U-lock:
The U-lock design is one of the most popular designs when it comes to bike locks. With the simple lock-like design and robust high-security applications, U-locks are one of the most versatile bike locks available on the market today.
Because of the premium materials used to make them more secure, the stronger U-locks are a bit heavier than other bike locks. However, you can find some of these locks designed for mid to low levels of security, maybe even lighter, which is good. This proves how versatile these types of bike locks really are.
Folding Locks:
Folding locks offer the user a lot of benefits. However, they do have their fair share of disadvantages as well. The foldable design allows for the packing and storage of the bike lock while traveling easier. Since it’s foldable, it will not take up that much space in your backpack either. Folding locks allow for a larger lockable area, and its flexible nature makes it possible for more objects to be secured, which is also good.
On the other side of the spectrum, however, since these bike locks contain so many moving parts, they might not be optimal in providing a higher level of security unless they are a perfect fit. There is a very good chance someone might break through the low level of security these bike locks provide.
Folding locks are not a favorable choice if you are looking for bike locks that offer an optimal level of security. If you are looking for a bike lock in a cheaper price range and your requirements are minimal. Foldable looks will not be a bad option.
Chains:
A Chain lock can be seen as a merger between the benefits of folding locks and U-locks. This is because, similar to foldable locks, chain locks can also be folded as well. On the other hand, similar to the U-locks, since they are made of pure metal or steel alloy, chain locks are very difficult to cut through for bike thieves.
The only downside to a chain lock is its weight. The best chain bike locks are made out of pure metal and, in most cases, weigh more than 3 kgs. The heavier weight of these chains makes them difficult to carry, and for that reason, they are usually only suitable for home use.
Cables:
Cable bike locks are usually made of one or more steel cables wrapped around a PVC insulated coating. The cable lock designs are very flexible and tough enough to withstand opportunistic thieves who do not carry a tool with them. They are also very lightweight, which makes them easy to carry.
A cable lock is only suitable if you are looking for a short-term solution to your needs. They are perfect for short trips to the grocery store or any other minor errands where you will be locking your bicycle only for a short span of time.
We will not recommend cable locks, however, if you are looking for a higher level of security. If you use the cable lock in a high crime area, the chances are that thieves might be equipped with the tools to cut through this minimal level of security. These locks are not robust enough. Even insurance companies are hesitant to entertain claims where cable locks had been used.
The best bike locks offer maximum security in tricky places, where the chances of theft are high. These bike locks offer high-grade security and optimal accessibility, making them useful on almost all fronts. While looking for the best bike locks, there are a few things that you will need to keep in mind before you make the final decision.