Bike lock: which model to choose? 2026 comparison

Bike lock: the complete guide to protecting your bike

Over 300,000 bikes are stolen annually in France alone, with similar numbers across Europe. A good lock won't make your bike invincible, but it deters and slows down thieves enough to make them move on. Here's how to choose yours.

The 4 types of bike locks

1. U-lock

The gold standard for urban security. A hardened steel shackle that's extremely difficult to cut.

• Pros: very cut-resistant, compact, good security-to-weight ratio
• Cons: limited locking area, rigid (hard to lock frame + wheel to wide posts)
• Security: ★★★★★

2. Chain lock

Steel links covered in fabric sleeve. Very flexible but often heavy.

• Pros: very versatile, easily locks frame + wheel, long reach
• Cons: weight (1 to 3 kg), bulky
• Security: ★★★★☆ (depends on link diameter)

3. Folding lock

Articulated steel plates that fold like a ruler. Compact and practical.

• Pros: compact when folded, mounts on frame, good length
• Cons: less resistant to leverage attacks than U-locks, pricier
• Security: ★★★☆☆ to ★★★★☆

4. Cable lock

Avoid as a primary lock. A cable can be cut in 10 seconds with bolt cutters.

• Use: only as a supplement (secure front wheel to your U-lock)
• Security: ★☆☆☆☆ to ★★☆☆☆

Our 2026 picks

Security ratings explained

• Sold Secure (UK): Bronze, Silver, Gold, Diamond. Gold minimum for a valuable bike.
• ART (Netherlands): 5 levels (1 → 5). ART 2 = recommended minimum, ART 4-5 = very high security.
• SRA (France): the reference for insurance. 3 star levels. Required by most French bike insurers.

Golden rule: invest about 10-15% of your bike's price in the lock. A $2,500 bike deserves a $250 lock.

How to lock your bike properly

Technique matters as much as the lock itself:

1. Always lock the frame to a fixed object (not just the wheel)
2. Fill the space inside the U-lock — less gap means less room for tools
3. Point the keyhole downward — harder to pick
4. Lock to something solid — not a fence, not a cuttable pole
5. Use two different lock types — thieves rarely carry tools for both

L'Atelier helps you find manufacturer recommendations for mounting your lock without damaging your carbon frame. Ask your question on the app.