- By: James Grear
- Last updated:
It’s understandable that you want the best chain lock possible for your bike, so I’ve written this article to help you find the bike chain lock that best suits your needs.
Many people don’t know that a bike is stolen every 90 seconds in the UK according to crime statistics.
This means almost 360,000 bikes are stolen each year and that’s excluding the rest of the world!
In this review, I’ll help you find the best chain lock so that your bike isn’t included in this ever-rising number!
The UK police force advises cyclists to spend at least 10-15% of their bike’s value on its security, so bear this in mind when choosing a chain lock for your bike.
After all, it wouldn’t make sense to buy a top of the range bike just to secure it with a flimsy plastic bike lock!
Before we get into the best chain locks, if you’d like to view a wider selection of top-rated bike locks, read my review of the best bike locks or the best uncuttable locks.
There are so many different types of bike lock on the market it can feel overwhelming when searching for the best chain lock for you and your bike.
To categorise the recommended chain locks below, I break them down into two categories, portable chains and stationary chains.
If you’re after a larger chain that you can keep at home, you’ll want a stationary chain (my recommended stationary chains can be found towards the bottom of this article).
If you know you want something that offers a mix of security and practicality, take a look at the 12mm bike chain locks below.
Use the table of contents below and navigate to your preferred chain size.
Portable & Stationary Bike Chain Locks - What's the Difference?
Portable bike chains are locks that you could use on the go. Ultimately, a lock’s portability will depend on how strong you’re feeling, but some chain locks are super heavy and it wouldn’t make sense to carry around such a big piece of metal.
Portable chain locks are suitable for keeping in your rucksack or can normally be worn over the shoulder. Some chain locks like the Hiplok Gold can be worn like a belt around the waist, greatly increasing their practicality and portability.
If you’re looking for a portable bike chain lock, look out for the Hiplok gold below.
It’s worth noting that many portable chain locks don’t offer the same level of security as a stationary chain lock does.
This is simply because they use smaller, thinner chain links to decrease the overall weight of the chain and increase its portability.
Stationary chain locks offer better levels of security than portable chains, thanks to their thicker, bigger chain links.
It would be a very uncomfortable ride if you decided to carry one around in your backpack. Instead, stationary chain locks are much more suitable for remaining in one location where you frequently secure your bike.
Many people choose to use a bulky stationary chain lock at home where they secure their bike overnight.
If you use your bike to commute to work and secure your bike in the same location each day, it could be a good idea to get a super secure stationary lock that you can leave locked up when you’re not using it.
By doing this, you won’t have to carry a lock with you whilst commuting and will have access to a more secure chain for your bike whilst at work.
How to Choose/Find the Best Chain Lock for You
There are several things to consider when selecting the best bike chain lock.
First of all, as explained above, you’ll need to decide if you require a portable or stationary chain lock. No need to rush this decision though!
I’ve made a variety of different recommendations below, so take your time and check each locks features.
Nobody wants to have their bike stolen, but at the same time, it wouldn’t make a huge amount of sense to secure a £30 bike with a £200 chain lock.
However, if your bike has sentimental value to you, you’ll want a more secure lock, which is likely to cost you slightly more.
This means you should also bear the security and price in mind when trying to find the best chain lock for your bike.
Make sure to look out for Sold Secure ratings, these display how secure each chain is and what it’s suitable for.
As with all of my reviews, I’ll be comparing the chain locks below based on their security, practicality and price which should make it easier to find the best chain lock for you. Some locks will be heavier, some lighter and some will be more secure.
The general rule of thumb you can follow with almost all bike locks is, the thicker the links/shackle the more secure the lock, so make sure to consider this.
Factors That Affect a Bike Chain Lock's Security
Locking Device
The chains I recommend below use a number of different locking systems. Some chains such as the Kryptonite Evolution Series chains use integrated locks.
These integrated chains have locks directly attached to the chain links. This can be convenient as this style of lock doesn’t weigh as much as a hefty disc lock, but it doesn’t provide the same level of security.
The chains I recommend below use a number of different locking systems. Some chains such as the Kryptonite Evolution Series chains use integrated locks.
These integrated chains have locks directly attached to the chain links. This can be convenient as this style of lock doesn’t weigh as much as a hefty disc lock, but it doesn’t provide the same level of security.
As mentioned above, other bicycle chains use disc locks to secure either end of the chain.
The Kryptonite New York Disc Lock (keep an eye out for this one) is one of the strongest disc locks available and is utilised by a number of the chains below.
The majority of bike chains that use disc-style locks receive better Sold Secure ratings. Many of the chains below have Sold Secure Gold or Diamond ratings.
Padlock-style locks are also used to secure bike chains. These feature a solid metal shackle which is looped through the chain and slots into the padlock’s locking holes.
These are similar to disc locks, and provide a high level of security for your bike.
This doesn’t mean however that a padlock from your kitchen cupboard will provide suitable levels of security. Only padlocks specifically designed for bicycle security should be used on a bike chain lock.
Padlocks intended for bicycle security normally shroud the shackle with metal casing so that it is not left vulnerable to bolt cutters.
Chain Link Size
The thicker the link, the stronger the bike chain. The thicker the shackle, the stronger the bike lock. Many bike chains use thinner links to save costs on materials and to make the lock more practical.
Below I only recommend chains with 9mm links or thicker. Simply because, if the links were any thinner they could be easily cropped by a small pair of bolt cutters.
Bolt cutters are probably the most common tool used by bike thieves. If you’re worried about your bicycle’s security it might be worth looking at a chain with thicker links.
- 9-12mm links can be cut with medium-sized bolt cutters, the quality of the metal used to create the chain will depend on how easy the bike chain is to crop.
- 13-15mm bicycle chain locks can only be cropped with the largest bolt cutters but provide impressive resistance and will come out on top a lot of the time.
- Chains with 16mm or thicker links can’t be cropped with bolt cutters and provide the highest levels of security for your bike.
Materials Used
You could have the thickest bike chain lock in the world, but if it were made from glass your bike would be extremely vulnerable to theft.
This means you should pay attention to the materials used when deciding on the best chain lock for you. Most of the best and most secure chains use hardened steel. Steel is extremely strong and hard to cut.
Sneak Peek - Our 4 Favourite Chain Locks
Last update on 2024-09-05 at 05:00 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Best Bike Chain Locks
“The best bike chain lock” will be different for everyone and will depend upon your needs and requirements. I’ve included the three best locks of each link size below and have written a small review on each lock.
Have a look and see which works best for you, if you have any questions drop me a comment at the bottom of the page!
The Best 9mm Chain Locks
As explained above 9mm bicycle chains are on the thin side and can be cropped with medium bolt cutters, so I was slightly reluctant to recommend these.
However, you may have a cheaper bike that is not appealing to thieves, in which case it would be understandable to use one of these. If you’re able to I would advise a chain lock with thicker links.
ABUS City Chain 1010
The ABUS City Chain Bike Lock is my first recommendation for those looking for a 9mm chain lock.
This lock, like the Kryptolok shown below, gained the Sold Secure Gold rating, making it stronger and more secure than the Kryptonite Moly.
This lock comes in four different lengths 85cm (2.8′), 110cm (3.6′), 140cm (4.6′) and 170cm (5.6′). The ABUS City Chain’s links, body and inner mechanism housing are made from specially hardened steel and form a strong, protective chain.
ABUS added a clever automatic keyhole cover to this lock, which keeps the inner locking mechanism dust and debris free. The ABUS City Chain 1010 weighs 1.8kg (3.96lb) which makes it a good choice if you’re looking for a portable bike lock.
The City Chain also comes with a strong fabric sleeve to for those of you that like to keep your bike’s paintwork in pristine condition.
Thanks to its Gold Sold Secure rating and premium features, the City Chain is definitely the best 9mm chain lock available.
Its 85cm chain length also gives you enough locking room to secure multiple components, a huge bonus.
Kryptonite Messenger Chain and Moly Lock
The Kryptonite Messenger Chain & Moly is another great choice of chain lock. This chain’s links are 9.5mm thick, which gives you extra security.
However, the Messenger chain only achieved a Sold Secure Silver rating which shows it is not as secure as the ABUS City Chain.
The Messenger is 100cm (3.3′) long, giving plenty of length for awkward locking situations, and the possibility of securing more than one bike at a time.
Weighing in at 2.84kg (6.26lb) the Messenger bike chain is the heaviest chain lock out of my recommended 9mm chains.
The video below shows the LockPickingLawyer (a Youtuber renowned for his lock picking skills) attempting to pick and disassemble the Messenger Chain and Moly Lock.
Even the LockPickingLawyer himself was surprised by this bike chain’s impressive security features!
Take note, that when using this chain you have the most locking options due to its increased length. This allows you to easily secure both of your wheels and your bike’s frame at the same time.
The Messenger’s links are made from manganese steel, which resists damage and has a high impact strength.
Kryptonite Kryptolok Series 2 995 Mini
The Kryptolok Series 2 955 Mini Chain is my final recommendation for 9mm chain locks. The Kryptolok is the shortest lock in the 9mm category and measures just 55cm (1.8′) long.
This bicycle chain lock weighs in at 1.77kg (2.2lb) making it the lightest 9mm chain of my recommendations and very suitable for storing in a rucksack.
Like the Messenger chain, the Kryptolok’s links are made from manganese steel. Kryptonite’s End Link design eliminates the vulnerabilities of a padlock and secures the chain with a hardened deadbolt.
This chain is available in three different sizes, the mini 55cm (1.8′), 95cm (3.1′), 120cm (3.9′) providing options suitable for securing multiple bikes.
A close second place for the Kryptolok, narrowly missing out on the top spot due to its weight for the length that the chain offers. Definitely the most portable out of the three 9mm bike chains.
The 995 Mini Bike chain lock also received the Sold Secure Gold rating, giving it the same security ratings as the ABUS City Chain. It also received 2/5 stars from ART, the dutch bicycle security testing foundation.
Last update on 2024-09-05 at 05:00 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Best 10mm Chain Locks
10mm bicycle chain locks are only slightly more secure than the 9mm chains above. They do however offer increased protection for your bike and offer more resistance to bolt cutters. However, 10mm is still not ideal as if a thief had enough time and strength they could use bolt croppers to defeat these chains.
Kryptonite Series 4 1090 Integrated Chain
The Kryptonite Evolution Series 4 Integrated chain lock is the first of my 10mm bicycle chain recommendations.
This bike chain is similar to the 9mm Series 2 Kryptonite lock above but offers a higher level of security for its users.
The Series 4 uses Kryptonite’s patented Oval Crossbar Lock Head along with their patent-pending End Link Design, to provide a strong, secure lock.
Each link of the Series 4 chain is 10mm thick and is made from 3T manganese steel.
There are four different lengths available for the Evolution Series 4, 21.7″ (55cm), 35.5″ (90cm) and 5.25′ (160cm).
The shorter 55cm chain doesn’t offer a huge amount of locking space, but it is much more portable than the longer variants.
The 90cm variant provides plenty of locking room and could even be used to secure multiple bikes. The 90cm chain weighs in at 6.1lb (2.77kg) making it heavy, but this could still be used as a portable bike chain lock.
Sold Secure gave the Evolution Series 4 the prized Gold security rating. Like all of Kryptonite’s locks, you’ll receive a lifetime warranty with the Evolution Series 4.
You’ll also benefit from a sliding dust cover that keeps the keyhole free of debris along with a weather-resistant nylon sleeve that will keep your lock from scratching your bike.
Read my individual review of this lock here.
Hiplok Gold
The Hiplok GOLD is the first chain lock in our list that is designed to be worn whilst you’re cycling.
Thanks to its integrated belt system the Hiplok Gold can be worn around the waist, providing a comfortable and super practical ride.
You have probably already realised the Hiplok Gold is another Sold Secure Gold-rated bicycle chain, putting it up there with the best.
The Hiplok is 33.5″ (85cm) long, and it’s adjustable strap means it will fit securely onto most waists (30-44″).
The Hiplok Gold’s 10mm chain links are made from hardened steel and its 12mm padlock shackle provides protection against bolt cutters as padlocks are normally considered a weak/targeted area.
This 10mm bicycle chain lock gained Hiplok’s maximum security rating, and weighs in at 2.2kg so is the second lightest 10mm chain lock out of my top 3.
When purchasing the Hiplok Gold you’ll receive 3 coded replaceable keys, and Hiplok’s lifetime warranty, that will keep your lock functioning properly.
Thanks to its incredible portability, the Hiplok Gold is easily the best 10mm bike chain lock on the market, and is my choice of 10mm chain lock.
ABUS Granit City Chain X Plus 1060
My third and final 10mm chain lock is the ABUS Granit CityChain XPlus 1060. This Sold Secure Gold rated bike chain also gained 3/5 stars from ART the Dutch security rating body.
The CityChain XPlus 1060 comes in four different lengths, 33.5″ (85cm), 43.4″ (110cm), 4.59′ (140cm) and 5.57′ (170cm).
All of these chains received ABUS’ 15/15 maximum security rating, making the Granit CityChain XPlus 1060 suitable for use in ‘high risk’ areas.
ABUS’ power cell technology means this bicycle chain lock offers the highest level of protection against impacts and attempts to break the lock.
Have a look at how the lock functions in the video below.
The XPlus locking cylinder also offers extreme protection against picking, increasing the all-round security of this impressive bike chain lock.
The 85cm CityChain XPlus 1060 weighs 4.62 lb (2.1kg) making it the lightest 10mm bike chain lock.
Whilst it’s the lightest, the CityChain doesn’t offer the same incredible practicality as the Hiplok Gold.
Last update on 2024-09-05 at 05:00 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Best 12mm Bike Chains
12mm bicycle chain locks provide a compromise between security and price. All of these chains have achieved the second highest bicycle security rating, Sold Secure Gold.
Some of these chains have gone a step further and provide Motorcycle Sold Secure Gold, a level of security which is substantially harder to achieve.
Again, these chains are a compromise between security and price. If your bike isn’t hugely valuable one of these locks will do a great job of securing it.
Oxford Monster Sqaure Chain Lock and Padlock
The Oxford Monster 12mm Square Chain Lock and Padlock is, without doubt, one of the best bike chain locks (in the 12mm category).
Available in two different lengths 3.95′ (120cm) & 4.92′ (150cm) the Monster 12mm chain lock isn’t hugely portable.
This chain lock isn’t designed to be carried around, so bear that in mind.
The oxford Monster would be a great bike chain lock to use at work in a communal bike shed and would be able to secure multiple bikes at once.
The shorter 3.95′ Oxford Monster chain weighs 7.94lb (3.6kg) and its links are made from impressive NiCr-Mo-alloy steel.
NiCr-Mo has amazing anti-corrosion properties, this means the Oxford Monster 12mm Chain resists rust and corrosion from moisture and debris. This brilliant feature ensures that this square chain lock stays in great condition and does not deteriorate as many cheaper chain locks would.
The Oxford Monster chain comes with an ultra-strong 16mm thick padlock that is protected by a hardened boron steel casing. The padlock is double locking, which gives it extra strength and resists twist attacks.
This Monster bike chain received the Sold Secure Gold Motorcycle rating meaning it surpasses the requirements for the Sold Secure Diamond Bicycle rating.
This chain will keep your bike safe and secure if you know how to lock your bike properly!
Milenco Coleraine 12mm Integrated Chain
Milenco say themselves that the Milenco Coleraine 12mm Chain Lock was designed to ‘far exceed the requirements for the Motorcycle Sold Secure Gold security rating’.
This integrated chain lock is possibly the best chain lock yet to be featured in this article. The Coleraine chain measures 100cm long, which gives you plenty of space to secure your bike and its components.
The 3.28′ (100cm) Coleraine bicycle chain weighs 3.7kg, so if you’re feeling strong this could be carried over your shoulder, but in most cases, this would make a perfect stationary bike lock.
For those looking for a longer bike chain, there are two longer versions available 4.59′ (140cm) & 5.9′ (180cm).
All lengths of the Milenco Coleraine Chain achieved the Sold Secure Diamond Bicycle & Motorcycle Gold rating, an impressive feat which not many bike chains have achieved!
Milenco supply the chain lock with three stainless steel keys, more keys can be cut upon request.
The inner locking system is covered by a corrosion-resistant plastic shell, this prevents foreign particles from entering the cylinder and keeps it in pristine condition.
The chain of the Coleraine is encased by a scratch prevention sleeve, that will protect your bike’s paintwork.
I did find that when the chain was brand new some of the yellow Milenco logo flaked off quite easily, but this didn’t cause any issues.
A fantastic choice of a bicycle chain lock.
Kryptonite New York Noose 1275
You’ve probably seen the Kryptonite New York Noose 1275 elsewhere on BikeLockWiki.
If you’ve previously read about this chain lock, you won’t be surprised that it appears here amongst the best bike chain locks.
Each 12mm link of the New York Noose is crafted from Kryptonite’s 3t hardened manganese steel, which as previously stated resists wear and tear and can be subjected to repeated impact and abrasion without sustaining damage.
The New York Noose 1275 is 29.5″ (75cm) long and weighs only 6.95 lb (3.15kg).
This reduced weight makes the 1275 Noose the lightest and most portable/practical of the best 12mm bike chains.
There are longer chain lengths available at 3.25′ (100cm), 4.25′ (130cm) and 5.5′ (170cm). Sold Secure awarded the New York Noose the Gold security rating.
Whilst this chain didn’t achieve the Sold Secure Gold motorcycle rating like the other two 12mm chains, it is more portable and its genius noose feature provides more locking options.
Using the circular link you can thread the chain back through itself, creating a noose which can be wrapped around an immovable object.
This feature greatly extends the usable length of this chain and can be very handy if you secure your bike in a busy bike park where spaces are hard to come across!
This New York Bike Chain is supplied with Kryptonite’s Evolution Series 4 disc lock. The Evolution disc lock makes use of a Max-Performance 14mm steel shackle and a double deadbolt locking system.
This dramatically increases this bike chain’s security as unlike most chain locks, the locking mechanism is not a weak point.
This is the best 12mm bicycle chain lock.
Last update on 2024-09-05 at 05:00 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Best 14mm Chain Locks
As strong as you may be feeling, it’s unlikely you’ll be able to carry a 14mm chain lock with you whilst you’re cycling. These chains are chunky and weigh considerably more than smaller chains.
14mm bike chains are best used as stationary bike locks in your bike shed at home or at work. Most of these 14mm chains come in different lengths, some of which can be used to secure multiple bikes.
These locks still can’t be considered ‘bolt cutter proof’, but will put up one hell of a fight if someone attempted to steal your bike.
The video below shows Wayne Winton a professional locksmith and Youtuber attempting to cut through similar chains to the those I’ve selected as the best 14mm chain locks. It’s safe to say, he doesn’t get far!
Kryptonite Fahgettaboudit Chain 1410
Yet again, another Kryptonite chain lock and this time it’s the Kryptonite Fahgettabdouit Chain 1410.
This hefty chain weighs in at 10.8lb (4.9kg) and makes use of 14mm hexagonal 3t hardened steel links that challenge bolt cutters.
The Fahgettaboudit 1410 is 3.28′ (100cm) long and can be used to secure most of your bike’s components. There is also a larger 4.92′ (150cm) version of this chain available.
Alternatively, this super-strength bike chain could be used to safely lock multiple bikes at once. You’ll also receive three stainless steel keys, one of which features an ultrabright LED light for usage in the dark.
This chain comes with one of Kryptonite’s highest security disc locks, the New York disc lock.
The New York disc lock features Kryptonite’s double deadbolt system which easily repels twist and hydraulic attacks.
The shackle of the disc lock is 15mm thick and is made from Max-Performance steel.
A sliding dustcover protects the inner locking mechanism from build-ups of dust and debris, whilst the inner cylinder is protected by anti-drill and anti-pull measures.
This bike chain lock received the Sold Secure Diamond Bicycle & Motorcycle Gold rating, putting it up there with the best chains on the market and making it suitable for use in high-risk areas.
Essentially this is a larger stronger version of the Kryptonite Noose Chain, just without the noose!
Like all of the best chain locks, this chain comes with a durable nylon cover, to protect your bike and the chain from corrosion/abrasion.
Definitely my choice of 14mm bike chain.
New York Legend Chain 1515
The New York Legend Chain 1515 is an imposter in the 14mm category. It’s 3t hardened steel chain links measure 14.5mm making it the thickest of my three suggestions, and potentially the best bike chain lock (in the 14mm category).
The New York Legend 1515 weighs 14.7lb (6.6kg) so is substantially heavier than the other chains in this category, however, these are all stationary locks so the extra weight won’t be a nuisance.
The chain is 4.9′ (150cm) long, giving you plenty of length to secure multiple bikes at once. It’s protective nylon sheath, will keep your bikes free from scratches whilst keeping itself sheltered from the elements.
As with all Kryptonite locks, you’ll have access to Kryptonite’s Key Safe program, which enables you to quickly get replacement keys cut should you need them.
You’ll also be covered by a lifetime warranty. Should this lock stop working through no fault of your own, Kryptonite are likely to repair/replace it, a service that not many manufacturers offer!
You’ll be surprised to hear the New York 1515 doesn’t have a Sold Secure Rating. This doesn’t mean that the lock is a write-off.
For locks to gain a Sold Secure rating, their manufacturer must submit them for testing and pay a testing fee. But it appears that the 1515 hasn’t been submitted yet.
Kryptonite gave this chain lock 10/10 on their security scale, and all other locks with this rating have achieved the Sold Secure Diamond Bicycle rating.
If this lock was to be put to the test I’m almost certain it would achieve Sold Secure Diamond Bicycle and the Motorcycle Gold rating too! So don’t let this put you off.
Milenco Dundrod + D Lock
The Milenco Dundrod is the other 14mm bike chain in my list of the best bike chain locks. Much like the Milenco Coleraine this hefty chain is designed to ‘far exceed the Sold Secure Motorcycle Gold Standard’.
This 3.28′ (100cm) bike chain received both the Sold Secure Diamond Bicycle & Motorcycle Gold ratings, putting it in contention to be one of the best bike chain locks.
The 14mm chain links of the Dundrod are made from the highest quality steel and provide a super secure lock for your bike.
The disc lock supplied with the Dundrod is visibly very similar to the Kryptonite New York disc lock and provides incredible all-round security, with double deadbolt locking.
When testing this chain I was slightly surprised by it’s weight, it’s heavier than it looks, but this is thanks to the superior steel used when creating each link.
The Dundrod + Disc Lock weigh a combined 12.34lb (5.6kg) making them heavier than the Fahgettaboudit Chain 1410.
It’s impressive sold secure ratings make this bike chain lock suitable for lock-ups in high-risk areas. Three keys are supplied with the Dundrod, and more can be printed upon request.
A great choice of lock which utilises premium materials to create a strong, reliable lock.
Last update on 2024-09-05 at 05:00 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Best 15mm Bike Chains
15mm bike chains are the largest bike chains that are readily available. Kryptonite, the leading cycle security company are the only manufacturer that offer a readily available 15mm bike chain.
Other companies such as Almax, Pragmasis and Milenco do manufacture larger locks, but most of these are not readily available and are instead made to order.
Obviously, you wouldn’t want to carry a 15mm chain lock around whilst you’re on the move so they are only for static usage. Perfect for bike sheds & garages.
Last update on 2024-09-05 at 05:00 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Kryptonite New York Legend is the largest readily available bicycle chain on the market and is possibly the best bike chain lock due to its size and security.
Kryptonite’s 15mm bike chain comes in two different sizes, which have different names but are the same model of chain, the 1515 and the 1590.
The chain lock pictured on the left is the 1590 which is 35.4″ (90cm) long and the 1515 is 4.92′ (150cm). Each 15mm chain link is made from 3T hardened steel, which have incredible bolt cutter resistance.
I’ve never heard of one of these chains being successfully cropped by hand and would be surprised if it were possible.
However there are bolt cutters out there that could just about encompass this chain, so it can’t be considered bolt cutter proof.
The New York Legend 1590 weighs 9.5lb (4.31kg) which is very reasonable for a chain of its thickness. We don’t see a Sold Secure rating for this lock, but instead an ART rating from the Dutch cycling security organisation.
They rated both of these chains at 5/5. There really aren’t many chains on the market with 5/5 from ART, this proves just how secure these chain locks are.
The padlock that comes with the Legend chain has a 16mm hardened Max-Performance shackle, that is shrouded by the reinforced outer shell.
This incredible padlock has a hardened double deadbolt locking system that protects the shackle and shrugs off twist attacks. If security is your number one priority this chain is what you need.
It’s hard to get hold of this chain lock in Europe, so if you’re a European cyclist, the Fahgettaboudit chain or the 14.5mm Legend chain are other fantastic options.
The Best 16mm Bike Chains
Finally, some un-croppable bike chain locks. It would be virtually impossible to cut/remove one of these locks with anything other than power tools.
These 16mm chains are produced by Pragmasis and Almax who manufacture some of the beefiest and best bike chain locks on the market.
For both of these 16mm bike chains, there are multiple locks to choose from.
The Squire SS65CS padlock is possibly the most secure padlock capable of locking a 16mm chain, so if you decide on one of these locks, it might be worth choosing one of them.
Although these chain locks are un-croppable, it’s worth noting that they are not readily available and you won’t recieve the same Anti Theft Protection Offer that you would do with a Kryptonite or ABUS Chain.
This means that if your bike is stolen whilst securing with one of these chains, you won’t be able to claim compensation.
Pragmasis Protector Chain
The 16mm Pragmasis Protector Chain is the best bicycle chain lock on the market. Completely un-croppable, this chain is made from hardened boron steel and weighs 3.02lb per foot (4.5kg per metre).
You won’t be surprised, the Protector achieved Gold Sold Secure Ratings in almost every single possible category, ATV/Quad, Automotive, Bicycle, Caravan/Trailer, Commercial Vehicles, Motor Scooters and Motorcycles.
It’s fair to say if you have anything that needs protecting/securing, this is the chain for the job.
Wayne Winton (the popular cycling security Youtuber) attempted the cut this bike chain lock with two giant pairs of bolt cutters.
The same cutters have cut through smaller chains like a knife through butter, except this time they barely left a scratch.
Due to the incredible hardness of the Pragmasis Protector, the bolt cutters jaws were badly damaged. They really don’t come much better than this.
The video below clearly demonstrates just how secure these bicycle chains are.
Supplied with this chain is the Squire Squire SS65CS padlock. This padlock is Sold Secure Motorcycle Gold Rated and provides an easy way to secure this hefty chain.
The squire padlock weighs 2.2lb (1kg) making it one of the best heavy-duty, armoured padlocks available.
When customising your chain at the pragmasis checkout you can make various adjustments (length, end link style and key types).
Just like the Kryptonite noose chains, you’re able to add a large circular link/noose onto the end of the Protector Chain. The feature allows you to pass the chain back through itself and increase the chain’s usable length.
You can also choose exactly what length of chain you require, starting at 2.62′ (0.8m) and working up to 19.69′ (6m). The best bicycle chain on the market (stationary).
Last update on 2024-09-05 at 05:00 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Almax Immobiliser Series III
The Almax Immobiliser Series III 16mm Chain is almost exactly the same as the Pragmasis Protector.
Its 16mm links are made from the same hardened boron steel and are completely bolt cutter proof.
The Immobiliser Series III also received Sold Secure Gold Ratings in the following categories: Automotive, Caravan/Trailer, Motor Scooters and Motorcycle as well as the all important Bicycle Diamond Rating
This shows it is a super secure bike chain locks, but it didn’t achieve as many categories as the Pragmasis Protector Chain.
The Immobiliser chain makes use of Electrophoretic plating. This special outer plating outperforms zinc plating because it is better at resisting corrosion and does not cause hydrogen embrittlement.
Put simply, this outer coating is fantastic and will keep your chain in good condition for years.
This Almax chain is supplied with the same Squire SS65CS padlock as the Pragmasis Protector, which is Sold Secure Gold Motorcycle rated. This is the second-best bike chain lock on the market (stationary).
16mm+ Bike Chain Locks
If your bike is super expensive or holds a large amount of sentimental value, you may be interested in purchasing a larger chain lock.
The next step up from 16mm chains is the 19mm chain that both Pragmasis and Almax produce.
These chains are made from the exact same materials as the chains shown just above but use a larger Squire padlock.
The problem is, these larger chains are extremely heavy. Just the padlock (the Squire SS80CS-NW4) weighs 4.85lb (2.2kg).
Pragmasis actually advise customers that these chains are ‘not recommended except for extreme situations where the ultimate deterrent is required’.
Due to the extreme size and weight of these chains, I would be hesitant to recommend them for use on a bicycle.
The heavy links and padlocks could easily cause damage to your bike. You’ll also be paying nearly double the price due to the engineering and expertise that is required to create bike chains of this calibre.
These chains aren’t really designed for bicycles, as anything more than 16mm is a slight overkill. Instead, these chains are designed for automobiles and plant machinery. Use at your own risk!
Summary - The Best Bike Chain Lock
Throughout this article, I attempted to select the three best chains for every thickness. I’ve advised the chains that I would use based on my own personal needs and which chain I think is best.
Everyone is likely to have slightly different requirements, so don’t worry if the chain that works best for you isn’t the one I’ve chosen.
As good as some of the smaller chains are, It’s hard for me to advise the use of anything smaller than 12mm.
That being said, if your bike isn’t worth much or doesn’t attract attention these locks can be a cost-effective way of securing your bike.
If you’d like to view a range of top-rated locks have a read of the 8 best bike locks on the market or these 5 uncuttable bike locks.
Last update on 2024-09-05 at 05:00 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Best Portable Bike Chain Lock
Before creating this article I knew in the back of my head that the Kryptonite New York Noose 1275 was easily one of the best chain locks on the market.
Weighing 3.15kg this chain can be slung over the shoulder or placed in your backpack for Bicycle Sold Secure Diamond security on the go.
The ingenious circular link end allows the chain to pass back through itself, giving you the ability to utilise more of the chain’s length when securing your bike.
If you’re after a chain that you can carry whilst you’re on the go, this is the one.
The best portable bike chain lock.
Last update on 2024-09-05 at 05:00 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Best Readily Available Stationary Bike Chain Lock
There wasn’t really any competition with this one. If you’re looking to purchase a stationary chain lock without any fuss, the Kryptonite New York Legend 1515 is the one for you.
Kryptonite have been producing some the best chain locks for years now, and they’ve done it again with the New York Legend.
15mm, 3 tonne hardened steel chain links keep your bike safe and sound whilst secured.
The 16mm shrouded armoured padlock makes that comes with the 1515 is bolt cutter proof, double deadbolted and repels all forms of attack.
Say goodbye to thieves. For the security this incredible chain provides, it’s a sold at a very reasonable price too.
Last update on 2024-09-05 at 05:00 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Best Stationary Bike Chain Lock
If I had to choose between the Pragmasis and the Almax 16mm bike security chains, I’d have to go for the Pragmasis Protector.
This is simply because it holds more Sold Secure Gold Ratings than the Almax Immobiliser Series III chain, meaning more bang for your buck.
These chains are almost exactly the same and it’s most likely that Almax simply didn’t apply for testing in the missing categories. However, it’s nice to have the extra security ratings for added peace of mind.
The Almax chains aren’t available on Amazon, but you can find the most up to date price for the Pragmasis Protector by using the link below.
Last update on 2024-09-05 at 05:00 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
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