How to Use a Bike Lock Cable: 3 Ways to Lock Up With a Cable
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A bike lock cable is a flexible braided steel wire. It’s light and long, which makes it great for securing wheels and accessories. But cables can be cut quickly with hand tools, so the best way to use one is alongside a stronger main lock. Cycling reference Sheldon Brown’s lock strategy guide makes the same point.
Table of Contents
Two Types of Bike Lock Cable
- Looped-end cables: A cable with a loop at each end and no lock of its own. You thread it through your wheel and clip both loops onto a U-lock or padlock.
- Self-locking cables: A cable with a built-in key or combination lock.
- DURABLE DESIGN: This Anti-Theft cable lock is made from 12mm braided steel cable for greater cut resistance. Protective vinyl coating helps prevent scratching and wear and tear on your bike
- MULTI-FUNCTIONAL: This 6ft long cable lock is ideal to secure your bicycles, sports equipment, gates and fences, tool boxes & ladders, grills & lawnmowers, skateboards, truck bed and more
- SPECIFICATIONS: Bike lock cable is 6 ft. (1.8 m) long and 15/32 in. (12 mm) wide in diameter. This security cable lock comes with two keys
- LIFETIME WARRANTY AND CUSTOMER SERVICE: Kryptonite is committed to providing our customers with high quality products, ensuring full satisfaction. If you are experiencing any problems with your product, please reach out to our Customer Experience team. We will work to solve your issue as quickly as possible. We provide our locks with a limited lifetime warranty so you can buy your lock with confidence.
The Kryptonite Parkview 6-foot cable (about $11) is a typical self-locking cable.
Method 1: Cable Plus U-Lock (Best)
- Lock your frame and rear wheel to the rack with your U-lock. See how to properly lock a bike for placement.
- Thread one end of the cable through the front wheel spokes and around the rim.
- Pull the cable through its own loop, or bring both loops together.
- Open the U-lock, slide the cable loop(s) onto the shackle, and close it again.
Now the U-lock protects the frame and rear wheel, and the cable protects the front wheel.
Method 2: Self-Locking Cable for Wheels and Seat
- Run the cable through the front wheel, then through the frame.
- If you have a quick-release seat, thread the cable through the saddle rails too.
- Insert the cable end into the lock head and lock it.
- Use your main lock separately on the frame.
Method 3: Cable Alone (Low-Risk Only)
If a cable is all you have, use it only for very short stops in low-risk places:
- Wrap the cable around a solid rack.
- Pass it through the frame and a wheel.
- Pull out the slack so the cable isn’t lying on the ground.
- Lock it and tug to check.
Don’t leave a bike locked only with a cable for long periods or overnight.
Combination Cable Tips
- Set a code you’ll remember, following the maker’s reset steps.
- Scramble the dials after locking.
- Kryptonite’s support center has reset steps for its resettable combination locks.
Pick a Cable That Fits
| Cable length | Best use |
|---|---|
| 3 to 4 ft | Front wheel, paired with a U-lock |
| 6 to 7 ft | Both wheels, or wrapping around larger objects |
- VERSATILE BIKE LOCK: Master Lock 8143D cable bike lock helps secure bicycles, e-bikes, scooters, strollers, grills, kayaks, outdoor gear and more; Ideal for everyday bike security and basic theft deterrence
- PRESET COMBINATION LOCK: Bicycle lock features a preset four-digit combination for keyless convenience; Combination bike lock provides quick, easy security without carrying keys
- BRAIDED STEEL CABLE: Bike cable lock is made with braided steel for strength and flexibility; Protective vinyl coating helps prevent scratches on bikes, scooters and gear
- COMPACT SECURITY CABLE: Bike lock cable measures 4 ft. (1.2 m) long with a 5/16 in. (8 mm) diameter, offering flexible reach for locking bicycles, scooters and outdoor equipment to fixed objects
- OUTDOOR CABLE LOCK: Durable anti-theft bike lock is designed for everyday outdoor use; Portable cable lock is a convenient security solution for bikes, electric scooters, recreational gear and outdoor equipment
For a stronger main lock, see our best bike locks guide or the Master Lock U-lock review for budget options.
FAQ
Is a cable bike lock safe?
Not on its own for long stops. Cables can be cut quickly, so use one with a U-lock or chain.
How do you use a looped bike cable?
Thread it through the front wheel and clip both looped ends onto your U-lock’s shackle before you close it.
How long should a bike lock cable be?
About 4 feet is enough for the front wheel. Choose 6 to 7 feet if you want to secure both wheels or wrap around wider objects.
