At the bottom of this page you’ll find a long list of Sold Secure Gold bike locks. U-locks, chains folding locks and more, they’re all here (updated June 2022)!
But first, just in case you don’t know who Sold Secure are, or what they do…
Sold Secure is an independent, non-profit organisation based in the UK. They test and certify locks to make it easier to compare the security levels between different types and brands.
No lock gets out of here alive: the Sold Secure workshop!
Manufacturers can submit their locks to Sold Secure, who will try to defeat them using a wide range of different tools and techniques.
They then classify each lock according to the amount of time they took to defeat it, with four available classifications: Bronze, Silver, Gold and (new in 2020!) Diamond...
Sold Secure now rate locks from Bronze to Diamond
In the past, Sold Secure stated that a Bronze rating was for locks that could withstand “a minute with basic tools”, a Silver rating was for locks that could resist for “three minutes with a wider selection of tools” and Gold was for locks that lasted “five minutes with a sophisticated array of tools”.
However, they have since removed this quite specific classification from their website, preferring this much vaguer guidance:
- Diamond rated locks “provide the highest level of security ... aimed at very high value bicycles and e-bikes.”
- Gold rated locks “offer the next highest level of security, aimed at mid-to-high value bicycles.”
- Silver rated locks “offer a compromise between security and cost.”
- Bronze rated locks “typically offer defense against the opportunist thief.”
While there has been some criticism of their testing techniques and the resulting classifications, there are number of very good reasons that we should use their ratings when choosing the best lock for our bikes:
- Their tools and methods are standardized. So you can compare the ratings of different locks with confidence
- They use inside information from the police and insurers to keep their tools and methods up to date
- Many insurance policies specify that you must use a Sold Secure rated lock
- Of all the independent testers, they classify by far the widest range of locks
- The purpose of the organisation is to test locks. They know what they’re doing.
All this means that the Sold Secure rating system is the easiest and most accurate way to judge the security of a bike lock.
Do you need a Sold Secure Gold bike lock?
But how do you know which rating you need? It depends on your own risk level. And this can be difficult to judge. However, I recommend you answer the 3 quick questions in the quiz below:
So the quiz above will recommend either a Sold Secure Gold or Diamond rated lock if your circumstances are high risk. Or a Sold Secure Silver lock if your circumstances are lower risk.
I don’t recommend Bronze rated locks at all because they just don't provide enough protection.
Sold Secure Gold vs Diamond
So if you're high risk, which should it be: Gold or Diamond? Well the truth is: it's a bit complicated at the moment!
Locks can only be rated when they're submitted for testing (once every year). Since the Diamond rating is new, there's loads of locks that are currently rated Gold, but will definitely be bumped up to Diamond when they're tested again.
This means the current picture is slightly distorted. We can't assume that locks on the Diamond list are more secure than all the locks on the Gold list. Because they're not.
All we can say at the moment is that the locks on the Diamond list are very secure! So look at both lists. As I mention below, the best way to determine which locks are more secure is to look at the "metal thickness" column.
Generally, thicker = more secure.
If you have any doubts about ratings and security levels, leave a comment below and I'll get back to you very quickly.
Finding Gold rated Bike Locks
So how can you find locks with a Sold Secure Gold rating?
You can find a complete list of Sold Secure locks (and other security items) on their website. But it’s not very user friendly.
So I provide a list of all the Sold Secure Gold bike locks here. If you click on the names of the locks in the table, you’ll be taken to Amazon or other websites, where you can further compare prices and reviews. Some of these are affiliate links.
The "Cans of Coke" column refers to the approximate weight of the lock in, yes, cans of Coke! I think it helps people think about how heavy they really are!
Sold Secure Bicycle Gold Locks
Header | Model | Metal Thickness | Weight | Cans of Coke | Height | Width |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 16 mm | 4.35 lb | 5.5 | 8.0 " | 4.0 " | |
 | Kryptonite New York | 16 mm | 4.55 lb | 5.5 | 10.25 " (26 cm) | 4.0 " |
 | 14 mm | 3.5 lb | 4.5 | 9.0 " | 4.0 " | |
 | 14 mm | 3.85 lb | 4.5 | 11.5 " | 4.0 " | |
 | 13 mm | 2.65 lb | 3 | 5.5 " | 3.25 " | |
 | 13 mm | 3.55 lb | 4.5 | 7 " | 3.25 " | |
 | 13 mm | 3.15 lb | 4 | 9.5 " | 3.25 " | |
 | 12.7 mm | 2.9 lb | 3.5 | 9.0 " | 4.0 " | |
| Kryptonite KryptoLok Combo | 12 mm | 2.3 lb | 3 | 8.0 " (20.3 cm) | 4.0 " |
 | 12.7 mm | 2.99 lb | 3.5 | 11.5 " | 4.0 " | |
 | 12.7 mm | 3.2 lb | 4 | 9.0 " | 5.0 " | |
 | 12.7 mm | 2.5 lb | 3 | 7.0 " (17.8 cm) | 3.25 " (8.2 cm) | |
 | Abus 470 230 | 12 mm | 2.78 lb | 3.5 | 9.05 " | 4.29 " (10.9 cm) |
| Abus 470 300 | 12 mm | 2.91 lb (1.32 kg) | 3.5 | 12.0 " (30 cm) | 4.29 " (10.9 cm) |
 | 13 mm | 2.53 lb | 3 | 9.05 " | 4.25 " | |
 | 13 mm | 4.41 lb | 5.5 | 9.0 " | 4.25 " | |
 | 13 mm | 4.85 lb (2.20 kg) | 6 | 12.0 " | 4.25 " | |
 | Abus Ultimate 420 140 (see below) | 13 mm | 1.98 lb (0.90 kg) | 2.5 | 5.51 " (14 cm) | 3.15 " (8 cm) |
 | Abus Ultimate 420 230 (see below) | 13 mm | 2.43 lb (1.10 kg) | 3 | 9.0 " (23 cm) | 3.94 " (10 cm) |
 | Abus Ultimate 420 300 (see below) | 13 mm | 2.87 lb (1.30 kg) | 3.5 | 12.0 " | 3.94 " (10 cm) |
 | 14 mm | 3.30 lb | 4 | 9.05 " | 4.65 " | |
| Abus Super Ultimate 430 11" | 14 mm | 3.97 lb | 5 | 11.81 " | 4.65 " |
 | 13 mm | 3.13 lb | 4 | 8.27 " | 4.33 " | |
 | 13 mm | 2.31 lb | 3 | 11 " | 4.3 " | |
 | 14 mm | 2.16 lb | 2.5 | 5.9 " | 3.15 " | |
 | 12 mm | 1.41 lb (0.64 kg) | 1.5 | 5.0 " (12.7 cm) | 1.93 " (4.9 cm) | |
 | 6 mm | 3.13 lb (1.42 kg) | 4 | 31.5 " (80 cm) | Cell | |
 | 6 mm | 3.73 lb (1.69 kg) | 4.5 | 47.2 " (120 cm) | Cell | |
 | 6 mm | 4.28 lb (1.94 kg) | 5 | 63.0 " (160 cm) | Cell | |
 | 14 mm (16 mm) | Cell | Cell | 9.06 " | 4.25 " | |
 | Trelock U6L | 14 mm (16 mm) | 3.35 lb | 4 | 11.8 " | 4.25 " |
 | 13 mm 15 mm | Cell | Cell | 5.51 " | 3.27 " | |
 | 13 mm 15 mm | Cell | Cell | 5.51 " | 3.27 " | |
 | Yale YUL2 | 13 mm | 2.65 lb | 3 | 9.06 " | 4.5 " |
 | 13 mm 17 mm | 3.26 lb | 4 | 7.48 " | 5.51 " | |
 | 14 mm | 3.24 lb | 4 | 9.1 " | 4.5 " | |
 | Burg Wachter 1580 | 12 mm 13.8 mm | 2.35 lb | 3 | 8.27 " (21 cm) | 4.17 " (10.6 cm) |
 | Burg Wachter 1600 | 16 mm | 3.31 lb (1.5 kg) | 4 | 8.27 " (21 cm) | 4.17 " (10.6 cm) |
 | ULAC Stockholm BX1 | 14 mm | 2.45 lb | 3 | 5.12 " (13 cm) | 3.07 " (7.8 cm) |
 | Ulockmi Twofold | 12 mm | 2.87 lb (1.3 kg) | 3.5 | 7.64 " (19.4 cm) | 3.38 " (8.6 cm) |
 | Oxford AlarmD Pro | 14 mm | 3.26 lb | 4 | 7.87 " (20 cm) | 3.89 " (9.88 cm) |
 | BBB BBL-78 | 16 mm | 3.31 lb | 4 | 11.61 " (29.5 cm) | 5.55 " (14.1 cm) |
 | 12 mm | 8.65 lb | 10.5 | 39.0 " | Cell | |
| 12 mm | 13.15 lb | 16 | 67.0 " | Cell | |
 | 12 mm | 6.95 lb | 8.5 | 30.0 " | Cell | |
| 12 mm | 10.55 lb | 13 | 51.0 " | Cell | |
 | 10 mm | 4.40 lbs | 5.5 | 21.5 " | Cell | |
| 10 mm | 6.10 lb | 7.5 | 35.5 " | Cell | |
| 10 mm | 9.70 lb | 12 | 63.0 " | Cell | |
 | 9 mm | 5.85 lb (2.65 kg) | 7 | 35.5 " (90 cm) | Cell | |
| 9 mm | 7.35 lb (3.33 kg) | 9 | 47.3 " (120 cm) | Cell | |
 | 9 mm | 3.90 lb | 4.5 | 21.5 " | Cell | |
| 9 mm | 5.55 lb (2.52 kg) | 7 | 37.5 " (95 cm) | Cell | |
 | 9 mm | 6.7 lb (3.04 kg) | 8 | 47.3 " (120 cm) | Cell | |
| 9 mm | 8.10 lb | 10 | 60.0 " | Cell | |
 | 10 mm | 6.7 lb | 8 | 43.0 " | Cell | |
| 10 mm | 10.5 lb | 13 | 72.0 " | Cell | |
 | 10 mm | 4.63 lb | 5.5 | 33.0 " | Cell | |
| 10 mm | 5.84 lb | 7 | 43.0 " | Cell | |
| 10 mm | 7.19 lb | 8.5 | 55.0 " | Cell | |
| 10 mm | 8.27 lb | 10 | 67.0 " | Cell | |
 | 10 mm | 5.4 lb | 6.5 | 33.0 " | Cell | |
| 10 mm | 6.4 lb | 8 | 43.0 " | Cell | |
| 10 mm | 8.49 lb | 10.5 | 55.0 " | Cell | |
| 10 mm | 10.69 lb | 13 | 67.0 " | Cell | |
 | 9 mm | 4.3 lb | 5 | 33.0 " | Cell | |
| 9 mm | 5.29 lb | 6.5 | 43.0 " | Cell | |
| 9 mm | 6.04 lb | 7.5 | 55.0 " | Cell | |
| 9 mm | 7.45 lb | 9 | 67.0 " | Cell | |
 | 10 mm | 5.3 lb | 6.5 | 33.5 " | Cell | |
 | 10 mm | 10.14 lb | 12.5 | 59 " | Cell | |
 | 10 mm | 7.72 lb | 9.5 | 39.37 " | Cell | |
 | 10 mm | 6.19 lb | 7.5 | 47.2 " | Cell | |
 | 10 mm | 5.3 lb (2.4 kg) | 6.5 | 35.4 " | Cell | |
 | 10 mm | 6.2 lb | 7.5 | 43.3 " | Cell | |
 | 9 mm | 4.76 lb | 6 | 37.4 " | Cell | |
 | AXA Absolute 9-90 | 9 mm | 4.94 lb (2.24 kg) | 6 | 35.4 " | Cell |
 | AXA Absolute 9-110 | 9 mm | 6.02 lb (2.73 kg) | 7.5 | 43.3 " (110 cm) | Cell |
 | AXA Linq | 9.5 mm | 5.84 lb (2.65 kg) | 7 | 39.37 " | Cell |
 | 9 mm | 4.07 lb | 5 | 39.37 " | Cell | |
 | 10 mm | 10.2 lb | 12.5 | 70.8 " | Cell | |
 | Trelock BC 580 | 9 mm | 4.85 lb (2.2 kg) | 6 | 43.3 " (110 cm) | Cell |
 | Trelock BC 680 | 9.5 mm | 6.39 lb (2.9 kg) | 8 | 43.3 " (110 cm) | Cell |
 | Pragmasis Protector | 11 mm | Cell | Cell | 0.8 m - 6 m | Cell |
 | Burg Wachter 1010S/1015S/1020S | 10 mm | Cell | Cell | 1 m, 1.5 m, 2 m | Cell |
 | OKG Noose Chain | 12 mm | Cell | Cell | 0.8 m, 1.2 m, 1.5 m | Cell |
 | 5.5 mm | 3.88 lb | 4.5 | 33.5 " | Cell | |
| 5.5 mm | 4.76 lb | 6 | 43.0 " | Cell | |
 | 5.5 mm | 3.48 lb | 4 | 35.4 " | Cell | |
| Kryptonite Evolution 790 | 5.4 mm | 3.3 lb | 4 | 35.4 " | Cell |
 | Litelok CORE Flex | Cell | 3.7 lb | 4.5 | 29 " | Cell |
Sold Secure Motorcycle Gold Locks
Header | Model | Metal Thickness | Weight | Cans of Coke | Height | Width |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 18 mm | 4.55 lb | 5.5 | 6.0 " | 3.25 " | |
 | 18 mm | 6.1 lb | 7.5 | 10.3 " | 3.9 " | |
 | 16.8 mm | 5.07 lb | 6 | 10.24 " | 4.37 " | |
 | 13 mm | 2.65 lb | 3 | 5.51 " | 4.25 " | |
 | 13 mm | 3.20 lb | 4 | 9.0 " | 4.25 " | |
 | 13 mm | 3.65 lb | 4.5 | 12.0 " | 4.25 " | |
 | 14 mm | 2.76 lb | 3.5 | 6.0 " | 3.5 " | |
 | 14 mm | 2.98 lb | 3.5 | 6.0 " | 3.5 " | |
 | 30 mm | 2.75 lb | 3.5 | 7.13 " | 3.7 " | |
 | 16 mm | 3.7 lb | 4.5 | 10.16 " | 4.0 " | |
 | 14 mm | 3.22 lb | 4 | 9.06 " | 4.53 " | |
 | 14 mm | 10.80 lb | 13 | 39.0 " | Cell | |
| 14 mm | 15.25 lb | 18.5 | 60.0 " | Cell | |
 | 14.5 mm | 14.7 lb | 18 | 59 " | Cell | |
 | 14 mm | 12.35 lb | 15 | 39.37 " | Cell | |
 | 12 mm | 3.21 lb | 4 | 40.7 " | 1.9 " |
At this point you may have a couple of questions:
1. Are all Sold Secure Gold locks as secure as each other?
No, not at all. The easiest way to tell the difference is to look at the “metal thickness” column in the table above. Generally, the thicker the lock, the more secure it will be. Of course these locks will be heavier too.
Note: some lock brands include the plastic sheath when they measure the "thickness" of their u-lock shackles. This is misleading and should be called out. Where I find evidence of this, I add the correct value and strike out the claimed measurement. Please let me know if you find any more!
I have written specific pages on the strongest bike lock and the best lightweight bike lock (that still provides enough protection).
2. This list is missing some very secure locks. Why?
For a lock to be rated by Sold Secure, it must be submitted by the manufacturer. And there’s plenty of really good locks that are either never submitted or have not been submitted yet. But that doesn’t mean they’re not Sold Secure “standard”.
Off the top of my head:
- OnGuard Brute Mini U-lock
- Kryptonite New York Legend Chain
- OnGuard Beast Chain
These are all Sold Secure Gold “standard” bike locks that don’t have a Sold Secure Gold rating.
If you want to see which locks would most likely be granted a Gold rating if they were submitted to Sold Secure, you can use the manufacturers own ratings on the u-lock comparison and chain lock comparison pages:
If a lock without Sold Secure certification has the same manufacturer rating as a lock with certification, it's most likely Sold Secure "standard".
3. Aren't the Abus Ultimate 420 locks rated Sold Secure Silver?!
Yes they were. But they seem to have been re-tested and now they have a Gold rating! You can check the Sold Secure or Abus websites to be sure!
However since the locks available on Amazon (and elsewhere) tend be the ones with the Silver rating, I've removed the links until the Gold versions are more widely available.
Also, be careful: I have seen several locks marked as Sold Secure Gold on Amazon and other websites that are in fact not. If in doubt check the Sold Secure website itself.
4. Aren't the Kryptonite Kryptolok u-locks rated Sold Secure Silver?
At the moment Kryptonite make two versions of the Kryptolok. The Series 2 is the original and is rated Sold Secure Silver. The New-U is well, new(!) and is Sold Secure Gold.
Visually the locks are almost identical. But there are subtle structural differences that account for the different ratings by Sold Secure.
The Silver rated Kryptolok Series 2
The Gold rated Kryptolok New-U
The Series 2 features the famous "bent foot" shackle which makes it easier to fasten the lock when you're securing your bike. But the bent foot side of the shackle isn't locked into the cross bar with a dead bolt.
The "bent foot" shackle of the Series 2 omly locks on one side
This makes the lock more susceptible to twisting and leverage attacks which can pop the bent foot out of the crossbar and defeat the lock.
Whereas the New-U shackle locks into the cross bar on both sides making it more resistant to these type of attacks (which are one of the most common methods of defeating decent u-locks).
So the bump up in ranking makes sense so far.
However, the Series 2 seems to be made from better steel (top of the range "Max Performance") than the New-U (standard "Performance"). Not only that, the Series 2 shackle is thicker (13 mm) than the New-U (12.7 mm)!
So bearing all this in mind: the Silver rated Series 2 will be more resistant to bolt cutter attacks than the Gold rated New-U!
Presumably Kryptonite wanted to keep costs down and worked out they could still get up to that Gold rating with slightly inferior steel and shackle diameters. Which is fair enough!
In my mind they both remain very good mid security locks. But the New-U is not a high security option.
If you need more help deciding, then you can also follow my simple 3 step guide that guarantees you’ll find the best bike lock for both you and your bicycle.
More questions? Let me know below…
This page contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you click through and make a purchase. You will not pay any extra. More details here.
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Can you tell me which of the Sold Secure Gold u-locks comes with a bike mount or has one available?
Hi Edward,
I think all the u-locks come with a mounting bracket except the Kryptonite Fahgettaboudit, Kryptonite New York M18-WL, the Abus Yellow mini and the OnGuard Brute LS.
I hope that helps
Carl
Great! Thanks for answering my question. Btw, I found your articles on bike locks very informative and it has helped me decide on what lock to purchase.
This is very helpful. Are any “gold” level locks made with combinations? If not, do you know why?
Not that I know of Amy. And that’s because combination locks tend to be less secure.
Hi. My bike shop sells the Oxford alarmed u-lock. It only has a silver sold secure rating. I would welcome your views on it please – I’m trying to decide between it and the abus 540.
Hi Michelle,
I don’t think you should be trying to decide between a specific silver lock and a specific gold lock. What do you think your risk level is? If it’s high you need a gold lock. If it’s lower you will probably be OK with a silver lock.
Once you’ve determined what security level you need, then start thinking about specific locks.
As an aside, I haven’t been too impressed with most of the Oxford locks I’ve used.
I hope that helps!
Carl
That’s really helpful Carl, thank you. I think the gold ABUS wins. I’m also looking at the Shed Shackle for storage purposes. Your site has been really helpful.
What about the Lifelok? It’s a Sold Secure Gold rated zip lock. Seems to be the best lock in existence, as an all rounder. Please reply, I’m terribly interested in your opinion.
re last message, ‘LifeLock’ is an ID theft solution. ‘Litelok’ is a gold standard bike lock.
Yeah, I think he means litelok.
What are your thoughts on that?
Hi
This article is really helpful! thanks. Only thing is that my insurer asks for a security level 8 lock and I can’t find how that translates into bronze silver or gold. Your expertise would be really welcome!
Thanks
Hi Lizzy … Who is your insurer?
Think that’s for her shed/garage door
Hi
The silverline high security bike lock is gold secure and an excellent price – any thoughts
Hi Chris,
Yes the security looks good and it’s a great price!
Sometimes these cheaper locks tend to get stuck, either in the mechanism or where the bars meet the body. But if you keep both well lubricated you should be OK.
More about that here:
https://thebestbikelock.com/best-bike-lock/how-to-stop-your-bike-lock-jamming/
Cheers
Carl
Hi, I believe the Hiplok DX(C) is missing from this list. According to your review (https://thebestbikelock.com/best-u-lock/hiplok-dxc-review/), it is gold rated.
Cheers,
Sam
You’re right Sam, I’ll add it now. There’s a few locks missing actually…
Hi Carl
I have bought the ABUS U-Mini 40 on your recommendation as Gold Secure and the packaging says it’s Sold Secure Silver not Sold Secure Gold. My insurance only covers Gold and now I’ll have to return it.
Can you help clarify or perhaps an update to the page would be useful?
Thanks!
Hi Sami,
Yes, the Mini 40 is Sold Secure Silver. It’s the Mini-401 Yellow that’s Sold Secure Gold.
On this page you’ll find the 401 Yellow. And on the Sold Secure Silver page you’ll find the 40.
I know it’s extremely confusing. The names are almost identical. And the locks also look identical. The listings on the website are correct though.
Did you buy it from Amazon? Maybe the link takes you through to the wrong Amazon page. What country are you in?
Thanks
Carl
Hi Carl,
The litelock was shown to be breakable in less than a minute last year through simple levering with a twist. In light of this, should this lock still be in the Gold classification?
Hi Nick,
I tackle this issue in my review of the Litelok.
I’d be interested to know what you think.
Thanks
Carl
not sure if you are still updating the site content, but you’re missing some locks on this list with updates to manufacturers product lines.
Hi Kevin
Yes I’m always trying to keep it up to date. I added a couple last month. Which ones are you thinking of specifically?
Thanks
Carl
Are the height and width of U-locks always inner dimensions? In the article on the fahgettaboudit mini, it seems so. That would be great but I’m not sure. thanks!
Yes they are!
Hi
I have just ordered a Kriptonite mini 7 with 4 foot cable.
The description on the sellers website said it was Sold Gold but in their specification it was Sold Silver !
Would you be able to clarify things please ?
Regards
John
Hi John,
Yes this is a ridiculous situation, to great degree caused by Kryptonite themselves.
The original Kryptonite Mini 7 is Sold Secure Silver:
https://www.kryptonitelock.com/en/products/product-information/current-key/000990.html
However they have now released a New-U Kryptonite Mini 7 which is Sold Secure Gold:
https://www.kryptonitelock.com/en/products/product-information/current-key/002079.html
Both locks have a 13 mm shackle in the same “hardened max-performance steel”. And they’re both exactly the same size.
The difference is that the Silver version has the bent foot shackle that only locks on one side. While the Gold version has a shackle that locks on both sides.
Bizarrely Kryptonite themselves rate both locks with the same 7/10 security rating!
So yes if the sellers website described the lock as Gold but the lock you’ve received is Silver then they’ve sent you the wrong lock.
But Kryptonite themselves have made the situation very confusing!
Cheers
Carl
Kryptonite’s whole line of locks now locks on both sides which is why their locks retain the same ratings. The majority of consumers have no idea what sold secure is and at the end of the day they are getting a better lock. You won’t find another sold secure gold lock that’s this affordable.
The new updated version is very obvious because the shackle tips are visible on the bottom on the crossbar and they use a new sliding dust cover.
Yeah but the problem is that they’re still selling both versions. Two locks that look more or less the same, with the same name and the same in house security ratings. But in reality they offer different levels of protection.
I’d say that was pretty confusing for the consumer and often it seems the sellers.
And I’m a huge Kryptonite fan and they are great value for money. But there are cheaper Sold Secure Gold locks available.
I agree with you on the confusion but it’s hard to make a running product change without old and new both being available at some point. Not without re-branding their product but creating families or product seems to be easier on a consumer.
What is the most affordable sold secure lock? I guess it could change from country to country but I’d be curious to see a list of best value locks. Hard to quantify but worth examining
True 🙂
Generally I think the OnGuard are the most affordable of the well known lock brands that are Sold Secure rated. You can get a Pitbull for around $30 and a Brute for around $40.
For sure: they are neither as well made (or in some respects secure) as the Kryptonite equivalents. You’ll need to look after the mechanism and the joints with cleaners and lubricants for example.
But in terms of affordable Sold Secure locks, they’re hard to beat.
Hi Carl,
any thoughts between Kryptonite New York Lock M18-WL vs Abus GRANIT X Plus 540
230?
I almost purchased the Kryptonite one, but checking the weight and specially that you can order the Abus with a mount (Granit X-Plus 540 230mm With EaZyKF Bracket) I’m in doubt how much more secure Kryptonite is to justify the burden of carrying it around.
Thanks a lot for the content!
Hi John,
It really depends on your personal circumstances (bike value, how/where you use it etc).
But while the Kryptonite M18-WL is likely to be slightly more secure than the Abus 540, it’s also much heavier. And the Abus 540 is still a very secure lock.
So unless your circumstances are exceptional (super expensive back that you leave for a considerable length of time in the open) I’d generally recommend the Abus. Just because it’s more practical.
I hope that helps!
Carl
Does the weight of the Kryptonite New-U Evolution
Mini-7 with Flex of 1.61kg include the weight of the cable?
If so what is the weight of the lock without the cable?
Is this lock secure from bottle jack attack?
Hi Patrick,
So sorry for the delay getting back to you!
Yes I think it does include the cable, so without the cable it should be around 1.3 kg.
Bottle jack attacks can defeat the strongest of locks. But they have to get inside the lock to work. Since the Mini 7 is a smaller lock this is less easy so as long as you keep the lock full of your bike and whatever it’s locked to you should be OK.
Hope that helps!
Carl
I have recently bought an OnGuard Pit Bull Sold Secure Gold D lock with steel cable. The lock is heavy (as with all Gold locks) and it’s a solid piece of kit, which I need in London!
The D lock is not a mini one (mini locks can only secure the frame and not wheel & frame) and is quite large, so I cannot find a place to fit the bracket on my bike where the lock itself will not get in the way of my legs. I can’t fit it to the seat post, because there is no extra height in the post to locate it and the triangle frame of the bike isn’t large enough for the lock, due to the thick aluminium down tube. I will always need to carry a rucksack wherever I go which is annoying.
I have also noticed that the council in central London (zone 1) have installed bike racks with thicker tubes, so it’s a squeeze to use a standard D lock on these. I’m wondering if they’re doing this to force cyclists to get Sold Secure Gold locks of a good enough size to lock both the frame and back wheel?
No I don’t think the council are doing that Dave! It’s probably just that thicker tubes are more secure in general.
There’s been a spate of thefts where the racks have been sawn through and then the cut has been hidden by a thief, so that when bikes are secured to the rack the thief only has to slide the bike through the cut!
Maybe the thicker tubes are an attempt by the council to counter this?
Hi Carl, as mentioned, I recently bought an OnGuard Pit Bull Sold Secure Gold D lock with steel cable. I went onto their website to register the keys (don’t know why I need to, because I have 5 keys), but I thought it would be a good idea. Do you think it’s worth registering the keys, as long as I keep them safe and two with a friend?
Unfortunately, the key registration page is only for people living in the US and when I went onto their International site, there was no link to register the keys!
Can anyone help with registering OnGuard keys in the UK?
I also read their anti-theft terms and conditions, which makes is almost impossible to make a claim. This is also the same with many other lock manufacturers, so they are really no better than the other when paying out.
UK KEY REGISTRATION FOR ONGUARD OR MAGNUM LOCKS
After some research, I found that the company: MAGNUM is the same company as OnGuard and Magnum’s website can be used to register OnGuard keys. I only found the UK registration page, so I apologise to those who are not in the UK.
The key registration page can be found at: https://magnum.uk.com/key-registration
Personally, I don’t know why the keys needs to be registered, because 5 comes in the pack!
UK ANTI-THEFT REGISTRATION FOR ONGUARD and MAGNUM LOCKS
Here is the link for anti-theft registration for the UK: https://magnum.uk.com/anti-theft-registration
All Sold Secure Gold D locks will need an angle grinder to break through them and all the manufacturers (Abus, Kryptonite, OnGuard, Magnum) will not compensate the owner for the cost of the bike or the lock if the lock was broken using an angle grinder. This makes the use of the anti-theft registration pointless!
I hope the information I have provided helps those who has been looking! Keep you bikes safe and enjoy riding!
Thanks for the info Dave.
Unfortunately even Sold Secure Gold locks can be beaten with methods other than angle grinders (leverage, car jacks).
And as far as I remember, it’s oly OnGuard / Magnum that specifically say that they won’t compensate if the lock was defeated with an angle grinder.
Hi,
I’d rather have a chain lock with a combination rather than have to carry keys around. Are there any gold standard chain locks with combinations?
Thanks in anticipation,
Mike
I don’t think there are you know Mike. I can’t even find any Silver rated chains with combination locks. Combinations locks are always less secure. But I feel like there should be some Silver ones though. If you find any please let us know…
Kryptonite Kryptonite 990 is gold.
Kryotolok 990, my bad
Ahhh you’re right! It’s weird that it’s not widely advertised (eg on the Kryptonite website). Thanks Kevin!
To be honest, I don’t think there are any Gold rated combination bike locks available, purely because of the combination not being as secure as a key. However, there Silver rated combination locks, such as the OnGuard Bulldog Combination D Lock with Cable retailing at £17.39 at Evans Cycles (it’s on sale).
Here is the website and buyers comments:
https://www.evanscycles.com/onguard-bulldog-combination-d-lock-with-cable-EV344551
Thanks for finding the Kryotolok 990. How do I get confirmation for my insurer that its gold if its not marked on this website or on the manufacturers site?
Any ideas?
The sold secure website will confirm the gold status.
https://www.soldsecure.com/search/kryptolok-990-combo-chain-90cm.html
I would suggest reading the comments on Amazon regarding the Kryptonite Combination lock:
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Kryptonite-Kryptolok-Combo-STD-U-lock/dp/B000LPHO2Q/ref=asc_df_B000LPHO2Q/?tag=bingshoppinga-21&linkCode=df0&hvadid={creative}&hvpos={adposition}&hvnetw=o&hvrand={random}&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=e&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl={devicemodel}&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=&hvtargid=pla-4584413736722874&psc=1
While valuable Dave, you are referencing a completely different lock made by Kryptonite. Not even sure that lock you have linked was sent to sold secure for testing.
Mike is asking for chain locks, not ulocks. Also you if you want an accurate portrait of user feedback from amazon, you should look at the comments for that on guard lock on amazon too, not Evans cycles website
Hi, I’m looking for a lock suitable for an electric bike which will be transported on a motor home bike carrier. I’m also thinking an alarmed lock might be useful. Also gold standard.
There is such a great choice that it becomes confusing, so your help would be greatly appreciated.
Hi Serena,
Sorry about the late reply. I think a good quality chain could be the way to go.
I’ve just updated my chain lock guide.
Some questions:
Will you be locking the bike to the motor home?
Do you want to use the same lock when you’re out riding?
Is the alarm to alert you if the bike is disturbed overnight while you’re asleep in the motor home or at some other time?
Thanks
Carl
Hi Carl, thanks for your reply.
The bike would be secured to a bike carrier, nor directly to the motor home.
I would be using a lock when out riding but not necessarily the same one.
Yes the aim of the alarm would be to alert us during the night, but also if we stop, say, at a petrol station. So the alarm would be in place while we would be driving.
Many thanks for your help.
So the lock could only be used for securing the bike to the carrier? In that case I’d recommend a Gold rated chain.
I’m not sure an alarmed lock is a great idea as it might go off with the movement of the motor home.
So I’d go for a Gold rated 12 – 14 mm chain. The Kryptonite New York chain would be a good choice.
But browse the different lengths and prices on the chain lock page to find one that works for you.
Then you can get a lighter (possibly u-lock) for when you’re out riding.
I hope that helps!
Great page with lots of superb info.
Question:I bought an Abus Extreme 59 off the back of the info on this page but I can’t find it on the Sold Secure website listing? That means my bike insurance won’t pay out of stolen as I must use a Sold Secure Gold lock only.
Could it have been delisted since you published this article?
Thanks! Richard
Hi Richard,
You’re right it doesn’t seem to be listed on the Sold Secure website. Nor is it listed as having a Sold Secure rating on the Abus website.
However there are other websites (Bike Rumor etc) that list it as Gold too.
I’ve never heard of a lock being delisted.
I will look into it and get back to you.
If it turns out that it isn’t rated Gold I’ll obviously remove from the list.
And I’d recommend you give your insurance company a ring and see if this lock (which is obviously an extremely secure lock) would indeed invalidate a claim (if it’s not rated).
Really sorry for the inconvenience this has caused you.
I’ll get back to you as soon as I’ve found out
Carl
Thanks Carl,
No need to apologise. It’s up to me to double check 🙂
It’s just annoying as the bike came with a Bordo 6000 which is Silver Rated (stupid when it’s a German ebike worth the price of a decent second hand car!). I’ve checked with the insurers and they won’t accept it. Crazy when it’s a beast of a lock.
So I’ve got a silver fold up Bordo lock, muckle non rated lock and now need to go buy a cheapo Gold lock to keep the insurers happy. Add in the motion sensor alarm and hidden GPS tracker and maybe it will be there when I come out the cinema or gym!
I’ll email Abus as they should get it gold rated due to the number of cyclists who use it.
Richard
Yeah I gave them a ring today and they said they’ve never tested it.
I’m not sure how I could have added it. It’s not even a lock I would usually recommend due to it’s weight (although for an ebike it makes sense of course).
Maybe I saw it listed as Gold on another site and added it without checking.
Anyway, I’ve removed it from the list. And I’ll be updating the page in the next week or so as it’s a bit out of date anyway.
Again, I’m sorry about that Richard!
Hello,
I bought the Kryptonite KryptoLok New-U ATB based on this site, according to which it is a Gold Sold Secure lock. However, on the lock they sent me (which is the Kryptonite KryptoLok New-U ATB indeed) there is a tag saying it is a Silver one. Based on what information did you include it as a Gold in this list?
Thank you,
Lampros
Hi Lampros,
The Kryptonite KryptoLok New-U ATB is definitely Sold Secure Gold.
You can check on the Kryptonite website. And on the Sold Secure website.
Unfortunately the old version of the lock (with almost the same name) was Sold Secure Silver.
Does your lock have the bent foot design? This means at the bottom of the shackle that locks into the cross bar, one of the arms is bent.
If so that’s the old design.
It’s really confusing, because the names are so similar. But I suspect yours doesn’t say the “New U” on the packaging.
I hope that helps!
Carl
Thank you Carl for your reply.
This is the exact link where I bought it: https://www.bike24.com/p2275125.html?q=NEW-U%20-%20KRYPTOLOK%20ATB
The lock however has the sticker Silver Sold Secure on it. This is strange…
And what does it say on the packaging that the lock came in? Does it say “New-U”?
You are right! the packaging doesn’t mention the ‘New’! I will return the item back! thank you!
No worries Lampros. Hopefully it was just an accident on their part.
If the lock has a bent foot design, it’s sold secure silver. If the shackle tips are identical (straight and no bent design on one side), then it’s sold secure gold. The stickers are just that, stickers. Those are put on by warehouse employees and there’s an element of human error that’s possible there.
Just my two cents
Hi,
I’m interested in purchasing two U locks, which share the same key, allowing me to leave the locks at multiple stations but not requiring multiple keys.
Which brands permit this?
Thanks,
Max
Hi Max,
As far as I understand it Kryptonite, Abus and OnGuard offer keyed alike locks.
However, for all the brands it’s only available for a limited range of their locks.
And you have to contact the companies directly.
For Kryptonite it’s just the NY Standard, NY LS, Evolution Mini-9, Evolution Mini-5 locks.
For Abus, check the lock has the YourPlus logo and card.
And for OnGuard it’s a bit unclear although they do claim they can do it.
It may also depend on which country you live in 🙂
I hope that helps!
Carl
the kryptolok series 2 LS is silver not gold
https://www.kryptonitelock.com/en/products/product-information/current-key/001058.html
Hi Joe
You’re right, that the Kryptolok Series 2 is Silver.
But the Kryptolok New-U is Gold. That’s the one in the table above.
It’s really confusing I know!
I’m going to add a note to the bottom of the page to explain.
Thanks
Carl
Just wanted to say a big thank you, the Sold Secure Website is genuinely useless, this page is brilliant. Thanks again
No worries John, I’m glad you found it useful!
hi, the link for the ‘Hiplok DX’ (when redirected to amazon uk) is incorrect, it links to the silver rated hiplock d btw.
Hi, Are you sure? I’ve just checked and it looks like it’s linking to the correct lock from here.
Hello. Which is best: Abus 540 or Seatylock P300? High risk area. Thanks for answering all of our questions.
Hi Mr. Gray,
They’re both very strong locks. The Abus has a slightly better build quality (less likely to get stuck) and is slightly lighter. But it will also usually be more expensive.
They’ll both protect your bike well in a high risk area though.
I hope that helps!
Carl
The “Kryptonite KryptoLok New-U Standard” in your table is linked to an Amazon listing for the “Kryptonite Kryptolok Series-2 “. The listing photos include the Sold Secure GOLD icon, but your article says the Series 2 are Silver rated. What’s up with that?
I just checked the Kryptonite website for that same item
https://www.kryptonitelock.com/en/products/product-information/current-key/001041.html
They say the lock is SILVER rated.
The Amazon listing you link to is lying.
Hi there. Read the posts on May 13 and June 12th above. Also point 4 in the article tries to clarify it. Depends on if the listing is for the series 2 which is meant to be gold rated or the older version which is silver rated.
That’s not right either. The Amazon listing shows it is model #001966. If you look up that model on the Kryptonite site, it is the “New-U”, not the “Series 2”. So it’s mislabeled. So damn confusing.
On top of that, both the Series 2 and the New-U have the same ART rating of ‘2’.
And the “New-U” models are not labeled as such on the lock itself, making it more difficult to identify.
The easiest way to cosmetically tel the different between the new u and older series 2 is the dust cover. If it’s centered on the bottom of the crossbar and uses a slider button, it’s the New U. If it is off center and uses that sleeve that rotates around the crossbar to expose the cylinder, it’s a series 2.
Yep good point Kevin
Kevin, I can’t slide dust covers on internet webpages.
No you can’t but you can look at the product images from the seller and determine the product they are listing. If they send you something they falsely advertised, it’s on the seller.
Or they could, you know, just post accurate information so customers don’t have to do detective sleuthing to determine what they’re buying.
Which Amazon site are you looking at Joe? The US?
For me, the shortlink you posted (https://geni.us/ZASYfA) resolves to:
https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B06XC66Z42
The listing title reads:
“Kryptonite Kryptolok Series-2 Standard Heavy Duty Bicycle U Lock Bike Lock ”
The model number is “002031”, which according to the Kryptonite website, is indeed the “New-U”
There’s nothing in that listing to suggest it might be the Series 2. I think we can be pretty confident that if you buy that lock you’ll get the Gold rated New-U.
What do you mean ‘nothing’? I already said: the title in big text right at the top of the page says “Series-2”
Now, if they send you the lock which is in the photo, and matches the listed model number, then yes it IS a New-U. But in that case, the title is obviously WRONG.
It seems that with the Abus Ultimate 420, you never know what you’re getting if you buy online. Both the old (silver rated) and new (gold rated) locks have the same model numbers! (420/170HB230). No labeling either. But I believe they look a bit different. The old ones have parallelogram shaped cutouts in the red sleeve. The new ones have triangular cutouts. This only helps if the retailers post accurate product images.
Hi Carl! I’m researching for 2 locks for 2 bikes: Kross Trans 3.0 and Le Grand Pavel 3.0. I tend to cycle only in the city, on bike paths and I need to hold them at a fixed point for a few hours only. I would like recommendations for padlock models that have good cost-benefit and above-average security. I have researched many brands and models, mainly Abus and Kryptonite, but I am always in doubt at the end and I cannot decide. Can you help me by indicating some options? Thank you. Best regards.
Hi Marcos,
I couldn’t find any photos of the Le Grand Pavel 3.0. Is it a city bike like the Kross Trans 3.0?
What will you be locking it to? And when you say “padlock models” do you mean u-locks?
If you want good value for money have you considered OnGuard?
Thanks
Carl
Hi Carl,
Sorry, the correct model is Le Grand Pave 3. Yes, it’s a city bike. The Kross Trans 3.0 is considered a polyvalent model.
I will need to lock both bikes on a fixed point available nearest where I will be, but without a vision of them. I mean u-locks and chain locks (with key).
I don’t know anything about the trademarks. I confess that the more I read about the main brands and user ratings and experiences, I have more questions, unfortunately. I read bad news about OnGuard, but in the end, I don’t really know which are the best options for me. Based on your article, maybe 2 u-locks and one chain lock are recommended to be safer.
Thanks.
Carl, after reading carefully your articles and research in your site, I decided to buy 2 U-Locks and 1 chain lock among those in the list below:
U-Locks:
Kryptonite Evolution Series 4 LS
Kryptonite Evolution Series 4 Standard
Abus Granit X Plus 540
Kryptonite New-U Mini-7
Kryptonite New-U Kryptolok Standard
Chain Locks:
Abus Steel-O-Chain 9808/85
bus Iven Chain 8210
What do you think about my choice and the best recommendation for 3 locks to secure the 2 bikes?
By the way, congratulations for the site and very well done work helping us to choose the best safe locks for our bikes.
Thank you again. Kind regards.
That’s a wide selection of different sizes and security levels Marcos!
How are you planning on using these locks? I don’t really have enough information to make a recommendation.
Will you always be locking them to bike racks? Or will you sometimes use larger immovable objects eg lampposts?
Why 3 locks instead of 2? Are you talking about using both bikes at once and using the 3 locks to secure 2 bikes?
What will you use the chain for?
It’s not very clear to me at the moment.
Thanks for the answer. I’m sorry I wasn’t clear on the first message.
My goal is to lock the 2 bikes at fixed points that are available at the stop, which can be: racks or lamp posts. Of course, I have a value limit to buy and that’s why I try to find the best cost-effective solution, that is, neither cheap nor very expensive top.
I thought of 3 locks to: use a u-lock on each bike (preferably on the frame and rear wheel) attached to the rack. Use the chain to secure the front wheels and frames of the 2 bikes to the fixed point, which can be a rack or immovable objects.
The objective is to have extra security whenever I need to lock the bikes for a few hours without the vision of them, you know? I intend to lock the bicycles only during breaks (having lunch and going to the beach for example) and I will never leave it for long hours or overnight. I always have them with me at home.
So when I researched I tried to follow his recommendations for the best way to lock and chose those options to then decide, search in stores in Portugal or some European online store (like Amazon Spain for example).
I am grateful if you can recommend to me brands and models of locks that can meet my need, even if they are different from the list I sent before.
Thank you very much for your time, attention, and help.
Kind regards.
OK. So all the locks you’ve selected are good locks.
I don’t think you need the LS and the Mini-7 will be too small to use easily (or at all) in some situations.
So that leaves the Series 4 Standard, the 540 or the Kryptolok.
Since you’ve got 2 new, nice bikes, the Kryptolok might not offer enough protection.
So I would go for either the Series 4 Standard or the 540. They’re both very good. So I would shop around and see if I can get a deal on one of them. A cheaper alternative would be the OnGuard Pitbull Standard.
For the chain, if it’s only ever going to be used as a secondary lock then the Steel-O-Chain should be fine.
I hope that helps!
Ok Carl. All cleared. I’ll search and buy the locks and, in the future, come back here to give my feedback about it. Thank you so much for your help and advice.
Best and toughest bike lock by miles is the Abus Granite xtreme 59 yet not covered by any insurance.
Yep, this is one of the strange upshots of insurance companies insisting (rightly in my opinion) that their policy holder use Gold rated locks.
Even the most secure bike locks, if not submitted for testing by the manufacturer, won’t be rated and can’t be used!
To be fair though, I think Abus see the Granit Extreme 59 as more of a Motorbike lock than a Bicycle lock.
This is a very helpful list. Thank you!
I’m looking into bike locks, including this one:
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Magnum-Onguard-Pitbull-Mini-DT-8008-Shackle-Lock-Cable-Bike-D-U-Lock/264882484273?
In the listing it says that only the D-lock is rated as Gold secure. Do you know anything about this?
Thanks again. Daniel Mitchell
Hi Daniel,
The OnGuard Pitbull Mini is a great lock.
But the cable that comes with it can obviously be cut very easily. So it’s only the D-lock that has the Gold rating.
You use the D-lock to secure your frame and the cable to secure your wheel.
More details on the how to lock your bike page
I hope that helps
Carl
Hello,
I have seen on amazon, the Twofold Ulockme, which says it is gold secure rated. Can you confirm this please?
I can’t even find that on Amazon Dave.
Is a bike rack lock registered?
A great list and a great help! But I have to notice a continuing error: Master Lock 8195 is NOT 16 mm thick, but only 13 mm.
Btw, I have a Master Lock 8195 for a couple of months, and so far I’m very satisfied! (Although, I’m still trying to find out: what makes it Sold Secure Gold if for example OnGuard Bulldog is only Silver?)
Thanks Stipe … Fixed!
Could be because the OnGuard is easier to pick (rake)? Although that would affect the rankings of the other OnGuards too.
Hi Carl, the shackle diameter of the Trelock U5 Mini, Trelock U5 Mini Flex and AXA Newton Pro is 13 mm.
Yours, Ralf
Thanks so much for that Ralf!
I’ve updated the table.
It’s so annoying when they advertise the diameter to include the coating.
I’ve seen a Sold Secure Gold logo on the advertising for a lock by Ulockmi but it’s not on the list here?
Hi Paul,
Yep there is a Sold Secure Gold Ulockmi lock.
I’m in the middle of updating the list right now! Unless it looks really bad, it should be up in a couple of days.
Thanks
Carl
Is this a Gold rated combination D lock, or am I missing something here??
Kryptonite KryptoLok Combination U-Lock
https://www.soldsecure.com/product/kyptonite-combo-u-lock
Yep, I’m not sure how I missed this. Thanks Wolfe, it’s in there now.
Hi Carl. Thanks for the really useful site. For gold-rated locks sold with a cable, do you know if the cable is also considered to be gold-rated? I can’t find any information on this other than statements that the cables are for “locking wheels an accessories” which implies they may not be. Ideally I’d like to carry a smaller & lighter gold-rated D-lock with a cable, using the cable to fulfil my insurance requirement to “lock to an immovable object with a sold secure gold rated lock”. Thanks.
Hi Marius,
No the cables that come with gold rated locks are definitely not gold rated themselves. And if you use them to lock your bike to an immovable object, not only will you void your insurance, your bike you will almost certainly be stolen.
These cables are only meant to go round your wheels to discourage people taking them. You need to use the main lock on your frame.
Thanks!
Carl