Electric bikes are a vulnerable target for thieves and often come with a hefty price tag - typically higher than that of other commuter bikes. For that reason, choosing one of the best e-bike locks that offers serious protection is essential.
We've narrowed down our list of the best bike locks to locks particularly suited to the best electric bikes. When we spoke to Bikeindex.org about bike theft trends, one clear data point was that the price of stolen bikes is rising, and e-bikes are a major factor driving up the average value of losses.
Last updated on 20th of February 2026 The Hiplok D1000 now takes the top overall spot thanks to its resistance to angle grinders. The New York Fahgettaboutit Mini has been updated with the Kryptonite New York Lock Diamond D-lock, which has been named the best compact D-lock. The Litelok X1 has also been added as a runner-up.
Best E-bike Locks
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Best overall
✅ You want angle grinder protection: There's a high level of resistance to angle grinders, plus the double locking mechanism requires two cuts.
✅ You want to scratch your frame: The D1000 is covered in a soft-touch coating to protect your paintwork.
❌ You want a larger locking area: The internal area is quite small, which could limit where you can lock your bike.
❌ You want a frame mount: Hiplok doesn't provide one, so you're going to need to carry it in luggage.
Technology evolves quickly, and tools are no exception. As portable angle grinders become smaller, cheaper and better at what they do, they’ve become one of the biggest threats to bike security. Of the locks on this list, only the Hiplok D1000 can resist portable angle-grinder attacks.
There are other locks available for sale that promise immunity from a portable angle grinder, but few match the features of the D1000. It maintains the compact shape of a traditional U-lock and is light enough to easily carry.
The one challenge it has is the same as the Kryptonite New York Lock Diamond D-lock, which is a small space inside the shackle. Again, this adds security, but it can make it tougher to use, and that's especially true for an e-bike with large frame shapes. The D100 does, however, have a soft-touch coating that won’t scratch your bike.
You can read more details about this lock in our full review of the Hiplok D100.
Runner up
✅ You want a secure bike lock for most situations: The Barronium-coated hardened steel shackle offers strong resistance to angle-grinder attacks, helping to deter opportunist thieves.
✅ You want replaceable keys: The lock comes with two keys as standard, and additional replacements can be ordered if needed.
❌ You want maximum security: It will take a fair bit of angle grinding and multiple blades, but a determined thief could still eventually get through the shackle.
❌ You want a lock that comes with insurance: Unlike other brands, such as Kryptonite, Litelok does not include anti-theft insurance with its locks.
In today’s world, a good bike lock has to stand up to the reality of portable angle grinders. The Litelok X1 is a Sold Secure Diamond-rated lock, and while we proved it isn’t completely grinder-proof, it will make it hard enough that your chances of finding a lock with a cut in it still attached to your bike are high.
The 1.7kg weight is less than some of the heavier standard locks and, unlike most of the heavier locks, there is a quality mounting system that does not rattle. There's also enough internal room that it's easy to use.
Overall, it represents a good balance of weight, price and security. However, the one thing I do find lacking is that there's no insurance offering. It’s incredibly hard to actually use the insurance that companies like Onguard and Kryptonite offer, but it’s still nice to see it available.
For all the details, check out our full Litelok X1 bike lock review.
Best on a budget
✅ You want a lower-priced lock: The Pitbull is inexpensive but still offers a good level of security.
✅ You want lots of keys: The Pitbull comes with five keys, including one with a light incorporated.
❌ You want a smaller locking area: It's easier for a thief to attack a larger shackle.
❌ You want a more robust frame mount: Onguard's frame mount is a little fragile.
The OnGuard 8003 Pitbull STD U-Lock carries a Sold Secure Diamond rating for pedal cycles, yet costs under £50. While it hasn’t been tested against Sold Secure’s e-bike standard, it still represents good value for riders looking for high-level security at a lower price point.
Onguard uses a 14mm hardened steel shackle that's thick enough to render bolt cutters ineffective. It's also robust enough that a leverage attack would be equally difficult. It's more vulnerable to an angle grinder though, even with a double shackle design that requires two cuts.
When it's time to lock the bike up, the locking area of 115 x 230mm is very large, making it versatile for different locking setups, whether you're securing a bike frame and wheel together or tackling more awkwardly-shaped anchor points.
It makes the list because not only is it priced lower than others, but it also has some great ease-of-use features. It comes with five keys, one that includes a light, plus a frame mount kit that adds convenience.
For more details, check out our full Onguard 8003 Pitbull STD U-Lock review.
Best alarmed lock
✅ You want an alarmed lock: The tamper alarm adds an extra level of security.
✅ You want app-based locking: The Abus lock works with your phone to lock and unlock, so there's no key to lose.
❌ You want more security at a cheaper price: The tech makes this lock pricier than more conventional designs.
❌ You don't want to worry about recharging batteries: The three-month battery life is good, but you'll still need to keep it topped up for the lock to work.
The Abus SmartX 770a makes this list because it's both highly secure and highly convenient. From a security standpoint, it takes an already robust lock, the Abus Granite X-Plus 540 with a 13mm double shackle design, and adds an alarm function.
Smart locks are a hot-button issue when it comes to bike security. Concerns usually centre on battery life and the risk of being locked out if power runs low. Abus says to expect around three months of use with the Smartx 770a. In the context of an e-bike, battery life concerns arguably carry less weight. For one thing, many e-bikes allow for external charging, so you could plug the lock in if you needed to.
Beyond battery life, there’s also the convenience factor. With your phone in range, the lock opens automatically, so there’s no need to fumble for keys. You can also grant access to others via the app if you allow someone else to use it.
That added functionality does come at a cost. Smart locks tend to carry a price premium, and if outright security per pound is your priority, a traditional keyed lock can be more secure for less money.
Best compact D-lock
✅ You want maximum security: The diamond-coated shackle and double deadbolt design provide excellent resistance to power tools.
✅ You want a rattle-free lock: The tight shackle tolerance means no more rattling while riding.
❌ You want a lock that's easy to mount: Mounting is fiddly and takes a lot of effort, but once mounted, it's simple to use.
❌ You want something lightweight: At 2.4kg, this lock is heavy enough to feel hefty, so you won't want to carry it in a backpack, unless you absolutely have to.
The Kryptonite New York Lock Diamond D-lock promises protection even in the highest risk scenarios, because of a big, thick 26mm diamond-coated shackle. That's a lot of steel to deal with, and with that comes a weight of 2.4kg, so you won't want to carry this in a backpack, unless you have to.
Unlike the D1000 at the top of this guide, it can be cut with an angle grinder. However, the shackle must be cut in two places to release the bike, meaning a determined thief would need around five discs per cut to get through. This should buy some much-needed time before someone can make off with your property.
Compared to older models, Kryptonite has added tighter shackle tolerance on the New York Lock Diamond, which is a huge improvement while riding because it eliminates rattling. However, this tight fit does make locking awkward at odd angles.
For more information, read our full Kryptonite New York Lock Diamond D-lock review.
Best for multiple bikes
✅ You want to secure multiple bikes: The chain-plus-D-lock design allows you to secure more than one bike.
✅ You want flexible locking options: You can use just the D-lock if you only have one e-bike to secure.
❌ You want low weight: Together, the chain and D-lock weigh almost 6kg.
❌ You want more options for chain use: The O-shaped end links mean you can't shorten the chain's locked length easily.
Marketed specifically with e-bikes in mind, the Hiplok DXXL bundle makes sense to be included here. It takes a couple of pieces and combines them in a single purchase. There's a massive chain, and there's also the Hiplok DX wearable U lock.
There's another reason we like this combination though. If you own an e-bike alongside a second bike that doesn’t need quite as much security, this setup effectively gives you two locks in one. The chain and D-lock can be used together for maximum protection, or you can leave the chain at home when you don’t need it.
The Hiplok DX on its own is already one of the more secure and practical D-locks available. For higher-risk situations, you can add the heavy-duty chain, which features 14mm-thick links for added resistance. Its loop-end design also maximises usable length, making it easier to secure larger frames or fixed objects.
Best folding lock
✅ You want a compact lock to carry: The folding design makes for easy portage.
✅ You want easier use than a D-lock: The multiple hinges make it easier to stretch a hinged lock around objects.
❌ You want less vulnerability: The hinges are weak points in any folding lock.
❌ You want a lower price: The Bordo lock is expensive relative to D-locks.
Folding locks don’t typically match the outright security of heavy-duty chains or robust D-locks, but they score highly for convenience. They’re generally easier to mount to a bike, and their flexible design makes securing awkward frame shapes or larger fixed objects simpler than with a traditional U-lock. Among the current options, the Abus Bordo Granit 6500 stands out as one of the most secure folding locks available.
It’s also well thought out in terms of practicality, with a neat frame mount and generous rubber coating to help prevent frame damage. The 5.5mm steel bars are slightly thicker than those on the Kryptonite 790, which is another highly secure folding lock option.
As with the Abus smart lock above, the main drawback is cost. Folding locks tend to be more expensive while offering less outright security than comparable chains or D-locks. That said, if convenience and compact storage are priorities and you’ve decided a folding design suits your needs, this is the one to get.
Best wearable lock
✅ You want a wearable lock: Hiplok's wearable locks are easier to carry.
✅ You want a reflective lock cover: The reflective cover adds visibility when riding.
❌ You want a lower weight: At 2.3kg, there's a lot of lock around your waist when carried.
❌ You want higher security: The pedal cycle Gold rating isn't quite as secure as Diamond.
If you start to study bike security, you will no doubt run into the chain vs U lock argument. There are proponents on both sides and there's no good answer. Chains are better suited for different anchors or bike shapes, but they are also more hassle to carry with you. Even on an e-bike, you'll have to figure out what to do with a bike chain.
The Hiplok Gold addresses that drawback with a wearable design when unlocked. The system allows it to hook together while bypassing the lock for safety and convenience. The chain itself uses 10mm hardened steel links to deliver robust security, and the reflective sleeve option adds a useful boost in visibility. The only trade-off for that level of security is the extra weight you’ll need to carry.
Best chain lock
✅ You want a chain that's harder to attack: Kryptonite's links are designed to be more difficult to break than round ones.
✅ You want the insurance offer: $5,000 should cover most e-bikes, if yours is stolen.
❌ You want a lower weight: At almost 7kg, this is another weighty lock.
❌ You want to protect your bike frame: There are exposed links that could damage your bike's paintwork.
The Kryptonite New York Fahgettaboudit Chain 1415 paired with the New York Disc Lock is another contender in the heavy-duty chain category. It’s even heavier than the Hiplok DXXL, offering a similar level of security. While the two locks share many features, each has enough unique qualities to merit a place on this list.
Unlike the Hiplok, the Kryptonite chain doesn’t loop through itself, and rather than a U-lock, it comes with a padlock-style design.
What Kryptonite does offer instead of the flexibility that comes with the Hiplok is an insurance offer. If you follow all the rules and your bike is stolen, you could be eligible for a payout of up to $5,000.
How to choose the best e-bike lock for your bike
- What type of lock do you need? In general, either D-locks or chain locks are the most secure, but you may have reasons to choose a folding or cable lock.
- What size lock do I need? You need enough locking area to get around your e-bike's frame and an anchor, and ideally a wheel too, so choose a lock that's large enough. On the other hand, larger locks are, in general, more vulnerable to attack.
- What security rating should I get? We wouldn't recommend choosing an e-bike lock that's not either Gold or Diamond-rated. E-bikes are expensive, making them a prime target for thieves.
- How will you carry the lock? Do you want to carry your lock on your bike, wear it or put it in a pack? You need a lock that you're going to be comfortable moving around with.
- Is weight important? If you're going to ride with your lock, weight is a consideration, although less so with an electric bike than a pedal-only bike, thanks to the extra assistance.
- How much should you spend on an e-bike lock? If you're going to ride with your lock, weight is a consideration, although less so with an electric bike than a pedal-only bike, thanks to the extra assistance.
Everything you need to know about the best e-bike locks
What lock should I buy for my e-bike?
Every lock on this list represents a high-security option. There are still a range of options that cover different price points and security, but there's nothing that you might consider low security. The vast majority of bikes stolen are not locked at all, so start by always locking your bike. Remember, that includes inside your home, your garage, and any type of shed or outbuilding. Kryptonite, Abus, and Hiplok all offer anchor products that give you something secure to lock to, so you might consider installing one. From that starting point, the choice is all about security vs usability.
The most common choice is a U-lock. They are very secure, very easy to carry, and there are a lot of choices across a wide range of price points. The challenge with U-locks though is that they aren't flexible in the way they lock. They have a set site and only fit in a specific way. Many e-bikes have larger tubes that incorporate batteries and if you need to lock to something other than a bike lock, it can be difficult to make it work. It's even harder because it's more secure the smaller the U-lock is.
If a U-lock isn't going to work for you, then you'll want to look at chain options. Chains tend to be more secure for less money. They are also very secure against angle grinders because they are hard to hold still. They are less secure against bolt cutters because individual links often don't match the diameter of a U lock. They tend to be bigger and heavier than a U-lock design, and carrying them can be more difficult. Where they excel is in their flexibility. If you need to lock your bike to a signpost or any kind of non-standard anchor, chains can do it for you.
Another common locking solution is a folding lock. Folding locks are less secure than chains or U-locks because they have a lot of pieces that allow for attack vectors. Quality folding locks do their best to protect the hinges, but there will always be vulnerability there. The wide hardened steel makes them difficult to cut with bolt cutters, so it's not like they are pushovers, and they are convenient. They can be flexible enough for non-standard anchors and they are easier to carry than other options. We included one high-security option here for those who love the form factor.
There are other options available on the market. All kinds of variations on cable locks exist, but we do not recommend them for use with an e-bike. They are so fast and silent, to cut that it's not worth the risk, even briefly, for a bike as pricey as an e-bike.
What is the strongest e-bike lock?
Other variations of this question are things like what's the hardest lock to cut or what's the most secure lock? The basic question is all the same: if you want the absolute highest security available, that means the Hiplock D1000. It's the only option that will withstand a portable angle grinder and remain somewhat portable. There are downsides to it, and you might be willing to live with some manner of risk in exchange for the convenience of other options. The D1000 is hard to buy, expensive, and small enough that you might still need another lock. If you want the most security, that's your answer.
How do you lock an e-bike?
Locking an e-bike is the same as locking any bike, and we have an article covering all the details of how to lock a bike. The only difference with an e-bike is that often the larger pieces will make it more of a challenge for small locks. There are also extra pieces to consider, like batteries, but typically, the battery has its own integrated lock.
Other than those specifics, you’ll want to limit extra space between the lock and the bike and keep the lock farther from the ground. These small changes in how you use the chosen lock will make it more secure. Keeping the lock farther from the ground makes it more difficult to use the ground as leverage on a bolt cutter. Limiting extra space between the lock and the bike means it's more difficult to get a tool positioned for a leverage attack.
What bike lock is theft proof?
The short and most truthful answer to this is that there isn’t a totally theft-proof bike lock. Given enough time and enough willpower, anyone can get through a bike lock and take your bike.
The aim of a bike lock, however, is to make it as difficult and time-consuming as possible for someone attempting theft. Most of the best e-bike locks on this list will be able to withstand at least several minutes of a grinder or bolt cutters against them, which hopefully should deter an opportunist with the hope that anyone more invested in taking your bike will be interrupted before being able to break the lock. There are, of course, no guarantees, and it is important to ensure you are also taking additional precautions to ensure your bike isn’t stolen; you could additionally use two locks to make it even more unappealing.
How are bike locks rated?
Manufacturers will typically rate their own locks, however, there are as many manufacturer ratings as there are manufacturers, so it can be difficult to compare makes and models to understand which is the best for you. Many insurance companies in the UK rely on Sold Secure certifications to identify the efficacy of the bike lock in use, so understanding the rating of your lock might help you save some pennies on your insurance.
Sold Secure is an independent testing organisation, utilising data from the police to identify trends in breaking methods and testing manufacturers' claims. There are four levels of ratings from bronze to diamond, and they are standardised across all brands, meaning that you can easily compare two locks. In most cases, the higher the security rating the lock has, the pricier they are more likely to be:
Bronze – Good resistance against opportunistic thieves
Silver – Greater level of resistance against someone more determined
Gold – Top-level resistance against dedicated thieves and for medium to high-value bikes
Diamond – extra high security for securing high-value bikes and electric bikes
Note that there are both pedal cycle and powered cycle gradings. The latter covers e-bikes but also motorcycles, and so may offer greater security than a similarly graded pedal cycle lock.
Are combination locks better than key locks for securing e-bikes?
Very generally, combination locks are considered less secure for locking e-bikes. They are more susceptible to picking through 'shimming' (feeling the change of resistance in the dials to determine the code) or through specialist tools that undermine the combination quickly. However, they do have their place in the security of an e-bike. Without a key, they are more convenient to carry, and friends and family can share the same lock. There are manufacturers we've featured here designing combination locks to be more resistant to theft.
Generally, though, combination locks are often used in tandem with a keyed lock to ensure advanced security and additional deterrence.
Should I use a bike tracker?
An e-bike is often not a cheap investment to make, and it’s a good idea to consider as many options to recover a stolen bike if the worst happens.
You can increase your chances by hiding a bike tracker somewhere on your bike. The best bike trackers include passive devices like an Apple Air Tag or Tile sticker, which rely on proximity to a Bluetooth-enabled phone.
It's important to remember that these options don’t mean you don’t have to consider the best security for your e-bike; more and more thieves are becoming wise to trackers and will actively search bikes to remove them. However, trackers can provide peace of mind too if you’re popping into the shops or leaving your bike outside of your workplace and are worth considering alongside a bike lock.
What about insurance offers for e-bike locks?
When it comes to insurance offers from bike locks, it's best to think of them as an added bonus and not as the only reason for purchase. The biggest thing to remember is that they are insurance and, as such, come with very specific language about how they work. You will need to make sure that you follow every detail, and even then, there might be times when you can't take advantage of the coverage. Gotchas such as the requirement to have possession of the broken lock can be issues.
Still, despite the challenges, the coverage is essentially a free add-on, and it doesn't hurt to have. Both Onguard and Kryptonite require registration at the time of purchase, and it's a good opportunity to read through the details and make sure you understand the process.
Do I need to register my bike?
While you are following the directions for registering your new lock, make sure you also register your bike. Bike Index is a non-profit that works to register bikes and then helps with recovery if something happens. There's no guarantee of anything, but it is doing amazing work, and it doesn't hurt. If a bike goes missing, you can access a community of people who will keep their eyes open and help you recover it. It's also a great opportunity to record the serial number of your bike and make sure you have it on hand. If law enforcement happens to recover a bike, it will only come back to you if you've filed a police report and given them a serial number.
How we test?
As we researched the best bike locks, it became very clear that it wasn't worth cutting them apart. With the exception of the Hiplock D1000, every lock on our list is vulnerable to a portable angle grinder. Even the biggest steel shackle takes only a few minutes to get through. When it comes to bolt cutter attacks the story is a little better but somewhat similar.
If a lock is small enough, it's vulnerable and if it's bigger, it's not. A 24-inch bolt cutter is able to handle up to about 5/16 inch / 7.9mm and we've avoided anything less than that in this list. That leaves usability as the deciding factor in what lock makes sense for you and that we have tested. We spent the time researching what was out there and then made sure that our choices were usable and under what circumstances it made sense to choose one product instead of another.
Furthermore, each e-bike lock on this list represents an option we'd buy with our own money.
We've got a dedicated How We Test page with more details on our assessment methods.
