Here’s an overview of the Best Bike Locks that we’ll explore today:
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1
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Top Pick
NDakter Bike Chain Lock |
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2
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Best Quality
NDakter Bike Locks Heavy Duty Anti Theft |
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3
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Master Lock Cable Lock |
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4
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Hapleby Premium Bike Lock Set with 2 Keys |
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5
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Bike Chain Lock |
Electric bikes (e-bikes) demand serious security due to their higher value, broader use, and increased portability. A reliable lock should resist common theft methods (cutting, leverage, picking) while remaining practical for daily use. In this review, I tested a representative set of 5 locks spanning chain, U-lock with cable, and cable-only designs from NDakter, Hapleby, Weogine, and Master Lock. My methodology combines objective spec review with use-case evaluation: construction quality, shackle/chain thickness, material hardness, protective coating, locking mechanism reliability, weight, and mounting practicality. I also consider typical real-world scenarios for e-bike owners, such as securing to street racks, bike racks, gates, or trees, and whether the lock can pass through wheel gaps or frame components. The range includes budget-friendly options and premium builds to illustrate how price correlates with security features and usability.
1. NDakter Bike Chain Lock
- Brand: NDakter
- Manufacturer: NDakter
Overview: This is a 5-digit resettable combination chain lock with lengths from 2.62 to 6 feet and a 4 mm to 6 mm chain thickness depending on variant. It uses a zinc alloy lock cylinder and an alloy steel chain with a polypropylene fabric cover to prevent frame scratches. The default code is 00000 and users can reset to a 10,000-possible combination space, which reduces brute-forcing probability. The chain length versatility makes it suitable for locking one bike to a fixed object or locking multiple bikes together, and the scratch-proof wrap is a practical benefit for daily commuting.
Performance-wise, the 4 mm variant offers light-duty security ideal for casual environments, while the thicker 6 mm chain improves resistance to cutting tools, albeit at the cost of weight. The lock head diameter (around 1.25 inches) ensures compatibility with most wheel gaps, but the note suggests that some scooters or wheels with very small gaps may not pass through. In practice, users should consider the wheel clearance of their e-bike when threading the chain through rims or frames. The combination mechanism is user-friendly, though like all combination locks, it remains susceptible to persistent attack vectors if the lock is left unattended in high-crime areas.
Pros
- 5-digit resettable combination increases security over 4-digit variants
- Varied length options (2.62 ft to 6 ft) for versatile anchoring
- Scratch-proof fabric cover protects bike finish
- Relatively lightweight for its class
- No keys to carry or lose
Cons
- Lower-security threshold against determined thieves compared to heavy U-locks or hardened chains
- Wheel-gap compatibility may fail on smaller-slit wheels or certain e-bikes
- Not ideal for high-crime areas without additional anchoring
2. NDakter Bike Locks Heavy Duty Anti Theft
- Brand: NDakter
- Manufacturer: NDakter
Overview: This is a combo U-lock with a 14.6 mm hardened steel shackle and a 5-foot steel cable included, providing flexibility to secure both frame and wheels. It features a four-digit resettable combination and ships with a mounting-conscious design, though no dedicated bracket is mentioned. The interior locking space is relatively generous, enabling locking across frames, racks, and some wheel configurations. The cable adds versatility for securing accessories or extra wheels when combined with the U-lock.
Performance-wise, the 14.6 mm shackle thickness is a strong defensive feature against cutting and leverage attempts, and the zinc alloy lock head adds resilience. The 0.57-inch shackle diameter translates to robust resistance but increases weight (around 0.89 kg for the lock portion). The lack of a bracket means some users may need to improvise mounting options on their ride. The 5-foot cable enhances multi-point security, but it’s still best used to loop around a solid anchor and frame, not a single thin component.
Pros
- Heavy-duty 14.6 mm hardened steel shackle
- Includes a 5 ft steel cable for extra versatility
- 4-digit resettable combination with straightforward setup
- Relatively large interior space for easier locking
- Resistant to cutting and leverage attacks
Cons
- No mounting bracket included, which may complicate transport
- Heavier than basic locks, impacting daily carry
- Security relies on the user choosing a robust anchor point
3. Master Lock Cable Lock
- Brand: Master Lock
- Manufacturer: Master Lock
Overview: A classic 6-foot braided steel cable with vinyl coating, designed for broad everyday use and low to mid-level security needs. It uses a four-digit resettable combination and is widely recognized for its balance of flexibility and value. The cable length enables looping through wheels, frames, and fixed objects, and the vinyl coating protects bike finishes from scratches during locking and unlocking.
Performance-wise, the cable offers excellent flexibility, but core security depends on the cable thickness and the strength of the locking mechanism. The 1/2 inch (13 mm) diameter is typical for this product category, which means good pliability but limited resistance to determined thieves. The set-your-own combination feature is convenient, but users should ensure a strong, memorable code since there is no backup key. The included two keys in the typical variant add a level of convenience if it were a key-based model, but in this case the 8122D is purely combination-based with no keys.
Pros
- 6 ft flexible braid offers easy locking around frames and racks
- Protective vinyl coating minimizes frame scratches
- Set-your-own combination is convenient and reusable
- Lightweight and easy to carry
- Widely compatible with many bikes and accessories
Cons
- Relatively lower security against specialized thieves
- Thinner cable than heavy-duty chains/U-locks
- No mounting hardware included for transport
4. Hapleby Premium Bike Lock Set with 2 Keys
- Brand: Hapleby
- Manufacturer: Hapleby
Overview: This set includes a 0.55-inch (about 14 mm) thick U-lock paired with a 6-foot steel cable and mounting bracket, plus two keys. The U-lock is designed for robust protection against cutting and prying, with electrophoresis-treated finish to resist rust. The included mounting bracket makes it especially practical for daily commuting and city use, keeping the lock secure when not in use.
Performance-wise, the 14 mm shackle provides strong resistance against common theft techniques, while the cable adds flexibility for locking wheels and other components. The dust cover design helps improve longevity in wet climates, and the bracket reduces wallet-space concerns during travel. However, the overall security level still depends on selecting a solid anchor point; a determined thief may still exploit leverage opportunities if the lock is left unsecured. The weight is around 2.59 pounds for the lock, which is reasonable for a U-lock with an accompanying cable.
Pros
- Very thick 14 mm shackle enhances cut-and-pry resistance
- Mounting bracket improves practicality for daily use
- Dust cover extends lock life in adverse weather
- Includes two keys and a 6 ft cable for versatile security
- Solid zinc alloy head with corrosion-resistant finish
Cons
- Heavier than some compact locks, impacting portability
- No explicit mention of anti-drill features beyond shackle thickness
- Cable may be overkill for some users who only need a U-lock
5. Bike Chain Lock
- Brand: Weogine
- Manufacturer: Weogine
Overview: This is a compact 2.72-foot chain lock with a 4 mm thick alloy steel chain and a hardened zinc alloy cylinder, delivered with 3 keys for redundancy. The chain is wrapped in a protective polypropylene cover to resist wear and weather, reducing the risk of frame scratches. It is positioned as a versatile security solution for bikes, scooters, gates, and more, with a focus on convenience given the three-key option and solid construction.
Performance-wise, the 4 mm chain is adequate for securing around relatively immovable anchors in moderate-risk environments but may be less effective against bolt-c cutters compared with thicker chains or U-locks. The all-round protective cover helps with weather resistance and frame protection, while the three-key setup provides an immediate backup if one key is lost. The compact length makes it highly portable, but its shorter reach can limit locking options on larger e-bikes or in crowded街 spots where anchors are farther apart.
Pros
- Three-key redundancy improves access and backup options
- Protective cover reduces wear and protects bike finish
- Compact and portable for everyday carry
- 4 mm thick chain offers decent resistance for medium-risk areas
- Versatile for bikes, scooters, and gates
Cons
- Shorter length reduces locking versatility on larger bikes
- Security level lower than thicker chains or heavy U-locks
- Not ideal for high-crime areas without additional anchoring
Frequently Asked Questions
We’ve compiled answers to the most common questions about bike lockss to help you make an informed decision.
Conclusion
Final thoughts: For most e-bike owners, a robust U-lock paired with a cable can deliver the best security-to-weight ratio, with Hapleby and NDakter options offering strong, tool-resistant locks and practical mounting.
If portability and budget are primary constraints, Master Lock 8122D remains a solid, dependable choice.
Weogine’s 4 mm chain is a strong middle-ground option for riders who need a compact lock with decent security. Evaluate your typical riding environment, whether you ride in high-theft areas, and whether you need multi-point locking, then pick a model that aligns with your anchor points and daily carry preferences..