Electric bikes, or e-bikes, are everywhere these days. They make commuting and recreation a breeze, thanks to that handy electric motor boost.
With more folks choosing e-bikes for daily travel, protecting your ride is more important than ever. A reliable lock isn’t just a good idea—it’s essential to keep your investment safe from theft or damage.
If you’re searching for the best e-bike lock, you’ll want to think about a few key things. The lock’s material and strength matter most since they decide how tough it’ll be against cutters or lock-pickers.
Size and weight come into play too, especially if you’re hauling the lock on every ride. And obviously, the locking mechanism should be simple enough to use but tough enough to make thieves think twice.
We checked out a bunch of lock types to help you zero in on the right one for your needs.
Best eBike Locks
We dug into the market and rounded up the best eBike locks out there. Keeping your bike secure is a must, and these picks offer solid protection and a little peace of mind.
Have a look through our favorites and see which one stands out for you.
Amazon Basics Bike Cable Lock
This bike lock is a solid choice if you want to keep your ride safe without spending much.
Pros
- Affordable price
- Lightweight yet sturdy design
- Easy to use with two keys included
Cons
- Not the thickest cable for maximum security
- May not be ideal for high-crime areas
- Some users received a different model than expected
We’ve used the Amazon Basics Bike Cable Lock and found it practical. The 6-foot length is generous, so you can secure bikes or even strollers with no hassle.
It’s lightweight and easy to toss in a bag or backpack. The keys slide in smoothly, and so far, we haven’t seen any signs of them breaking, even after plenty of uses.
The weather-resistant plastic coating is a nice touch—it stands up to rain and keeps the lock from rusting. The locking mechanism is simple: just pop in the key and turn.
This lock isn’t the thickest out there, but it works for everyday needs in safer neighborhoods. If you’re worried about theft, you might want something beefier, but for most folks, this lock does the trick at a great price.
Kryptonite Keeper 785 Chain Lock
This lock stands out if you want to secure your e-bike and stop second-guessing its strength.
Pros
- Heavy-duty construction offers strong resistance to cutting.
- Key Safe Program ensures we can always get replacement keys.
- Weather-resistant design prevents scratches and keeps the lock reliable.
Cons
- It can be a bit heavy to carry around.
- Some users report issues with functionality after heavy rain exposure.
- The price is on the higher side for casual bikers.
We’ve used the Kryptonite Keeper 785 and felt reassured by its sturdiness. The 7mm hardened steel links are no joke—they feel solid, and we stop worrying about theft once our bikes are locked up.
The patented locking system is a big plus. It’s tough against picking and drilling, so our bikes stay safer. The ergonomic keys are easy to handle, even when you’re in a rush or awkward spot.
The weather-resistant nylon sleeve does its job, keeping the lock free from scratches and looking good. We’ve tried it in all kinds of weather, and it still looks new.
Carrying it around isn’t the most fun—it’s a bit heavy. But honestly, the peace of mind is worth it. If you’re serious about bike security, this one’s a reliable bet.
Sportneer Bike Lock
The Sportneer bike lock is a solid pick for anyone who wants reliable security for their e-bike.
Pros
- Portable yet heavy-duty design.
- Easy to install and use with a long cable.
- Strong anti-theft features resistant to cutting.
Cons
- Can be a bit bulky to carry.
- Size may not fit wider tires.
- Some users may prefer a combination lock.
We tried out the Sportneer Bike Lock and were impressed with its robust feel. The 17mm steel shackle feels tough—definitely gives us confidence in busier spots.
Setup is straightforward, and the 5ft cable gives you flexibility to secure wheels or the frame wherever you need. The mounting bracket is handy for carrying it around.
It’s not perfect for every bike—wider tires might be a squeeze. But for most standard bikes, it does the job well. If you need a solid and reliable lock, this one’s a good pick.
Kryptonite Keeper 712 Chain Lock
The Kryptonite Keeper 712 is a great pick if you want a reliable bike lock that balances strength and ease of use.
Pros
- Sturdy 7mm links resist cutting and leverage.
- The patented locking system provides extra security.
- Weather-resistant design protects against the elements.
Cons
- Slightly heavy for some users.
- Price may be higher than basic locks.
- Can be cumbersome to carry for long distances.
We’ve had a good experience using the Kryptonite Keeper 712. The chain feels solid and durable, which is exactly what you want when locking up in the city.
The 7mm links give us confidence against cutting attempts. The locking mechanism resists picking and drilling, which eases our minds.
The 48-inch chain is flexible enough to lock up more than one bike or secure your ride in trickier spots. We also like the nylon sleeve—it keeps the bike’s paint scratch-free.
It’s not the lightest lock, but the extra heft feels like added security. The higher price might give you pause, but considering what you’re protecting, it’s worth it. This lock has earned our trust for keeping bikes safe.
NDakter Bike Lock
This lock is a solid option if you want to secure your e-bike effectively.
Pros
- Sturdy design that feels reliable
- Extra cable for locking multiple bikes
- Comes with three keys for convenience
Cons
- Hefty weight may not be ideal for all users
- Bracket for mounting isn’t included
- May be overkill for short stops
We found the NDakter bike lock dependable for our e-bikes. The U-shape design wraps around the frame and tire easily, making it simple to lock up.
The lock feels solid, with a 0.7-inch thick shackle and a 6-foot steel cable for extra security. The double deadbolt design adds another layer of protection.
It’s handy that it comes with three keys—losing one isn’t a big deal. We also like the ability to lock multiple bikes with the included cable. If you’re after a lock that’s reliable and tough, this one’s a safe bet.
Buying Guide
Picking out the right e-bike lock can get tricky. There are a few features you’ll want to keep in mind.
1. Lock Type
You’ve got options when it comes to lock types. Here are some of the usual suspects:
| Lock Type | Description |
|---|---|
| U-lock | Strong and durable |
| Chain lock | Flexible and versatile |
| Folding lock | Compact and easy to carry |
2. Security Rating
Aim for locks with high-security ratings. Organizations like Sold Secure or ART test and rate them, so you know they’ve been put through their paces.
3. Material Quality
Go for locks made with solid materials. Steel usually tops the list since it stands up well to attacks.
4. Weight
Think about how much the lock weighs. Heavier locks usually mean more security, but they can be a pain to haul around. It’s all about finding that sweet spot between protection and convenience.
5. Length and Size
Make sure the lock fits your e-bike’s frame and lets you secure both the wheels and frame. It helps to measure the spots you’ll use most often.
6. Price
Locks come in all sorts of price ranges. It’s smart to invest in a quality lock without emptying your wallet. Usually, pricier locks bring better features, but you don’t always have to pay top dollar for solid security.
Frequently Asked Questions
People have a lot of questions about e-bike locks. Which ones are toughest? Do alarm locks really work? Let’s dig into a few common concerns and see if we can clear things up.
What are the most secure e-bike locks on the market?
U-locks and heavy-duty chain locks usually top the list for security. Brands like Kryptonite and Abus get high marks for their hardened steel and anti-drill designs. They’re tough to beat if you want real peace of mind.
How effective are alarm-equipped e-bike locks in preventing theft?
Alarm-equipped locks can make a real difference. When someone tampers with them, they blast out a loud noise—enough to startle most thieves. Even in busy areas, that sound grabs attention and can help keep your bike safe.
What advantages do lightweight locks offer for e-bike security?
Lightweight locks are just easier to carry around, plain and simple. If you’re locking up your bike a lot, you’ll probably appreciate the convenience. Just remember, lighter locks usually don’t offer as much protection as the heavy-duty ones.
Are heavy-duty U-locks or chain locks better for e-bikes?
Both heavy-duty U-locks and chain locks have their strengths. U-locks are tough to cut, thanks to their shape and design. Chain locks give you more flexibility, letting you secure your bike to all sorts of things.
How does the security of a Kryptonite lock compare with other brands for e-bikes?
Kryptonite locks have a solid reputation for security and durability. They often get top ratings from security experts. Compared to other brands, they seem to hold up really well against most theft attempts.
What are the best practices for using locks to ensure e-bike safety?
Using more than one lock really ramps up our e-bike’s security. Lock the frame and wheels to something sturdy if you can.
Pick a spot that’s well-lit and busy—thieves usually hate an audience.