11 Best Bike Locks Tested, E-bike Antitheft Lock Comparison

Last Updated on July 18, 2023 by Igor Karni

Riding a bike is good. It’s better not to have it stolen at the first opportunity. For this, an anti-theft device is obviously the best ally. In this article, we offer you our comprehensive tests of the best bike locks: U-shape, chain, folding, and cable locks.

Bicycle theft statistics

Bicycle theft is a real issue across the world. Here are several official stats:

• According to research from a US bike registration company (529 Garage), there were more than 2 million bikes stolen in North America in 2019 (so, a bicycle was stolen every 30 seconds).

• An April 2022 annual survey of England and Wales reported 77,465 bicycle thefts (Statista), while around 90% of reported cases go unsolved, according to BBC (BBC).

• The Central Statistics Bureau of the Netherlands reports (CBS) that there were more than 700,000 bicycles stolen in the country in 2021.

• European Cyclist’s Federation summarizes (ECF) that around 1,3 million bicycles are stolen annually in EU-27 countries.

• More than 400,000 bicycles are stolen in France every year, according to The Local France.

This is certainly an obstacle for those who would like to give up their cars or public transport. 

Theft is even more of a problem for electric bikes, whose prices are high. It may seem futile to hope that bicycle theft will disappear, but it is possible to limit it. Antitheft locks are key, but as you can imagine, not all locks are created equal.

Bear in mind that no anti-theft device today is truly inviolable. On the other hand, different models offer varying degrees of resistance to different types of attack (wire cutters, bolt cutters, sledgehammers, grinders, or even picks). Thieves can equip themselves with ever more powerful and easily transportable tools. The rule to follow: own a bike that looks the most difficult and time-consuming to steal.

To achieve this, you need to apply a few basic rules: park your bike in a designated spot if possible, choose a fixed, solid attachment point, lock the frame and front wheel, and don’t leave the lock lying around on the ground… 

Of course, the choice of the right lock depends on a number of criteria: its strength, size, weight, ease of transport, and the number of locks on the market.

Read also: How to protect your e-bike from theft? And, Does it make sense to buy specialized e-bike insurance?

U-shaped locks are often the safest way to secure your bike. Robust, the U-shaped lock is nevertheless often heavy and cumbersome. Chain locks are equally strong and slip more easily into a bag. A folding lock is more convenient to carry but can be more fragile. 

Cable locks, on the other hand, are easy to cut but offer great reach and complement other locks perfectly. Frame locks can also be used for short stops. Last but not least, components such as saddles and wheels can be secured with special screws. 

An alarm is now sometimes installed directly on the bike, especially if it’s electric. Nevertheless, cyclists can choose an anti-theft model that triggers one in the event of theft to add another level of protection to their bike.

Brands such as Abus, Kryptonite, Decathlon, Zefal, Master Lock, or Axa offer ranges that include models from all families. From the cheapest spiral locks to the heavy-duty U-locks, there’s something for every taste and, above all, every price.

Best bike locks: how we tested

For our anti-theft tests, we evaluated two criteria: practicality and security.

For practicality, we took into account weight, size, and ease of transport. A strong but untransportable lock is unlikely to be widely used.

For the security aspect, we tested the anti-theft device’s resistance to 3 levels of aggression: wire cutters, bolt cutters, and angle grinders.

We used Bosch Professional GWS 18V-7 cordless angle grinder with a 4 Ah battery to test the metal.

Abus Bordo 6500K Granit Lock Test & Review: practical and hard-wearing

The Abus Bordo 6500K Granit lock is a folding model that focuses on flexibility and compactness without sacrificing strength. This gamble, nevertheless, comes at a price.

Presentation

Abus is a specialist in securing two-wheeled vehicles. The manufacturer offers a range of bicycle accessories, from locks to helmets, for all disciplines.

The Abus range of locks covers a wide variety of formats. The brand offers U-shaped locks as well as chain and cable locks. With lock, code, or both, some of the brand’s locks even feature a connected alarm. The Bordo 6500K Granit is a folding model that scores 15 – the highest – on the Abus protection level scale. This anti-theft device is generally sold for between 100 and 150 $/€.

Construction & Ergonomics

Representing the family of folding – and collapsible – locks, the Bordo 6500K Granit takes the form of a 6-segment riveted chain, 90 cm long when unfolded. Its 5.5 mm-thick segments fold away for easy transport. Its compactness doesn’t make it particularly light, as it weighs 1.7 kg on the scale (1.9 kg with its stand).

The Bordo 6500K Granit comes with a bracket that can be attached to the frame of any bicycle, making it easy to carry and always to hand. Once fastened to the seat tube, bottle cage, or top tube, it stays perfectly in place when riding. Inserting and removing the 6500K from its holder is a breeze. Simple and effective. The compact design makes it easy to slip the lock into a backpack or a basket.

The finish is excellent. The materials used seem robust, and the assembly shows no weaknesses. No play is to be deplored, even in the parts that join two segments together. The edges of the Abus lock are covered with a layer of rubber that softens contact with the frame and greatly reduces the likelihood of scratching.

Read also: Do you need a license to ride an e-bike? And, Do you need insurance to ride an e-bike?

This type of lock is much more permissive than a U-shaped lock in its placement. The various shapes that can be adopted allow a maximum length of 31 cm. This allows a certain latitude in the choice of mounting point and makes it easy to reach the front wheel and frame.

The lock is concealed by 2 small flaps that fold down automatically in front of it. On the one hand, this makes picking the lock more difficult, but on the other hand, it limits water and dust infiltration, which can damage the lock. Inserting and removing the key to open it is a breeze. This facilitates the opening even when you can’t see the lock very well.

Abus supplies two keys with its Bordo 6500K Granit. One of these is fitted with a small LED which can be activated at the touch of a button to locate the hole even when it’s dark. This avoids complicated manipulations with the flashing smartphone in one hand and the key struggling to enter the lock in the other. Abus also supplies a card that can be used to make a new key should the need arise.

Sturdiness

The segments are made of 5.5 mm thick hardened steel. The lock cylinder is housed in a solid block. This format makes the Bordo 6500K Granit impervious to attack by bolt cutters or pliers. Even after trying our luck for several minutes, we couldn’t manage to do more than scratch the Abus lock.

But there’s one immutable rule: no anti-theft device is inviolable. Faced with our Bosch Professional GWS 18V-7 cordless angle grinder and its 4 Ah battery, even the sturdiest will tremble. Unfortunately, this easy-to-transport tool is now well within the arsenal of bicycle thieves.

The Abus Bordo 6500K held up for 45 seconds against our metal cutting disc. The hardened steel resists fairly well, but the thickness is cut quite quickly. Once a link is cut, the whole thing falls apart. On this point, U-shaped locks like the Decathlon U 900 lock take longer to cut.

Technical specifications

• Weight: 1670 g
• Material: Tempered steel
• Connectivity: No
• Type of lock: Folding
• Frame attachment: Yes
• Number of keys: 2

The Abus Bordo 6500K may not be the toughest lock on the market, but it’s far from ridiculous in the face of the assaults it can withstand. What’s more, it makes up for this with practicality and ease of transport thanks to its folding format.

Abus Granit CityChain XPlus 1060 Lock Test & Review: a reference chain

The Granit CityChain XPlus 1060 chain offers the best level of protection in the Abus range. High strength at a high price.

Presentation

Abus is a specialist in securing two-wheeled vehicles. The manufacturer offers a range of bicycle accessories, from locks to helmets, covering all disciplines.

Abus’ range of anti-theft chains is headed by the Granit CityChain XPlus 1060. This model is available in 4 different lengths (from 85 to 170 cm). We tested one of the intermediate models with a length of 110 cm. This anti-theft device is unlocked with a key (2 are supplied) and rests on 10 mm hardened steel links.

Construction & Ergonomics

Anti-theft chains are generally preferred to U-chains for their greater portability. However, the Granit CityChain XPlus 1060 110 cm measurements don’t make it a pocket-sized model. Above all, its 2.6 kg weight is quickly felt in a bag.

As is often the case with chains, Abus does not provide a transport bracket. You’ll need to slip the chain into the bottom of your backpack, into a pannier, or wrap it around one of your bike’s uprights, if possible.

The Granit CityChain XPlus 1060‘s excellent finish is typical of Abus products. The materials give full confidence. The fabric surrounding the chain seems very resistant and durable. In any case, it’s very useful for preventing scratches on the bike.

The lock is secured by a key. The lock used by Abus is concealed by a cover that folds down automatically. This protects the hole from water and dust intrusion while making it difficult to pick. A few snags can be felt when inserting the key into the lock, especially when blind.

Part of the advantage of a chain is its flexibility to be hooked to a variety of attachment points. The Granit CityChain XPlus 1060 is 44 cm long when closed. That’s enough to easily grip the front wheel, the frame, and the attachment point of many bikes.

Sturdiness

The Abus chain features 10 mm diameter links in hardened steel. Enough to protect it against most pliers, even with heavy bolt cutters. Apart from a few shallow marks, we didn’t manage to attack the Granit CityChain XPlus 1060.

But thieves are now well-armed and are equipping themselves with cordless grinders. We chose a Bosch Professional GWS 18V-7 model. During our tests, it was accompanied by a 4 Ah battery and discs dedicated to metal cutting.

Faced with our professional wire cutter, the Abus anti-theft chain held out for 46 seconds. That may not sound like much, but in the end, the Granit CityChain XPlus 1060 is above the average of our comparison in terms of resistance. Bear in mind, however, that no anti-theft device is truly inviolable.

Technical specifications

• Weight: 2650 g
• Material: Tempered steel
• Connectivity: No
• Antitheft Type: Chain
• Frame-mounted: No
• Number of keys: 2

It’s hard to say that the Abus Granit CityChain XPlus 1060 anti-theft chain lives up to our expectations. Considering its weight and price, it doesn’t reach the heights we expected in terms of strength. Nevertheless, it remains a good choice for those looking for an anti-theft device long enough to cope with a wide range of situations.

Abus Granit XPlus 540 Lock Test & Review: gets straight to the point

The Granit XPlus 540 is one of the flagship models in the Abus anti-theft range. Its success is largely due to its simplicity and robustness.

Presentation

Abus is a specialist in securing two-wheeled vehicles. The manufacturer offers a range of bicycle accessories, from locks to helmets, covering all disciplines.

The U Granit XPlus 540 features a 13 mm hoop in case-hardened steel. It also offers a fairly large enclosure area and keeps its weight down. The Abus anti-theft device is priced between 80 and 130 $/€, depending on the version. Prices vary according to the presence of a frame support.

Construction & Ergonomics

U locks aren’t the most compact or the easiest to transport. However, the Abus Granit XPlus 540 is not the worst in its category in this respect. With “only” 1.5 kg on the scales, it remains fairly light for its category, especially for a model that promises such a high level of protection.

Its weight is not necessarily a problem, but its length is more problematic for transport. The version we’re testing here has no frame mount. So you’ll have to slip the Granit XPlus into a backpack. Even so, the device remains fairly slim and not too constraining.

The seriousness of Abus is reflected in the finish of the Granit XPlus 540. The materials used are sturdy, and nothing can detract from the durability of this anti-theft device. The entire surface is coated with a material that prevents scratching of the bicycle frame. Only the two ends of the handle may present a risk when the lock is fitted.

Locking is done by a key. Two keys are supplied by the brand, along with an identification card so that another key can be made by a professional if necessary. One of the keys is fitted with a button that activates a LED light, which is useful for locating the lock in the dark. The lock itself is protected by a cover that folds back automatically to protect it from water and dust.

U-locks are not the most practical to use due to their shape and rigidity. Nevertheless, the Abus Granit XPlus 540 stands out for its slender hoop and good length. It’s easy enough to find the frame and an attachment point, sometimes even including the front wheel or a second bike.

Sturdiness

The strength of U-shaped locks often lies in their robustness, and the Granit XPlus 540 makes a strong case for this. Its 13mm-diameter case-hardened steel hoop is rated the highest on the Abus scale. This means it can easily withstand attacks from pliers and bolt cutters.

The tools used by thieves are increasingly sophisticated, and it’s not uncommon for them to arm themselves with angle grinders. For our tests, we chose a battery-powered Bosch Professional GWS 18V-7.

With a disc dedicated to metal cutting, it took us a total of 45 seconds to get through the Abus Granit XPlus 540. That’s a pretty good score and puts it among the top performers. Less than a minute to cut an antitheft lock may not sound like much, but it’s important to remember that no model is tamper-proof.

Technical specifications

• Weight: 1850 g
• Material: Tempered steel
• Connectivity: No
• Antitheft Type: U
• Frame-mounted: Yes
• Number of keys: 2

The Abus Granit XPlus 540 anti-theft device is satisfactory in terms of strength. It remains bulky but is rather light in relation to its performance. A simple, effective choice that will suit most people.

Kryptonite Evolution Mini-7 Lock Test & Review: plenty of protection

The Kryptonite Evolution Mini-7 anti-theft device is a model that boasts the strength of the “U” format while remaining easy to carry. It also comes with a cable to multiply the number of security points.

Presentation

Kryptonite is a specialist manufacturer of bike, motorcycle, and scooter locks. The company is part of the Allegion group, which includes such big names in security as Axa and Trelock. Kryptonite offers a wide range of models in all styles (U, chain, folding, cable…).

The Evolution Mini-7 is a U-lock with a hardened steel handle. It is rated 7/10 on the Kryptonite sturdiness scale and is key-lockable. Kryptonite also supplies a 1.20 m steel cable to accompany the U. The Kryptonite Evolution Mini-7 costs just over 50 dollars or euros.

Construction & Ergonomics

The “Mini” designation of this reference suggests that the Kryptonite Evolution Mini-7 is not one of the most cumbersome of U-locks. Its size makes it easy enough to carry in a backpack, and its weight of 1.6 kg is just right for this type of protection.

For transport, Kryptonite supplies a small bracket that attaches to the bike’s frame. The finish is not as exemplary as that of the lock itself. Using the system isn’t very complicated, but sliding the metal part over the U into the holder is a little tricky.

The lock’s finish is excellent, and the materials used give full confidence. The light layer of rubber covering the hoop and locking block means there’s no risk of scratching the frame.

The Kryptonite Evolution Mini-7‘s lock is protected by a cover that prevents the ingress of water and dust. Inserting the key into the lock is a breeze, and unlocking is smooth and easy.

Its relative compactness makes it very practical but limits the possibilities for mounting. You’ll often have to make do with the frame and the attachment point, leaving the front wheel free. Nonetheless, the additional cable is a real asset here, offering the possibility of securing the front wheel, albeit succinctly.

Sturdiness

The hardened steel handle of the Kryptonite U anti-theft device measures 13 mm in diameter. The Evolution Mini-7 is, therefore, rather slim, but this is a guarantee of its portability. Such a diameter already protects the anti-theft device against attacks from pliers and bolt cutters.

However, the bike thief’s paraphernalia often includes power tools such as cordless angle grinders. These are tools that no anti-theft device can resist for very long. For our tests, we opted for a Bosch Professional GWS 18V-7 with a 4 Ah battery.

When cut with a metal-cutting disc, the Kryptonite Evolution Mini-7 resists for just over 40 seconds. An average result for a U-lock. The cable accompanying the U can be cut in 25 seconds with a pair of bishop’s pliers. It takes just three seconds to cut with an angle grinder.

Technical specifications

• Weight: 1610 g
• Material: Tempered steel
• Connectivity: No
• Anti-theft type: U
• Frame mounting: Yes
• Number of keys : 3

The Kryptonite Evolution Mini-7 is a convincing anti-theft device overall, combining good strength with plausible ease of use and transport. The cable supplied with the U is a welcome addition to the security features.

Kryptonite Keeper 785 Lock Test & Review: an anti-theft chain that can’t be beaten

The Kryptonite Keeper 785 is a mid-range chain lock. It’s a fairly straightforward model with an emphasis on sturdiness.

Presentation

Kryptonite is a specialist manufacturer of bike, motorcycle, and scooter locks. The company is part of the Allegion group, which includes such big names in security as Axa and Trelock. Kryptonite offers a wide range of models in all styles (U, chain, folding, cable…).

The Keeper 785 belongs to the chain family and features 7 mm-thick steel links. The Kryptonite rating scale gives it a protection rating of 5/10. This anti-theft device locks with a key (two are supplied). The Kryptonite Keeper 785 usually sells for between 30 and 50 $/€.

Construction & Ergonomics

Anti-theft chains generally combine strength and portability. The Kryptonite Keeper 785 is indeed easy enough to fit into a backpack, and its weight of 1.4 kg makes it a moderately heavy model. Some Keeper models reach 5 kg or more. This chain can be packed quite easily at the bottom of a backpack.

The Kryptonite Keeper 785 is not supplied with a specific bracket for attaching it to the bike. However, it can easily be wrapped around a frame’s top tube or even a luggage rack.

This anti-theft device is well finished. It’s wrapped in a fabric sheath for guaranteed strength. This also protects the frame well in use and limits scratches. The cylinder housing is also well finished and looks robust.

A lock is used here to close the chain. The chain is not protected by a cover, which exposes it to water and dust. This could affect its lifespan. Inserting the key is not frictionless. Blind unlocking is not always easy.

Chains have one major advantage over U-shaped locks: their flexibility. The Kryptonite Keeper 785 is easy to install and very practical to fit. When the Kryptonite lock is closed, it offers an internal length of 37 cm, making it possible to find an attachment point far enough away while still integrating the front wheel and a thick frame into its footprint.

Sturdiness

The Kryptonite Keeper 785 chain features 7 mm thick manganese steel links. This thickness already limits the use of pliers and bolt cutters to the largest models. With our 74 cm-long bolt cutter, we didn’t manage to make more than a few superficial marks on the chain.

Determined thieves are now equipping themselves with much more effective cordless angle grinders. A tool that no anti-theft device can resist indefinitely. We tested a Bosch Professional GWS 18V-7 angle grinder with a 4 Ah battery.

Using a disc designed for cutting metal, it took us just over 1 minute to completely cut through a link in the Keeper 785’s chain. A very respectable resistance, which places the Kryptonite anti-theft device among the most resistant models in our comparison to date.

Technical specifications

• Weight: 1.59 kg
• Material: Steel/Manganese
• Connectivity: No
• Antitheft Type: Chain 
• Frame-mounted: No
• Number of keys: 2

The Kryptonite Keeper 785 chain is an interesting choice for a bicycle. It is highly resistant to attacks without compromising on practicality. This anti-theft device is a pleasure to use on a daily basis.

Master Lock Cable Bike Lock Test & Review: use as a compliment

The Master Lock cable is a simple anti-theft device that’s lightweight, easy to handle, and, above all, affordable. The question remains, of course, of its resistance…

Presentation

Master Lock is a company specializing in the design of padlocks and locks of all kinds. The brand’s range of bike locks includes U-type models, chains, handcuffs, and cables. The 8127EURD model we’re testing here belongs to the latter family. This is an entry-level lock selling for less than 10 dollars or euros.

Construction & Ergonomics

Master Lock‘s cable is simple, not to say simplistic. With a diameter of just 0.8 cm and a length of 1.8 m, this anti-theft device can be wound up to take up a minimum of space. Its lightweight (just 247 g) makes it easy to take with you wherever you go, slipping into a bag or even a coat pocket.

There’s no need for a dedicated bracket to carry the Master Lock cable on your bike. Simply wrap its loops around a frame post. The plastic sheath around the cable protects the bike’s paintwork.

The finish is commensurate with the price of this entry-level anti-theft device. The case housing the locking mechanism is not very attractive and looks rather fragile. At first glance, we can’t say we have full confidence in this lock.

A key lock is used to unlock the cable hook. This particularly basic lock is a little loose, and the key doesn’t always fit easily. There’s no protection against picking – which would be pointless, as we’ll see later – nor against water or dust intrusion.

The cable’s long length means it can be hooked up to remote points and passed through the spokes of both wheels. A real asset if the Master Lock model is used in conjunction with a stronger U-type or chain lock, for example.

Sturdiness

Master Lock claims a protection level of 4 on a scale of 10, according to its own criteria. The cable and its vinyl sheath don’t exceed 8 mm in diameter, yet they don’t resist much. A large pair of wire cutters is all that’s needed to remove the cable, albeit with some effort. Our 74 cm bolt cutter sliced through it without even seeming to exert any effort.

It may seem obvious, but the Master Lock cable didn’t put up much resistance to our Bosch Professional GWS 18V-7 grinder either. It took less than 10 seconds to cut it. This weakness places the entry-level lock in the category of models that should not be used alone to secure a bicycle.

Technical specifications

• Weight: 274 g
• Material: Steel
• Connectivity: No
• Anti-theft Type: Cable
• Frame-mounted: No
• Number of keys: 2

The Master Lock 8127EURD cable is far too thin to be a stand-alone bike protection solution. Easy to transport, it can be a good ally in reinforcing the security of a two-wheeler in addition to a stronger U or chain lock.

Zefal K-Traz U17 Cable Lock Test & Review: practical and resistant

With its K-Traz U17 Cable, French brand Zefal offers one of the toughest bicycle locks in its range. A U model with a 1.20 m cable for maximum bike security.

Presentation

Zefal is a French company founded in the early 20th century. The manufacturer’s success was built on a range of pneumatic pumps. Today, Zefal has broadened its catalog to include a wide range of cycling accessories (pumps, water bottles, mudguards, anti-theft devices, panniers, and smartphone holders).

The K-Traz U17 is at the top of the brand’s range of locks. This U-shaped model is one of the toughest ever offered by Zefal, which also offers folding locks, chains, and cables. The K-Traz U17 is available on its own or with an additional 1.20 m cable, as tested here. The U17 features a steel hoop and key lock (3 supplied). It comes with a bracket for attaching the lock to a bicycle frame for transport.

The Zefal K-Traz U17 with cable was launched at 52.95 $/€, while the version without cable is priced at 44.95 $/€. In practice, dealer prices are somewhat lower.

Construction & Ergonomics

Like many U-locks, the Zefal K-Traz U17 is relatively imposing. Admittedly, its hoop is more discreet than that of a Decathlon Btwin U 900, but you still have to deal with an accessory measuring almost 30 x 18 cm. It’s easy enough to carry in a backpack and weighs an acceptable 1.58 kg.

Transport is made easier, however, by the use of a frame-mounted bracket. It attaches to uprights from 20 to 80 mm, covering a good part of the seat tubes and top tubes. Once installed, the bracket holds securely in place. Nevertheless, its finish is not first-rate, and we have some reservations about its durability.

Operation is straightforward, and the Zefal K-Traz U17 fits in quite easily. Fastening takes just a quarter-turn, and the whole thing doesn’t budge when rolling.

Rather elegant at first glance, Zefal’s anti-theft device is covered with a layer of black rubber. Its main purpose is to protect your bicycle frame from scratches when it comes into contact with the K-Traz U17. But after a few uses, this coating quickly becomes marked, and the appearance of the lock deteriorates without calling into question its effectiveness.

Read also: Selection of our favorite e-bike accessories to help you find the right gear for your needs.

The anti-theft device is unlocked by a key lock. The key fits snugly into the cylinder. A cover is present to protect the lock from unwanted incursions of water and dust. This cover takes the form of two metal pieces that move apart when the key is inserted. This is useful since it’s impossible to forget to replace the cover, but the waterproofing may be less effective.

One of the advantages of U-shaped locks is their ability to be easily attached to a variety of attachment points. Their rigidity often requires careful positioning if the front wheel, frame, and attachment point are to be included within the U-shaped enclosure. The Zefal K-Traz U17 offers around 23 cm of internal length, which is correct for a model of this type. Nevertheless, a chain or folding lock will offer more scope for securing your bike.

The added bonus of the K-Traz U17 is its extra cable. This makes it possible to find the rear wheel, a more distant point, or simply to multiply the difficulties for a thief. It’s best to avoid relying on this cable as the only link to the mounting point. Nevertheless, we can only encourage the multiplication of attachment and securing points.

Sturdiness 

Like most manufacturers, Zefal offers its own security rating scale for its locks. The K-Traz U17 Cable scores 17/20 on this “in-house” scale, one of the highest. The 14 mm diameter of the lock’s hoop keeps it away from break-ins attempted with simple pliers and even bolt cutters. Ours left only superficial marks on the Zefal lock.

No anti-theft device is truly tamper-proof, so it’s best to keep that in mind. Our protocol continues with a Bosch Professional GWS 18V-7 cordless angle grinder fitted with a 4 Ah battery. An easy-to-carry tool that bike thieves have now added to their arsenal.

Faced with our grinder, the steel hoop of the K-Traz U17 lasted less than 40 seconds. A rather average result for an anti-theft device in this category. For its part, the cable held for a good twenty seconds between the jaws of a bolt cutter and just 4 seconds under the disc of a grinder.

Technical specifications

• Weight: 1.67 kg
• Material: Steel
• Connectivity: No
• Anti-theft type: U
• Frame-mounted: Yes
• Number of keys: 3

The Zefal K-Traz U17 Cable is a fairly practical anti-theft device for everyday use and easy to take everywhere. The U is certainly not the strongest on the market, but it’s well-complemented by the cable, which adds an extra layer of difficulty for would-be thieves.

Decathlon U 500 Lock Test & Review: does not really measure up

The Elops U 500 is Decathlon’s most affordable anti-theft device in this format. Far from the imposing models, this lightweight, compact U promises an average level of security.

Presentation

Decathlon is a French brand specializing in sports equipment. It offers a range of Btwin bicycles and a host of accessories to go with them. Locks are an obvious part of the brand’s catalog.

The U family made in Decathlon is headed by the U 900, which is very hard-wearing but particularly imposing. At the other end of the spectrum, the sporting goods brand offers a much more discreet U 500. It now boasts a protection level of only 4/10 on the Decathlon rating scale but promises to slip easily into a bag.

Sold for just over 10 $/€, this Elops U 500 anti-theft device is one of the most affordable on the market.

Construction & Ergonomics

At just 525 g on the scale and less than 20 cm long, the Elops U 500 is a cut above the rest in the world of U-shaped locks. This lightness and compactness will have one advantage: this lock will easily find its place in a backpack. We regret, however, that Decathlon doesn’t supply a bracket for attaching the lock to the bike while riding.

The finish of this Decathlon anti-theft device leaves little doubt as to its entry-level positioning. It’s easy to see that the various mechanisms are not of the highest quality. The hoop is covered with a layer of rubber, but not the base. Care must be taken to avoid scratching the frame.

Read also: Is Decathlon a good e-bike brand to buy? Brand and models review.

The small size of the Elops U 500 doesn’t make it very flexible in use. In many cases, you’ll have to be content with grabbing the mounting point and the bike frame with the hoop. The lock’s enclosure doesn’t allow you to reach the front wheel. In some cases, you’ll need to think carefully about the position of the bike in relation to the attachment point if you want to succeed.

Decathlon offers a lock that unlocks with a key (two are supplied). The lock is as uninviting as the rest of the anti-theft device. It offers some resistance to key insertion and is not protected by a cover. Elements such as water and dust are, therefore, likely to penetrate it quickly, reducing its effectiveness.

Sturdiness

The 4/10 score given to the Elops U 500 by Decathlon, according to its own rating, is not very encouraging. Of course, the rubber-coated steel handle is only 1 cm in diameter. However, this is enough to protect it from the attacks of pliers and bolt cutters by even the hardiest assailants.

Unfortunately, thieves now routinely arm themselves with much more powerful tools. For our part, we chose to test the resistance of anti-theft devices with a Bosch Professional GWS 18V-7 angle grinder equipped with a 4 Ah battery. It’s important to remember that this is a machine that no anti-theft device can resist.

The Decathlon Elops U 500 performs poorly against this attack, especially for a U. It takes just 10 seconds to cut through a section of the handle. While most U’s need to be cut in two places to release the bike, the mechanism chosen here requires only one cut.

Technical specifications

• Weight: 540 g
• Material: Steel
• Connectivity: No
• Anti-theft type: U
• Frame-mounted: No
• Number of keys: 2

The Decathlon Btwin Elops U 500 anti-theft device should be considered an entry-level model, suitable for short stops rather than long-term parking. In the end, it doesn’t offer many of the qualities common to the U models. A pity since its compactness, lightness, and, above all, its attractive price are interesting assets.

Decathlon Chain 900 Lock Test & Review: effective and practical

Decathlon’s 900 lock is the mid-range model in the sporting goods retailer’s range of anti-theft chains. It’s a simple model, distinguished as it often is by its affordable price.

Presentation

Decathlon is a French brand specializing in sports equipment. It offers a range of Btwin bicycles and a host of accessories to go with them. Locks are an obvious part of the brand’s catalog.

The brand offers all kinds of locks, from U-locks to folding locks, cable locks, and chain locks. The Elops Chaine 900 we’re testing here belongs to the latter category. Decathlon gives it an 8/10 rating on its strength scale. The B’Twin Elops Chaine 900 sells for 39 $/€ on the Decathlon website.

Construction & Ergonomics

Chain locks are generally chosen for two reasons: strength and flexibility. On the other hand, this type of lock is often rather heavy. The steel links of the Elops 900 weigh a total of 1.75 kg. A weight that doesn’t go unnoticed in a bag. Nevertheless, it can be easily stowed away for transport. You can even wrap it around one of the frame’s tubes so you don’t have to carry it.

The Elops Chaine 900 anti-theft device is finished to the highest standards. The fabric wrapping the chain is strong and effectively protects the bike from scratches to the frame and other sensitive parts. The link to the lock case is held in place by a rubber piece.

Read also: Decathlon Elops 940 E test and review – the best city e-bike by Decathlon so far. Decathlon Elops 500 E test and review – a good e-bike, priced at 699 euros. Decathlon Elops 920 E test and review – best balanced e-bike. Decathlon Elops 120 E test and review – great value entry-level e-bike.

Installation is simple and practical. The chain has a maximum internal length of 35 cm, making it easy to attach the frame and front wheel to a fixed point. It’s also easy to attach 2 bikes together. This is the real advantage of chains over U-shaped locks.

The Elops 900 lock is fairly basic. It offers no particular resistance to key insertion, which is a good thing. However, in the absence of a protective cover, the proper functioning of the lock could be hampered by the intrusion of water and dust over time.

Decathlon supplies 3 keys with its lock.

Sturdiness

The weight of the Elops 900 chain might suggest that its steel links are very strong. Their 8 mm diameter doesn’t make them terribly fragile, but they are at a disadvantage against competitors who often opt for 10 mm links. It will remain beyond the reach of the vast majority of bolt-cutting attacks.

But thieves are no longer afraid to equip themselves with high-performance power tools for cutting locks quickly. It’s important to remember, however, that an angle grinder will always get the better of a steel lock, no matter how well-made. For our tests, we’re arming ourselves with a Bosch Professional cordless angle grinder.

With the latter, it took us just 22 seconds to completely cut a link in the Elops 900’s chain, causing it to lose its grip. A rather short time considering the weight and bulk of this anti-theft device.

Technical specifications

• Weight: 1746 g
• Material: Steel
• Connectivity: No
• Antitheft Type: Chain
• Frame-mounted: No
• Number of keys: 3

The Decathlon B’Twin Elops Chaine 900 performs well overall. This anti-theft device is practical to use and not too restrictive in its placement. However, it’s best to avoid using it as the only anti-theft device for securing a bike during long periods of unattended parking.

Decathlon Foldable 500 Lock Test & Review: practical and lightweight

Decathlon’s range of bike locks includes a single folding model, the Elops 500, which is both practical and, as is often the case with the sports brand, reasonably priced.

Presentation

Decathlon is a French brand specializing in sports equipment. It offers a range of bikes under the Btwin flag and a whole host of accessories to go with them. Locks are an obvious part of the brand’s catalog.

Decathlon’s range includes locks of all kinds. The Elops 500 Folding lock isn’t the strongest of the family – that goes to the U 900 – but it’s still one of the most expensive. Its 40 $/€ price tag makes it a rather affordable lock for its category. A model like the Abus Bordo 6500K Granit is, for example, 3 times more expensive on average.

Construction & Ergonomics

Like the vast majority of folding locks, the Elops 500 takes the form of a series of segments, six in this case, connected by rivets. The aim is obviously to offer an anti-theft device that is both flexible and practical to transport. Decathlon’s model achieves this objective, weighing in at just 1.4 kg, making it easy to transport.

Especially since the Elops 500 Folding comes with a bracket that allows you to attach it to your bike’s frame. The mounting system does, however, require a free bottle-holder slot, which is not the case with all bikes. Once screwed into the frame, the bracket is easy to use, and the lock slides on and off easily.

Read also: Rockrider E-ST500 test and review: a solid starter eMTB. And, Rockrider E-ST900 test and review, affordable mid-driver mountain e-bike.

The finish of the 500 Folding is far from being up to the standard of an Abus Bordo 6500K Granit. On the one hand, the materials used are not very elegant, and the plastic of the bracket gives cause for concern as to its durability. Above all, the joints between each segment show a slight play that could tend to become more pronounced over time. There is also a risk of breakage.

The great advantage of a folding anti-theft device like this is its ease of installation. The Elops 500 Folding footprint is sufficient to cover the front wheel, frame, and mounting point in most cases. It’s also possible to use the lock for more distant attachment points or even to combine two bikes in the same lock if need be.

The lock is protected by a cover that must be folded back to protect the mechanism from water and dust. Key insertion is straightforward, despite a few bumps on blind attempts. Once inserted, the key rotates without a hitch.

Sturdiness

The steel segments are covered with a layer of plastic to protect the bike. This type of anti-theft device offers good resistance to bolt cutters and pliers. The latter leaves little more than a few small surface nicks after several attempts.

But thieves are now equipping themselves with more powerful tools, such as cordless angle grinders. An inconspicuous but devilishly effective tool against which no anti-theft device can resist indefinitely. For our tests, we’re using a Bosch Professional GWS 18V-7 grinder with a 4 Ah battery.

The Decathlon Elops 500 Folding lock doesn’t last long under the onslaught of a metal-cutting disc. It takes around 20 seconds for one of its segments to give way. That’s 2 times less time than with the Abus Bordo 6500K Granit.

Technical specifications

• Weight: 1400 g
• Material: Steel
• Connectivity: No
• Antitheft type: Folding
• Frame mounting: Yes
• Number of keys: 2

Decathlon’s Elops 500 folding lock offers a good compromise for those looking for a practical, inexpensive model without sacrificing too much strength. However, we feel it’s too small to be effective in unsupervised areas, especially if you own a fairly expensive bike.

Decathlon U 900 Lock Test & Review: affordable and very strong

Decathlon offers a range of bicycle locks, of which the Elops U 900 is the strongest representative. Yet this is a rather affordable model that also features an attachment for attaching to a bike.

Presentation

Decathlon is a French brand specializing in sports equipment. It offers a range of bikes under the Btwin flag and a whole host of accessories to go with them. Locks are an obvious part of the brand’s catalog.

Decathlon’s range of locks includes several models covering the most common formats. Folding, U, chain, or cable, there’s something for everyone in the Btwin family. The U 900 Elops model we’re testing here is, to date, the strongest of all Decathlon models. The brand gives it an 8/10 rating on its own safety scale.

This U 900 anti-theft device comes with a bracket for attaching it to a bicycle frame. Despite its promise of high robustness, Decathlon’s flagship lock is affordable and can be purchased for 30 $/€.

Construction & Ergonomics

When you choose the Decathlon Btwin U 900, it’s not for its compactness. This model has a rather bulky format (32 cm long by 16 cm wide). It also weighs in at just under 1.8 kg, including the bracket. Not the easiest lock to slip into a bag.

However, Decathlon is kind enough to provide a mounting bracket that attaches to the bike frame. This can be fitted under the top tube or, alternatively, on the seat tube. However, the imposing format of the assembly may not suit all frames, especially small ones.

To place the U 900 Elops in the holder, you need to slide in the part that incorporates the lock, then close the whole thing. It’s not the most practical way of doing things, but the whole thing stays securely in place nonetheless.

Read also: Best e-Bikes Made in France. 31 French e-Bike Brands.

This anti-theft device is finished to a high standard. Almost the entire surface is covered with a rubber coating that protects the frame from scratches. It also absorbs shocks and noise when the U is dropped, which can happen from time to time given the weight and not always practical circumstances of fitting such an anti-theft device.

Unlocking is by means of a key – Decathlon supplies 3 – which is inserted into a lock at the base of the U-bolt. This lock sometimes offers a little resistance to the insertion of the key, which can be annoying when trying to unlock the lock blindly.

However, the key turns smoothly. A small plastic cover can be used to conceal the lock entrance. This helps to limit water and dust infiltration and maximize the mechanism’s lifespan.

U-shaped locks are renowned for their sturdiness but much less for their agility. It’s true that the Decathlon U 900 has an internal length of 24 cm, which means it can be attached to a wide range of attachment points.

Nevertheless, the rigidity and thickness of this anti-theft device sometimes require a little thought before finding the right angle to grip the front wheel, frame, and attachment point. This a constraint to be taken into consideration, especially if you own a bike that integrates the battery into the downtube, making the latter very thick. Chain or folding locks offer greater latitude in this respect.

Sturdiness

The Btwin U 900 anti-theft device has a protection score of 8/10, according to Decathlon’s rating scale. The sporting goods retailer claims that it is resistant to cutting by pliers of all sizes. Indeed, the diameter of the U (between 3 and 4 cm) offers very little grip for these basic tools.

As you can see, once the cut has been made, the case-hardened steel bar represents only a small part of this diameter.

When it comes to angle grinders, there’s no such thing as an anti-theft device. It all becomes a matter of time. For our tests, we cut out the lock using a Bosch Professional GWS 18V-7 cordless angle grinder fitted with a 4 Ah battery of the same brand. A set that’s fairly easy to transport and therefore susceptible to misuse by the unwary.

It takes 37 seconds to slice the U, but it takes 2 cuts to release the bike completely. This makes the Decathlon U 900 one of the toughest bikes in our comparison to date, taking around 1 min 15 seconds to complete.

Technical specifications

• Weight: 1600 g
• Material: Case-hardened steel
• Connectivity: No
• Antitheft type: U
• Frame mounting: Yes
• Number of keys: 2

Decathlon’s Btwin U 900 bike lock lives up to its promise as a robust model. Admittedly, this comes at the price of being a little overweight, but the U 900 is still quite practical. It may not be suitable for very wide frames, but for its price, it’s hard to beat.