Bicycle theft is a scourge that affects many cyclists in urban areas and even in the suburbs. According to a recent study, approximately 2 million bicycles are stolen each year in the US. With the increase in the use of electric bicycles, particularly favored by thieves, it is essential to invest in suitable security solutions. Among these solutions, the bicycle lock remains an essential element to deter thieves and protect one’s property.
Why Invest in a Quality Bicycle Lock? #
Bicycle thefts mainly occur in high-traffic areas: train stations, universities, city centers, but also near offices and parks. A quality lock is essential to effectively protect your bike and deter theft attempts. Indeed, the most robust models are designed to withstand the tools used by thieves, such as bolt cutters and saws.
Certified locks, such as those meeting Sold Secure or ART standards, offer optimal protection, ensuring increased resistance against attacks. They are particularly recommended for high-value bicycles or electric bicycles, which are often more expensive to replace.
The Different Types of Bicycle Locks #
Knowing that you need to equip yourself with a lock is good, but the real question is: which one to choose? There are many models, more or less effective or practical. It’s up to you to find the one that best meets your needs!
U-Lock #
The U-lock remains one of the most secure options for urban cyclists according to the FUB. Made of hardened steel, it offers great resistance to theft attempts, particularly against bolt cutters, one of the thieves’ favorite tools. In Europe, it has been found that U-locks significantly reduce the risk of theft, especially in large cities like Berlin and Amsterdam, where bicycle thefts are frequent.
✅ Advantages: #
- Robust
- Very resistant to cutting tools
- High level of security when used properly
❌ Disadvantages: #
- Rigid
- Sometimes heavy
- Less practical for attaching the bike to certain anchor points
Recognized U-lock models: #
- Kryptonite New York Lock: This U-lock is often considered one of the most robust on the market.
- Abus Granit X-Plus: Offers protection against picking thanks to its specially hardened steel and X-Plus cylinder.
Chains #
Hardened steel chains are ideal for those looking for a compromise between security and flexibility. They allow you to attach the bike to various anchor points, including larger or irregular objects.
✅ Advantages: #
- Flexible
- Adapts to various types of supports
- Offers solid security thanks to thick hardened steel links
❌ Disadvantages: #
- Heavy weight
- Not practical for daily commutes
Recognized bicycle chain models: #
- Kryptonite Evolution Series 4: Offers great attachment flexibility while maintaining sufficient strength to deter thieves.
- Trelock BC 680: Combines a strong chain and a reinforced lock for increased security.
Folding Lock #
Folding locks, made of articulated segments, store easily and are lightweight to carry, making them a popular option for urban cyclists. Although they offer some flexibility, they are generally less resistant than U-locks.
In cities like Paris, where about 70 bicycles are stolen for every 100,000 inhabitants ( Discerning Cyclist), these locks are often used in conjunction with other systems to maximize security.
✅ Advantages: #
- Lightweight
- Compact
- Easy to carry for cyclists seeking portability
❌ Disadvantages: #
- Lower resistance compared to U-locks
- Susceptible to targeted attacks
Recognized folding lock models: #
- Trelock FS 500 Toro: Offers great attachment flexibility while maintaining sufficient strength to deter thieves.
- Abus Bordo Granit X-Plus: Made with reinforced materials, combining lightness and strength, it meets the ART security standard.
Cable Lock #
Cable locks for bicycles, often made of braided steel, are lightweight and easy to carry. However, they remain the most vulnerable to bolt cutters, and their use should be reserved for very short stops or in conjunction with a U-lock or chain.
✅ Advantages: #
- Easy to carry
- Lightweight
- Practical for quick stops
❌ Disadvantages: #
- Low protection
- Vulnerable to attacks with cutting tools
Recognized anti-theft cable models for bicycles: #
- Zefal K-Traz C12: Appreciated for its portability and ease of use in conjunction with a main lock.
- Onguard Akita: Reinforced design and adjustable length, it allows securing multiple parts of the bike or attaching it to bulky objects.
Advanced Technology Locks: Bosch eBike Lock #
Announced at CES 2025 by Bosch, this anti-theft innovation targets the batteries of electric bikes, the most stolen component. This electric bike lock pairs digitally with the owner’s bike, making the battery unusable on another model. A great deterrent method!
✅ Advantages: #
- Specifically designed for electric bikes.
- Effective deterrent by rendering the battery unusable.
❌ Disadvantages: #
- Requires a system compatible with Bosch eBike Lock.
- Works with a subscription.
Smart Locks #
These smart bicycle locks often include an alarm and an integrated GPS tracker, allowing you to track the bike’s location in case of theft. These technologies prove particularly effective in large cities where the recovery rate of stolen bicycles remains low (between 5 and 10%).
In the Netherlands, these devices are increasingly used to protect electric bicycles, which are highly targeted by theft networks.
✅ Advantages: #
- Location features
- Integrated alarm
- Proactive security
❌ Disadvantages: #
- Does not necessarily prevent theft
Recognized smart bicycle lock models: #
- Invoxia Bike Tracker: Discreetly integrates onto the bike and provides location monitoring via a mobile app.
- Linka Smart Lock: Equipped with a 110 dB alarm that triggers in case of attempted theft and a remote locking and unlocking feature.
Adding a GPS Tracker for Maximum Security #
Locks alone may not always be enough to deter thieves. That’s why adding a GPS tracker for bicycles is an interesting solution for cyclists. At Invoxia, the Bike Tracker meets cyclists’ needs in terms of protection, and especially recovery in case of theft. It includes the following features:
- Location and position history available on the app.
- Notifications sent in case of movement on your bike or attempted theft.
- Police assistance included in case of theft, to facilitate the authorities’ searches.
- Ultra-discreet format thanks to the combination of the Invoxia Mini Tracker and its reflector.
- Battery life of up to 3 months for long-lasting peace of mind.
I secured my bike with an ART2 lock. The next day, I saw the notification that my bike had moved! I called the police, and within less than 6 hours, I had my bike back.
Mickael S., user of Invoxia’s Bike Tracker
While the GPS tracker is not a lock per se, it is, however, a very effective complementary solution! If the recovery rate of a bike is around 5%, it is multiplied by 10 with a GPS tracker, according to a study conducted by Invoxia in June 2024.
Tips for Properly Securing Your Bike with a Lock #
While it is important to equip yourself with a solid lock, there are still some tips to follow to maximize its effectiveness:
- Choosing the anchor point: Use a fixed and solid point (barrier, post).
- Using multiple locks: Combine a U-lock with a cable to secure both wheels.
- Strategic location: Prefer monitored areas or those equipped with surveillance cameras.
Don’t hesitate to consult with bicycle professionals, who can guide you on the most suitable lock for your needs!
Ultimately, investing in a quality bicycle lock is the first step to protecting your bike. In the face of increasing thefts, it is crucial to equip yourself with suitable and reliable equipment, and why not couple it with a GPS tracker for bicycles, which adds an extra layer of security. Whether for a classic bike or an electric model, protecting your two-wheeler requires constant vigilance and an informed choice of lock!