mybest
Accessories

Helping You Find the Best

Close
  1. TOP
  2. Sports & Outdoors
  3. Accessories
  4. 10 Best Lightweight Bike Locks UK 2024 |Abus, Kryptonite and More
  • 10 Best Lightweight Bike Locks UK 2024 |Abus, Kryptonite and More 1
  • 10 Best Lightweight Bike Locks UK 2024 |Abus, Kryptonite and More 2
  • 10 Best Lightweight Bike Locks UK 2024 |Abus, Kryptonite and More 3
  • 10 Best Lightweight Bike Locks UK 2024 |Abus, Kryptonite and More 4
  • 10 Best Lightweight Bike Locks UK 2024 |Abus, Kryptonite and More 5

10 Best Lightweight Bike Locks UK 2024 |Abus, Kryptonite and More

Statistics reveal that a bike is stolen every 90 seconds in the UK. If you own a bicycle this can be quite worrying, especially if your bike attracts second looks! And you're even more at risk of bike theft if you live in London, Edinburgh or Oxford, which are cycle crime hot spots.


In order to ride with complete peace of mind but without lugging around too much extra weight, it's necessary to carry along a strong yet lightweight bike lock. Fortunately, we've made this handy guide to help you decide which to buy, and we'll also share our recommendations from Amazon, eBay and Argos to lend a hand in keeping your bike safe and secure. 

Last updated 25/03/2024
mybest Editing Team
Guide
mybest UK
mybest Editing Team

A recommendation service that carefully researches each product and consults with experts across many disciplines. We are constantly creating new content to provide the best shopping experience from choosing ‘cosmetics’ to ‘food and drink’, ‘home appliances’ to ‘kids and baby’ products, reaching users all across the United Kingdom.

mybest Editing Team's Profile
…Continue reading

Table of Contents

How to Choose a Lightweight Bike Lock in the UK - Buying Guide

Let's talk about the considerations that come into play whilst shopping for a bike lock, shall we? As we delve into this guide, bear in mind that primarily, a good bike lock should strike a delicate balance of weight, practicality and security. Read on to learn more.

1

Think About the Type You Might Prefer

Whether it's a U-lock that fits rigidly round a bike frame and an immovable object or a chain lock that enters flexibly in between wheel spokes, the type of lock you buy will depend on how you want to secure your bike.

U-Locks Are Rigid and Easy to Carry

U-Locks Are Rigid and Easy to Carry

U-locks, also known as D-locks, get their name from their shape, and are the most common type of locks among commuters. Usually, the heavier the U-lock is, the more secure it is. However, you want a lock that is dense enough to give a thief a hard time defeating it whilst also maintaining a convenient weight. 


U-locks are quite easy to transport as you can just hook them onto your belt loop or bag as you move around. Unfortunately, it takes less time for a thief to cut through a U-lock in comparison to the much sturdier chain locks. All the same, you'll find that most U-locks strike a pretty even balance of weight and security. 

Cable Locks Are the Most Lightweight But Easier to Cut

Cable Locks Are the Most Lightweight But Easier to Cut

Cable locks consist of a steel core wrapped in a coating that is normally made from PVC, which also makes them waterproof. This tough-yet-flexible cable is perfect for securing your bike without bringing about damage, as the material is much gentler on the frame than any other lock.


There are various locking mechanisms for cable locks, though usually they're either key operated or combination operated. While key lock mechanisms might be more secure, combination locks tend to be quicker to use. 


Although super lightweight and often very affordable, cable locks are the least secure of all the locks and can be quite easily cut with a simple pair of wire cutters. Due to this, they're probably best used as secondary lock.

Chain Locks Are the Most Secure but Also the Bulkiest

Chain Locks Are the Most Secure but Also the Bulkiest

As you can guess, these locks are made from hardened, heavy steel and provide optimal protection for a bike. Normally wrapped in a tough synthetic fabric to minimise scratches to the bike, they use a padlock or a combination mechanism to hold both ends of the chain together.


They score highly for their flexibility and length too, and allow you to easily attach your bike to any immovable object – no struggling to find a lamp post narrow enough! 


These locks are very secure and probably the most difficult for a thief to break, but they can also be weighty and not so convenient to transport

Compact Folding Locks Are Ideal for Touring or Bikepacking

Compact Folding Locks Are Ideal for Touring or Bikepacking
Source:amazon.co.uk

Folding locks are made up of a number of metal plates held together by screws that form hinges. The hinge joints are foldable and allow for the lock to be extended or retracted as desired. This means that this type of bike lock can be very easily transported since it occupies little space.


Folding locks stand out due to their really great lightweight flexibility in a compact design, which makes them perfect for tourers or commuters who want a good balance of weight, functionality and security. It doesn't get any more practical than this for bike locks!

2

Be Mindful of Size and Specifications

Be Mindful of Size and Specifications

If you're conscious about size, it's important to check out the specifications listed to ensure that the lock you purchase meets your requirements. Since it's very unlikely that you'll want a bulky bike lock, pick one that has shackles so thick that it cannot be easily broken, yet is still lightweight enough to carry around


A truly lightweight bike lock should weigh under 5 lbs (about 2.2 kg), except for chain locks which tend to weigh a little extra. A lock that is heavy or difficult to use will very quickly feel more like baggage than a useful tool, which could lead you to stop using it altogether.


You may also want to check out the general dimensions of the lock if you have a specific backpack or bag you need it to fit into, or if you're planning on touring.

3

Get an Approved Lock, Especially if You Have Insurance

Get an Approved Lock, Especially if You Have Insurance

If you have an insurance policy for your bike, it is crucial to check whether your lock has the necessary approval. Most commonly, it will be rated by Sold Secure. This independent, third party testing facility uses standardised methods to test and rate various locks from the different brands.


These ratings are based on how long it will take for a thief to get past the locks. Sold Secure has four grades ranging from least secure to most secure: bronze, silver, gold, and the most recent diamond rating, with bronze being the weakest and diamond the strongest.


In fact, as a prerequisite to a successful bike insurance claim, companies in the UK require not only that the bike must have been locked at the time of theft, but also that it should have been secured with an approved lock of a rating commensurate with its value. 

Was the Buying Guide helpful?

Top 10 Best Lightweight Bike Locks in the UK

We've put together a fantastic mix of lightweight bike locks for all budgets and needs in ranking order for your selection. From the best names in the business, we believe you'll find a favourite whatever your cycling style. 
Popularity
Products
Image
Click to purchase
Price
Key features
1

Onguard

Pitbull Bike Lock and Cable

Onguard Pitbull Bike Lock and Cable 1

£34.99

Mid

Versatile, Strong, and Lightweight, This Lock Has it All

2

Kryptonite

Keeper Original Standard

Kryptonite Keeper Original Standard 1

£16.95

Low Mid

An Affordable and Lightweight D-Lock

3

ABUS

Bordo Granite Xplus™ Folding Lock551604

ABUS Bordo Granite Xplus™ Folding Lock 1

£94.10

High Mid

Probably the Highest Security Lightweight Lock There Is

4

Seatylock

Foldylock Compact

Seatylock Foldylock Compact 1

£74.90

High Mid

A Premium Folding Bike Lock

5

Hiplok

Hiplok GoldGLD1 AB

Hiplok Hiplok Gold 1

£102.81

High Mid

The Wearable Chain Lock Perfect for Commuters

6

Kryptonite

New York Fahgettaboudit Chain

Kryptonite New York Fahgettaboudit Chain 1

£103.99

High Mid

A Heavy-Duty Chain Built for City Cyclists

7

Oxford

Combination Chain Lock590-LK111

Oxford Combination Chain Lock 1

£19.99

Low Mid

A Chain In a Combi Lock Style

8

Bell

Ballistic Cable Bike Lock7103331

Bell Ballistic Cable Bike Lock 1

£19.99

Low Mid

A Thicker Steel Cable Lock With Lighted Key

9

Task

Cable Bike Lock554412

Task Cable Bike Lock 1

£2.68

Low

An Ultra-Light Keyed Cable Lock on a Budget

10

Sterling

Double Loop Security Cables

Sterling Double Loop Security Cables 1

£11.99

Low Mid

A Flexible Backup Cable With Double-Loop Design

If you don't see the product you're looking for, you can request that it be listed.
No.1

OnguardPitbull Bike Lock and Cable

Pitbull Bike Lock and Cable 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£34.99
Mid
Reference price
£34.99
Mid

Versatile, Strong, and Lightweight, This Lock Has it All

This versatile heavy-duty lock is the ultimate protection you need for your bike. It offers the benefits of both a U-lock and a cable – the 4 ft long double-loop cable is intended to go around your wheels, while the main U-lock provides the primary protection. Together, it receives a 'Gold' from Sold Secure. 


This combination allows you to lock up wherever you go, whether you need to attach it to a bench, lamp post, or even the nearest tree. It takes our top spot because it provides the highest protection without being overly cumbersome or heavy, all for a very reasonable price!

Was this Ranking helpful?
No.2

KryptoniteKeeper Original Standard

Keeper Original Standard 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£16.95
Low Mid
Reference price
£16.95
Low Mid

An Affordable and Lightweight D-Lock

Here's an impressive D- (or U!) lock with a disc-style cylinder key lock mechanism. It comes with two keys that are ergonomic, which minimises twisting and makes it comfortable to use. Also, the disc-style locking design makes it difficult to tamper with.


Not only is lock picking or manipulation more difficult with this D-lock, but the rigid metal lock is also built to be resistant to drilling or cutting. Locking your bike frame and wheel with this lock will prevent roll-away theft, all with a transportation weight of only 500 grams. 

No.3

ABUSBordo Granite Xplus™ Folding Lock551604

Bordo Granite Xplus™ Folding Lock 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Bordo Granite Xplus™ Folding Lock 2
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£94.10
High Mid
Reference price
£94.10
High Mid

Probably the Highest Security Lightweight Lock There Is

This maximum-strength folding lock offers a superlative level of security. It's got a little more metal than other folding locks, and more metal means more money, but that also means that you're getting a top-quality, top-rated lock. Better yet, it only weighs a kilo and a half. 


Made of alloy steel which is coated to prevent scratches, it also comes with a carrier and includes Velcro straps that can be attached to your bike. A versatile choice with nice, easy usability, this foldable lock with its 'ABUS link protection shield' is unlikely to be defeated by saws or bolt cutters alike. 

No.4

SeatylockFoldylock Compact

Foldylock Compact 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Foldylock Compact 2
Source:amazon.co.uk
Foldylock Compact 3
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£74.90
High Mid
Reference price
£74.90
High Mid

A Premium Folding Bike Lock

This premium folding bike lock combines the benefits of traditional locks in a single tool. With this, you get flexibility, protection and a light weight all in one, not to mention that it's very compact and can be transported and stored without hassle.


When extended, it has a wide circumference to go around a range of immovable objects, thereby allowing you to secure your bike wherever you go, even if there are no cycle stands or official parking racks at the location. It's also rated as 'Silver' by Sold Secure. 

No.5

HiplokHiplok GoldGLD1 AB

Hiplok Gold 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Hiplok Gold 2
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£102.81
High Mid
Reference price
£102.81
High Mid

The Wearable Chain Lock Perfect for Commuters

Featuring a 10 mm thick chain and 12 mm hardened shackle, this product is Hiplok's highest security bike lock. The lock has been tested and rated as 'Gold' by Sold Secure, which means it is a fitting lock for high-value bikes over £1,500. 


Also, a weight of around 2.5 kg for a chain lock is impressive! This tells you that it is not excessively bulky and carrying it from place to place will be much easier than most – especially since it can be worn around the waist comfortably with the adjustable buckle fastening.

No.6

KryptoniteNew York Fahgettaboudit Chain

New York Fahgettaboudit Chain 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£103.99
High Mid
Reference price
£103.99
High Mid

A Heavy-Duty Chain Built for City Cyclists

If you live or work in a high risk area that's frequently a target for bike theft, you'll find this heavy-duty lock very useful. As well as the fact its looks are a great deterrent, this hardened manganese steel chain is not friendly to thieves at all!


As the name implies, you really can lock up your bike and fahgettaboudit, trusting this lock to keep it well secured for you until you return to it. Unfortunately, it is quite a weighty thing to carry around, but may be worth it for some for the confidence of security.

No.7

OxfordCombination Chain Lock590-LK111

Combination Chain Lock 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£19.99
Low Mid
Reference price
£19.99
Low Mid

A Chain In a Combi Lock Style

Chain locks are notoriously heavy and expensive, but not this one! At a reasonable price and 800 g weight, you get this hardened steel lock that protects your bike more than any cable ever could. Wrapped in a protective cloth cover, it is made to resist cutters.


The combination lock mechanism means it's very convenient and easy to use – no need to be fiddling with keys all the time or your heart skipping a beat at the thought of a lost key. However, a combi lock is convenient for a thief too, as it's pretty easy to hack.

No.8

BellBallistic Cable Bike Lock7103331

Ballistic Cable Bike Lock 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Ballistic Cable Bike Lock 2
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£19.99
Low Mid
Reference price
£19.99
Low Mid

A Thicker Steel Cable Lock With Lighted Key

Uniquely, Bell's Ballistic Cable Lock comes with a key that lights up! So not only does it have more aesthetic appeal than other cable locks, but the lighted key is easier to use as it allows for better illumination in darker environments.


It also features a plastic dust cover that protects the keyhole from debris and moisture, thereby preventing the mechanical rust that most key locks are susceptible to. Although it's made from thick HD steel, the cable is only rated as 3/5 on the security front, so it may not be the best for securing high-value bikes.    

No.9

TaskCable Bike Lock554412

Cable Bike Lock 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£2.68
Low
Reference price
£2.68
Low

An Ultra-Light Keyed Cable Lock on a Budget

Here's a very cheap but well-functioning lock to use for securing your bike while you pop into a cafe or shop. The weather-resistant PVC coating is soft on bike wheels and frames, avoiding scratches and preventing any paint from wearing off.  


Weighing less than 200 grams, it is so lightweight that you'll forget you're carrying it! It's also easy and convenient to store. However, as with virtually every cable lock, it has no independent secure rating or approval, thus ranking low on security.

No.10

SterlingDouble Loop Security Cables

Double Loop Security Cables 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Double Loop Security Cables 2
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£11.99
Low Mid
Reference price
£11.99
Low Mid

A Flexible Backup Cable With Double-Loop Design

Made of hardy stainless steel, this durable twisted cable has increased resistance to cutting, yet it's also very light at just 640 grams. It has a double loop design which means you can fit one loop through the other, and is workable alongside padlocks, U-locks or disc locks.


This cable has such a convenient length and flexibility that it can be applied for purposes other than securing a bike, making it a pretty multifunctional lock to have around. Use it only as backup security though, as it's easier to break than most!

More Essential Cycling Accessories

More Essential Cycling Accessories

The recent UK cycling boom doesn't seem to be slowing down, no doubt thanks to how great it is for your health, the environment, and your wallet! Whether you're a newbie looking for some gear advice or you've been pushing the pedals for years, our related articles will help you find what you need. 

Summary

Choosing the ideal bike lock depends largely on the area you intend to use it, as well as its weight and portability. While some may want something super lightweight, others living in high-theft areas will be more conscious about the level of security. In any case, you want a bike lock that's fitting for your lifestyle and your needs. Hopefully, one of our picks will do just that!


Author: David Gbe

Top 5 Lightweight Bike Locks

No. 1: OnguardPitbull Bike Lock and Cable

No. 2: KryptoniteKeeper Original Standard

No. 3: ABUSBordo Granite Xplus™ Folding Lock551604

No. 4: SeatylockFoldylock Compact

No. 5: HiplokHiplok GoldGLD1 AB

View Full Ranking
The descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
  1. TOP
  2. Sports & Outdoors
  3. Accessories
  4. 10 Best Lightweight Bike Locks UK 2024 |Abus, Kryptonite and More

Search by category

mybest

We connect users with the best tried and true products,
tested by our in-house guides and backed by expert insight.

Copyright mybest All Rights Reserved.