A new year means a new round of tests, and for the last 3 months I’ve been using nine locks to secure my bike in the street and then attacking them with angle grinders to determine which is the best angle grinder-proof lock in 2026!
I’ve written a separate post on my upgraded testing methodology, so this page can concentrate on helping you choose the best overall lock for your circumstances.
But to summarize here, each lock is now tested to destruction in various different ways:
- Halfway up the shackle (where most thieves are likely to attack)
- Where the shackle meets the crossbar (a weak point on most locks)
- Across the crossbar
- With a selection of different diamond discs
- One-handed with a battery-powered grinder minus guard (to replicate real-life street theft conditions)
I have now tested each of these locks multiple times.
Hiplok D1000, Kryptonite New York Diamond, OnGuard RockSolid, Litelok X1, Litelok X3, Hiplok DX1000, SkunkLock Carbon, Abus Granit Super Extreme 2500, Squire Stronghold D16 MAX
For example, so far I’ve destroyed 6 different Kryptonite New York Diamonds and 5 different Abus Granit Super Extreme 2500s!
Mostly because these two locks performed so badly in the original 2025 tests, and I need to be sure they’ve fixed the issues.
But I’ve also tested all the other locks 2 or 3 times each as well.
And there seems to be a lot of inconsistency in the angle grinder resistance of many of the locks. So the more versions of each lock I test, the better idea we have of how secure they really are!
It’s obviously vital to know which locks are the most secure (and which have serious flaws), but it’s also important to think about usability: how easy they are to carry around and secure your bike with every day.
Testing frame mounts: Kryptonite, Abus, Litelok and Hiplok
So I’ve also been testing that: using each lock for a few weeks to see how they fare with daily use.
Finally, I have created a rating for each lock based on their overall security level, their usability, build quality, and their price.
You can see the results in the table below. Underneath that is a table with the raw data: the exact times and number of discs that were required to defeat each lock in each specific way!
And then after the tables, I provide a summary of each lock with a detailed explanation of how I rated each lock and a summary of their advantages and disadvantages.
Angle Grinder Proof Bike Lock Ratings
| Model | Security | Practicality | Build Quality | Value ($) | Overall | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 |
Litelok X3 | 4.5 | 4.5 | 4.5 | 3.0 | 4.13 |
 |
Litelok X1 | 3.5 | 4.5 | 4.5 | 4.5 | 4.25 |
 |
Hiplok D1000 | 4.0 | 4.5 | 4.5 | 3.7 | 4.18 |
 |
Hiplok DX1000 | 4.0 | 4.5 | 4.5 | 3.5 | 4.13 |
 |
SkunkLock Carbon |
3.0 | 3.0 | 3.0 | 4.5 | 3.38 |
 |
Abus Super Extreme 2500 | 4.5 | 4.3 | 4.0 | 4.0 | 4.20 |
 |
OnGuard RockSolid |
3.5 | 4.0 | 3.5 | 4.5 | 3.88 |
 |
Squire Stronghold D16 MAX |
3.0 | 3.0 | 3.0 | 3.0 | 3.00 |
 |
Kryptonite New York Diamond |
4.5 | 4.2 | 3.5 | 4.0 | 4.05 |
How I calculate the ratings
- Security: The "street style attack" data, “shackle top” data, and “gap after 1 cut” measurement contribute most to this score (see table below).
- Practicality: The frame mount options contribute most to this score.
- Build Quality: Quality and consistency contribute most to this score.
- Value: The prices in USD at the time of writing determine this score.
- Overall: This is a simple mean average of the other scores
See the individual lock summaries below for the details on why each lock got its specific score.
Prices
The prices of the locks contribute massively to the overall rating. But the prices tend to vary a lot, depending on where and when you’re shopping. So I think it’s important that I provide the prices that I based my value ratings on:
- Litelok X1: $260 / £170
- Abus Super Extreme 2500: $330 / £235
- Hiplok D1000: $330 / £250
- Litelok X3: $430 / £280
- Hiplok DX1000: $380 / £300
- Kryptonite New York Diamond: $350 / £234
- OnGuard RockSolid: $264 / £160
- SkunkLock Carbon: $180 / £174
- Squire Stronghold D16 MAX: £350
I recommend checking the current prices by clicking on the name of the locks and comparing them to the prices I used. Big differences would justify new value ratings and overall scores.
I based my value rating on the USD price. And it’s important to note that the Liteloks are much more expensive in the US than the UK.
If I were to base my value rating on the UK price, then the Litelok X3 would get a 3.5 which would give it an overall score of 4.25.
All the other locks (including the Litelok X1) would get the same rating and overall score as they have now, I think.
Destruction Data
| Model | Street style attack | Shackle top | Shackle base | Crossbar | Diamond disc | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Litelok X3 | 48:16 min (20 discs) 3 batteries |
03:25 min (3 discs) |
01:42 min (4 discs) |
09:27 min (5 discs) |
03:57 min (1 disc) |
|
Litelok X1 | 24:00 min (3 discs) 2 batteries |
01:10 min (1 disc) |
00:51 min (2 discs) |
08:45 (3 discs) |
02:19 min (1 disc) |
|
Hiplok D1000 | 05:55 min (6 discs) |
02:50 min (3 discs) |
00:40 min (2 discs) |
07:32 min (3 discs) |
05:56 min (1 disc) |
|
Hiplok DX1000 | 05:55 min (6 discs) |
02:50 min (3 discs) |
00:40 min (2 discs) |
07:32 min (3 discs) |
05:56 min (1 disc) |
|
SkunkLock Carbon |
02:52 min (1 disc) |
02:39 min (14 discs) |
01:16 min (3 discs) |
01:47 (2 discs) |
00:45 min (1 disc) |
|
Abus Super Extreme 2500 | 12:14 min (7 discs) 2 batteries |
02:10 min (5 discs) |
02:45 min (2 discs) |
08:21 min (2 discs) |
06:02 min (1 disc) |
|
OnGuard RockSolid |
10:46 min (5 discs) |
01:00 min (5 discs) |
00:41 min (4 discs) |
06:58 (5 discs) |
05:03 min (1 disc) |
|
Squire Stronghold D16 MAX |
01:22 min (3 discs) |
00:55 min (2 discs) |
05:22 min (2 discs) |
01:46 min (1 disc) |
|
|
Kryptonite New York Diamond |
12:25 min (11 discs) 2 batteries |
03:11 min (13 discs) |
05:05 min (3 discs) |
22:04 min (? discs) |
06:04 min (1 disc) |
Gap after 1 cut measurement
There's no space in the above table for this metric, but the gap you are able to pry open after the shakle has been cut once is really important. If it's big enough, a thief may be able to slip the lock off your bike without cutting the other side. Here's the data from my tests:
- 0 cm: Litelok X1, Litelok X3, Hiplok D1000, Hiplok DX1000, Abus Super Extreme 2500
- 0.5 cm: Kryptonite New York Standard
- 1 cm: SkunkLock Carbon
- 3 cm: OnGuard RockSolid, Squire Stronghold D16 MAX
The only ones we need to be concerned about here are the 3 cm gaps on the OnGuard and the Squire locks.
How I calculate the data
- Street style attack: I use a battery-powered grinder without a guard to attack the lock at its weakest point (this is usually the base of the shackle). I hold the lock in one hand and the grinder in the other hand.
- Shackle top: I tape the lock down to immobilize it and use a mains-powered grinder to cut the top or middle of the shackle. Two hands on the grinder.
- Shackle base: I tape the lock down to immobilize it and use a mains-powered grinder to cut the bottom of the shackle where it meets the crossbar. Two hands on the grinder.
- Crossbar: I use a mains-powered grinder without a guard to cut the crossbar across the keyhole. I hold the crossbar in one hand and the grinder in the other hand.
- Diamond disc: I tape the lock down to immobilize it and use a mains-powered grinder with a selection of different types of diamond discs to cut the shackle. Two-handed.
Read more about how and why I test the locks as I do on my methodology page. If you have doubts or questions, feel free to comment below or send me a message.
What’s changed in 2026?
If you’re already familiar with this page and my previous tests, then you might just want to know what’s changed in 2006. So here’s a quick summary:
Which is the most angle grinder-resistant bike lock in 2026?
There are 5 bike locks in competition for the most secure anti-angle grinder bike lock:
- Kryptonite New York Diamond
- Abus Granit Super Extreme 2500
- Litelok X3
- Hiplok D1000
- Hiplok DX1000
Hiplok DX1000, Kryptonite New York Diamond, Abus Granit Super Extreme 2500, Hiplok D1000, Litelok X3
I've seen several other reviews (from testers that I respect) that say that the Kryptonite New York Diamond is head and shoulders above the other locks in terms of angle grinder resistance.
I’m going to respectfully disagree.
Against a conventional attack, which targets the middle or top of the shackle (which is also the most likely way a thief will try to cut a lock), it’s true: the Kryptonite New York Diamond is far and away the hardest to cut.
It’s also the most difficult to cut with a diamond disc and across the crossbar.
However, if we forget about the fault that I identified in 2025 (and we probably should because I think it’s fixed), the way the New York Diamond is designed still leaves it vulnerable where the shackle meets the crossbar.
And in my latest round of street style theft testing, I was able to cut one side relatively quickly and with just 1.5 discs on a battery-powered angle grinder. Which is much faster than any of the other locks in the above list.
This has nothing to do with inadequate coverage of the anti grinder material.
The scooped out crossbar design on the Kryptonite New York Standard makes it vulnerable
It’s because the scooped-out design of the crossbar shackle holes is inherently vulnerable. The issue might be exacerbated by inconsistent build quality that sometimes leaves big gaps where the shackle meets the crossbar, but I think the vulnerability exists regardless.
Now to be clear: unlike the fault, this is not an easy vulnerability to exploit (for example, it took me nearly 10 minutes and 9 discs to cut the other side of the shackle!). And I don’t think it's a reason to not buy this lock.
But it does bring its overall security down in line with the other locks in the above list (in my opinion).
So which is the most secure?
I’m honestly not 100% sure. And I honestly don't think it matters!
Apart from the fact that a different round of tests may produce quite different results, I think the chances of anyone stealing your bike by cutting any of the above 5 locks with an angle grinder are minuscule.
Obsessing over which one is definitively the most secure is pointless in my opinion.
All 5 locks are so difficult to defeat in a street-style attack with a battery-powered angle grinder that the overwhelming majority of thieves will give up after less than a minute. And even if they don't, their battery is likely to run out before they cut both sides!
All 5 locks are unlikely to be defeated in a street attack.
The two locks that impressed me most in the 2026 tests were the Abus Granit Super Extreme 2500 and the Litelok X3. But this is more because they exceeded my expectations, rather than anything else.
So, if you’re looking for the very highest level of protection, your best bet is to make a choice between the five locks above based on price and practicality.
And that’s something I go into in the next section…
Which anti-angle grinder lock should you choose?
For most people the Litelok X1 is going to provide the best balance between security, price, and practicality.
But that, of course, is dependent on the Litelok X1 being cheaper than the more secure locks on this page (check the Litelok X1 price here).
Litelok X1: the best balance of security, practicality and price for most people
If it’s not, or you are determined to get the very highest level of security, then usually it should be a choice between the top five.
And I would make a decision like this:
Ebikes, Trikes & Other Bulky Bikes
If you have a big bulky bike that is going to be best served by a bigger lock, then I would go for the Abus Granit Super Extreme 25000 or the Hiplok DX1000.
They have the biggest internal locking space, and both have good frame mount options for bigger bikes.
The Abus Super Extreme 2500 and Hiplok DX1000 are the best locks for bulky bikes
The Abus was more secure in my most recent tests, but we don’t know if there are older faulty locks still floating around.
The Hiplok has more frame mount options, and personally, I found the wider Hiplok easier to get around my bike than the longer Abus.
The Hiplok DX1000 is usually more expensive. But prices of the Abus Super Extreme 2500 vary massively, so who knows?
I recommend shopping around for the best value: check the Abus price and check the Hiplok price.
Regular Size & Skinny Bikes
If you have a more regular-sized bike, then I would go for the Hiplok D1000, the Kryptonite New York Diamond, or the Litelok X3.
The Hiplok D1000 is much smaller than the other locks
The Hiplok D1000 is significantly smaller than the other two, so it may only work if you have a skinny, city bike that you only lock to urban bike stands (like a Sheffield stand). Of course being smaller and lighter also makes it easier to carry, especially if you’re more inclined to throw it in a bag than use a frame mount.
For my circumstances, the Hiplok D1000 was a perfect day-to-day lock. Check the Hiplok D1000 price here.
The Hipolok was slightly less secure than the other two in my most recent tests, but as I explain above, I don’t think that should be a major consideration when you’re making a choice.
If you’re in the US, then I would give the Litelok X3 a miss at the moment; it's far too expensive compared to the other locks.
Kryptonite New York Diamond and Litelok X3 are very similar
If you’re not in the US, then the Litelok X3 and Kryptonite New York Diamond are very similar. They are very close in size, weight, and price. And based on my most recent tests, I find it very difficult to say which will provide the most real-world protection; they are both vying for the top spot.
The Litelok definitely has the best frame mount options. Its build quality and overall security level are also much more consistent. But even outside the US, it does tend to be a bit more expensive (plus the frame mounts cost extra).
With the Kryptonite, the frame mount is included in the price (although lots of people don’t like it). Protection against a conventional attack is unrivaled. And prices seem to vary a lot depending on where you are, so there are bargains to be had!
I find it difficult to recommend one over the other; they are both great.
As for the other locks:
The Other Locks
The OnGuard RockSolid could be a good choice if you can get it at a lower price than the Litelok X1. But the build quality and security level seem to be a bit too inconsistent for me to recommend with confidence.
I think the Litelok X1 is a better choice than the SkunkLock Carbon and the OnGuard RockSolid
I would probably avoid the SkunkLock Carbon unless you’re in the US, need that extra size, and are on a tight budget. The build quality isn’t great; it will be too big and bulky for most people, and it’s vulnerable to unconventional attacks.
And finally I would also avoid the Squire Stronghold D16 MAX. It’s far too expensive for the build quality and security level.
1. Kryptonite New York Diamond: The most secure against conventional attack
I’ve had a troubled history with the Kryptonite New York Diamond, and you can read more about that in my full review and in my guide to their faulty locks. For the record, I think the fault is fixed, and there are no more faulty locks in circulation.
Kryptonite New York Diamond Standard
So this summary is based on the non-faulty locks I’ve tested more recently.
In my tests, the Kryptonite New York Diamond was the top performer (by some margin) in every type of attack (shackle, crossbar, diamond disc) except the street-style shack at the bottom of the shackle.
And even there, it was only one side of the shackle that performed badly.
So it’s a very secure lock. Just one with a significant vulnerability in one place.
Advantages of the Kryptonite New York Diamond
Disadvantages of the Kryptonite New York Diamond
How I scored the Kryptonite New York Diamond
- Security (4.5): Best all-round security. But points off for the vulnerability at the base of the shackle.
- Practicality (4.2): Frame mount available. But points off because it's unpopular (not very stable), and there are no alternatives.
- Build quality (3.5): Points off for very inconsistent build quality with gaps of varying sizes where the shackle meets the crossbar, which may contribute to the vulnerability.
- Value (4.0): Competitively priced for such a high-security lock with frame mount included.
Summary of the Kryptonite New York Diamond
This lock has got so much going for it. Overall security is outstanding. A lot of people don’t like the frame mount. But it’s free, and if you install it carefully, I think it’s fine. It’s a nice practical size and weight that should work with most bikes.
The frame mount is a bit flimsy & unpopular but I think it's OK (if installed properly)
And if you shop around, you can usually find it for a very competitive price (check Amazon price here).
But the vulnerability at the base of the shackle is really frustrating. My feeling is that it shouldn’t put you off buying this lock. A thief is highly unlikely to attack the lock at this point. And if they do, the chances of them cutting both sides easily are tiny.
Kryptonite New York Diamond in frame mount
Without the vulnerability, the Kryptonite New York Diamond would be hands down the best option for most people: the most secure, a practical size and weight, includes a free frame mount, and is usually reasonably priced.
With the vulnerability, some people may want to think twice, as there are plenty of locks without that particular weakness.
Read my full Kryptonite New York Diamond review.
2. Abus Granit Super Extreme 2500: The best for bulky bikes?
I’ve had a similarly troubled history with the Abus Super Extreme 2500. It had the same fault at the bottom of the shackle as the Kryptonite, and you can read more about that in my detailed review.
Abus Super Extreme 2500
However, I’ve now tested several locks without the fault.
And it performed exceptionally well in every test in 2026 (shackle, crossbar, diamond disc, street style), usually vying with the Kryptonite and the Litelok X3 for the top spots.
So the following advantages and disadvantages are based on those recent experiences.
Advantages of the Abus Granit Super Extreme 2500
Disadvantages of the Abus Granit Super Extreme 2500
How I scored the Abus Granit Super Extreme 2500
- Security (4.5): Very secure. No obvious weak points.
- Practicality (4.3): Good frame mount available. But points off because there are no alternatives.
- Build quality (4.0): Exceptional build quality. But I knocked a point off because of the faulty 2025 models (how many are still out there)?
- Value (4.0): Competitively priced for such a high-security lock.
Summary of the Abus Granit Super Extreme 2500
The most recent versions of this lock that I’ve tested have been exceptionally secure. However, the fault at the base of the shackle was very serious. And Abus has never really acknowledged it.
What's more, unlike the Kryptonite New York Diamond, where I only ever tested 1 faulty lock, I was buying and testing faulty Abus Super Extreme 2500s throughout last year. So who knows how many are still out there?!
That being said, a non-faulty Abus Super Extreme 2500 is a very nice lock indeed: exceptional all-round security, very impressive build quality, and a really robust frame mount (albeit one that only attaches to your seat stays or luggage rack and costs extra).
The Abus frame mount is robust but bulky & limited in where you can install it
For regular bikes I think it will be too big and heavy. But for ebikes, trikes, and other bulky bicycles that need more internal locking space, this could be a great choice.
As with the Kryptonite, prices vary, so shop around [Amazon] for the best value.
A good, similar alternative to the Abus Granit Super Extreme 2500 is the Hiplok DX1000 (see below).
Read my full Abus Granit Super Extreme 2500 review.
3. Litelok X3: A lock without weak points (apart from the price!)
While the Litelok X3 has never been the top performer in any of the laboratory-style tests, unlike the Abus and the Kryptonite, it has always performed consistently well. There are no weak points on the Litelok X3 for a thief to target.
Litelok X3
And in my 2026 street style test with a battery angle grinder, it was almost impossible to defeat. It took me over 45 minutes to get through both sides, and this included at least 2 battery changes!
I don't know if I had one with a particularly thick coating of anti-angle grinder material, or whether attacking the base of the shackle worked against me (as the crossbar got in the way), or whether my technique was a bit inept!
It could be to do with the way the Liteloks are constructed:
The Liteloks don’t destroy discs like the Kryptonite or the OnGuard; it’s more a case of making them ineffective, so you’re grinding away without making any real progress, and it’s very slow.
If you take a break, it seems to be very difficult to get the disc back in the cut, maybe due to the uneven way the Liteloks seem to cut. I had the same problem with the Litelok X1 (see below).
For whatever reason, the Litelok X3 was by far the most difficult lock to cut in a street-style attack. It’s not as resistant against diamond discs as the Kryptonite or the Abus, but I don’t consider diamond discs much of a threat at the moment.
Advantages of the Litelok X3
Disadvantages of the Litelok X3
How I scored the Litelok X3
- Security (4.5): Very secure. No obvious weak points.
- Practicality (4.5): Several frame mounts and carrying options available.
- Build quality (4.5): Very good, consistent build quality.
- Value (3.0): Points off for being ridiculously expensive in the US.
Summary of the Litelok X3
I was really surprised about how difficult the Litelok X3 was to defeat in my most recent street-style attack.
And since it doesn’t have any particular weaknesses against other forms of attack, this makes it a contender (along with the Abus and Kryptonite) for the most secure anti-angle grinder lock currently available.
Litelok X3 frame mount is probably the best of the lot
The frame mount for the Litelok X3 costs extra but is extremely stable, and you can attach it inside the main triangle of your bike frame (unlike most of the other frame mounts).
Or there is a belt holster that allows you to carry it around on your waist:
Litelok X3 belt holster
Plus the lock is relatively lightweight and a practical size for regular bikes.
However, if you’re in the US, it is now really, really pricey. Far more expensive than any of the other locks on this page. And unlike some of the other locks, the price is pretty stable, so you can’t shop around for bargains.
If you’re in the UK or Europe, it’s a different story: it’s still very competitively priced and a really good choice for those seeking top-end protection.
Read my full Litelok X3 review.
4. Hiplok D1000: Small and mighty!
Before this year's round of testing, I would have said the Hiplok D1000 and the Litelok X3 were roughly the same in terms of security level.
Hiplok D1000
Against a conventional attack, they are equally matched. And while the Hiplok is more resistant against diamond discs, the Litelok is stronger at the base of the shackle.
However, in this year's street style attack, I attacked the locks with the tools thieves use (battery-powered grinder and abrasive discs) at their weakest point. And this was always going to expose the Hiplok more than the Litelok (because it's weaker at the base).
While the Hiplok didn’t perform badly, it simply wasn’t as resistant to a street-style attack as the Litelok. And I was able to defeat it (eventually) without completely draining the battery (unlike the Kryptonite, Abus, and Litelok).
I should reiterate here though: the chance of anyone stealing your bike by cutting through the Hiplok D1000 is tiny, so don’t be put off by it not performing quite as well as the above locks in this particular test.
Instead, look at the particular advantages and disadvantages of this lock:
Advantages of the Hiplok D1000
Disadvantages of the Hiplok D1000
How I scored the Hiplok D1000
- Security (4.0): Very secure. But points off for slightly weaker resistance to street-style attack (no battery change required).
- Practicality (4.5): Several frame mounts and carrying options available.
- Build quality (4.5): Very good, consistent build quality.
- Value (3.7): Points off for high price-to-size ratio.
Summary of the Hiplok D1000
The biggest consideration regarding the Hiplok D1000 is its size. Apart from the OnGuard RockSolid, it’s the smallest of all the anti-angle grinder locks. And this has advantages and disadvantages.
On the plus side, the Hiplok D1000 is relatively compact and lightweight. It’s by far the lightest of the higher-security anti-angle grinder locks. And it takes up far less room. So it will be easier to carry around.
Hiplok D1000: the smallest of the smaller locks
On the negative side, it has the smallest internal locking space too. Which means it will limit where you can lock your bike, or even if you can lock it up at all (at least in the way you want to).
For people with ebikes, trikes, and other bulky bicycles, it’s probably not going to work. Even people with regular bikes might struggle in some circumstances unless they change their locking technique.
For me and my relatively skinny city bike, which is almost exclusively locked to Sheffield stands, it works great. I never wished I had a bigger lock, and I really appreciated the lack of bulk and weight when I was riding around.
Hiplok D1000 holster strapped to my bike
The Hiplok D1000 also has lots of great frame mount options (although you will have to pay extra for them). There are too many to go into here, so I have written a separate post that examines them in detail.
Lots of frame mount options with the Hiplok D1000
Needless to say, you will be able to find something appropriate!
Read my full Hiplok D1000 review.
And if you love the Hiplok D1000 but fear it’s just too small for you, it has a bigger brother…
5. Hiplok DX1000: The best for bulky bikes?
The Hiplok DX1000 is just a bigger version of the D1000 and has exactly the same angle grinder resistance. But the extra size makes it much more suitable for ebikes, trikes, etc., and even some regular bikes.
Advantages of the Hiplok DX1000
Disadvantages of the Hiplok DX1000
How I scored the Hiplok DX1000
- Security (4.0): Very secure. But points off for slightly weaker resistance to street-style attack (no battery change required).
- Practicality (4.5): Several frame mounts and carrying options available.
- Build quality (4.5): Very good, consistent build quality.
- Value (3.5): Points off for being a bit pricey.
Summary of the Hiplok DX1000
To me, the Hiplok DX1000 feels like a direct competitor to the Abus Granit Super Extreme 25000 for the title of the “best lock for bulky bikes”. Because (along with the SkunkLock Carbon), these two locks have the biggest internal locking space.
The Abus and the Hiplok also have the most suitable frame mounting options for ebikes and trikes
The Abus has a very robust frame mount, but you can only really attach it to your luggage rack or your chain stays. And it is very conspicuous.
Hiplok DX1000 mounted to handlebars
You get a few more options with the Hiplok: the BR1000 will attach to your luggage rack or can be used in conjunction with third-party adaptors that attach to your handlebars, seatpost or frame.
Hiplok BR1000 and DX1000 on a pannier rack
The Abus is a bit more secure, according to my tests (although there is always the doubt about whether there are still faulty locks in circulation). But I found the Hiplok a bit easier to use, as the wider shackle went around the bikes I was testing it with a bit easier than the narrower shackle of the Abus.
In the end it may well come down to price. The Hiplok DX1000’s price is quite fixed, and it tends to be one of the most expensive angle grinder bike locks. The Abus Super Extreme's price varies a lot more [Amazon].
6. Litelok X1: My favorite bike lock!
While the previous five locks represent the very highest level of protection from angle grinders, we now come to the locks that are a level below: not quite top tier, but still providing loads more protection than any other high-security bike lock.
Litelok X1
And first up is the Litelok X1, my favorite bike lock and still my top choice for the best bike lock of 2026.
The Litelok X1 is essentially a skinnier version of the X3. The shackle is thinner, the anti grinder covering is probably thinner (it's hard to tell), the crossbar is slightly thinner, and it doesn’t have the Abloy mechanism.
It still provides exceptional protection from angle grinders, though, and it particularly impressed me in my 2026 street style attack, where the battery on my angle grinder ran out long before I could cut both sides.
In my laboratory-style tests it’s clearly not as resistant as the top five locks above, but I always needed at least 2 angle grinder discs to defeat it, which is the crucial threshold.
Plus, it’s a street attack that really matters, and it did more than enough in my tests to thwart any thief that tries to cut it with a grinder.
Advantages of the Litelok X1
Disadvantages of the Litelok X1
How I scored the Litelok X1
- Security (3.5): Exceptional resistance in street-style attack. Points off for much worse performance in lab-style tests.
- Practicality (4.5): Several frame mounts and carrying options available.
- Build quality (4.5): Very good, consistent build quality.
- Value (4.5): Relatively low priced even after the price increase in the US.
Summary of the Litelok X1
While I still think the Litelok X1 provides the best balance of security, practicality, and price for those people that need a high-security bike lock, if you’re in the US, it’s now a very expensive bike lock.
Since it’s made in the UK, this is doubtlessly due to tariffs that are beyond Litelok's control. However, it means we have to consider the alternatives carefully and look at whether there are better deals out there.
And at the time of waiting, I don’t think there are.
It’s still usually lower priced than the locks above, and the other two lower-priced alternatives (the SkunkLock Carbon and the OnGuard RockSolid are either not as good or not as consistent and the same price!).
So for me, the Litelok X1 is still going to be the best choice for most people (especially those in the UK and Europe).
Litelok X1 in frame mount
It’s not too big; not too small; is a reasonable weight; is available with a myriad of frame mounts and other carrying options; has consistent build quality; and provides enough angle resistance to defeat the vast majority of thieves.
Read my full Litelok X1 review.
7. OnGuard RockSolid: An inconsistent choice
The first time I tested the OnGuard RockSolid, I was really impressed. It seemed to dissolve angle grinder discs, very much like the Kryptonite New York Diamond. But it had the benefit of being much cheaper!
OnGuard RockSolid
However, even then there were signs of poor build quality. After one cut I was able to pry open a significant gap in the shackle, which may well have been big enough to remove the lock from a bike.
Worryingly, several other testers then reported build quality issues and inconsistent angle grinder resistance.
And in my 2026 street style attack, it didn’t perform quite as well as in my 2025 tests.
However, I think it remains a very secure lock. It certainly rivals the Litelok X1 in terms of general angle grinder resistance. And actually performed much better against a diamond disc.
It‘s just that big gap after one cut (and other reports of dodgy build quality) that gives me second thoughts.
Advantages of the OnGuard RockSolid
Disadvantages of the OnGuard RockSolid
How I scored the OnGuard RockSolid
- Security (3.5): Very good performance in all tests. But points off for the big gap in the shackle after 1 cut.
- Practicality (4.0): Points off for no frame mount or carrying options.
- Build quality (3.5): Points off for big gap in shackle after 1 cut.
- Value (4.5): Relatively low priced.
Summary of the OnGuard RockSolid
If you can get this for the price that is significantly lower than the Litelok X1, then I think the OnGuard RockSolid is a very good choice. And prices vary a lot, so shop around; there are definitely bargains to be had.
OnGuard Rocksolid dimensions (it's small)
The small size and light weight are going to be perfect for a lot of city bike riders. Many people will be unbothered by the lack of frame mount options.
And that gap after one cut is not so significant when you consider that a thief is highly unlikely to get through the first side!
I do worry a bit about just how inconsistent the build quality and security level can get. But there’s been nothing in my tests that would cause me to recommend that you avoid it if you can find it for a good price (check Amazon)!
Read my full OnGuard RockSolid review.
8. SkunkLock Carbon: The cheapest option!
In my 2025 tests the SkunkLock Carbon performed exceptionally well against a conventional attack halfway up the shackle.
And although it was one of the worst performers against diamond discs, I don’t consider them much of a threat in the street.
SkunkLock Carbon
Unfortunately in the 2026 round of tests I tried some less conventional forms of attack on the Skunkock Carbon, and I was able to cut it very quickly with just one disc on a battery-powered grinder.
Now, to be clear, this was an unconventional attack. Your average thief is not going to think of it. And against a conventional attack, it performed very well again. But I have to knock some points off for this weakness.
Advantages of the SkunkLock Carbon
Disadvantages of the SkunkLock Carbon
How I scored the SkunkLock Carbon
- Security (3.0): Very good resistance to conventional attack. Points off for very poor resistance to unconventional attack, diamond discs, and no Sold Secure rating.
- Practicality (3.0): Extra points off for being a plus-size lock with no frame mount options.
- Build quality (3.0): Points off for lower quality finish (brittle plastic, no keyhole cover).
- Value (4.5): Very affordable, especially in the US.
Summary of the SkunkLock Carbon
The SkunkLock Carbon is the only one of these bike locks whose price has remained stable (and relatively low) throughout the last 12 months (check Amazon).
And if you’re in the US, it’s now the cheapest angle grinder-resistant bike lock by a long way. If you’re in the UK or Europe, with import fees (and other locks being cheaper), then it’s going to be a similar price to the Litelok X1.
It’s also very resistant to a conventional angle grinder attack.
The shackle is a hollow steel tube filled with small pieces of carbon
However, vulnerabilities to unconventional attacks and diamond discs, a relatively weak crossbar, plus a build quality that’s not quite as good as most of the other locks here make me hesitant to recommend it over those other locks.
And it's a shame that such a big bulky lock doesn't have any frame mount options.
That being said, the huge internal locking space makes it great for bulky ebikes and trikes. And if you’re in the US, you have one of those bikes, and you’re on a tight budget, then I think it can be a good choice.
Read my full SkunkLock Carbon review.
9. Squire Stronghold D16 MAX
The Squire Stronghold D16 MAX performed averagely in my tests. But the last time I checked, it was the most expensive angle grinder-resistant bike lock in the UK (check Amazon).
Plus it's not available in the US.
Squire Stronghold D16 MAX
Advantages of the Squire Stronhold D16 MAX
Disadvantages of the Squire Stronhold D16 MAX
How I scored the Squire Stronghold D16 MAX
- Security (3.0): Average resistance to conventional attack. Points off for poor resistance to diamond discs.
- Practicality (3.0): Extra points off for being a plus-size lock with no frame mount options.
- Build quality (3.0): Points off for lower quality finish (brittle plastic, poor fit).
- Value (3.0): Points off for high price-to-security ratio.
Summary of the Squire Stronhold D16 MAX
The Squire Stronghold D16 MAX is not a bad angle grinder resistant bike lock. It does OK against a conventional angle grinder attack, which is probably the most important metric to measure it against.
But I was able to pry open a significant size gap in the shackle (similar to the one in the OnGuard RockSolid) after one cut, which could well be big enough to allow a thief to ease the lock off your bike.
And it performed quite badly against a diamond disc attack.
What’s more, the build quality is pretty poor, with a thin plastic crossbar cover that doesn’t fit properly.
All of this would be acceptable if the Squire Stronghold D16 MAX was one of the cheapest anti angle grinder bike locks. But in fact it’s one of the most expensive. And it’s not even available in the US.
Litelok X3 & Hiplok DX1000: more secure and lower priced
So I can’t think of any reason to recommend this lock over any of the others on this page. Unless you see it at a massive discount!
My Final Recommendation
Don’t obsess too much over which of these bike locks is the most secure. They are all incredibly secure. And a thief is very unlikely to steal your bike by cutting any of them with an angle grinder.
Make sure you also think about practicality: which of these locks best suits the type of bike you ride, how you want to carry your lock, and where you’ll be using it?
And make sure you shop around, as prices vary massively!
WOW! Very impressive. Thanks for doing this. I’m taking delivery soon on a rather expensive new bike and have been wondering how the heck to best protect it against theft in this new world of angle grinders. You’ve given me the solution!
Sounds awesome! ButbI wonder if thieves cutting the bike rack itself will be the next stage of this race
Some thieves have been doing this for a while Stefan: https://bikeportland.org/2015/01/05/thief-saws-pbot-bike-rack-steal-womens-road-bike-130543
Never, I repeat never, underestimate the determination of a dedicated thief. They will risk their lives and limbs to achieve their goal and a badge of honor when they succeed. They simply refuse to admit defeat!!
I cant wait! As for the frame mount… i use a strap attached to the rack… like this: https://www.rowertopojazd.pl/post/jak-przewozi%C4%87-u-locka
I know that the average bike thief uses brawn rather than brain, but seeing “The lock picking Lawyer” on YouTube picking the Kryptonite lock in seconds, makes me wonder if a good insurance policy is needed as well as a good lock?
It really depends on the value of your bike and how risk your circumstances are Pete. Read more about insurance here: https://thebestbikelock.com/best-bicycle-insurance/
Hi Pete it’s Eldwin. A couple of things. You’re right. Bike insurance brings, ‘piece of mind,’ and I too recommend it.
And regarding, ‘The Lockpicking Lawyer,’ he’s very good at picking locks of all types. But let’s think about it?
1). We’re shown mostly his
successes not his failures.
2). His setting. Plenty of light,
He’s likely sitting comfortably
while he’s picking these locks,
at a flat table, sometimes
using a vise.
3). He uses a special tool that
he and ‘Bonsai Bill’ made.
4) It’s like, ‘a walk in the park,’
for him, time wise. No
pressure.
To your point Pete, his lock-
picking skills make one
wonder, “dang! I spent all that
money” for that Abus, or
Oxford, Kryptonite, OnGuard,
or whatever lock, that guy
down at the bike shop said
I needed and would protect
my bike.
The reality is, we love cycling
and we’re gonna continue cycle and, keep our bikes.
Harry Houdini entertained Vaudeville audiences 100+ years ago by picking locks. So everybody gave up on padlocks, right? LOL. Lock-picking skills and lock picking are extraordinarily rare in the real world. Riders just aren’t reporting finding their opened but undamaged lock lying where they left their bike. Police aren’t reporting finding lock-pick tools on arrestees. Le Monde turned the French lock-picking champion loose on bike locks. He praised the lock mechanism on the Hiplok D1000: “Unpickable!” The Litelock X3 has an Abloy lock core that has a nigh-undefeatable reputation. Finally, if this is something you’re really worried about, place the keyway in a minimally accessible position so a would-be lock-picker has to pick the lock upside down, backwards, left-handed or all three.
Good points.
Bought 1 hiplock D1000
Carry it in my back pack . Great lock but not big enough to lock wheel , frame and post .
It’s my primary lock, my bike is all so insured for added peace of mind . Definitely i am overall happy with the D1000
I’m glad to hear it Peter!
Hi Peter it’s Eldwin.
I too have the D1000 from
Hiplok. So far, I think it’s the
perfect lock for bikes and
commuter ebikes. A good
investment. This is
because you can lock some
point, of your
bike frame to a solid
foundation that serves as, a
‘bikerack.’ I found – so far –
that Pinhead locks work well
for both wheels. Of course,
there’s other locking scenarios
one can use that shouldn’t
weight you down too much,
but this is
‘minimalist’ to the highest
degree. If you go with Pinhead
as a ‘secular’ lock setup, be it
your seatpost, bike stem, or
wheels, just make sure to have
the specially designed key,
with you while riding is case
you get a flat or want to make
an adjustment.
Happy riding.
Part of security is awareness where and when you park
Good stuff Mr Ellis. Thanks for your astute observations. It really helps the cycling public immensely! People like you are appreciated.
03/15/2023
How about angle grinder time on Hiplok DX Plus?
An angle grinder would cut through the Hiplok DX Plus in seconds, Adam.
And since the shackle is only 14mm, compared to the Fahgettaboudit 18mm shackle, significantly fewer seconds than the Kryptonite lock.
Carl, thanks for all your reviews on these new, more resistant locks. Question: how do they fare up to freezing in order to make the metal brittle and easy to shatter (perhaps using dry ice or liquid nitrogen?)
Hi Larry,
I haven’t tested then against freezing myself. But Sold Secure use freezing as part of their testing methods.
And the Litelok X1 and X3, and the Hiplok D1000 wouldn’t get a Diamond Motorcycle rating if they were susceptible to a freezing attack.
I hope that helps…
Carl
Hi Carl,
did u get your hands on the ABUS GRANIT Super Extreme 2500 yet? It’s supposed to be angle grinder resistant as well and I’d love to see you comparing it with the others in this category.
Greetings
Maik
Not yet, but I will be on it after Easter Maik!
Think the Super Extreme 2500 must just about be on the market now. Bennetts got one to test anyway.
https://www.bennetts.co.uk/bikesocial/reviews/products/security/motorcycle-chains-and-locks/abus-granit-super-extreme-2500-lock-review
Yep, I’ve got one too. Full test and review is upcoming…
Ah great stuff!
Skunklock getting into the angle grinder-resistant market now. Once the OnGuard Rock Solid gets to market, Kryptonite will really look conspicuous by its absence, I think.
https://www.bennetts.co.uk/bikesocial/reviews/products/security/motorcycle-chains-and-locks/skunklock-carbon-review
Your review of these relatively new angle grinder resistant ulocks is exceptional!
My Mrs lost the key to her Kryptonite mini 5 a few weeks ago and we couldn’t find the spare. I borrowed a neighbour’s battery angle grinder and used mole grips to keep it steady. It took me under 30 seconds to cut, lots of sparks and smoke. Nobody approached me.
I’m hopeful that the new ceramic technology will filter down to cheaper, lighter locks. I use Masterlock Street Cuffs and nobody has touched my bike for 15 years, but it’s a 30 year old bike and badly scratched. If I leave it outside a station I pop an extra d lock on for good measure.
All the best
Sean
I’d really like a smallish lock that was about 3 pounds and as resistant as the X1.
Me too! The OnGuard RockSolid is the closest, but I haven’t tested it yet as it’s still quite hard to get over here.
It’s frustrating that OnGuard has promoted it since July, even just a few weeks ago on their instagram, and yet it’s out of stock everywhere.
Yep, I agree!
Anything new coming up this or next year? Something like X1 but cheaper would be nice
I suppose we are all waiting for a Kryptonite lock. There will be more appearing for sure in 2025.
I’m not sure if we’ll get significantly cheaper than the X1 though. I’d imagine they are more likely to me similarly priced at best.
When you think about the price of locks like the Abus Granit X Plus 540, the X1 doesn’t seem that expensive (it only costs slightly more)…
Thanks for such a thorough review, the best one for sure.
I’m wondering how these would stand up to a hydraulic bolt cutter, you know like the ones on Amazon for $50-100 — e.g. https://a.co/d/12Gkt3o — that will cut up to 7/8″ steel bar. I do see the occasional U-lock in my city that have been clipped by these, for a thief they’re also good because they’re quiet.
I just suggest it because these angle-grinder locks seem to focus on ceramic coatings and other materials and designs that wear out grinder blades, but that’s not adding real strength, so are they just fighting the last war when thieves have other tools? And I figure, you do have a bunch of cut bike locks lying around already you could take a pass on. 😀
I found one YouTube video where a Kryptonite NYC lock causes the cutting blade on a set of bolt cutters to shatter, but just the one video, and these cutters come in a *wide* range of crappy to good. So, it doesn’t really answer the question but only adds to the mystery.
That new OnGuard Rock Solid looks really good (lighter and more portable than the other options) but would the 15mm shackle hold up? I’d guess that the “carbon” lock could just snip through really easily (or lose out to a jack or other leverage attack).
Good question Joel!
I think those cheaper hydraulic bolt cutters would struggle against the 16mm plus shackles here (as they do in the videos against the NY Fahgettaboudit and the OnGuard Brute).
But they might do OK against the 15mm shackle on the OnGuard RockSolid.
And I’m not sure about the Hiplok’s graphene ceramic composite Ferosafe. I highly doubt they would snip through them very easily, though.
Only one way to find out: I will get hold of a cheaper hydraulic bolt cutter and start testing (most thieves are unlikely to be using a tool that costs several hundred dollars)
Cool! Well, if you do post about it I’ll definitely be interested. I think you’re probably right, the cut locks I’ve seen on the ground that look like they’ve been cut with bolt cutters have all been older/low-end ones, like half-inch shackles.
I’m guessing the blades on the low-end ones aren’t easily replaceable so if you do it you might want to start on padlocks or something and work your way up. I mean, I hope the bike locks stand up but it would also suck to ruin a tool!
Wirecutter mention that the Rock Solid shackle can be cut by a hydraulic cutter.
So that maybe answers two questions: about vulnerability to hydraulic cutters, and maybe why the Rock Solid doesn’t make it to Powered Cycle Diamond standard.
—
https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/reviews/best-bike-lock/
“This lock stood up to regular angle-grinder blades well, but we were able to cut through the shackle with a hydraulic cutter. (The jaw of the cutter broke on the Hiplok D1000.)
Mmm possibly. But I don’t think Sold Secure use hydraulic cutters as part of their testing. I think it’s much more likely that OnGuard just didn’t submit it for testing in the Powered Cycle category.
What Gemini says –
To defeat a Litelok X1 with a hydraulic bolt cutter, you would need a heavy-duty, professional-grade hydraulic bolt cutter specifically designed for cutting hardened steel, rebar, or high-security chains.
Here’s a breakdown of what that entails and why the Litelok X1 is so resistant:
1. The Litelok X1’s Strength Against Shearing:
Barronium® and Hardened Steel Core: The Litelok X1 is built with a hardened fine-grain high-tensile steel core that is permanently fused with Barronium®, a patent-pending composite material.2. What Hydraulic Bolt Cutters Are (and their limitations):
How they work: Hydraulic bolt cutters use hydraulic pressure to amplify the force applied to the cutting jaws, allowing them to cut through materials that manual bolt cutters cannot.
Cutting Capacity: High-end hydraulic bolt cutters can deliver cutting forces of up to 11-19 tonnes and are capable of cutting through high-strength metals like rebar (steel reinforcement bars) and heavy padlocks/chains with diameters typically up to 16mm (5/8 inch), and sometimes even larger for specialized models.
Shape Matters: The jaws of a hydraulic bolt cutter are designed for cutting round or square stock. The shackle of a U-lock, while thick, is typically a curved or rectangular profile. The Litelok X1 has a shackle dimension of 21mm x 24mm (or 0.83 x 0.94 inches).
3. The Type of Hydraulic Bolt Cutter Needed:
High-End Industrial/Rescue Grade: You would need a model that is typically used by emergency services (fire departments, rescue teams) or heavy construction for cutting rebar, thick bolts, or security seals. These are not standard tools carried by casual thieves.
Specific for Hardened Alloys: The cutter’s blades would need to be made of extremely tough, high-quality steel (e.g., hardened alloy steel, sometimes with specific coatings) to resist damage from the Litelok X1’s hardened steel core and Barronium.
Sufficient Jaw Opening and Force: The jaws would need to open wide enough to accommodate the 21x24mm shackle of the Litelok X1 and apply enough consistent force across that larger surface area. Many hydraulic cutters designed for smaller rebar (e.g., up to 16mm) might struggle with the sheer volume and hardness of the X1’s shackle.
4. Real-World Effectiveness:
Angle Grinders are Still Easier: Even with powerful hydraulic bolt cutters, an angle grinder is often considered a faster and more common tool for defeating the absolute toughest locks because it ablates material rather than trying to shear it. The Litelok X1 is specifically designed to defeat angle grinders better than almost any other lock.
Thief’s Calculus: A thief carrying such a powerful, heavy, and conspicuous tool (a hydraulic bolt cutter) is extremely rare. They would be looking for the fastest method. While a hydraulic cutter could theoretically apply enough force, the X1’s design and material composition (especially Barronium’s ability to resist all cutting tools, not just grinders) would still present a formidable challenge, potentially damaging the cutter’s jaws or requiring multiple attempts.
In essence, you’d need a very serious, specialized piece of equipment to even attempt to defeat a Litelok X1 with a hydraulic bolt cutter, making it a highly unlikely attack vector for the vast majority of thefts.
That’s real clever tell thieves the best way to cut these!
Yeah, this is the thing! I spend 6 months alluding to the weaknesses without saying what they specifically are, and I get loads of people complaining that they should be allowed to know, so they can make their own minds up. I finally relent, and I get people complaining that I’m telling the thieves what to do. I can’t win!
As the LPL does… Expose weaknesses so that the manufacturer improves the design
I must not be understanding something… the SkunkLock needed 28 discs to cut the lock… and that took only 5:18? That is cutting and replacing a disc every 11 seconds. That’s impossible. What did I miss?
I don’t include the time it took me to change the discs as it will vary each time.
What I should probably do is take an average time it takes to change a disc, multiply it by the number of discs it took to cut the lock and add it to the total time.
This would give a better ranking.
Thank you for your service
I dont have a bike nor am I considering buying one but this article is very high quality! Interesting read, thank you!
Very interesting information, I appreciate what you did, it helps me to make my decision on the purchase of a lock for my E-Bike. Thank you.
Okay, so your angle grinder-resistant lock was damaged but not defeated and successfully thwarted a theft. Do any of these companies offer replacement shackles, or do they require you to buy a whole new lock?
Not as far as I know, Erik. But in most instances they will attack the shackle and probably not get very far. The lock will be perfectly usable after thwarting the theft.
Excellent article man thank you for the knowledge!
Why would you use a wired angle grinder. A battery powered one would’ve been the most accurate representation of the effort it would take a third to break it.
Because I’m not trying to give a representation of the effort it would take a thief to break it. I’m trying to reduce any variables (including different levels of power that might occur at different battery levels), to make it easier to compare the essential angle grinder resistance of each lock.
I’m essentially trying to determine which is the most angle grinder resistant bike lock. This might be distorted if I attack one lock with a full battery and one with a battery that is closer to empty. So I want a consistent power supply.
Who to trust, who to believe… I’ve watched a few tests and videos like yours, with totally different results. Just watched a video on yt from cyclingweekly and their test put OnGuard lock in first place, by a mile! They could hardly scratch it in 5min and you got throught it in 1min?! Like I said, who to believe, who to trust… :/
Yeah, the discrepancies between the tests are weird.
I have seen a lot of variation in my own tests on specific locks, but this has usually been put down by the brands to faulty batches (eg SkunkLock, Kryptonite and Abus).
With the OnGuard it just feels like the coating might be inconsistent in the way it covers the shackle.
Also, in the cyclingweekly test they were using a battery powered grinder, and they said the OnGuard was the last to be cut, so perhaps the power was starting to run down on the battery?
That’s the reason I use a mains powered grinder: there’s no chance of that happening.