How to Lock Your Bicycle: Where and What to Lock It To
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Locking your bicycle well starts before the lock comes out. Where you park, and what you lock to, matter as much as the lock itself. This guide covers choosing the spot. For the locking technique itself, see our guide on how to properly lock a bike.
Table of Contents
Choose a Busy, Well-Lit Spot
Thieves prefer places where they can work without being seen. Park where there’s foot traffic, lighting and, ideally, a security camera. A bike rack in front of a busy shop is better than a quiet side alley, even if the alley is closer.
Pick a Solid Object
Before you lock, check that the object can’t be cut, lifted or unbolted.
- Good: Fixed bike racks, thick metal poles set in concrete, sturdy railings welded in place.
- Avoid: Small trees, wooden fences, chain-link fences, and short signposts where the bike can be lifted over the top.
- Check the bolts: Some racks are bolted down with bolts that can be removed. Give it a tug and look at how it’s fixed.
Don’t Lock to Things You Shouldn’t
Many cities don’t allow bikes locked to railings, fire hydrants or some signposts, and may remove them. Use official bike racks where possible, and follow local signs.
Avoid Leaving It Overnight
Most thefts happen when a bike is left in the same place for hours. If you must leave it overnight, use two locks and pick the most visible spot you can. Better still, bring it inside.
Locking at Home
Bikes are often stolen from garages, sheds and apartment bike rooms. Lock your bike to something fixed even indoors. A heavy chain is a good fit here because you don’t need to carry it.
- The ultimate chain lock for high theft areas
- 14 Millimetre six-sided hexagonal chain links made of triple heat-treated boron manganese for the ultimate strength in a chain
- Narrow inner width of individual links defends against leverage attacks
- Includes maximum security New York disc lock with 15 mm ovalised hardened steel shackle
- Hardened steel sleeve over crossbar for double security. Product weight: 15.25 pounds
The Kryptonite New York Fahgettaboudit 1410 chain (about $145) is a heavy-duty option for a garage or shed.
Use the Right Lock
A cable alone isn’t enough anywhere. A hardened U-lock is the best everyday choice, and cycling reference Sheldon Brown’s lock guide explains why a U-lock around the rear wheel inside the frame triangle secures both. See our best bike locks list for options at every price.
Record Your Bike’s Details
Write down your frame’s serial number (usually under the bottom bracket) and take photos. If your bike is stolen, this helps police and makes it easier to prove ownership if it’s recovered.
FAQ
Where is the safest place to lock a bike?
A busy, well-lit, official bike rack fixed into the ground, ideally within view of a camera or a staffed building.
Can I lock my bike to a tree?
It’s best not to. Small trees can be cut, and locking to trees can damage them and may break local rules.
Is it safe to lock a bike outside overnight?
It’s riskier than daytime locking. Use two locks, choose a visible spot, or bring the bike inside if you can.
