Best Kids' Bike Locks

Shackle thickness – 18mm

Weight – 4.5 pounds

The Kryptonite New York Fahgettaboudit Mini is a lock like no other.

After locking a bike up, you can rest assured that you will literally “forget about it’ as the name suggests; and you’ll do so because this is one strong lock.

It’s a u-lock whose strength is accounted for by its 18mm dual-locking hardened shackle. This thickness enables it to hold up really well against cutting attacks. In fact, of all the locks in our review, this particular lock ranked as the hardest to succumb to cutting attacks; even with a powered cut-off tool.

Now, while it will really take some time and effort for a thief to grind through it, the strength of the lock comes at a cost and that is that the lock is quite heavy; weighing 4.5 pounds.

But that’s just about when it comes to its shortfalls.  

The ‘fahgettaboudit Mini’ further banks at being very secure as it uses a disc-detainer mechanism which in comparison to a wafer lock is much harder to pick. That means that this lock is prepared to not only fight against cutting attacks but also against picking attacks.

And in terms of length, it is just ideal as the lock sufficiently covers the frame and wheel of a bike!

In low-risk areas, this lock will still ease your mind of the worry of losing the bike. But in high-crime areas, the Kryptonite ‘fahgettaboudit Mini’ is pretty much non-negotiable.

What more could you ask for?

Kryptonite just has a way of designing the strongest locks and the ‘New York fahgettaboudit mini’ is nothing short of that description.

Length - 3.3 feet

Weight - 1.4 pounds.

Titanker is known for its expertise in manufacturing bicycle security equipment and this chain lock is one such example of just how great and well-thought-out their products are.

Made of heavy-duty steel with chain links that are 6mm thick, you can take our word for it; this chain lock is extremely hard to cut through and require double the effort and time to cut.

You see, the thing about chain locks is that they are basically harder to attack with power tools as compared to cable locks. Plus with the need to cut the links twice means that at best, chain locks are a great way to secure bikes from theft. 

With an overall length of 3.3 feet long, this length is very convenient as the chain can be secured around a variety of objects. Plus, being advantaged by its flexibility means that the lock can easily be carried on the seat post, backpack, or bike basket. The choice is the riders to make but either way the lock is easy to carry.

Its user-friendliness is also top-notch. For instance, the locking and unlocking mechanisms are separate in that rather than locking with the use of a key; you just need to snap the ends of the lock in place and go! However, the key is needed to open it.

True to Titanker’s reputation, there are a number of proactive measures placed to in turn enhance its lifespan.

These include a thick zinc-plated coating to prevent scratching of the bike and chain, a protective cloth sleeve to deter damage by prolonged exposure to water and dust and a dust cover that protects the keyhole further.

But all convenience measures aside, this chain lock is the true definition of ‘anti-theft security.

Shackle thickness - 16mm

Weight – 3 pounds

This 16mm Sigtuna lock is the most accurate definition of hardcore security for kids’ bikes.

With a very appealing black and yellow color scheme, you will find that aside from the overall look, every single bit of this Sigtuna lock is appealing!

This is a specialized u-lock made of hardened ABS steel with a thickness of 16mm for the shackle.

Second, to the aforementioned kryptonite lock, this shackle thickness offers such great holding power against cutting and leverage attacks. This diameter is just appropriately large and would require much force to break down- which is what you want for your kids’ bike.

You get double the protection with an additional 4-foot steel cable to secure the wheels and other accessories such as a helmet.

With a disc-style cylinder and double-bolt locking mechanism, no opportunistic thief can get through this lock, and even with a bolt cutter it would still take some time to get through it.

Although this lock is quite heavy; for the security, it offers it’s worth the sacrifice.

Not to mention that manufacturers also incorporated measures to protect the lock’s components such as the rubberized coating on the keyhole against the elements. It is just the perfect protection when it rains and the rider needs to get on in a hurry!

In addition, the installation of the mounting bracket it comes with is so seamless and its push-button application is even better!

Given the cost, this bike lock is a must-have!

Shackle thickness- 13mm

Weight - 3.56 pounds

Dimensions (Internal) – 4” x 9”

You can always expect high-quality locks from Kryptonite and the kryptolok “series 2” is one of the most popular u-locks. But not for nothing; this u-lock has an abundance of high-quality features.  

Kryptonite avails two versions of the Kryptoloks, the first being the “series 2” and the newer version known as the ‘New-U”.

The two differ in that while the “series 2” features a 13mm shackle made from Kryptonite's ‘max performance steel” the ‘new-U’ has a 12.7mm shackle made from a ‘lower performance’ steel.

Furthermore, the “series 2” shackle only locks into the crossbar on one side while the “new-U” locks on both sides.

In essence, the two locks are highly secure but having a thicker shackle made from ‘stronger’ steel, the “series 2” is better prepared to fight against cutting attacks while the “new-U” is more resistant to twisting attacks.                                                                           

The ‘Series 2’ is accompanied by a double loop cable to further secure the bike’s components such as the front wheel and/or other accessories.

Its 13mm shackle is truly a hard bargain for opportunistic thieves as it is kept in place by new double-deadbolts which increase its holding power against attack.

Rather than a combination mechanism, this lock features a center keyway that defends the bike against leverage attacks.

As for the cylinder of the lock, it’s a high-security disc style that is both pick and drill-resistant. And to protect it from the elements that would otherwise weaken its ability to secure bikes, it features a rotating dust cover just for that.

Moreover, the lock comes with a new flex frame u-bracket that really expands the choice of transit locations on the rider’s bike.

Ultimately, we were impressed with how the manufacturers incorporated anti-rattle bumpers in order to minimize noise while the lock is transported on the bike. This just makes this lock hold an edge over its competitors in terms of noise reduction!

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Weight – 3.4 pounds

This product by Winner International is one of the more unique ones. It features a patented design in that it isn’t necessarily a D-lock but it functions somewhat similarly.

To be honest, we always welcome modifications that can better the results of a product and that is exactly what you get from this utility lock. It is essentially a u-lock but it beats the weakness that most u-locks usually have; which is an inability to maneuver and lock at awkward angles.

With a square-like shape, this lock can be angled to lock the bike to the post even in the trickiest positions.

Made of tempered steel, it’s a heavy-duty lock so it’s going to be very hard to wreck it free from the bike. In fact, its manufacturers affirm that it can withstand more than 1500 pounds of pressure so you can trust it protect your little one's bike.

Plus its length can be adjusted from around 13 inches to approximately 20 inches for securing a variety of larger items as you please.

Other impressive features are its hassle-free keyless lock design as well as its vinyl coating which protects it from scratches and scrapes.

Our only complaint about this lock is that it is fairly weather resistant. As such the cylinder area and gets harder and harder to part especially when exposed to rain. However, if well-stored then it’s a highly effective product for the youngest riders.

In addition, it is a bit heavy so carrying it on is a better option rather than pocketing it. Plus its thick frame limits its use in smaller spaces.

Otherwise, if you are in the market for a multi-purpose heavy-duty lock for your kid’s bike then this is just the lock for you.

SPECIFICATIONS- 21- ½ inch overall length

                                  3-inch diameter cuffs

The Master lock street cuffs is one of a kind lock in our review. This bike lock pretty much looks like handcuffs and they function similarly.

This cuff lock is made of hardened laminated steel whose toughness just makes cutting almost impossible in addition to pliable soft-touch bumpers which protect the bike’s finish.

Being made of 9 hardened steel links that accumulate to 21 ½ inches long, it is not only exceptionally secure but also entirely easy to tie to immobile objects such as poles.

The pivoting links allow awkward tying positions as the links can be manipulated for awkward angles.

In addition, the lock leaves little room between the frame and the cuffs which means that a jack or pray bar can’t be positioned to force it open. Plus, with a patented keyway little to no chance of picking and drilling.

One of the most convenient features of this lock is that it features a push-button locking which eliminates the need for a key to lock the cuffs.  However, the biggest advantage to cuff locks is that they fold in half making storage and transportation a breeze.

So what could possibly be wrong with such a well-constructed bike lock? Well, it is unfortunately quite heavy so it’s a better option for older kids. Plus looping it around bigger wheels is also tricky.

Nonetheless, this is a great security measure for kids’ bikes.

4 feet x ½ inch

Diameter - ½ inch (12mm) with vinyl shell

Length - 4 feet (1200mm)

Priding itself in its sturdy construction and ease of use, the Titanker bike cable lock is easily one of our favorites.

This cable lock is strongly constructed with flexible braided steel which makes it highly cut resistant. Aside from the interwoven steel, some it’s most premium components include the solid zinc alloy lock cylinder and lock plug with ABS shell which make the lock more durable and safe.

The PVC coating works to prevent scratching to the cable as well as to the bike.

This lock conveniently coils for easy storage but what we love the most is that it locks and unlocks through a 4-digit combination. We can guarantee that this system is extremely secure as it has over 10000 possible number combinations yet only the right one works so it is very hard to crack.

The rider is free to set their own personalized combination number. Just be sure that they don’t set a repetitive code that any thief would easily guess!

Moreover, the convenience of this cable lock even runs to its release mechanism! It just hooks one end to the other when the cable is not in use then uses an easy release button to unhook it for use.

Plus the lock comes with a complimentary mounting bracket that is significantly bigger than the ordinary mount (the mount attaches to seat or frame posts of one inch in diameter). More importantly, it eases transportation of the bike lock so you don’t have to have it on you.

Lastly, this isn’t just a tool for two-wheelers! On the contrary, the versatility of this lock means that aside from bicycles it can also be used to secure skateboards, scooters, grills and fences! 

Weight – 1.6 pounds

The Revere Vault lock is another one of the more unique locks that made it to our review.

This lock is constructed with a folding mechanism that resembles cuffs and impressively offers high security.

It is constructed with a 3mm thick hardened steel lock that is really hard to cut through so you can expect it to be resistant to saws, bolt cutters and leverage attacks just in time for you to get back from your errands.

It is also vinyl-coated so it won’t scuff your bike

This lock uses a 4 digit combination system that is resettable. The system is pretty straightforward and convenient for the especially for forgetful kids who might have a hard time with keys.

As the name suggests, this lock folds for compact storage and transportation. What’s more, it includes a snap-in mounting bracket to ease use and transportation.

Like we’ve highlighted before, ‘compact, lightweight and strong’ are just the magic three words for a kid’s security lock. And that’s what you get with this lock!

In fact, common to most folding locks the only complaint we established was that it can be a pain to loop it around your wheels. But once it’s in place it fits snugly and does its job.

For such an affordable lock, we were extremely thrilled with its performance.

Weight- 1.48 pounds         

Size- 39’ L x 0.27 ‘D

The Sportneer bike lock has the convenience of a keyless lock mechanism featuring an advanced five-digit resettable combination in place of a key cylinder.

The five-digit combination broadens the available codes makes it much harder to crack than a three-digit or a four-digit combination mechanism. To put it into perspective, while a four-digit code system has around 10000 possible combinations, a five-digit code has around 100,000.

And that’s not all there is to this bike lock; it is constructed with an extra-thick (0.27inch) and extremely strong manganese steel used to make this lock is highly secure and resistant to cuts. With a protective zinc-coating to shield from scratches, solid zinc alloy cylinder and a strong lock plug constructed with ABS shell; the supremacy of this lock speaks for itself.

The 3.2 feet long chain further weighs 1.5 pounds which is just convenient for hassle-free transportation. The length allows it to maneuver around the bike components intended to be secured with ease.

Its flexibility also makes it ideal for use with ladders, gates, and fences.  

Lastly, you can be sure of its durability as it comes with a protective cloth sleeve that extends its life span by protecting it from being damaged by either water or dust.

What we loved the most about this lock is that it features a five-digit combination that just ups its ability to secure bikes from unarmed thieves.

Dimensions – 10 x 6 x 1 inches

Overall weight – 295 grams 

Length - 8mm 

There’s a lot to like about the Schwinn cable bike lock.

For starters, this has to be one of the lightest bike locks you can find in the market. It comes just short of a pound in weight, so you can be sure that your child won’t have trouble carrying it around.

This heavy-duty 8mm braided self-coiling cable has the perfect length for kids' bikes at 6 feet long.

 One of our most favorite things about this lock is how easily it coils for use and for storage.

Young riders will have no qualms maneuvering the cable to secure their bikes even from awkward lengths and as for storage; being a self-coiling lock that coils tightly compactly comes as a huge bonus!

It really takes the least amount of room for storage!

We were particularly thrilled with how easy and straightforward the operation of this lock is. To lock the cable, one need only snap its ends together but you need the key to unlock it.

And to protect it from the weather, a tough vinyl cover covers the length of the cable. 

That said, the only downside to this lock is that it is not built to withstand a lot of force. The biggest flaw with cable locks is that they are just underprepared for cutting attacks. Any bolt cutter will easily cut through it in a matter of seconds.

But in essence, this cable is designed to protect against opportunistic thieves. This is why this lock is an appropriate candidate for adults looking to use it for quick stops or children who are mostly securing the bike in already safe environments.

Sizes- 18 inch, 30, 60

Weight – 0.3 pounds

Colors - flash green, otto orange, stealth black

The Ottolock cinch is such an interesting lock.

Manufactured using multiple layers of steel and Kevlar bands, the Ottolock cinch is secure and sturdy.  

It comes in three sizes, 18 inches, 30 inches, and 60 inches. The 18 inch secures a single tube to a small post while the largest is able to hold the frame and both wheels of a bike or tie several bikes together to curb theft.

The 18 inch which we tested is an appropriate size for small bikes.

Why will your kid love it? Because this lock really wins at being one of the lightest. Weighing a mere 0.3 pounds, even the youngest rider can carry it on them without feeling overwhelmed.

In addition to being ultra-lightweight, this lock can be coiled to the compactness of 3 inches, which they can easily pocket or carry on their backpacks.

Aside from that, it is easy to lock. With a three-dial combination, they’ll be no need to walk around with a key; all they have to remember the combination. And if any reason calls for a change then they can easily reset the password.

Strong as it is, it is probably a better fit for older kids who are stronger and have better dexterity to deal with the buckles.

And while secure, this is also a more appropriate lock for riders who either only intend to make quick in and out stops in busy areas or those who reside in low-risk areas.

Although it will put up a decent fight against bolt cutters, it will eventually lose out.

Our verdict? While the Ottolock cinch wins at having the most convenient size and weight, this is a lock that would secure your kid’s bike against an opportunistic thief but we wouldn’t trust it against persistent thieves with serious tools.

The good news is that that is exactly what the product is designed for.

Size – 6mm x 55 mm

Weight – 2.08 ounces

Dimensions- 8.86 x 6.69 x 0.79 inches

Like the Ottolock cinch cable lock, the Abus combination lock is another bike cable designed to protect against opportunistic theft.

Made with a 6mm high tensile cable that is protected with a plastic sheath, you can rely on this lock even in poor weather conditions as no water or dirt can permeate it.

Not only is it well-made but it is also appropriately lengthy and the perfect way to fix the bike to a solid standpoint for short-term security.  

So why is this a perfect match for your kid? For one, the combination mechanism helps activate their minds, and two because the lock does what it promises; which is protecting the bike.  

The combination itself is very easy to set and the mechanism of unlocking it is pretty self-explanatory.

Lastly, this lightweight lock is perfect for the youngest riders who would experience difficulty carrying larger locks. It is light enough to be portable yet strong enough to secure against opportunistic theft.

We should however warn that this lock does not work as a replacement for a u-lock and is, therefore, best used as an added layer of security.

We just wouldn’t count on it for longer-term safety but you can be sure that it will definitely resist the underprepared thief.

This is why this is one of the best locks for locking a single post to the frame or as a secondary lock for the wheel to the frame and a perfect tool for highly secure areas.

Dimensions - 26.2 x 1.7 x 1 inches

6 colors-red, grape, indigo, rose, turquoise, white

First things first, if you live in a sketchy neighborhood, this just isn’t the lock for you.

The Knog Party Frank cable lock can accurately be described as ‘lightweight, easy-lock, and compact.’ And to the best of our knowledge, that is exactly the kind of lock you want for your kid. Especially so if you intend to use it for local and short-term use such as locking up their bikes outside school.

This cable lock is made with braided steel with fiber core and is enclosed using industrial grade UV stable silicone. This means that not only is the cable sturdy enough to resist attacks but also highly protective over any unintended markings or scratches to the ride.

We were excited with the really cool color selection that the cable has and we are certain that kids will absolutely love its bright, cheery, and fashionable look.

Other than being highly fashionable, this minimalist lock also banks on convenience. It easily hitches around a post and securely wraps kids’ bikes.

Because it coils, it doesn’t take up much room when stored in packs and it also conveniently wraps around the frame of the bike with no chance of it even scratching and diminishing the finish of the bike.

We love that it comes with three sets of keys so you won’t panic when one inevitably gets lost.

Unfortunately, we had complaints about the keys quickly they became dysfunctional. Either the lock part simply came apart or the keys cracked after some time.

Now listen, a lot of thought went into the construction of this lock so if the keys work then you can count on it to effectively secure kids bikes against opportunistic thieves.

Sure, this isn’t the most secure lock ever but if your bikes are mostly stored indoors then this lock will be a perfect tool for securing them for short errands such as grabbing water from the store or lengthier periods in more secure areas such as in school.

Weight – 0.3 pounds

Dimensions – 21.6 x 0.5 x 0.5 inches

Colors - Black, blue, green, orange, pink

If you are looking for a simple yet sturdy lock to protect your little one’s bike then this cable lock from SANWO perfectly fits the description.

Composed of steel and ABS coating, this lock is both repellent to thieves and resistant to the elements.

The material further makes it protective against scratches to the bike so you can rest assured that your child will use it for several years without incurring damage to the bike.

The cord itself is two feet long so they will be able to lock up the bike with ease regardless of the location.

To secure it, it is designed with a four-digit combination which is convenient as your little one won’t have to keep track of the location of the keys. Plus the code is resettable so not only is the lock easy to use but also easy to maintain.

The advantage to this lock is that it is just about the lightest we have come across. At 4.8 ounces, children can easily carry it around and tie it to their bikes with no significant added weight.

With five fun and vibrant colors to choose from, your kids will definitely love this one!