Bike lock & insurance: 16 bike locks in the test

Bicycle theft is a popular sport, you might think, if you take a look at the statistics: 233,584 bicycles were reported stolen in 2021 according to the police - and these are just the official figures. Of course, not every stolen bike is a high-quality touring bike. According to the statistics, most bikes are stolen in large cities, and these are often station bikes, city bikes or rusty bikes. However, the number of professional thefts is steadily increasing. The first choice for protecting your bike from thieves is therefore a proper bike lock.

Spiral or armoured cable locks usually offer little resistance to thieves and are not an option for high-quality bikes parked in the city. We have therefore focussed on the "heavyweights" in our test. Most hand tools bite their teeth out on hardened steel U-locks, folding locks and chain locks. But because even an inattentive moment during a lunch break is enough to leave your beloved bike out of place, you should always have an emergency bike lock with you on tour. These practical lightweight locks at least prevent thieves from simply pushing a parked bike away. Incidentally, you should not rely on official help. A look at the statistics shows a frightening figure here too: the detection rate for bicycle theft is just 9.8 per cent.

How MYBIKE tested

In the lab: For the break-in attempts, we used the most common tools according to the police: A sledgehammer, hacksaw and bolt cutters can easily be carried by thieves under a jacket. We had a maximum of three minutes per attempt. The "intelligent" opening of a bike lock hardly plays a role in practice. We therefore refrained from using it in the test. The weight of the locks was assessed in relation to the internal dimensions of the lock - a longer lock also offers more flexibility when fastening. The lightweight locks could only be worked on with side cutters, a hacksaw or by hand, depending on the low protection level.

In practice: In terms of handling, we tested the ease of movement of the locking mechanism in numerous locking processes. We also tested the various locking options and assessed the installation of the frame brackets and the clean fit of the locks. When evaluating the features, we took into account the number of keys supplied, the lock holder and the operating instructions. Manufacturers were able to collect bonus points if they offered additional keys or other features such as key lighting.

6 tips on the subject of bike locks

Thin cable locks can easily be picked even with a side cutter. What makes a good bike lock and what else should you look out for when buying one? We have Torsten Mendel, security expert at Abusasked.

1. the bicycle lock

Make sure you buy a high-quality bike lock - depending on the value of the bike (guide value: ten per cent of the purchase price) and where it is parked. Lease bike providers or insurance companies often require locks of a certain price or protection class. If you have locked your bike with a cheap lock and it is stolen, the insurance company may refuse to pay compensation. The best way to find out which requirements a bicycle lock must fulfil is to ask your insurance company.

2. the security levels

Although all manufacturers categorise their locks into different protection classes - the higher the value, the more secure the bike lock - there is no uniform standard for bike locks in this country. What is security level 5 for one manufacturer may be protection class 15 for another. Independent test seals, such as those issued by the ADFC, provide an indication of quality. The VdS seal (trust through security) is also often recommended to bicycle owners with theft insurance. In the case of high-quality bicycles, some insurance companies even require this seal of approval in order to be able to make any claims at all.

3. hands off it

Thin spiral cable locks are usually particularly easy to pick. Armoured cable locks also often offer little protection against bolt cutters etc. These locks should therefore only be used for short periods of time. The most secure models in the test are U-locks, folding locks and chain locks - but here too, the quality of the material is very important. Secure locks are often also very heavy. A good U-lock can weigh as much as two kilos. The width of the shackle is a limiting factor when locking. Although chain locks offer many locking options, they are cumbersome to transport. Flexible folding locks are a good combination - small pack size and good attachment options.

4. two are better than one

Two locks are better than one. For example, attachments such as wheels or the saddle can be additionally protected with a longer cable lock. Also look out for different designs - U-lock and cable lock, for example - or models from different manufacturers. This increases the likelihood that a thief will not have the right tool with them. There are also thieves who specialise in locks from certain brands and are deterred by "other brands".

5. secure correctly

Locking instead of just locking is the magic word here. The object to which the bike is locked should be at least as strong as the bike lock used. Thieves always start at the weakest link in the chain. Wire mesh can be easily cut with a side cutter, a thin wooden trunk can easily be sawn through. Sturdy iron bicycle stands or a lamp post are best. The bike lock should be mounted as high as possible to provide less cover for the perpetrator. Even a bolt cutter cannot be propped up on the ground as a counter-holder in this way. Public places are better than dark corners. Highly frequented places are more likely to deter thieves. In your own home, the bike can be secured to wall or floor anchors. In the bicycle cellar of an apartment block, you should always lock several items together. This makes it harder to carry them away.

6. good to know

In order to be able to make a claim or file a police report in the event of theft, you should always keep the invoice for your bike and make a note of the frame number. Also make a note of any conspicuous features such as brand, colour and accessories. You can also obtain a bike passport or the police bike passport app. A photo of the bike can also help with regulation.

10 bike locks for the city

1. Abus Granit XPlus 540 SH B
2. BBB Secure Chain BBL-75
3. Elops bicycle chain lock 920 L Art 3
4. Hiplok D1000
5. Kryptonite Evolution 790
6. Litelok One Wearable
7. Masterlock U-lock 8279
8. Trelock FS 580 TORO X-Press
9. Seatylock Foldylock 90
10. Contec Powerlock

1. ABUS GRANIT XPlus 540 SH B

Key data

• Price: 139,95 Euro >> available here
• Weight/length: (inside) 1455 g / 22.5 x 10.6 cm
• Accessories: 2 keys; key ID card; frame holder; light on the key
• Certification: ART-3; Sold Secure Diamond; VdS

Points

• Break-in security (60 %): 9 out of 10
• Handling (20 %): 8 out of 10
• Weight (10 %): 6 out of 10
• Equipment (10 %): 9 out of 10

Conclusion

The shackle lock from Abus impresses with its top-class workmanship and excellent protection. Only an angle grinder was able to damage the square steel. Handling is just as good, the key slides cleanly and smoothly into the cylinder, the shackle engages smoothly. The tested set includes a somewhat awkward to fit but solid bracket. The connection options are limited due to the design, so lampposts cannot be used as fixing points.

MYBIKE verdict: Very good

2. BBB Secure Chain BBL-75

Key data

• Price: 69,95 Euro >> available here
• Weight/length: 1972 g / 90 cm
• Accessories: 3 Keys
• Certification: ART-2; Sold Secure Silver

Points

• Break-in security (60 %): 4 out of 10
• Handling (20 %): 5 out of 10
• Weight (10 %): 8 out of 10
• Equipment (10 %): 7 out of 10

Conclusion

The weight to length ratio is good at BBB. This provides numerous options for connecting the bike including the rear wheel. The chain lock does not score highly when it comes to transport. Handling with the cylinder rotating when locking is also somewhat awkward. Although the bike lock fulfils two recognised official test standards, in our practical test the Secure Chain could be cracked using two methods within a very short time. It is therefore only recommended to a limited extent.

MYBIKE verdict: Satisfactory

3 ELOPS Bicycle chain lock 920 L Art 3

Key data

• Price: 59,99 Euro >> available here
• Weight/length: 3257 g / 110 cm
• Accessories: 3 Keys
• Certification: ART-3; Sold Secure Silver

Points

• Break-in security (60 %): 9 out of 10
• Handling (20 %): 6 out of 10
• Weight (10 %): 5 out of 10
• Equipment (10 %): 8 out of 10

Conclusion

The French outdoor giant Decathlon delivers an absolute heavyweight. The length offers many locking options, but transport is only practical in a separate bag. The locking cylinder works a little awkwardly, but this is manageable considering the price. The solid steel chain does not compromise on security. None of the methods used to break it open were effective within the specified time. The bike frame is adequately protected by a continuous textile cover.

MYBIKE verdict: Good

4TH HIPLOK D1000

Key data

• Price: 279,99 Euro >> available here
• Weight/length: (inside) 1930 g / 15.1 x 9.0 cm
• Accessories: 2 keys; key ID card; lifetime guarantee
• Certification: Sold Secure Diamond

Points

• Break-in security (60 %): 10 out of 10
• Handling (20 %): 6 out of 10
• Weight (10 %): 2 out of 10
• Equipment (10 %): 7 out of 10

Conclusion

It couldn't be more stable. The massive D1000 cannot even be cracked with an angle grinder! Accordingly, the lifetime guarantee is absolutely justified. The massive bracket is fully rubberised, providing optimum protection for the frame. The connection options are very limited, with thick frame tubes the bike lock only reaches around thin posts. When locking, the rubber cover of the cylinder hangs in the way. A bracket is not included in the scope of delivery, which makes transport more difficult.

MYBIKE verdict: Very good

5. KRYPTONITE Evolution 790

Key data

• Price: 135 Euro >> available here
• Weight/length: 1428 g / 90 cm
• Accessories: 2 keys; frame holder; key service
• Certification: ART-2; Sold Secure Gold

Points

• Break-in security (60 %): 9 out of 10
• Handling (20 %): 9 out of 10
• Weight (10 %): 10 out of 10
• Equipment (10 %): 8 out of 10

Conclusion

There is nothing to criticise about the Kryptonite folding lock. The solid and easy-to-use bracket can be attached to the frame at many points, and the locking process is permanently smooth. A 360-degree rotating head makes it easier to bring the lock together. Six fully rubberised links allow flexible connection options and prevent scratches on the frame. The bike lock could not be picked with any of the standard methods in the time available.

MYBIKE verdict: Very good (test winner 1/2023)

6 LITELOK One Wearable

Key data

• Price: 149,95 Euro >> available here
• Weight/length: 1330 g / 100 cm
• Accessories: 2 keys; 2 fastening straps; can be worn as a waist belt
• Certification: ART-2; Sold Secure Silver

Points

• Break-in security (60 %): 6 out of 10
• Handling (20 %): 8 out of 10
• Weight (10 %): 10 out of 10
• Equipment (10 %): 8 out of 10

Conclusion

The flexible Litelok is available in three lengths and can be worn practically as a belt. The bike lock can also be attached to the frame using a bracket. In relation to its weight, the Litelok offers many connection options. However, if the connection points are further away, the stubborn belt can only be inserted into the lock with force. In the break-open test, the lock could be picked with one method within the time limit, another method required only slightly more time.

MYBIKE verdict: Good

7 MASTERLOCK U-lock 8279

Key data

• Price: 71,95 Euro >> available here
• Weight/length: (inside) 1155 g / 21.5 x 10.6 cm
• Accessories: 4 keys; frame holder; 1 key with light
• Certification: Sold Secure Gold; VdS

Points

• Break-in security (60 %): 9 out of 10
• Handling (20 %): 7 out of 10
• Weight (10 %): 8 out of 10
• Equipment (10 %): 10 out of 10

Conclusion

The Masterlock comes with a somewhat awkward mounting bracket that only fits tubes up to 35 millimetres in diameter. The bike lock wobbles noticeably while riding. The feel of the 8279 is also not a highlight - the plastic coating looks cheap. On the other hand, it is well equipped: four keys, light, protective cap for the lock cylinder. The Masterlock is also convincing in the break-open test: no standard tool could harm the lock.

MYBIKE verdict: Very good

8TH TRELOCK FS 580 TORO X-Press

Key data

• Price: 132,99 Euro >> available here
• Weight/length: 1427 g / 90 cm
• Accessories: 2 keys; frame holder; key service
• Certification: ART-2; Sold Secure Gold

Points

• Break-in security (60 %): 9 out of 10
• Handling (20 %): 9 out of 10
• Weight (10 %): 10 out of 10
• Equipment (10 %): 8 out of 10

Conclusion

The Trelock folding lock is identical in construction to the Kryptonite model. The bracket is also identical, easy to mount on the bottle cage or frame and convenient to use. The locking process of the high-quality lock runs absolutely smoothly, and the 360-degree rotating head makes it easier to bring the links together. The length and weight make it easy to transport and connect. Like the Kryptonite, the FS 580 Toro only gave way in the test when attacked with the angle cutter.

MYBIKE verdict: Very good (test winner 1/2023)

9TH SEATYLOCK Foldylock 90

Key data

• Price: 109,95 Euro >> available here
• Weight/length: 1625 g / 90 cm
• Accessories: 3 keys; frame holder; key service
• Certification: Sold Secure Gold

Points

• Break-in security (60 %): 7 out of 10
• Handling (20 %): 9 out of 10
• Weight (10 %): 8 out of 10
• Equipment (10 %): 9 out of 10

Conclusion

Seatylock also supplies a high-quality folding lock with sufficient length and good locking options. The flexible lock can also be easily brought together in angled positions. The bike lock sits securely in the practical holder and the locking process is very smooth. To prevent scratches on the frame, the Foldylock is completely plastic-coated. In the test, the lock could be opened within the time limit using one of the available methods.

MYBIKE verdict: Good

10. CONTEC Powerlock

Key data

• Price: 39,95 Euro >> available here
• Weight/length: (inside) 1310 g / 23 x 11.5 cm
• Accessories: 4 keys; 1 key with light; key card; frame holder
• Certification: not specified

Points

• Break-in security (60 %): 9 out of 10
• Handling (20 %): 7 out of 10
• Weight (10 %): 7 out of 10
• Equipment (10 %): 10 out of 10

Conclusion

Although the very reasonably priced Contec with its thin bracket inspires little confidence, it easily withstood all attempts to break it open in the test and is therefore an absolute price-performance tip. The equipment is lavish: four keys, light, frame mount. The latter doesn't seem very stable, is somewhat awkward to fit and quite fiddly to operate. The wide bracket reaches around even thicker posts. The plastic coating is not particularly durable and tears easily.

MYBIKE verdict: Very good (TIP: Value for money 1/2023)

6 bike locks for travelling

1. Abus Sportflex 2504
2. BBB Minicase BBL-53
3. Hiplok Z-Lok
4. Ottolock Cinch Lock
5. Trelock FS 280 TWO.GO
6. Voxom SCH1

1. ABUS Sportflex 2504

Key data

• Price: 39,95 Euro >> available here
• Weight/length: 98 g / 95 cm
• Special features: 4-digit numerical code; integrated holder
• Certification: not certified

Points

• Break-in security (50 %): 4 out of 10
• Handling (20 %): 10 out of 10
• Weight (20 %): 10 out of 10
• Equipment (10 %): 8 out of 10

Conclusion

Even if it doesn't look like everyone's cup of tea, the lightweight Abus can be practically mounted on the bottle cage and is therefore always on board. Don't forget to enclose the frame, otherwise the bike lock can simply be unscrewed! The length is easily long enough to lock two bikes or attach it to a post, the numbers on the lock are easy to read and the four dials have a clean grid pattern. The Sportflex is a good option if the bike is parked within sight during a break.

MYBIKE verdict: Good

2. BBB Minicase BBL-53

Key data

• Price: 17,95 Euro >> available here
• Weight/length: 45 g / 58 cm
• Special features: 3-digit numerical code
• Certification: not certified

Points

• Break-in security (50 %): 2 out of 10
• Handling (20 %): 8 out of 10
• Weight (20 %): 10 out of 10
• Equipment (10 %): 4 out of 10

Conclusion

The Minicase is the absolute minimum solution for a quick stop at the petrol station or a rest stop at the hut. It fits in any jersey or trouser pocket. The dials on the fastener have a good grid and the numbers are easy to read. However, the fastener and cable are quite snaggy, which makes handling difficult. The biggest drawback is the length of the cable: This barely reaches around thicker posts. The mini lock can only resist the simplest of tools for a very short time.

MYBIKE verdict: Satisfactory

3. HIPLOK Z-Lok

Key data

• Price: 19,99 Euro >> available here
• Weight/length: 69 g / 50 cm
• Special features: 3-digit numerical code
• Certification: not certified

Points

• Break-in security (50 %): 2 out of 10
• Handling (20 %): 7 out of 10
• Weight (20 %): 9 out of 10
• Equipment (10 %): 6 out of 10

Conclusion

Hiplok's Z-Lok works like an oversized cable tie with a steel core. Thanks to the three-digit numerical code, it can be used again and again. Alternatively, the practical and lightweight locks are also available with a special key. However, it is not just the handling that is criticised: the numbers are barely legible and there is no grid. The length is also just long enough to attach the bike to a thin post. As with BBB, even the simplest tools are enough to pick the lock.

MYBIKE verdict: Satisfactory

4. OTTOLOCK Cinch Lock

Key data

• Price: 84,95 Euro >> available here
• Weight/length: 178 g / 76 cm
• Special features: 3-digit numerical code; rubber sleeve for transport; 3 lengths
• Certification: not certified

Points

• Break-in security (50 %): 5 out of 10
• Handling (20 %): 8 out of 10
• Weight (20 %): 9 out of 10
• Equipment (10 %): 6 out of 10

Conclusion

The Ottolock also works in a similar way to a cable tie. However, it is somewhat more robust than the Hiplok and can withstand attacks for longer. It can be rolled up small for transport and fits into a jersey or rucksack pocket. The medium length is easily long enough to secure the bike to thicker objects. Although the combination lock has a noticeable notch, the discs keep twisting by themselves, especially when you're wearing gloves.

MYBIKE verdict: Good (TIPP für unterwegs 1/2023)

5 TRELOCK FS 280 TWO.GO

Key data

• Price: 64,99 Euro >> available here
• Weight/length: 532 g / 80 cm
• Accessories: 2 keys; key service; frame holder
• Certification: not certified

Points

• Break-in security (50 %): 8 out of 10
• Handling (20 %): 9 out of 10
• Weight (20 %): 7 out of 10
• Equipment (10 %): 9 out of 10

Conclusion

If you want to be on the safe side when travelling, you should take a closer look at the compact folding lock from Trelock. Eight robust bars ensure good flexibility and sufficient locking length. The practical bracket makes it easy to attach to the frame, but also light enough to carry in your rucksack. Handling and workmanship are of a very high standard. Unbreakable with tools available on the road. However, the lock is not a safe choice for longer parking periods in the city.

MYBIKE verdict: Good

6. VOXOM SCH1

Key data

• Price: 9,95 Euro
• Weight/length: 55 g / approx. 110 cm
• Special features: 3-digit numerical code
• Certification: not certified

Points

• Break-in security (50 %): 3 out of 10
• Handling (20 %): 8 out of 10
• Weight (20 %): 10 out of 10
• Equipment (10 %): 5 out of 10

Conclusion

The Voxom is hard to beat in terms of weight to connection length ratio. You can easily connect several bikes together or attach them to one object. The SCH1 fits into even the smallest bag. However, you shouldn't expect too much in terms of handling and security: the combination lock is quite stiff and the numbers are not easy to read. The cable wears out after prolonged use. Even compact tools can be used to crack it, so it is only recommended for bikes parked within sight.

MYBIKE verdict: Good

*The weights of the locks correspond to MYBIKE measurements

Wheel gone, and then?

Even the best bicycle lock does not offer one hundred per cent protection against theft. If your bike is stolen despite being in "safekeeping", household contents insurance or special bicycle insurance can help. We clarify the most important questions on the subject.

>> Report: The complexity of the guarantee

Household contents insurance

"If the bike is stolen from your home or a locked cellar compartment, this is considered burglary. In this case, your bikes are usually covered by household contents insurance," explains Carolin Mock from Versicherungskammer Bayern. However, bike owners should pay close attention to the details: For example, the amount of compensation is often only one per cent of the total sum insured. With a sum insured of 50,000 euros, the insurance will therefore only reimburse 500 euros in the event of theft. Not every insurance policy covers shared cellar compartments either, because several people have access to the premises and there are usually no signs of burglary.

The time clause that used to be common, according to which bicycles were only insured between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m., is rarely used today. With providers such as Versicherungskammer Bayern, bicycles can be additionally protected with extended household contents insurance. For a small surcharge on the premium, the bikes are then insured at replacement value - regardless of the purchase price. "The cover applies around the clock, worldwide. However, this requires the bike to be secured with a lock," explains Mock. In some cases, a certain price range is also specified for the bike lock. Loose items, such as a speedometer or luggage, are not covered by the insurance. This is a case of simple theft. You should therefore always remove any parts that are not permanently attached as soon as you park your bike.

Special bicycle insurance

Bicycle insurance is particularly worthwhile for expensive bikes that are sometimes left outside at night and are not covered by household contents. The market of specialists has grown considerably in the meantime. In addition to pure theft cover, some providers also offer what is known as fully comprehensive bicycle insurance, which can include cover for repair and wear and tear costs as well as a cover letter for breakdown and accident assistance. The theft of permanently attached parts or luggage is also usually covered up to a certain amount. Caution: Some providers exclude participation in races or do not insure carbon frames. Also check whether the insurer prescribes a bicycle lock in a certain price category and how the bicycle is to be secured. Top: Even used bicycles can be insured today, and the cover is often valid worldwide - particularly practical if you travel a lot.

Carolin Mock, insurance specialist at Versicherungskammer Bayern: "Read the terms and conditions of your insurance policy carefully. In the event of theft, the new value of the bike should be reimbursed. The cover should be valid worldwide and for 24 hours. Time clauses and being tied to certain types of locks are now outdated requirements. The police must be informed in the event of a break-in. Only then will the insurance company reimburse the costs."

Specialists in comparison*

• Enra: Specialising in bicycle insurance for 40 years. Extensive benefits such as replacement at replacement value, technical protection or pick-up service already included. Maximum purchase price of 6000 euros, maximum insurance term of seven years. From 150.27 euros per year.
• Berlin Direct: Inexpensive insurance with three levels of cover. However, the bike must have been purchased from a dealer and must not be older than 42 months. Used bikes or carbon bikes are not insured. From 44.16 euros per year.
• Hepster: New and used bicycles (including carbon fibre), no limit on bicycle age. Damage during races or rides on professional tracks are not covered. Maximum sum insured up to 15,000 euros. From 61.06 euros per year.
• Neodigital: Three different modules to choose from. Reimbursement of the new price for older bikes only in the most expensive tariff. Maximum sum insured 10,000 euros. Carbon bikes also insured. Conversions above a certain value excluded. From 82.03 euros per year.
• Andsafe: Insurance for used bikes without age restrictions. Carbon bikes are also insured. Maximum purchase price of the bike 20,000 euros. From 86.68 euros per year.

Annual premium calculated on the basis of the standard offer for a purchase price of 2500 euros