Bicycle & Motorcycle Locks

About Bicycle & Motorcycle Locks

Protecting your bicycle or motorcycle from theft is essential, whether you're a daily commuter, a professional courier, or a cycling enthusiast. Our comprehensive range of bicycle and motorcycle locks offers varying levels of security to suit different environments and risk levels. From lightweight cable locks ideal for quick stops in low-risk areas to heavy-duty U-locks and armoured cable systems designed to withstand determined theft attempts, we stock security solutions from trusted brands including Master Lock, Abus, and Draper.

Modern bicycle and motorcycle locks utilise advanced materials and locking mechanisms to provide maximum security whilst remaining practical for everyday use. Whether you need a compact combination lock for securing your bike at work, a robust keyed cable lock for overnight storage, or a professional-grade chain and padlock system for high-value motorcycles, the right lock can be the difference between peace of mind and a costly loss. Many of our locks feature weather-resistant coatings and anti-corrosion treatments, essential for the UK's varied climate conditions.

When selecting a lock, it's important to consider not just the security rating but also portability, ease of use, and how you'll carry the lock during your journey. Our range includes self-coiling designs that mount directly to your frame, flexible cable locks that can secure multiple items simultaneously, and rigid shackle locks that offer superior cut resistance. Many models are sold secure rated, giving you confidence that your investment in security meets recognised industry standards.

Jargon Buster

• U-Lock (D-Lock): A rigid lock shaped like a 'U' or 'D', offering excellent resistance to leverage attacks and bolt cutters. The hardened steel construction makes these among the most secure portable lock types available.
• Cable Lock: A flexible steel cable covered in protective coating, offering versatility for securing wheels and frames together or to fixed objects. Available in braided or coiled designs with various diameter options affecting security level.
• Sold Secure Rating: An independent UK testing standard that rates locks as Bronze, Silver, Gold, or Diamond based on their resistance to various attack methods. Higher ratings indicate greater security and are often required by insurance policies.
• Shackle: The curved or straight bar portion of a lock that secures around the bike and fixed object. Shackle diameter and material composition directly affect the lock's resistance to cutting tools.
• Weather Resistant Coating: Protective PVC or rubber covering that prevents scratching of paintwork whilst protecting the lock mechanism from moisture and corrosion in outdoor conditions.
• Keyed Alike: Multiple locks that operate with the same key, allowing you to carry one key for several locks – particularly useful for securing both wheels and frame or multiple bicycles.

Who Uses Bicycle & Motorcycle Locks?

• Daily cycle commuters travelling to offices, factories, and job sites
• Professional couriers and delivery riders requiring frequent lock and unlock access
• Motorcycle owners and scooter riders securing vehicles in public spaces
• Cycle-to-work scheme participants needing insurance-approved security
• University students and college attendees securing bikes on campus
• Tradespeople using bicycles or motorcycles for site-to-site transport
• Mountain bikers and road cyclists stopping at cafés and rest points
• Fleet managers responsible for company bicycle and motorcycle schemes
• Leisure cyclists and families securing bikes during shopping trips
• Facility managers maintaining security in bike storage areas

How to Choose the Right Bicycle & Motorcycle Locks

Selecting the appropriate lock depends on several key factors, starting with the value of what you're protecting and the risk level of where you'll be leaving it. High-value bicycles and motorcycles parked in urban areas overnight require maximum security U-locks or heavy-duty chains, whilst a quick stop at a rural location might only need a basic cable lock as a deterrent.

Consider the lock's security rating carefully – many insurance policies specify minimum Sold Secure ratings for coverage to be valid. Gold-rated locks offer substantial protection for most urban environments, whilst Bronze ratings suit lower-risk scenarios. Check your insurance policy requirements before purchasing to ensure compliance.

Portability matters significantly for daily use. Heavier locks provide better security but can be cumbersome to carry. Look for mounting brackets that attach to your frame, or consider self-coiling designs that remain compact during transport. Cable locks offer excellent flexibility for securing multiple components or unusual frame geometries but generally provide less security than rigid U-locks.

Lock mechanism choice – combination or keyed – affects convenience and security. Combination locks eliminate the worry of lost keys and can be easily reset if codes are compromised. Keyed locks often provide higher security ratings, and keyed-alike options allow one key to operate multiple locks. Weather-resistant coatings are essential in the UK climate to prevent mechanism freezing and maintain smooth operation throughout winter months.

Finally, ensure the lock's dimensions suit your intended use. U-locks with insufficient shackle clearance won't fit around lampposts with your frame, whilst excessively long cables can be difficult to tension properly, leaving slack that thieves can exploit.

Popular Accessories

• Lock mounting brackets and frame holders for convenient transport
• Secondary cable locks for securing wheels whilst the main lock secures the frame
• Ground anchors for home garage and shed installation
• Security marking kits and registration schemes for theft recovery
• Bicycle covers for outdoor storage protection
• Padlock covers to prevent lock mechanism freezing in winter
• Reflective lock reminders to prevent riding away with locks still attached
• Motorcycle disc locks with alarm functions
• Cable extensions for securing multiple bikes simultaneously
• Portable angle grinder alarms for high-security installations

Frequently Asked Questions

What security rating do I need for my bicycle lock?

This depends on your bicycle's value and where you'll lock it. For bikes worth over £500 in urban areas, aim for Sold Secure Gold rating minimum. Most insurance policies specify required ratings, so check your policy documents. Bronze ratings suffice for low-value bikes in supervised areas, whilst Silver offers mid-range protection for suburban parking.

Can cable locks be cut easily?

Standard thin cable locks can be cut with bolt cutters relatively quickly, making them suitable only as deterrents in low-risk situations or as secondary locks. Armoured and braided steel cable locks with larger diameters offer significantly better resistance. For maximum security in high-risk areas, combine a cable lock with a U-lock to secure both wheels and frame.

Are combination locks as secure as keyed locks?

Quality combination locks can match keyed lock security, though the highest-rated locks tend to be keyed. Combination locks offer the advantage of no keys to lose and can be reset if codes are compromised. Choose combination locks with at least four digits for better security, and avoid setting obvious combinations like 0000 or 1234.

How do I prevent my lock freezing in winter?

Apply a small amount of graphite powder or specialist lock lubricant to the mechanism before winter. Avoid WD-40 as it can attract dirt and gum up mechanisms. Lock covers provide additional protection from moisture. If frozen, use hand warmth or de-icer spray – never force the key or pour boiling water on the lock as this can damage internal components.

Should I lock my bike through the frame or wheel?

Always lock through the frame to a secure fixed object. Wheels can be quickly removed, leaving thieves with the rest of your bike. Ideally, use a U-lock through the frame and rear wheel, then a cable lock through the front wheel. Lock to immovable objects like Sheffield stands, lampposts, or dedicated cycle parking facilities, avoiding railings or posts that can be lifted over.