3 Best Locks for Your E-Bike
Let’s face it, electric bikes aren’t cheap. Spending upwards of $1,000 or more on an e-bike is a substantial investment you need to protect. With the many different brands and styles of locks for e-bikes on the market choosing the right one can be difficult.
The basic rule for buying an e-bike lock is you want to spend about 10 percent of the bike’s value on the lock. So, if you have a $1,000 e-bike you want to spend about $100 on a quality lock for protection. While this is the standard rule, you want to spend as much as you can afford on a reliable locking system.
A variety of high-security locking systems exist on the market to keep your e-bike safe. Made of high-grade steel, U-Locks are, as the name implies, come in the shape of a U, so you can slide the lock through the frame and tire for security. Chain locks provide added strength and length allowing you to secure your bike to larger objects. U-Locks, fit nicely into backpacks for easy transportation whereas chain locks are bulkier and heavier.
Here are three locks we suggest you consider for keeping your bike safe from thieves.
Best Overall E-Bike Lock
Kryptonite is a well-known brand when it comes to bike locks. Their latest lock, the New York Fahgettaboudit Chain 1415, and New York Disc Lock will have potential thieves saying “Forget about it” when sizing up your bike. Consisting of a 150cm chain made of 16mm hardened manganese steel links and a 15mm u-lock with a steel shackle the New York Fahgettaboudit Chain 1415 proves extremely difficult to cut or break. The disc lock also features an anti-drill, anti-pull protection system.
The Kryptonite lock is not very portable due to its weight, but it provides excellent protection for our e-bike. The chain is long enough to fit through wheels and frames. It’s even a great choice if you have two bikes you want to lock together. The manufacturer offers a generous theft protection program and currently retails for $130.
Best Premium Lock
Heavy, strong, and flexible is the best way to describe the ABUS Granit CityChain X Plus 1060. ABUS is a well-known company among bike enthusiasts who have been in business since 1924. The chain lock comes in weighing around 6 pounds due to its 10 mm thick steel hexagonal links. A textile housing wraps around the links protecting against wear and tear.
The ABUS Granit CityChain comes with patented ABUS technology that provides extra protection against twisting and break-in attempts by bolt-cutters, hammers, and saws. The lock
can be a bit large for some to transport, but it can be easily wrapped around the bike frame or seat post. The extra weight provides added durability that should bring you extra peace of mind when locking up your e-bike. The chain is on the pricier side averaging over $140 but with a little searching, you can find it cheaper through different retailers.
Best Budget Lock
U-Locks are lighter and less expensive than traditional chain locks. However, that doesn’t mean they provide any less security. The OnGuard Brute Mini U-Lock is a great choice for people who want a strong lock without having to carry around a heavy chain. The Brute Mini consists of a 16.88 mm thickness making this lock very difficult to break into, even with power tools.
The Brute Mini will fit in your back pocket or backpack, making it a favorite of bike dashers and anyone looking to keep their weight down while riding. The OnGuard brand is well respected in the bike community for its durable build and is light on the wallet with an average price between $80 and $85.
No matter what brand or price range your e-bike falls into, it’s always good to have a quality lock to protect it even when stored indoors. If you’re looking for portability and security on a budget, consider the OnGuard Brute Mini. For added security and peace of mind consider the higher quality Kryptonite New York Fahgettaboudit or the more portable ABUS Granit CityChain XPlus 1600. These locks allow you to chain your bike around larger objects or weave them between your frame and tires adding more protection. All these locks are available at Walmart or your local bike shop, so search around and you may find a deal.
