So, which bike lock is your favorite? And what do you think of our list? Will you grab one of these for your fixed gear or single-speed bike? Let us know in the comments section below (we read and reply to every comment). If you found this article helpful, check out our full blog for more tips and tricks on everything fixie. Thanks for reading, and stay fixed.

Helpful resources

Image of a red bike with a bicycle lock. Pinterest
Image of a red bike with a bicycle lock. Pinterest
Bradley Knight Image
Written by Bradley Knight, Staff Writer

Hey there! My name is Bradley, and I've been riding fixed for years. I love all the joy and pain that comes with this unique style of cycling and the passionate community that drives it. If you love fixed-gear bikes, this is the place for you.

Nick eggert.
Edited by Nick Eggert, Staff Editor

Nick is our staff editor and co-founder. He has a passion for writing, editing, and website development. His expertise lies in shaping content with precision and managing digital spaces with a keen eye for detail.

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