The Best Cycle Locks

Kryptonite New York Fahgettaboudit U-Lock

• This compact, U-shaped steel lock is considered to be a great lock to protect against bike theft in high-crime areas. Its small size makes this lock great for bikes with a thinner, less bulky frame, and gives a potential bike thief barely any room to work on cracking the lock. The lock uses a key entry system. As of 2011, it carries a suggested retail price of $75. The lock also comes with a $4,500 anti-theft warranty.

OnGuard Brute STD 5001

• If your bike has a bigger frame, such as a mountain or bmx bike, then this lock may be up your alley. Online critics claim this 16 mm thick, steel, U-shaped lock is unable to be sawed through or broken into by a hammer. The lock requires a key for entry. Great for high-crime areas, anyone who purchases the OnGuard Brute STD 5001 lock is able to feel a sense of security while leaving their bike out at work or overnight at home. This lock carries a suggested retail price of $40, as of 2011. The lock comes with a $5,000 one-year theft-protection plan.

OnGuard Beast Chain Lock

• Bolt cutters are no match for this 10-pound chain lock made by OnGuard. Each steel link is 12 mm thick and is held together by a two-piece, key-entry padlock. While the lock may cause some stowing concerns for cyclists, it is a great choice for an overnight lock if you need to keep your bike outside of your home. The lock comes with a one year, $3,501 guarantee. As of 2011, the Beast carries a suggested price tag of $90.

Kryptonite New York Chain Lock with EV Disc

• A rival to the OnGuard Beast, this three-foot long chain lock manages to weigh in at over six pounds. Although somewhat heavy, this lock gives cyclists the flexibility to chain their bike to larger posts. The lock requires a key entry and uses a U-shaped locking mechanism which is tough as nails. The lock carries an $80 price tag, as of 2011, and comes with a $3000, one-year warranty.