Avoid these locks: what to never use for secure bicycle parking in public
Bicycle theft is a growing issue in many cities, making it essential to choose the right lock for securing your bike in public areas. While some locks provide excellent protection, others are simply a waste of money. If you rely on the wrong type of lock, you risk losing your bicycle within minutes. This guide will help you identify which locks fail to offer real security and why you should avoid them.
The most common weak bike locks
Not all bike locks are created equal. Some are easy to cut, break, or pick, leaving your bike vulnerable to theft. Below are the most common types of bike locks that should be avoided:
1. Cable locks – Easily cut within seconds
Cable locks are widely available and inexpensive, making them a popular choice for cyclists. However, they provide almost no real security.
- Easily cut: Most cable locks can be snipped with simple wire cutters or bolt cutters in seconds.
- Weak locking mechanisms: Many cable locks have simple key or combination mechanisms that can be easily picked or bypassed.
- Best for: Short stops in low-risk areas (but still not recommended for long-term parking).
2. Cheap combination locks – Vulnerable to decoding and brute force attacks
Combination locks may seem convenient since they don’t require a key, but cheap models are notoriously easy to break into.
- Can be decoded: Many combination locks have poor security mechanisms, allowing thieves to figure out the code within minutes.
- Weak materials: Thin cables or plastic parts make them susceptible to brute force attacks.
- Best for: Indoor bike storage, but not suitable for public areas.
3. Basic padlocks – Not designed for bicycle security
Using a standard padlock with a chain may look strong, but most padlocks are not built to withstand real theft attempts.
- Weak shackles: Many padlocks have a thin or easily breakable shackle.
- Vulnerable to bolt cutters: If the shackle is exposed, thieves can snap it open in seconds.
- Best for: Securing accessories but not suitable for primary bike security.
4. Thin chains – Easily broken with bolt cutters
Some cyclists use lightweight chains to secure their bikes, assuming they offer good protection. Unfortunately, thin chains can be cut through quickly.
- Not hardened: Many inexpensive chains are made from low-quality steel, making them weak against bolt cutters.
- Often too short: Short chains limit locking options, preventing proper securing of both the frame and wheels.
- Best for: Temporary use but not ideal for high-theft areas.
5. Plastic-coated locks – Looks tough, but isn’t
Many budget-friendly locks feature a thick plastic or rubber coating that makes them look strong. However, this coating doesn’t contribute to actual security.
- Illusion of strength: The outer layer is just for aesthetics and doesn’t add real resistance to cutting tools.
- Often conceals a weak core: Inside the plastic shell, the actual metal component is often fragile.
- Best for: Very low-risk areas or as a secondary deterrent.
How thieves defeat weak locks
Bike thieves are always looking for easy targets. If you use an insecure lock, your bike can be stolen in a matter of seconds. Here’s how common weak locks are defeated:
- Bolt cutters: A favorite tool for thieves, capable of cutting through cables and thin chains in one quick motion.
- Lock picking: Cheap locks with simple mechanisms can be picked in seconds using basic tools.
- Brute force: Some locks can be broken by simply twisting them with enough pressure, using leverage from a metal bar or a strong kick.
- Angle grinders: Even stronger locks can be cut with an angle grinder, but low-quality locks take only a few seconds to break.
What to use instead: Secure lock recommendations
If you’re serious about protecting your bike, investing in a high-quality lock is essential. Here’s what to look for:
1. U-locks (D-locks) – Strong and resistant
A high-quality U-lock is one of the best choices for securing a bike in public.
- Made of hardened steel: Resistant to bolt cutters and leverage attacks.
- Difficult to break: Good models require an angle grinder to cut through, which makes theft riskier.
- Best for: Daily commuting and high-theft areas.
2. Heavy-duty chains – Nearly impossible to cut with hand tools
A proper chain lock made from hardened steel links is another excellent option.
- Needs an angle grinder to cut: Thick, strong chains cannot be easily broken.
- Versatile: Can be used to secure multiple parts of the bike.
- Best for: Long-term parking and high-theft urban areas.
3. Folding locks – A balance of security and portability
Folding locks offer better security than cable locks while remaining lightweight and compact.
- Harder to cut than cables: Made from strong, reinforced steel plates.
- Easier to carry: More convenient than a U-lock but not as secure as a heavy-duty chain.
- Best for: Medium-security needs and frequent transport.
Conclusion: Don’t waste money on weak locks
When it comes to bicycle security, cheap and weak locks are simply not worth the risk. Investing in a high-quality lock will save you money in the long run by preventing theft. Avoid cable locks, combination locks, and weak chains, and instead, choose a solid U-lock, heavy-duty chain, or folding lock to keep your bike safe.
For the best results, always lock your bike to an immovable object, secure both the frame and wheels, and consider using two different types of locks for added protection. Bike thieves look for easy targets—don’t let your bike be one of them!