How to Lock Your E-Bike Properly: A Complete Guide
As e-bikes grow in popularity, they’ve also become a top target for thieves. With higher price tags and portable battery systems, electric bikes require more serious locking strategies than regular bicycles. Whether you're commuting daily or parking occasionally, learning how to properly lock your e-bike is essential to protect your investment.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best practices, types of locks, and recommended security products from Pogo Cycles’ Lock Collection.
Why Proper Locking Matters
An e-bike can cost anywhere from €525 to over €3,000. Unfortunately, many thefts occur even when bikes are locked—usually because the locks used were weak or improperly applied. A good lock, paired with smart locking habits, dramatically reduces the chance of theft.
Types of E-Bike Locks and Their Uses
U-Locks (Also Known as D-Locks)
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Security Level: High
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Best For: Securing the frame and rear wheel to a fixed object
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Pros: Resistant to bolt cutters and leverage attacks
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Cons: Less flexible and may not fit around larger objects
Available at Pogo Cycles: U-locks built with hardened steel and anti-theft designs are ideal for high-risk urban areas.
Chain Locks
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Security Level: High, depending on the chain thickness
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Best For: Locking frame and both wheels to a post or rail
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Pros: Flexible, allows creative locking angles
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Cons: Heavier to carry, requires a strong padlock
Pogo Cycles offers durable chain locks designed for heavy-duty use with anti-cut technology.
Folding Locks
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Security Level: Moderate to High
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Best For: Riders who need portability with decent protection
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Pros: Compact, foldable, easy to carry
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Cons: Less resistant than thick U-locks or chains
Great for commuters who want a balance of convenience and strength.
Cable Locks
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Security Level: Low to Moderate
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Best For: Low-risk areas, short stops, or as a secondary lock
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Pros: Lightweight and flexible
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Cons: Vulnerable to bolt cutters
Use these only as a second layer of protection, not your primary defense.
Smart Locks and Alarm Systems
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Security Level: High (when combined with physical locks)
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Best For: High-risk areas and overnight parking
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Pros: Can include GPS tracking, alarm sensors, and keyless access
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Cons: Depend on battery and may cost more
Pogo Cycles also offers alarm-integrated locks that emit loud alerts when tampered with, adding an extra layer of deterrence.
How to Lock Your E-Bike the Right Way
Follow this step-by-step locking method to protect your bike effectively:
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Use two locks if possible—one U-lock or chain for the frame and rear wheel, and another (folding or cable) for the front wheel.
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Lock to a fixed, immovable object such as a steel rack or a lamp post. Avoid wooden poles or anything that can be cut or removed.
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Secure the frame first, not just the wheels. Thieves can easily detach a wheel and take the rest.
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Position the lock off the ground, ideally facing down. This makes it harder for thieves to get leverage with tools.
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Remove detachable parts like battery, display, or saddle if they’re not secured.
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Tighten the lock setup with minimal space inside the loop. Less slack means less room for tools to pry it open.
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Use alarm locks or GPS trackers for added peace of mind, especially for overnight parking.
Recommended Locks from Pogo Cycles
Here are a few quality locking solutions available from Pogo Cycles Accessories – Lock Collection:
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Anti-Theft Steel Cable Lock: A strong yet affordable option for basic ebike protection. PVC-coated for durability.
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Folding Bike Lock: Compact design with solid riveted segments—ideal for daily use and easy storage.
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Three-Piece Cable Lock Set: Useful for securing multiple parts of your bike or combining with a U-lock.
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ROCKBROS Keyless Lock: Lightweight with a 3-digit combo, ideal for helmets or quick stops.
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High-Decibel Alarm Locks: With motion detection and instant alerts, they help prevent theft before it happens.
All options are selected for compatibility with most e-bike frames, fat tires, and locking points.
Tips for Extra Security
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Always lock in a visible, well-lit area. Thieves prefer dark corners and hidden spaces.
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Register your e-bike and record the serial number. If stolen, this helps authorities track it.
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Use e-bike insurance for coverage against theft or damage.
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Install GPS trackers discreetly inside the frame or seatpost for recovery tracking.
Final Thoughts
An e-bike is a smart investment—but only if it stays yours. Using the right locking strategy is essential to protect it against theft. Invest in high-quality locks, combine different types, and follow best practices to deter even the most determined thieves.
Explore all secure locking options at Pogo Cycles Lock Collection.
Need help choosing the best lock for your bike type or city? Contact the Pogo Cycles team for personal recommendations.