Unfortunately, bike theft is everywhere you go. If you have ever purchased your own bike before then you already know how painful it would be to lose it to theft. If you want to keep your bike safe and prevent it from being stolen then you need the right bike lock.
Using a quality bike lock will deter thieves and give you peace of mind. You know your bike will remain exactly where you left it if you use a lock. But what are the best bike locks for beach cruisers? I created this guide to help learn about each of the different lock types.
Bike lock features
Before I discuss the different types of bike locks to choose from, it is important to understand some of the basic features that create a quality lock you can depend on. With so many different bike locks on the market, it is overwhelming to make a decision regarding the best protection for your cruiser. Here are a few key features to look for before investing in one.
Unbreakable material
Back in the day, bike locks were constructed with a chain and encased in plastic tubing. However, advancements in technology have led to a whole new generation of high-quality locks.
Silicon coating has been implemented to deter theft and also prevent damage. Additionally, a lock made of steel or titanium is an excellent option. Cutting this type of lock with bolt cutters is nearly impossible!
A good rule of thumb to follow is to make sure the material of your lock is heavy. If there is more weight then it is more difficult to cut or break. This will give theifs difficulty when they try to steal your bike.
Even though more weight is good, you do need to be mindful that a heavy lock is challenging to manage. It can also weigh your bike down thus making it more challenging to pedal.
User friendly
The bike lock you choose must be simple to use. If you can’t figure out how to quickly and easily lock your bike then you will get frustrated and probably not lock it correctly. I know it sounds silly, but make sure it is easy to lock. It will save you from getting multiple headaches.
Lock Design
The structure or style of the lock makes a difference. I will cover the different types of locks in the next section. Each is unique but have pros and cons. The most effective is the U-lock.
Types of Cruiser Bike Locks
There are many different styles of bike locks. This guide takes a look at some of the most popular and most effective.
Bike U-Lock
The U-lock or D-lock are the most popular types of locks to use for cruiser and are certainly the most effective. They are made from durable material that is very difficult to cut. The locking mechanism is secure and easy to use.
This type of bike lock is sold in many different sizes. It is important to make sure that it is big enough to fit around your wheel or frame but also small enough to minimize any gaps.
A medium sized U-lock should be perfect for locking both wheel and frame. Thieves are typically deterred from stealing your bike when they see a U-lock.
When you are not using your U-lock, you can easily keep it secured to your bike frame. It should not interfere while pedaling.
I found one of the best U-locks on Amazon that will protect against theft. It is more expensive than some of the cheap U-locks but totally worth it if you do not want to lose your beach cruiser.
Chain lock for your bike
Thieves can typically crack through a chain lock. These are not the best bike locks on the market but they do work if you get one with an unbreakable padlock and thick chain link like the Kryptonite I found on Amazon.
These are important features for a chain lock because it will prevent your bike from being stolen. Thieves tend to prey on bikes that have thin chains with a weak padlock.
Key lock for your bike
A bike key lock is another option. These consist of a locking mechanism that needs a key to lock and unlock. Again you want to make sure the lock is made of strong material. The only downside to this type of lock is if you lose the key!
Bike Combo Locks
You can use a combination lock to secure your bike. You can either get a chain and then lock using an old school locker combo lock.
Or you can get this one I found on Amazon that uses a stretchy cable that you can wrap around your wheel and frame. The only downside to these types of cable locks is they can be difficult to handle because of their natural springiness. If you get a combo lock, don’t forget the combination!
Cable bike Lock
Cable bike locks, like the one I mentioned above, are typically not the best types of bike locks to use. They can easily be cut by bolt cutters so there is a very high risk of your bike being stolen if you use this type of lock for your beach cruiser.
I recommend using them in addition to U-locks or another type of lock. Using a cable lock by itself is basically like saying to a thief “come and steal my bike please!” Because they are not much of a deterrence, you need additional security.
Folding bike lock
This is a convenient bike lock because it folds into a small, compact unit. Since it takes up minimal space, it is easy to store and great for travel.
I found this folding bike lock on Amazon that is impossible to pick! It is also easy to mount to your bike so it will not get in the way while pedaling.
Wheel Lock
Want to protect the wheels from getting stolen on your beach cruiser? Buying a wheel lock like this one on Amazon could be one of the best investments you make this year.
They are very easy to install and make it very difficult for a thief to steal. The only way you are getting the wheel lock off your bike is if you have the key. I highly recommend you use this in addition to a regular bike lock.
Seat Lock
Yes, your beach cruiser seat can be stolen, especially if it is a quality one. To prevent thieves from taking your seat, get a clamp.
These types of locks use either a bolt and screw or a locking mechanism. They are fairly difficult to remove so you can have peace of mind that your seat will be there when you return to your bike.
Costs of Bike Locks
Bike locks vary in price. Of course, the lower quality locks are typically less expensive. Cheap bike locks range between $10 – $30. On the other end of the price spectrum, I have seen some high-quality bike locks cost upwards of $150.
You can find some decent, affordable bike locks that will keep your cruiser protected. Here is one of the best cheap bike locks I have seen on Amazon. Again, I do not recommend going with a cheap lock but if you’re on a budget, this can probably help keep your bike safe until you save up for a higher quality one.