Bicycle Locks

The importance of a proper bicycle lock

When you want to protect your bicycle and discourage theft, a quality bicycle lock is essential. Most bicycles come standard with a frame lock, but this is not always enough. Fortunately, there are chain locks, U-locks, combination locks, cable locks and wheel locks for additional theft protection.

Bike locks that are successfully tested by the Dutch organization for tourism, leisure and travel (ANWB) always feature an ART quality seal (the ART foundation is a recognized testing institution in the Netherlands). Shop for solid bike locks at Hollandbikeshop!
 

Types of bicycle locks

Bicycle locks come in different shapes and sizes. We have listed them for you below.
 

Frame lock

Frame locks can be found on virtually all city bikes. Nowadays it is often possible to add a plug-in chain to this type of lock, which lets you secure your bicycle to a fixed object.
 

Chain lock

Chain locks have a high security factor thanks to the shape of the chain links they are made up of (either square or hexagonal links), which are made of mangalloy. Bike chain locks are practical locks, easy to fold up and store while you’re on the move.
 

Cable lock

Just like chain locks, you can lock cable locks with a simple key, though some cable locks have a combination lock instead.
With their hardened steel core, cable locks give you the certainty that your bicycle is securely protected while parked.
 

Combination lock

Combination locks ensure that your bicycle is almost as secure as it would be when parked inside a safe. Moreover, you will never lose your key again! All you need to do is to remember the right combination.
 

U-lock

Although this is a heavier lock type, the U-lock is quite effective both as a primary bike lock and as an additional lock. We advise U-locks with an ART 3 or 4 rating, to ensure that your bicycle is securely locked.
 

Folding lock

The folding lock is a compact, light and safe bicycle lock. Thanks to its unique hinge points, the folding lock is easy to fold and unfold to secure your bicycle to a lamppost. Moreover, this lock type is lighter than a U-lock.
 

Padlocks and disc locks

A padlock (or disc lock) is a great type of bicycle protection that you can combine with other locks, like a cable without a lock. When you want to use a padlock to protect your bicycle, make sure that it has an ART 2 rating at the very least. 
 

Disc brake lock

Disc brake locks are particularly useful for scooter owners and motorcyclists. You can fasten this lock to one of the brake disc vents. Often, disc brake locks come in bright shades of orange and yellow, and feature a reminder cable.
 

How to recognize a safe bicycle lock

A safe bike lock is easily identified by its ART quality label. Overall, ART-certified bicycle locks are considered to be good bike locks. The number of starts - from ART 1 to ART 5, with ART 1 being the minimum level of bike protection - represents the preventative quality of the lock and so, its level of theft protection. In the Netherlands, having an ART-approved lock may be a requirement for your bike insurance.

Other than its ART-rating, the material that the lock is made of is also important. Bicycle locks are often made of hardened or stainless steel. Thickness is an important factor that can determine the level of security. The thicker the chain lock or cable lock, the more challenging it becomes for thieves to cut through it. Using more than one lock makes things even more difficult for them.
 

How to choose the best bicycle lock

The best bicycle lock has hardened steel links with a minimum thickness of 8mm, and at least an ART 2 approval rating. Safe and convenient, as you will be able to secure your bicycle to a fixed object. For road bikes, a lighter, smaller (cable) lock is best. At Hollandbikeshop, you will find various safe bicycle locks by top brands like Abus, AXA, HBS, Kryptonite, Simson and Trelock.
 

How do you install a bicycle lock?

Most bicycles already have holes for mounting screws, so you can install your own frame lock (with help of some sturdy screws). For bicycles without these mounting holes, there are separate mounting materials available. You can often also transport chain locks, cable locks and folding locks with a special holder.
 

Get your bicycle lock at Hollandbikeshop

The safest lock for your bicycle is waiting for you at Hollandbikeshop.com. Do you ride a city bike, e-bike, mountain bike or road bike? In our wide range of bicycle locks, you will find bicycle locks suitable for virtually any bicycle. In addition to a wide selection, we also offer competitive prices and quick delivery. So hurry up and check out our wide range of bicycle locks!