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10 Best Bike Cable Locks 2026 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Kryptonite Evolution Mini-7 U-Lock with 4ft Security Cable - Heavy-Duty Anti-Theft Bicycle Lock, 13mm Hardened Shackle, 10mm x 4ft Cable, Mounting Bracket & Keys

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,111
Cable Thickness
Cable Length
Portability

Most important from
13741 reviews

Cable Thickness
The lock is quite stout, making any thief work harder and need proper tools.
Cable Length
The shackle is small but the wire compensates for reach, though it may reduce safety slightly.
Portability
Great size and nice frame mount options make it practical for college campuses.

The Kryptonite Evolution Mini-7 Bike U-Lock with Cable is a robust solution for securing your bike and other valuables. It features a 13mm hardened max-performance steel shackle and a 10mm thick, 4ft long cable, making it very resistant to bolt cutters and leverage attacks. The lock uses a disc-style cylinder side keyway that is protected by a sliding dust cover, offering excellent resistance to picking and drilling.

This lock also includes three stainless steel keys with an ergonomic design and a versatile FlexFrame U-bracket for easy transport on your bike frame. Additionally, the product is backed by a limited lifetime warranty and offers optional anti-theft protection of up to $2,500 for registered locks, providing extra peace of mind. However, with a weight of 3.55 lbs, some users might find it relatively heavy to carry.

While the coating helps protect your bike’s finish, the size might be less convenient for those looking for something more compact. This U-lock and cable combination is ideal for cyclists who prioritize security and durability, making it suitable for urban environments where bike theft is a concern.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,111
Cable Thickness
Cable Length
Portability

Most important from
13741 reviews

Cable Thickness
The lock is quite stout, making any thief work harder and need proper tools.
Cable Length
The shackle is small but the wire compensates for reach, though it may reduce safety slightly.
Portability
Great size and nice frame mount options make it practical for college campuses.
#2

Master Lock Cable Lock, Set Your Own Combination Bike Lock, 6 ft. Long, Black, 8122D

Rating
9.1
Locking Mechanism

Most important from
5271 reviews

Locking Mechanism
The cable and combo lock are very strong and easy to reset if needed.

The Master Lock Cable Lock, 8122D, is a versatile and practical option for securing bicycles and other outdoor equipment. With a 6 ft. long cable and a thickness of 5/16 in., it provides a decent level of security while maintaining flexibility. The cable is made from braided steel, which offers strong resistance to cutting, and it's coated with vinyl to prevent scratches and rust, enhancing the durability and longevity of the lock.

The adjustable locking mechanism is a standout feature, allowing the user to set the cable length precisely to secure a wide range of items. This flexibility is complemented by the ease of use of the 4-dial combination lock, which eliminates the need for keys and allows for a personalized code. However, it is worth noting that the 1/2 in. diameter may not be as robust as thicker options on the market, potentially making it less secure against more determined theft attempts. Additionally, while the vinyl coating is beneficial for weather resistance, the lock might not withstand extreme weather conditions over prolonged periods. Portability is another highlight, as the lock is lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry around. This makes the Master Lock Cable Lock, 8122D, well-suited for users looking for a balance of security, convenience, and flexibility for everyday outdoor use.

Rating
9.1
Locking Mechanism

Most important from
5271 reviews

Locking Mechanism
The cable and combo lock are very strong and easy to reset if needed.
#3

Kryptonite Kryptolok Standard Bike U-Lock with Cable, Heavy Duty Anti-Theft Bicycle U Lock, 12.7mm Shackle and 10mm x 4ft Length Security Cable with Mounting Bracket and Keys

Rating
8.8
Locking Mechanism
Material
Portability

Most important from
5893 reviews

Locking Mechanism
The double locking system enhances resistance to twisting attacks, providing added protection.
Material
Its hardened steel construction makes it highly resistant to cutting tools like bolt cutters.
Portability
The carrying bracket is easy to install and keeps the lock secure during rides, making transportation convenient.

The Kryptonite Kryptolok Standard Bike U-Lock with Cable is designed to offer robust security for your bike. It features a 12.7mm hardened steel shackle that resists attacks from common tools like bolt cutters, ensuring a high level of theft protection. The included 10mm steel looped cable adds an extra layer of security, which is particularly useful for securing wheels or accessories.

This lock is well-regarded for its durability, thanks to the alloy steel construction and vinyl coating, which also helps prevent scratches on your bike. The lock comes with a versatile mounting bracket, making it easy to carry while riding, adding to its portability. Additionally, the Key Safe Program is a convenient feature, offering free replacements for lost keys, and the Anti-Theft Protection Offer provides peace of mind with a potential reimbursement of up to $1,750 in case of theft.

The lock's weight of 2.9 pounds may be considered heavy for some users, potentially affecting portability. The keyed lock mechanism is secure but may be seen as less convenient compared to combination locks for users who prefer not to carry keys. The product dimensions suggest it fits standard frame sizes but may not be suitable for all bike types. This lock is ideal for cyclists who prioritize security and are looking for a durable, reliable bike lock with additional features like the mounting bracket and anti-theft protection.

Rating
8.8
Locking Mechanism
Material
Portability

Most important from
5893 reviews

Locking Mechanism
The double locking system enhances resistance to twisting attacks, providing added protection.
Material
Its hardened steel construction makes it highly resistant to cutting tools like bolt cutters.
Portability
The carrying bracket is easy to install and keeps the lock secure during rides, making transportation convenient.

Buying Guide for the Best Bike Cable Locks

Choosing the right bike cable lock is crucial for ensuring the security of your bicycle. A good lock can deter thieves and give you peace of mind when leaving your bike unattended. When selecting a bike cable lock, consider the following key specifications to find the best fit for your needs.
Cable ThicknessCable thickness refers to the diameter of the cable used in the lock. This spec is important because thicker cables are generally harder to cut through, providing better security. Cable thickness can range from thin (around 5mm) to thick (up to 20mm or more). If you frequently leave your bike in high-risk areas, opt for a thicker cable. For lower-risk areas or short-term use, a thinner cable may suffice.
Cable LengthCable length is the total length of the cable when fully extended. This is important because a longer cable allows you to secure your bike to a wider variety of objects. Cable lengths typically range from 2 feet to 6 feet or more. If you need to lock your bike to large or awkwardly shaped objects, choose a longer cable. For more compact and portable options, a shorter cable may be more convenient.
Locking MechanismThe locking mechanism is the part of the lock that secures the cable in place. This can include key locks, combination locks, or even smart locks. The locking mechanism is important because it affects the ease of use and security of the lock. Key locks are generally more secure but require you to carry a key. Combination locks offer convenience as you don't need a key, but they can be less secure. Smart locks provide advanced features like keyless entry and tracking but may require charging or battery replacement. Choose a locking mechanism based on your preference for convenience and security.
MaterialThe material of the cable and lock body affects the durability and security of the lock. Common materials include steel, braided steel, and hardened steel. Steel cables are flexible and lightweight but can be cut more easily. Braided steel offers better resistance to cutting while maintaining flexibility. Hardened steel is the most secure but can be heavier and less flexible. Consider the level of security you need and the weight you are willing to carry when choosing the material.
CoatingThe coating on the cable is a protective layer that prevents the cable from scratching your bike's frame and adds an extra layer of protection against the elements. Coatings can be made from materials like vinyl or plastic. This spec is important for maintaining the appearance and longevity of both your bike and the lock. Look for a lock with a durable, weather-resistant coating to ensure it lasts longer and keeps your bike looking good.
PortabilityPortability refers to how easy it is to carry the lock with you. This is important because a lock that is too bulky or heavy may be inconvenient to transport. Portability can be influenced by the lock's weight, size, and whether it comes with mounting brackets or carrying cases. If you need to carry the lock with you frequently, look for a lightweight and compact option that includes convenient carrying features.

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