13 Best Bike Locks to Protect your Ride UK 2023

We earn a commission for products purchased through some links in this article.

Our selection of the best theft-proof D-locks, chain locks and folding locks on the market

Ever experienced that heart-sinking moment when you realise your bike has been stolen? It's as painful as it is frustrating, and with bike thieves becoming more sophisticated, it's also incredibly common – on average in Britain, a bicycle gets stolen every six minutes.

But don't let that put you off: while indoor cycling is great, you can't replicate the joy of peddling around in the great outdoors. The answer? A sturdy, theft-proof bike lock. Not only does a chunky-looking lock deter thieves from even attempting to snatch your ride, but will also make a theft incredibly difficult, slowing thieves down to the point they'll either give up or someone else may notice.

So, to make sure your bike is there when you get back, we’ve handpicked the very best bike locks, including D-locks, chain locks and folding locks, and put together our tips on how to use them and what to consider when shopping.

In a hurry? Here are the best bike locks at a glance. Keep scrolling for the full list and our thoughts below.

There are three main types of a bike lock, each with its own advantages. Choosing one really comes down to personal preference, plus the type of bike you have and the level of security you're after. Below, we've listed the pros and cons of each type of lock – use these to help inform your decision when it comes to shopping.

Also known as U-locks, D-locks are essentially oversized padlocks, with a large D- or U-shaped shackle that locks into a thick crossbar, usually secured with a key.

Exactly what they sound like, chain locks are chains, usually wrapped in a hard-wearing material sleeve to minimise scratching your bike and locked with a key.

Sometimes also called foldable locks, folding locks are made up of short plates of metal – usually steel – hinged together, which pack down small but unfold to a large and versatile loop you can shape to suit your bike and anchor point.

You may have also come across cable locks, which can be useful when used in tandem with another lock – for example to secure wheels alongside a D-lock. While by no means impregnable, they offer another level of inconvenience which might deter thieves. One exception is the Titanker Bike Lock Cable, which we’ve included below.

Investing in a quality bike lock is only the first step in protecting against bike theft, because how you use it is incredibly important. Follow these tips to see off thieves.

From angle grinder-resistant D-locks and heavy-duty chains to alarmed smart locks and titanium folding options, we've rounded up the best bike locks to ensure your beloved bicycle stays exactly where you left it.

This is our go-to lock for day-to-day use (commuting, shop runs etc). The smaller size means it's easy to mount on a bike frame where space is limited and the included braided steel cable adds a layer of inconvenience for potential thieves, although this does mean there's more to carry. We’ve managed to fit the D-lock through both wheel and frame on a standard hybrid bike, but with an e-bike we only managed the frame. However, the smaller size does mean there's less space for leverage attacks, which are also made difficult by the hardened steel shackle, which is bolt cutter-resistant. Plus this lock has a new double deadbolt design that protects against twist attacks, and it comes with three keys, one with a handy LED light.

Type: D-lock and cable combinationWeight: 1.6kgSecurity rating: Sold Secure Gold

This compact D-lock has two clever built-in prongs that mean you can easily slide it into a pocket, round a belt or attach to bag straps for easy carrying. As a result it doesn't have a frame mount option, but at 1.2kg it's a brilliant portable D-lock. It puts up a good fight against an angle grinder, and the sturdy shackle is covered in a soft-touch rubberised coating to protect your bike's paintwork. The shallow internal lock size might not fit around both wheel and frame if your tubes are on the thicker side, but the 85mm width should alleviate this problem for most. It comes with three keys and has brilliant weather protection, too.

Type: D-lockWeight: 1.2kgSecurity rating: Sold Secure Gold

As the name suggests, this chain is the business. At 6.92kg it's something of a monster and likely to stop any thief even attempting to get through it, but that does of course mean it's a lot to lug around too, so might be best used for home or office use. It consists of a 14mm hardened steel chain plus a 15mm hardened steel shackle, both of which are incredibly strong, while the cylinder lock is pick-proof and drill resistant. It comes with three keys – one LED – and you can use it to secure multiple bikes thanks to the metre length. The nylon cover doesn't make it all the way around the chain, so you’ll need to be careful to ensure these sections don't scratch your paintwork.

Type: Chain lockWeight: 6.92kgSecurity rating: Sold Secure Diamond

This clever D-lock from German security specialists ABUS uses a patented 13mm square shaft shackle that makes it super resistant to pressure. Crafted from hardened steel it's reassuringly hefty and well-made, plus the double-bolted shackle is no match for bolt cutters. The lock itself is state of the art and likely to stump even the most experienced lock pickers, while a keyhole cover protects against dirt and corrosion damaging the lock. Available in two sizes; 23cm and 30cm.

Type: D-lockWeight: 1.5kgSecurity rating: Sold Secure Diamond

You won't find a more secure option at a lower price than the Brute D-lock from OnGuard. The brand's highest security offering, it locks in four places rather than the standard two, a quality locking cylinder helps prevent drilling attacks and the rounded shape reduces leverage for tools. As a result it is rather bulky, so not the most portable, but there are two lengths available – 202mm or 260mm – so depending on how much you’re willing to lug around, you may be able to find a happy compromise, plus it is fitted with simple tube mounting brackets. It comes with five keys (one of which includes a handy LED light), is large enough to loop around wheel and frame, and a thick rubber coating on the shackle helps prevent scratches.

Type: D-lockWeight: 2.1kgSecurity rating: Sold Secure Diamond

While less secure than D-locks, folding locks do offer extra flexibility, and that's exactly what you get with this folding lock from ABUS, which offers the best protection you’ll find in a foldable model. With a large lockable area of 14cm x 31cm, you can lock two bikes if need be, and it packs down to a compact 19cm x 6cm x 4cm package for easy portability. It stands up well against bolt-cutters and saws, but won't hold out against an angle grinder. The hardened steel plates have a rubber coating to prevent scratching and the included frame mount is easy to use. Note, however. that it only comes with two keys and there isn't a keyhole cover.

Type: Folding lockWeight: 1.5kgSecurity rating: Sold Secure Gold

This chunky chain is ideal if you want high security combined with the convenience of a wearable lock. The beefy 10mm hardened steel chain is 85cm in circumference, so there's plenty of room to play with, and it's sheathed in hard-wearing nylon to protect both bike and lock. But the best part is that the chain is wearable without being locked, with an adjustable fit to easily clip it around your waist like a belt when on the move. Bear in mind that at 2.4kg it feels much heavier in a backpack than when worn on-person, so we’d recommend wearing it if you can. It comes with three keys and is also available in black, but we love the superbright version for the added visibility it offers when riding.

Type: Chain lockWeight: 2.4kgSecurity rating: Sold Secure Gold

This bike lock is basically indestructible thanks to a steel core and composite coating of Barronium – a type of ceramic angle grinder armour developed by Litelok that repels attacks without adding extra weight to the lock, genius. Weighing in at 1.7kg, it's relatively easy to carry around, but comes with a convenient twist-and-go mount if you’d rather not lug it around on your back. As well as being practical it feels premium, with thoughtful features like the environmentally friendly rubber coating to help prevent scratches and frost – so the lock won't seize up on chilly days – and two keys included in case you lose one.

Type: D-lockWeight: 1.7kgSecurity rating: Sold Secure Diamond

If an alarm blaring at 100 decibels somehow doesn't deter a would-be thief, then it's bound to invite attention that should ultimately result in the thief being caught. This clever smart lock uses Bluetooth (so you’ll need your phone) for keyless locking and has a built-in alarm function that triggers in response to unusual vibrations or movement. The 13mm shackle is made from hardened steel and boasts the top-tier build quality you’d expect from ABUS. Plus the connected app can even help you find your bike if you forget where you left it. Smart indeed.

Type: Smart D-lock with alarmWeight: 2kgSecurity rating: Sold Secure Diamond

This collapsible folding lock from Seatylock is the answer to heavy, unwieldy bike locks bouncing around in your rucksack and slowing down your ride. At just 1kg and folding down to a dinky footprint it still offers decent protection, with hardened steel plates, reinforced rivets and an anti-drill cylinder, plus the whole thing is rust-resistant so it will last. The 85cm circumference means there's plenty of space to lock around larger anchor points, plus it comes with three keys, a mount, carry case and everything you need to attach it to your bike frame.

Type: Folding lockWeight: 1kgSecurity rating: Sold Secure Silver

There's always an exception to the rule, and when it comes to cable locks this is it. It has a durable 5.8mm stainless steel core that puts up a real fight against bolt cutters – and with 6ft of cable to work with, you can secure every element of your bicycle. It's lightweight and self-coiling, so easy to store and transport, and it comes with a mounting bracket. Plus, as it uses a combination lock you don't have to worry about misplacing keys. While we still wouldn't recommend leaving your bike locked up for a long time with this lock, it's ideal for quick stops or pairing with another lock. There's also a 4ft version if 6ft is too long for your needs.

Type: Cable lock

There's no denying that carrying a bike lock can be awkward, so a wearable one is a great option if you’re making quick stops. This option from Litelok is rubberised so it won't scratch your frame, can be easily looped around awkward anchor points and it locks with a simple click. The strap is made from a combination of composite materials all designed to withstand different theft tools, while the heavyweight disc lock is housed in tough steel alloy. That said, it won't stand up against an angle grinder, so this is not a lock for overnight or long stops

Type: Wearable bike lockWeight: 1.1kgSecurity rating: Sold Secure Silver

Titanium – not just a club banger by David Guetta – is a super strong, lightweight and low-corrosion metal that this luxury folding lock from Altor is crafted from. Remember, there's no rule that says your bike lock can't perform on both looks and functionality. At just 715g this lock is super portable and folds down to 235mm x 55mm so could slip comfortably into a large pocket. The lock head rotates for extra flexibility and when unfolded you’ve got 78cm total length to play with. It comes with four keys (but note there's no keyhole cover) and a mount, plus there's a coating on the bars to stop it from scratching your equally stylish bike.

Type: Folding lockWeight: 715g

9 of the best swim socks & water shoes for 2023

How Lucy Charles-Barclay fuels her workouts

'I'm obsessed with Lululemon's On The Move range'

7 best bike racks to buy in 2023

The best women's running shorts to shop now

Lululemon Blissfeel Trail: Tried & tested

The best adjustable kettlebells, from under £35

31 of the best gym bags for women

We're loving The North Face's Enchanted Collection

Best trail running shoes 2023

The best home gym equipment for 2023

20 Father's Day gift ideas for run-loving dads