Folding bike locks are quite a recent addition to the bicycle security world.
They were created to address several issues with more conventional u-locks and bicycle security chains. They are either a much better option for you or they’re not as good. As cryptic (or daft!) as that might sound, I’ll explain all below.
Sometimes you need a lock that is stronger than a basic café stop cable lock but more portable than a D-lock or chain. A folding lock might be for you if you’re looking for a blend of low weight, portability, and robustness that you can rely on for high security and flexibility.
Let’s examine some of the factors that could influence your decision to go for a foldable bike lock over another kind of bike lock.
On the basis of my user testing and the most recent security ratings, I will then make recommendations for the best foldable bike locks for various risk categories.
What is a folding bicycle lock?
Folding bicycle locks are constructed from a network of interconnected steel plates that can be shaped around solid objects to provide a wide range of locking choices. A folding lock can then be folded down into a small package for convenient transportation.
Are folding locks any good?
Folding locks are appealing for more reasons than only the multiple locking choices they provide due to their versatility.
Is folding bike lock secure? Comparatively speaking, this high-security bike lock is surprisingly lightweight. Additionally, it can collapse into a compact package that is quite easy to transport from one place to another, either mounted on your frame or in your rucksack.
One significant disadvantage of a folding lock is that they are typically less secure than comparable U-locks. When compared to U-lock shackles, the bars are narrower. In addition, a slight weak point for folding locks is the rivets where each bar (or plate) joins the next. There are videos around showing torsion attacks on these joints, which, when subjected to enough force, can snap.
That said, a folding lock is a reliable lock for high-risk environments. It simply isn’t as secure as some of the other U-locks with Gold or Diamond ratings.
What are the Pros and Cons of a folding lock?
Advantages
- Very portable
- Easy to quickly secure to a range of items and supports
- Lighter than most chains
- Less bulk than a D-lock
- Can lock frame and both wheels with one lock
- Available with a Sold Secure Gold rating
The best folding bike locks have a clever mounting technique that makes it simple to transport and connect your folding lock while cycling, using a Velcro-adjustable strap.
You can lock your bike to just about anything using folding bike locks. It’s conceivable that from time to time you’ll come across a good solid object that is too big to lock your bike to if you’re using a D-lock to secure it, merely because the thick metal shackle is simply too small but with a folding lock you can great creative!
Disadvantages
- Limited choice
- Usually more expensive than an equivalent D-lock
- Not as good at withstanding torsion and grinder attacks as a D-lock
Depending on how crowded the bike rack is, locking or unlocking your bike may take a little longer even though folding bike locks are more convenient than u-locks and chains.
Additionally, because of the complexity of their construction, they may not perform as well after repelling a powerful onslaught. Broken rivets or bent plates won’t prevent the lock from securing your bicycle, but they could prevent it from folding up correctly.
Most importantly, folding bike locks typically have security ratings that are lower than similarly-priced D-locks.
Does this imply that folding bike locks should be avoided? Definitely not, no! As always, all you need to do is be conscious of your level of risk and select the level of security for your folding bike lock accordingly.
Prefer a combination folding lock?
Do you prefer using combinations to carrying around keys?
The Bordo from German security experts Abus might be the best option for you in that case. For all those key-haters, the Bordo chain lock combo includes a resettable four-digit combination lock.
It isn’t as small as some others on the market at approximately W 75mm H 35mm and L 250mm, but it does provide a wider area of coverage. On Abus’ 15-point system, the 5mm steel bars give it a security level 9 grade. To avoid scratching your bike frame, it has soft-touch protective coating on each of the levers.
The Abus Bordo is made to attach to your seat post using a neoprene case with Velcro straps that can be adjusted. at 1.3kg, it’s also one of the heaviest options available.
It’s worth saying that a like-for-like keyed lock is usually more secure than a combination lock but if you’re the sort of person who’s always forgetting where they left their keys, a combination is an ideal choice.
Is Abus better than Kryptonite?
How much should you spend on a bike lock?
What is the hardest lock to cut?
Will bolt cutters cut through a bike lock?
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Are Abus locks made in China?
Is ABUS a good lock?
How good are Kryptonite locks?
What is the best lock for a folding bike?
How do you lock a folding cycle?
Is there a bike lock that Cannot be cut?
How do you use a kryptonite folding lock?
How do you lock a bike with nothing to lock it?
What is the hardest bike lock to break?
How much should I spend on a bike lock?
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Sources
Thanks to the following websites who helped us to research and write this bike folding locks guide: