Motorcycle theft is on the rise. It is a fact that motorcycle theft is commonplace in cities with a large number of these vehicles. A wide variety of motorcycle locks can be found in the market, which can be divided into the five main categories below. Each category has its advantages and disadvantages, which are explained here to help you make a choice when deciding to buy one.

Chain locks and anchors

Without question, these locks are highly deterring. Their main advantages lie in their sturdiness and resistance to attack with cutters, saws, etc. Their characteristics make them ideal for protecting a motorcycle in a garage. On the other hand, their weight and cumbersome nature mean they are difficult to use when parking a motorcycle on the street.

The most common chain lengths range from 1.2 metres to 2 metres. Those that provide the greatest level of security are those with hardened steel chain thicknesses between 10 and 14 mm.

In order to offer increased security, most of these chains have no in-built locking device but rather require a padlock to secure them. We recommend using a high-security padlock for this purpose. This will ensure that the great protection provided by a sturdy chain is not cancelled out by a padlock with average or low resistance to being opened by force.

In terms of anchors, we can differentiate between shackle anchors and those referred to as metal bridge anchors. The first usually provide a greater level of security because the thickness of the shackle is larger than those on a metal bridge anchor.

Ball-joint locks

These locks comprise of a series of articulated ball-joints (usually steel) that protect an interior cable (also made from the same material). This is all covered in plastic to protect the components from damp and dirt while also protecting the motorcycle from scratches.

Ball-joint locks are known for combining robustness and flexibility. They are the chosen option for many motorcyclists when protecting their vehicle in cities. Their length usually varies between 1.2 and 2 metres. It should also be noted that some models include powerful alarms that are activated whenever the lock is manipulated without the key.

Brake disc locks

These devices are installed in the holes on ventilated brake discs to prevent the wheel from turning if the motorcycle is used while they are in place. Many motorists choose to accompany their disc locks with reminder cables running between the lock bolt at one end and the handlebar at the other. This avoids damage to the motorcycle when accidentally started with the lock in place.

Their small size and weight make them a great option that also guarantees a decent level of security. Disc locks come in many shapes and colours, and some even include powerful alarms of over 100 decibels, adding another major anti-theft feature.

U-shackle locks

They consist of a large steel shackle and a base to which it is anchored. Their main advantage is that they can be carried on the motorcycle (some models include an under-seat attachment) and they offer a good level of security.

It is always good when a U-shackle lock has enough space to anchor the motorcycle wheel to a fixed element, such as a post or fence. However, this is not essential because short shackle models can be used to lockout the wheel spokes and thus offer a similar level of security.

Articulated locks

These models consist of steel bars linked by steel bolts that help fold and unfold the device. Their great advantage is the ease with which they can be transported in combination with a good level of security. They are also available in various sizes, enabling only the wheel to be locked or the wheel to be anchored to some external fixed element.