Have you ever thought about the best way to lock up your eBike?
As eBikes grow more popular, thieves are increasingly targeting them. So, if you have an eBike, how do you keep it safe?
Much of the advice for securing a traditional bike also applies to eBikes. However, a few differences necessitate a somewhat different approach. First, let’s look at the types of locks you can use.
D-locks or U-locks
D-locks, also known as U-locks, are widely used since they are among the lightest locks available with a high-security rating (especially compared to chain and padlock-style locks).
Smaller U-locks are usually the best choice for security and weight reasons. However, smaller U-locks are often less suitable for eBikes since the frames are larger in tubing size. To accommodate the battery pack, the down tube is usually wider. This means you’ll need a lock with a larger locking circumference to wrap around your bike and/or use a different part of the frame to secure it.
U-locks typically come with a bracket for mounting to your bike frame for transport. These mounts often break, which means that unless you are using a bag or rack, U-locks can be a bit cumbersome to carry.
Chain Locks
The versatility of the chain lock is a huge plus. If you frequently need to lock your bike to various types of street furniture, a high-security-rated chain lock is a great option. However, they tend to be among the heaviest and most expensive locks available when you buy a suitably secure option. Be cautious of cheap, non-secure chain locks that can be easily cut with bolt cutters.
Brake Disk Locks
This lock type attaches to the brake on a bicycle and stops wheel rotation. While the bike will be immobilized, it could still be picked up and taken away. A brake disc lock is small and portable but offers very little security because eBikes are light enough to be carried.
Cafe Locks
This type of lock is mounted to the rear triangle of a bike frame and, when deployed, immobilizes the rear wheel. While convenient for transport since they are permanently mounted to the bike, they do not offer much security. The bike can still be lifted and transported away, and a bolt cutter can easily break the shackle on cafe locks.
Locking Your Electric Bike
The best locking habits revolve around how long and where you have to secure your bike. Locking up for long periods on a consistent schedule makes your bike a huge target for theft. Any time you can shorten those windows or change up your routine, it helps. When locking for long periods, securing it in a designated area along with a solid lock is ideal.
For example, when you’re at the grocery store, you’ll only be leaving the e-bike for a short time, and you generally don’t do it at the same time every day. Lock up with a strong lock to a visible, permanently mounted bike rack or pole. Avoid using bike racks that are tucked away in corners or not anchored to the ground.
If you’re leaving your eBike for longer periods, check whether the place you’re visiting has a secure bike parking facility. Many commercial and residential buildings offer this option. If not, inquiring with the building manager may encourage them to establish one.
If locking your eBike outside is your only option, follow these tips to help avoid theft:
- Never leave it outside overnight.
- Secure it in a well-lit, high-traffic area. A crowded location makes it difficult to break a lock without being seen.
- Avoid patterns. If a thief notices you leaving your bike in the same spot every day, they may plan an attack.
Securing Your eBike While Traveling or Camping
When camping or traveling, it’s best to remove the front wheel and lock it through the main triangle and to a fixed object or a vehicle. If your lock is long enough, weave it through the main triangle, back wheel, and the removed front wheel.
Making a bike partially disassembled forces a thief to work harder, which is precisely what you want. Most thieves look for easy targets and will likely move on if stealing your bike requires too much effort.
Use Multiple Locks
Making your electric bicycle difficult to steal is your best line of defense. One of the most effective ways to do this is by using multiple locks. As the first line of defense, a U-lock is recommended, but adding a secondary lock increases security. The more locks in place, the longer it takes a thief to free the eBike, potentially deterring them entirely.
Lock Through the Frame
Whichever lock you choose, always secure your eBike to a fixed object through the main triangle of the frame. The frame is the most valuable part of an eBike and should be prioritized for protection.
Make Theft Inconvenient
If you don’t have a good place to lock your bike, make the thief’s job as difficult as possible. One last-minute hack is to lock your bike to multiple grocery carts. While still technically stealable, it would require a group effort to lift a couple of carts and a bike into a van, making the theft far more inconvenient.
Serial Number and Bike Theft Apps
Each eBike has a unique serial number. This number is essential for identification if your bike is stolen and later recovered. Make a note of it and take pictures of your bike to help in identification.
There are apps available that allow you to build a profile with details and photos of your eBike. If your bike is stolen, these apps notify the authorities and other local users, increasing the chances of recovery.
Consider Insurance
If multiple locks and strategic storage don’t provide enough peace of mind, consider bicycle insurance. Since eBikes have a motor, standard home insurance may not cover theft, damage, or liability.
While insurance won’t prevent theft, it can save you from the financial burden of replacing your bike. A quick online search will reveal numerous eBike insurance options.
Final Tips for Securing Your eBike
To make your e-bike more difficult to steal:
- Invest in 2-3 locks to increase security.
- Register your bike’s serial number and take photos for easy identification.
- Choose well-lit, high-traffic areas so any potential thief is more likely to be noticed.
By taking these steps, you can significantly reduce the risk of eBike theft and enjoy your rides with greater peace of mind.