As much as I love riding my e-bike, the thought of it being stolen is always in the back of my mind. With the rise of e-bikes, there has also been a growing need for effective bike security measures to prevent theft.
A study completed in the Netherlands has shown that ebikes are three times more likely to be stolen than regular bikes.
An electric bike can be a significant investment, and losing it to theft can be frustrating and costly.
That’s why getting the best e-bike lock you can afford is an important step in protecting your investment. Check out the models we trust below!
How to Lock Up Your Ebike
The first thing to point out and remember is that no electric bike lock is completely theft-proof.
But, choosing a secure ebike lock and using it properly will deter potential thieves and make your ebike significantly more difficult to be stolen.
Source: Kryptonitelock.com
Firstly, you should always secure the frame and the rear wheel together by wrapping the lock around the seat tube and through the rear wheel. Ideally, you should use an additional lock to secure the front wheel as well.
Avoid locking to anything that can easily be cut or broken, such as thin poles or flimsy fences. Also, choose a secure location for your ebike, such as a well-lit and heavily trafficked area.
Finally, make sure to remove the battery (unless it has its own lock) and any other easily removable but valuable parts, such as lights, a bike computer, and so on.
Remember, the goal is to make your ebike the most difficult to steal and steer the thief towards easier pickings on the rack.
- Related guide: Electric Bike Safety: 10 Tips to Stay Safe on Your E-Bike
Best Ebike Locks Available in 2024
1. Hiplok D1000
2. Kryptonite New-U KryptoLok Standard U-Lock with Cable
3. Hiplok Gold Wearable Chain
4. Kryptonite Keeper 712 Chain Combination Lock
5. Abus Granit X-Plus 540 9″ U Lock
6. Kryptonite New-U Messenger Mini+ U-Lock
7. Abus Bordo Granit Folding Lock
8. Kryptonite Evolution 1090
9. OnGuard Bulldog U-Lock
10. Rockymounts Pivot U-Lock
1. Hiplok D1000
Anti-Angle Grinder E-Bike Lock
- MSRP: $300
- Weight: 4 lbs. 1.6 oz.
- Thickness: 20 millimeters
- Security rating: Sold Secure Diamond
The Hiplok D1000 bike lock is designed to offer maximum security for high-risk areas while remaining lightweight and easy to use.
It features a patent-pending design that can withstand a sustained attack from an angle grinder, making it unique on the market.
The lock is Sold Secure Diamond rated and is backed by the Hiplok Lifetime Warranty.
The 20 mm graphene-reinforced, hardened-steel shackle is resistant to cutting and prying, while the rubberized outer surface provides protection for your frame.
Hiplok D1000 also features an integrated shackle and body design with an anti-rotation and double-locking function.
The lock is lightweight and easy to use and comes with three coded, replaceable keys. To carry it along more easily, consider getting Hiplok’s carry pouch as well.
The only downside is the small space inside the shackle, which limits where you can use it. Despite that, the Hiplok D1000 is by far the best bike lock for ebikes on the market.
2. Kryptonite New-U KryptoLok Standard U-Lock with Cable
Best Lock for Electric Bikes with a Cable
- MSRP: $70.95 (REI)
- Weight: 2 lbs. 13 oz.
- Thickness: 12.7 millimeters
- Security rating: Sold Secure Gold; ART 2/5; Kryptonite 6/10
In most cases, the Kryptonite New-U KryptoLok Standard U-Lock with Cable will be the only thing you need to keep your investment secure.
The U-lock lets you secure your frame and rear wheel, while at the same time, the cable allows you to secure your front wheel.
However, according to its security rating, this ebike lock offers moderate protection, as it’s not as highly rated as Hiplok D1000, for example.
On the other hand, the high-security disc-style cylinder is pick and drill-resistant and the 12.7 mm hardened steel shackle will make any thief work hard before breaking it.
Along with the U-lock and the cable, you also get two stainless-steel keys that are eligible for the Key Safe Program for easy replacement if lost or damaged.
Therefore, if you want the best lock for ebikes that comes with a cable, this Kryptonite model should be high on your list, especially if you ride one of the best commuter ebikes and regularly park it on city streets.
3. Hiplok Gold Wearable Chain
Best Wearable Electric Bike Lock
- MSRP: $140 (REI)
- Weight: 5 lbs. 4.7 oz.
- Thickness: 12 mm
- Security rating: Sold Secure Gold
The Hiplok Gold Wearable Chain is a truly unique electric bike lock. It wraps securely around your waist, so you can carry it with you without needing a backpack or panniers. Plus, you can buy it with a reflective sleeve that will improve your visibility at night.
This Hiplok wearable chain has a few advantages compared to U-locks for electric bikes. It’s a lot longer (33.5 inches), so you can wrap it around poles and larger objects, and it’s flexible and wiggly so it’s harder to keep in place by a thief trying to cut it.
Its 12 mm hardened steel shackle with a 10 mm hardened steel chain comes with Sold Secure Gold rating. The lock weighs 5 lbs. 4.7 oz., which is quite heavy (though users report that it doesn’t feel so when worn) and adjusts to fit comfortably on waists measuring 24 to 44 in.
So don’t hesitate to get the Hiplok Gold Wearable Chain if you want one of the best bike locks for e-bikes in terms of portability and ease of use.
4. Kryptonite Keeper 712 Combination Chain Lock
Best Combination Chain Lock for Ebikes
- MSRP: $65.95 (Jenson USA)
- Weight: 3.75- 4.5 lbs
- Thickness: 7 millimeters
- Security rating: Sold Secure Bronze; Kryptonite 5/10
If you don’t like worrying about losing the keys to your e-bike lock or damaging them, you should consider this combo lock from Kryptonite.
The Kryptonite Keeper 712 is a burly, heavy-duty chain lock that can easily wrap around an ebike with fat tires and a thick frame. The lock is 7 mm thick which makes it resistant to most attacks, and it’s made from 3T manganese steel that is as strong as they come.
The chain is 47.3 inches long, which is long enough to find a secure locking place wherever you go. Its length and strength also mean it can be used safely with most of the best bicycle racks for e-bikes.
The mechanism itself is easy to reset, so you can change the combination as many times as you want, which greatly improves security.
The only downside to the Keeper 712 is its 4.5 lb weight, but that’s also what makes it the best ebike lock without a key.
5. Abus Granit X-Plus 540 9″ U Lock
Best Designed Ebike U-Lock
- MSRP: $160
- Weight: 3 lbs. 7.7 oz.
- Thickness: 13 mm
- Security rating: Abus Security Level 15/15
Abus is one of the most trusted manufacturers of electric bike locks for a good reason. Their Granit X-Plus 540 U-lock is a go-to choice for ebike riders who want to deter opportunistic thieves.
It has a 13 mm thick parabolic shackle that won’t withstand an angle grinder for long (only Hiplok D1000 will) but will resist any other type of attack.
The internal dimensions of this ebike u-lock are 9 x 4.25 inches, which should be plenty of space to secure any ebike, including fat tire ebikes.
Abus Granit X-Plus 540 weighs 3 lb 7.7 oz and comes with a mounting kit, so taking it along won’t be an issue. You can just strap it onto your rear rack or seat post.
All things considered, if you want one of the best ebike locks that is fuss-free and offers medium protection, this Granit model is a no-brainer in our opinion.
6. Kryptonite New-U Messenger Mini+ U-Lock
Most Versatile Electric Bike U-Lock
- MSRP: $103.95 on REI
- Weight: 2 lbs. 8.2 oz.
- Thickness: 11 mm
- Security rating: Sold Secure Silver; ART 2/5; Kryptonite 6/10
The Kryptonite New-U Messenger Mini+ U-Lock is a unique combination of a mini u-lock with an additional shackle designed to go around your wheel and provide another layer of security.
Based on the security ratings awarded by Sold Secure and ART, this lock is intended for use in medium-risk locations, such as for locking up while shopping, or in the bike room at work.
The Kryptonite New-U Messenger Mini+ is versatile and flexible and can be used for both the front and the right wheel.
The only consideration (apart from the price for some) is that some people who bought it report that the key sometimes won’t lock and unlock smoothly and needs a bit of wiggling around. But that seems to be a sporadic issue.
We can say this is our favorite u-lock style electric bike lock, as it has chain-like versatility at a fraction of the weight.
7. Abus Bordo Granit 6500 Folding Lock
Best Folding Lock for Ebikes
- MSRP: $190 (REI)
- Weight: 4 lb
- Thickness: 5.5 mm
- Security rating: Abus Security Level 15/15; Sold Secure Gold
The ABUS Bordo Granit is our top choice for a folding electric bike lock. It has 5.5mm bars made from specially hardened steel and integrated rivets that offer high protection against drilling attacks.
The innovative ABUS Link Protection Shield ensures that these rivets are not only flexible but also extremely resistant to attacks involving sawing.
Additionally, the ABUS XPlus precision disc cylinder offers protection against manipulation attempts.
The bike lock is not only extremely robust but also easy to handle, thanks to the good locking mechanism that allows it to be locked and opened with particular ease.
That said, folding bike locks are not as secure as chain locks or U-locks, but they are quite practical to use and carry.
One of the main problems of ABUS Bordo Granit 6500 is the price for the security offered. But for those who absolutely want a folding ebike lock, this is the best choice.
8. Kryptonite Evolution 1090
Toughest Chain Lock for Electric Bikes
- MSRP: $109.95 (REI)
- Weight: 6 lbs. 1.6 oz.
- Thickness: 10 mm
- Security rating: Sold Secure Gold; Kryptonite 8/10
Kryptonite Evolution 1090 is one of the best ebike locks out there for anyone who wants top security from a chain lock.
It’s made from 10 mm 6-sided chain links made from hardened 3T manganese steel that’s going to be hard to cut with any tool.
On top of that, it comes with a patent-pending end link that secures the chain directly to the deadbolt, eliminating a critical vulnerability many other chain ebike locks have.
The disc-style cylinder is pick and drill resistant and the lock also comes with a dust cover and a weather-resistant sleeve that prevents scratches on your frame.
Along with the Kryptonite Evolution 1090 lock, you’ll get 3 keys, one of which has an LED light for easier use at night.
At closer inspection, this electric bike lock has no apparent downsides, except for the 6 lb 1.6 oz weight, though that translates into additional security.
9. OnGuard Bulldog U-Lock
Most Affordable Ebike Lock
- MSRP: ~$40 on Jenson USA
- Weight: 8 lb
- Thickness: 11-13 mm
- Security rating: Sold Secure Silver
Even though OnGuard Bulldog is not the best ebike lock on this list, it is one of the cheapest by far at around $40. Considering the security you get for the money, the value is actually quite high. Though keep in mind that it is quite heavy at around 8 lb.
It comes with a hefty 11-13 mm wide shackle and a double-bolt locking mechanism so it offers reasonable security against most attacks, including picking, pulling, and drilling.
In order to take it off, a thief would have to make two cuts, which significantly increases the time and hassle required to steal your ebike.
OnGuard Bulldog comes with 5 keys and has a mounting bracket that fits on all standard ebike tubes.
You can get this lock in lots of different sizes, including DT (DoubleTeam) models that come with a 4-foot full-coated braided steel cable for extra locking versatility.
10. Rockymounts Pivot U-Lock
Cheapest U-Lock with a Bracket
- MSRP: $40
- Weight: 2 lb
- Thickness: N/A
- Security rating: 6/10
If you’re looking for a U-lock but you can’t pay extra for Kryptonite New-U KryptoLok, this Rockymounts electric bike lock is a good budget alternative.
It comes with a hardened steel shackle that lets you secure your frame and one wheel with ease thanks to a 165 mm shackle length and 87 mm width.
It’s rubber-coated, so it won’t scratch your frame and the locking cylinder has a dust cover to prevent dirt from getting in. You also get two keys and a mechanism that keeps the bracket attached even when unlocked.
Due to the low price and the fact it still hasn’t been tested independently by Sold Secure or ART, we wouldn’t trust Rockymounts in high-risk areas for extended periods. But it’s more than secure for normal day-to-day use in medium-risk locations.
How to Choose the Best Ebike Lock for Your Needs
Choosing the best ebike lock for your needs is just as important as choosing the best electric bike.
In order to make the right choice, you should consider the type of ebike lock, security ratings, brand and price, and other key factors such as weight, size, ease of use, and accessories.
Types of E-bike Locks
U-Locks (D-Locks)
U-locks are the most popular type of ebike lock due to their strength and durability.
They feature a U-shaped shackle made of hardened steel, which makes them resistant to bolt cutters and saws.
They usually come with a lock mechanism that uses a key, but there are also keyless smart options, though they are not considered as secure.
U-locks are also available in different sizes, making them versatile enough to secure your e-bike to various structures.
The two best models we recommend are the Hiplok D1000 or the Kryptonite New-U KryptoLok that comes with a cable.
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Chain Locks
Chain locks are a flexible option that can wrap around your e-bike and the locking point, providing a strong and secure hold.
They are made up of a series of steel links, which makes them harder to cut through than cable locks.
Chain locks can be heavy and bulky, making them less portable than other types of locks. Though some models, such as the Hiplok Gold Wearable Chain, are easy to carry around your waist.
They are widely regarded as the best ebike locks on the market because they can be made to be incredibly bulky and tough.
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Cable Locks
Cable locks are a lightweight and affordable option for securing your e-bike if you’re leaving it unattended for a few minutes.
They consist of a long steel cable that can be looped around your e-bike and secured with a locking mechanism, usually a combination lock.
Although cable locks are not as secure as U-locks or chain locks, they are still an effective deterrent for opportunistic thieves.
However, they should not be relied upon as the only safety measure in medium- to high-risk areas.
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Folding Locks
Folding locks are another type of best ebike locks that offer the portability of cable locks with the security of U-locks.
They consist of several steel bars connected by flexible joints that allow them to be folded into a compact size when not in use.
Folding locks are lightweight and easy to carry in a backpack or mounted on the bike frame. They are also resistant to cutting and picking, making them a good choice for you if you value convenience and security.
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Best Ebike Lock: Key Factors to Consider
When selecting the best ebike lock, there are several key factors to consider.
First and foremost is security. Look for electric bike locks made of high-quality materials, such as hardened steel, and consider locks with additional security features, such as anti-pick mechanisms or disc-style cylinders.
Hiplok D1000 is considered to be one of the best ebike locks out there, resistant even to angle grinders.
The weight of the lock is also an important consideration, particularly if you plan to carry it with you. Choose a lock that is lightweight and easy to transport while still providing adequate security.
Size is also crucial, as the lock needs to be large enough to secure both the frame and the wheels of your e-bike. Also consider the ease of use of the lock, such as how easy it is to lock and unlock and whether it comes with additional accessories such as a mounting bracket or carrying case.
Finally, we recommend steering clear of cable locks and going for U-locks, chain locks, or folding locks for the best possible security.
Ebike Locks Security Rating Systems
Security rating systems are used to indicate the level of security provided by e-bike locks. Two common rating systems are ART and Sold Secure.
ART is a Dutch rating system that uses a scale from one to five, with each star denoting a recommended use for the lock:
- 1 star is minimum security (“take away security”)
- 2 stars for bicycles
- 3 stars for mopeds and mopeds
- 4 stars for motorcycles (on the road)
- 5 stars for motorcycles (parked at home)
Sold Secure is a UK-based system that uses a Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Diamond rating system. The higher the rating, the more secure the lock is considered to be.
- Sold Secure Bronze: Offering theft resistance against basic tools (aimed at preventing opportunist crime).
- Sold Secure Silver: Offering theft resistance against an enhanced tool list (aimed at preventing more determined attacks).
- Sold Secure Gold: Offering theft resistance against a dedicated tool list (aimed at preventing dedicated attacks).
- Sold Secure Diamond: The highest level of theft resistance including the use of specialist tools (including angle grinders).
These rating systems can help you make informed decisions about which locks to purchase by providing a standardized method of evaluating the security of different locks.
When looking for the best ebike lock, always try to choose one with a high rating to ensure maximum security for your bike.
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