Just got a new e-bike, or thinking about getting one?
There’s nothing better than the freedom of two wheels, but with an e-bike comes the need for a little extra security. After all, e-bikes are tempting targets for bike thieves because of their value.
The good news? A few simple security measures can go a long way. This guide will get you up to speed with the best ways to keep your e-bike safe, secure and protected, whether you’re parking it at home, out and about, or leaving it for a quick pit stop.
Choosing the right level of security can feel daunting, but it’s one area where it pays not to cut corners. It’s often recommended to spend around 10% to 25% of your bike’s retail value on a quality lock or locks. Think of it as an investment in protecting your investment!
Picked up a bargain second-hand e-bike? You’ll still want to invest in a high-quality lock. Even if you didn’t pay full price, thieves are interested in the value of the bike, not what you paid for it!
Where to start
Look for a lock that is Sold Secure Diamond rated. Sold Secure Powered Cycle Diamond is awarded to bike locks that provide the highest level of security for motorcycles, scooters and e-bikes. With e-bike sales surging over the last year, more cyclists are riding higher-value bikes, making robust security increasingly important. The higher the value of your bike, the higher the level of security recommended. Diamond-rated locks undergo rigorous testing, including resistance against angle-grinder attacks.
Choosing a lock to suit your riding lifestyle
No rider is the same, so it’s worth thinking about how you use your bike and what you need to take with you. Whether you’re commuting to work or enjoying a leisurely ride along the beach, your routine will help determine the right lock for you.
Consider how you’d like to carry your lock. Would you prefer to mount it directly onto your bike, or pack it into a pannier on a rack? Think about how and where you’ll be locking up, too.
The right lock should fit seamlessly into your ride, giving you confidence to park your bike, lock it securely and enjoy your time away without worrying about whether it will still be there when you return. Take our lock quiz here!
Look for lock accessories
Don’t forget to consider the accessories available for your lock. The right accessories can make carrying and using your lock more convenient, helping your security fit seamlessly into your ride.
For the LITELOK X range, Tactical Mounts are available for each D-lock, making it easy to carry your lock securely on your bike. Flexible locks can also work well alongside an X lock, giving you additional options when securing your bike.
Wearable options are also available, so you can choose the carrying solution that works best for you.
Every X lock also comes with a LITELOK X-Pouch, designed to help protect the lock from dirt and debris while keeping your bag or pannier protected too.
Choosing the right size
By now, you should have a good idea of what you’re looking for in terms of security, price and how you’ll carry your lock. The next thing to consider is size. Finding the right lock size is a little like finding the right pair of shoes. It needs to fit your bike, your riding habits and where you typically lock up.
Think about where you’ll usually park your bike and what you’ll need your lock to fit around. A lock that’s too small can limit your locking options, while a larger lock can offer more flexibility but may be heavier and less convenient to carry. It can also leave more space around the bike, potentially giving thieves more room to position tools.
Consider the places you’re most likely to park your bike and the types of objects you’ll be securing it to. The right size should give you enough room to secure your bike effectively, without adding unnecessary weight or bulk.
So, first things first: how do you lock your bike securely?
For more guidance, head to our blog on how to lock your bike here. As a general rule, you want to secure both the frame and wheel to an immovable object wherever possible.
With e-bikes, finding the right locking position can be more challenging. Chunkier tyres and larger frames can make it harder to use a D-lock on its own, which is where layering your security can be useful. For example, you could use a D-lock to secure the frame to an immovable object, then add a flexible lock such as the Core Plus or Core Flex to secure the wheels and frame. Check out our E-Bike bundles!
At LITELOK, we’re riders too, so we understand that one lock doesn’t necessarily suit every rider or every bike. That’s why we created the LITELOK X1 PLUS, with extra locking length to make securing e-bikes and bikes with larger frames easier. The additional length also makes it a versatile option for locking two bikes together or securing your helmet and other accessories.
Protect your battery
Don’t forget about the battery, it can be an easy target too. Many e-bikes have a built-in battery lock, so make sure it’s properly locked in place before you leave your bike. If your battery is removable, consider taking it with you when you can, especially if you’re leaving your bike somewhere vulnerable. And if your display or controller is removable, it’s worth taking that with you too.
Bike thieves aren’t always looking to take the whole bike. Valuable parts and components can be targeted too, from batteries and displays to wheels and other easy-to-remove parts.
Enjoy the ride - Worry Less and Ride More
You likely chose an e-bike for all the right reasons. To support your physical and mental wellbeing, make your daily commute easier, or simply enjoy the freedom of exploring different terrains with a little extra assistance.
Whatever your reason, ride with peace of mind. Keep your e-bike protected with LITELOK.
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