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D Locks vs Folding Bike Locks – Which Is More Secure?

D lock vs folding bike lock, a very interesting topic, and probably the reason why you’re here. These two styles of bike lock have many different features.

Below we will explore the pros and cons of D locks and folding locks to help find out which works best for you!

The choice between the two can be a difficult one to make. Don’t worry though, If you’ve been struggling to decide, you’ve come to the right place.

I’m going to talk you through the security, practicality and price of both lock types as well as recommending some of the best from either category.

ABUS Bordo Granit 6500 X Plus & Kryptonite Fahgettaboudit Mini Bike locks
The Kryptonite Fahgettaboudit Mini and the ABUS Borod Granit X Plus 6500. Both locks are guaranteed to protect your ride. I use both, but which is better?

I thought before jumping into the deep end, I’d let you in on the quick key differences. If you’re looking for a bike lock that is super secure, will last a long time and provides great value for money, then you’ll probably want a good quality D lock.

However, if portability and practicality are your main priorities a folding bike lock could be more suited to your needs. But don’t make your mind up just yet!

Below you’ll find a much more detailed breakdown of either locking system. A good quality bike lock can cost a fair amount, so it’s worth finding out which will work best for you before making a purchase.

Table of Contents
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    D Locks vs Folding Bike Lock

    Security 

    How Secure Are D Locks?

    Good quality D locks have unrivalled strength and would serve anyone well. All D locks have a solid metal shackle. Most of the best D locks will be made from some form of hardened steel.

    The Kryptonite Fahgettaboudit Mini is one of the strongest D locks on the market. This Mini D lock features an 18mm max-performance hardened steel shackle which is completely boltcutter proof.

    Best Bike D Lock

    The Fahgettaboudit Mini boasts the thickest shackle on the market of any D lock.

    The general rule of thumb you can follow with most bike locks is, the thicker the shackle, the stronger the lock. So it’s safe to say, they don’t come much stronger than this.

    It’s worth noting, not many D locks are as strong as the Fahgettaboudit Mini. Many bike locks are manufactured with cheaper materials to cut costs.

    This means it’s worth buying from a reputable manufacturer rather than a really cheap lock that will last a few weeks!

    That being said, there there are several highly affordable bike locks that offer great levels of security. Fortunately, I’ve reviewed them for you, have a read here.

    The video above shows the Kryptonite Fahgettaboudit Mini in action. Even an advanced pair of hydraulic bolt cutters couldn’t beat it!

    If your bike is expensive or has sentimental value to you, protect it. Take a look at my review of the 8 best bike locks or the 5 uncuttable bike locks.

    D locks don’t feature any external moving parts. This is great because moving parts create weak points. If these weak points are accessible they could easily be targeted by thieves.

    The only moving parts a D lock uses are inside the locking mechanism.

    The locking mechanism of a D lock is encapsulated by an outer metal casing. This casing is normally made from steel and prevents thieves from gaining access to the inner parts of the mechanism.

    Bicycle D lock parts
    (Click to enlarge)

    If you’re looking to purchase a good quality D lock, you’ll want one that uses a double locking shackle.

    Older D locks (along with the cheaper ones on the market today) only secure one side of the shackle. This presents a major security flaw.

    If a thief bends or twists the shackle enough, the side of the shackle is not secure can pop out of place, releasing your bike! 

    A double bolted shackle will resist larger amounts of pressure and will withstand most twisting attacks.

    Thanks to their simplistic design, D locks top the charts when it comes to security.

    How Secure Are Folding Bike locks?

    As they are a relative newcomer to the bike lock market, there isn’t currently a huge selection of folding bike locks available.

    However, there are several folding locks that offer great levels of security for your bike, whilst utilising some new and interesting features.

    It’s much harder to speak for folding bike locks as a whole. This is due to the large number of unbranded knock-offs that are being produced and sold for ridiculously cheap prices.

    Don’t be fooled by these cheap locks, they may look similar to top-quality folding locks you’ve seen, but they will perform much differently.

    Metal Chain link breaking D lock vs folding bike lock
    Cheaper bike locks are likely to be made from substandard materials that will not provide adequate protection for your bike. Purchasing a good quality lock will be cheaper than having your bike stolen!

    Even though your choices are limited when it comes to folding locks, there are locks that have gained the highest Sold Secure rating.

    The ABUS Bordo Granit X Plus 6500 was awarded the Sold Secure Gold rating, ABUS’s top security rating (15/15) and also gained 2/5 stars from the dutch security testing foundation ART.

    ABUS themselves say that this lock has Maximum strength for maximum security and that it offers a superlative level of security.

    Folding bike locks use rivets to hold the metal plates/arms together, whilst allowing them to move. As I’ve said before, moving parts provide a weak point that thieves could manipulate and target.

    However, as we’ve found out, the ABUS Bordo Granit 6500 was awarded the Sold Secure Gold rating. This proves that with the right engineering, measures can be taken to remove these weak points.

    Abus Bordo Granit X Plus 6500 links and rivets
    The ABUS Bordo Branit X Plus 6500 folding bike lock gained the Sold Secure Gold security rating. (Click to enlarge)

    Manufacturers of bike locks must submit their locks for testing with Sold Secure before they are awarded a security rating. This may explain why there are not currently a large amount of Sold Secure rated folding locks.

    As folding bike locks are a relatively new concept, not many have been manufactured. This means that only a select few have ever been Sold Secure tested.

    Even though the ABUS Bordo Granit 6500 gained the Sold Secure Gold rating, in general, folding bike locks aren’t quite as secure as D locks. 

    The difference in security is marginal, but folding locks do suffer from more vulnerabilities than D locks.

    Practicality

    How Practical Are D Locks?

    The majority of D locks now come with a frame mount. This saves you from having to carry your lock in your rucksack whilst you are cycling, which provides an easier ride and less strain on your body.

    Some newer D locks feature a slip-on carry system. This is where the lock can be slid onto your belt, or onto the waist of your trousers.

    A great example of this is the Hiplok DXC which features a super convenient “Clip and Ride” system.

    No mount is needed for you to carry the Hiplok DXC D as it can easily be stowed on your waistband, backpack, belt or even your pocket.

    This feature is perfect for cycle couriers or commuters who need to lock and unlock their bike multiple times a day.

    The Hiplok DXC D would be one of the best locks for a Deliveroo rider as it has also gained the Sold Secure Gold rating, meaning it’s up there with the strongest and best D locks!

    D locks do not feature moving parts or links like folding bike locks do. The only moving part a D lock has is its locking mechanism.

    Moving parts can become worn over time and require cleaning and maintenance to keep them working smoothly.

    Due to the simplicity of their design, D locks will not require as much maintenance as a folding bike lock. This will save you time in the long run.

    Regardless of the lock, you decide on, basic maintenance is advised to prolong the locks life and to keep it functioning smoothly.

    Before After

    The one downside of a solid metal shackle is that it is unable to adjust to fit around larger objects. For example, you may struggle to fit a smaller D lock around a lamppost.

    It’s a big inconvenience if your locks shackle won’t fit around an object you’re trying to secure it to.

    Several of top-of-the-range D locks do have smaller shackles to prevent twist or hydraulic attacks.

    D lock vs folding bike lock, D lock shackle won't fit around lamppost

    Smaller shackles aren’t suitable for all bikes. So make sure you consider the shackle size when purchasing a new bike lock.

    How Practical Are Folding Bike Locks?

    The video below shows just how convenient a folding bike lock can be. The Foldylock Clipster is always accessible when locking your bike up, and takes seconds to unlock and stow away!

    The main reason people are choosing to use a folding lock is simply for their practicality. As you know by now, folding bike locks fold down into a small compact shape.

    Most, if not all good quality folding locks come with a convenient carry case. This carry case will stop your lock from unfolding whilst you are riding your bike.

    Most of the time, these carry cases can be used to attach your lock to your bike’s frame, or sometimes even a pocket or belt.

    This practical folding feature makes folding locks perfect for people who commute to work daily, or for those who are cycle couriers and use their bikes all day long.

    If you were unable to mount a folding lock onto your bike’s frame, the chances are it would still take up less room than a D lock in your rucksack.

    Foldylock clipster d lock vs folding bike lock
    The Foldylock Clipster takes practicality to the next level. You can easily slide this folding bike lock onto your belt, onto your backpack or into your pocket.

    The function that rivets provide gives the ability to change the shape of the lock.

    Being able to change the shape and size of the locking area does make folding bike locks more practical than D locks.

    As already explained, all moving parts require some form of maintenance.

    This isn’t a long process and will make sure that your folding bike lock or D lock will keep functioning properly.

    Foldylock Clipster Folding Bike Lock | Wearable Compact Bicycle Scooter Unbreakable Security Locks | Smart Uncuttable Metal Biking Accessories | Weight 900 gr. - Circumference 85cm (RED)…
    Foldylock Clipster
    Weight: 2.2lb (1kg)
    Locking Circumference:
    33.5" (85cm)
    Foldylock Clipster Folding Bike Lock | Wearable Compact Bicycle Scooter Unbreakable Security Locks | Smart Uncuttable Metal Biking Accessories | Weight 900 gr. - Circumference 85cm (RED)…
    Foldylock Clipster
    Weight: 2.2lb (1kg)
    Locking Circumference:
    33.5" (85cm)

    Last update on 2024-03-13 at 07:54 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

    The occasional spray of a Teflon based lubricant, along with a wipe down using a clean damp cloth will do the trick.

    You have to complete the same maintenance process for a D lock, but because you’d repeat the process for each rivet, it will take slightly longer when cleaning a folding bike lock.

    By carrying out this essential lock maintenance, you’ll prevent the moving parts (rivets & locking mechanism) from corroding and gathering unwanted debris.

    If I was choosing a lock based on how practical it was, I’d use a folding bike lock for sure.

    ABUS Bordo Granit X Plus Bike Lock Security Ratings
    The ABUS Bordo Granit X Plus 6500 received incredible security ratings across the board. These ratings make it the most secure and reliable folding bike lock available today.

    Price

    D Locks - Price

    D locks vary in price. The Fahgettaboudit mini (one of the best D locks and arguably the best bike locks) is a similar price to many Sold Secure Diamond D locks and costs almost the same as the ABUS 6500 folding lock.

    In the battle of D locks vs folding bike locks, it’s worth remembering that D locks give you greater security for your money.

    There are cheaper Sold Secure Gold and Diamond D locks available on the market for little more than £20. Remember, two locks can be Sold Secure Gold rated, but this doesn’t mean they offer the same level of security.

    One of the locks may have just passed the required tests, whilst the other easily surpasses them and provides a greater level of security for your bike.

    If you want the most secure bike lock, it will cost you slightly more. Look out for guarantees and warranties such as the Kryptonite Lifetime Warranty, which offers you a lifetime of unrivalled bicycle security!

    Preview
    Kryptonite New York FAHGETTABOUDIT Lock - Yellow, Mini, 23 x 15.2 x 3 cm
    Model
    Kryptonite Fahgettaboudit Mini
    Shackle Thickness
    Shackle Diameter: 18mm
    Shackle Width:
    Shackle Width: 8.3cm (3.25")
    Shackle Height
    Shackle Length: 15.3cm (6")
    Weight
    Weight: 2.06kg (4.55lb)
    Security Ratings
    Preview
    Kryptonite New York FAHGETTABOUDIT Lock - Yellow, Mini, 23 x 15.2 x 3 cm
    Model
    Kryptonite Fahgettaboudit Mini
    Shackle Thickness
    Shackle Diameter: 18mm
    Shackle Width:
    Shackle Width: 8.3cm (3.25")
    Shackle Height
    Shackle Length: 15.3cm (6")
    Weight
    Weight: 2.06kg (4.55lb)
    Security Ratings

    Last update on 2024-03-13 at 05:50 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

    Folding Bike Locks - Price

    The price of a folding bike lock can vary drastically.

    The best folding bike lock (Foldylock Forever) as stated above will cost a similar price to the Fahgettaboudit.

    Remember, for this money you are getting the most premium folding lock on the market. The Foldylock Compact is Sold Secure Silver rated and retails just below the price of the Bordo Granit.

    Cheap folding locks can be found lock online, but they won’t provide the same security and may leave your bike vulnerable to theft.

    Whilst we all want a good deal, the cheapest option is not normally best!

    I’m always hesitant to recommend locks with no Sold Secure rating and never recommend Sold Secure Bronze locks simply because they only “offer protection against the opportunist thief”.

    Keep an eye out for those security ratings!

    ABUS Bordo Granit XPlus 6500/85 ST folding lock with lock pouch - Hardened steel bike lock - ABUS security level 15 - 85 cm - Black
    ABUS Bordo Granit XPlus 6500
    Plate Thickness: 5.5mm
    Weight Including Mount:
    3.79lb (1.72kg)
    Locking Area: 8.9" x 3.9"
    (22.6cm x 10cm)
    ABUS Bordo Granit XPlus 6500/85 ST folding lock with lock pouch - Hardened steel bike lock - ABUS security level 15 - 85 cm - Black
    ABUS Bordo Granit XPlus 6500
    Plate Thickness: 5.5mm
    Weight Including Mount:
    3.79lb (1.72kg)
    Locking Area: 8.9" x 3.9"
    (22.6cm x 10cm)

    Last update on 2024-03-13 at 05:17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

    D lock vs Folding Bike Lock - Summary

    If I had to call it, I would say that as it stands D locks are the better choice of the two lock types.

    At the end of the day, your choice of bike lock will depend on your own circumstances.

    If you’re looking for maximum security and are slightly less worried about practicality you’ll want a D lock. You’ll be able to mount almost any D lock onto your bike’s frame, which is very convenient.

    If you are looking for a super practical bike lock that will also do a good job of keeping your bike secure, you’ll want a folding lock.

    I use both the Foldylock Forever and the Fahgettaboudit Mini, and switch which I’m using based on where I’m locking my bike and how long it’ll be left for.

    My bike is reasonably valuable so I find myself using the Fahgettaboudit slightly more for its extra security.

    You could use the biggest and best bike lock in the world, but if you don’t know how to secure your bike properly, you’ll be doing yourself an injustice.

    These simple steps will drastically increase your bike’s security.

    As always, lock it or lose it. 

    Ciao for now!

    Author of This Post:
    James Grear (Lead Editor)
    James Grear (Lead Editor)

    Understanding how devastating it is to have a bike stolen, I've researched & immersed myself in the world of bicycle security since 2013.

    I then built BikeLockWiki in 2019 to share everything I'd learned with the worldwide cycling community so that cyclists can improve their bike security skills and make informed decisions when purchasing new products and services.

    Learn More about Me & BikeLockWiki here.

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    2 Responses

    1. For any decent lock, the weakest point is not parts that can be sawed or cut, but how fast the key system can be picked. Most thieves won´t walk around with saws or cutters unless they really undervalue their lives… (at least where I live it is so). But they are really good at picking the locks and nowadays there are even picking tools that look like keys… so they just have to fake that they are having problems with a wearied out key or something like that… And they´re fast…

      1. Hi Casimiro,

        That’s very interesting to hear! Do you mind me asking where you live?

        In the UK I’ve found thieves opting to use brute force or a power-tooled approach. The tools and skills required to pick high-end bike locks are normally hard to obtain and an angle grinder is a quicker solution that requires virtually zero skill to operate.

        Full-time bike thieves, that make a profession from stealing our bikes are, as you state, likely to use more sophisticated tools which are easily concealed, but as it stands, roughly 70% of bike thieves in Europe can be considered “opportunists”.

        Thanks again for your comment!

        James

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    James Grear is a lifelong avid cyclist and the lead editor of BikeLockWiki.

    Having invested over five years into researching bicycle security, all information obtained is shared for free with the online cycling community here on BikeLockWiki.

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