Will eBike Anti Theft Systems be Enough to Provide a Sense of Security?
eBike anti-theft equipment is what we need to give us peace of mind when leaving the bike unattended.
Surely, you have been wondering what is the best way to secure your electric bike. A lock through the tires? Or maybe the frame? What about the characteristics of the lock based on the security triangle (cheap, lighter, or more secure)?
These questions are not simple to answer, as many thieves have developed ways to break through most e-bike locks.
Let’s look at some methods that will help keep it secure.
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E-Bike Lock Mechanisms Alternatives
You will find plenty of e-bike locking mechanisms if you do a simple internet search.
From the alternatives below, consider how much you are willing to spend and how easy it is to find a decent locking system.
U-Lock mechanisms
Based on what I have seen, many options can be considered the best eBike lock alternatives. This is especially true for those with tight budgets.
| Kryptonite
|
✅ Can be used to lock the frame and tires at the same time.
X: It is a bit bulky, heavy and apparently hard to lock. |
| Via Velo
|
✅ Sturdy and great customer service (based on users’ experience). X: you will need the key to lock and unlock. |
| Abus SmartX
|
✅ It is much lighter than the Kryptonite U-Lock, which makes it the favorite brand for most users.
X: The locking system end is a bit too big, so it could be bothersome. |
Securing the tires will prevent one of them from being stolen (which happens in most cases).
As for the frame, it is not what thieves usually target, but limiting its movement will reduce access to weak points and prevent the bike from rolling over.
Complementary mechanisms
As technology evolves, some manufacturers have also embedded locking systems for more sophisticated electric bicycles.
This is the case of Bosch with its e-bike controller electric lock, which allows users to remove it and, therefore, deactivate the motor assistance.
As you can see, this is just a complementary mechanism on top of any standard mechanical lock.
Unfortunately, this system only works if the motor and battery are Bosch as well.
It is up to you to expend a few dollars on a descent mechanical locking system, but if you have this Bosch system, why not try it?
Chains and alarms
Now, if you have little budget, why buy an electric bike? I know there are a few affordable models. The same applies to anti-theft locking systems.
My research shows that the Kryptonite and Abus models are the most popular ones.
| Kryptonite lock chain
|
✅ Quick and easy locking system.
X: It can be heavier than a U-Lock version. |
| FoldyLock compact
|
✅ Compact and easy to lock.
X: It is not too flexible and a bit short. |
eLinkSmart Fingerprint Lock System  |
✅ Lock or unlock by using your finger.
X: Requires batteries charged, so be careful if you run out. |
Abus Bordo ebike alarm |
✅ Loud alarm and sturdy.
X: It may be a little short if the anchor point is not easily accessible. |
Cutting the power source
If you don’t have an e-bike equipped with Bosch technology, there are other ways to restrict it from being stolen.
This is the case when removing the battery. Most electric bicycles let you remove it, either for charging purposes or to reduce the thieves’ temptation.
The only flip side is that you may need a bag to carry the extra weight.
All in all, of course, it’s never impossible for someone to steal your bike if they really have the motivation and tools to do so, but depending on where you secure the lock, it will make it harder for them.
Lockup Location
One thing that many people can be careless about is where they leave their bikes locked up. There are endless spots on the side of the road to lock your bike, but some places may not be well-lit after sundown.
Some points that you could consider:
Dark and isolated areas
Unfortunately, it is not always possible for you to lock up your bike in densely populated areas. You should avoid choosing the darkest or most isolated spots. If you’re locking up your bike at night, try to leave it close to a street light or other well-lit area.
Lastly, think ahead. Could you know where the e-bike is going to be parked in advance? How is the area? By answering these questions, you could decide whether or not to use it or catch public transport.
Indoors instead of outdoors
Don’t leave your eBike outside if you don’t have to. Even if you have a high fence or other security features, criminals are smart and fast, and stealing may take them only a few minutes.
This is one of the main reasons people commute to work in tents: to buy folding electric bikes. They are easy to fold, carry, and keep safe.
Switch up the parking space
If you use your e-bike every day, you might want to switch up the parking space every so often.
From experience, criminals might be watching your bike at the location where it is usually parked.
Once they know your schedule, they will know when to come for it.
Also, always test the fixtures and objects used to lock the bike. It is essential that they cannot be tampered with or moved. Once you have locked the bike, you should try to move it to ensure it’s secure.
Removing Valuable Accessories
Almost every bike has a few fundamental components – the controller, the battery, and maybe the lights.
When you leave your bike locked up somewhere, make sure to remove any accessories that can be detached.
While criminals might not always try to steal the bike, they could pinch some of these accessories.
These can be expensive, and since you can remove them, you might as well pop them in your bag.
Locking the Bike According to Value
For many people, this statement might not make much sense. For instance, when locking a standard bicycle, you think briefly about where to secure it.
I mean that it’s better to lock the bike by its most valuable component.
For e-bikes, the frame could be the most critical and expensive part, followed by the battery and accessories. Of course, it is not easy to steal the frame, so they will go for the whole lot.
The good thing here is that all locks can be used to secure the frame.
On the other hand, I have also seen that thieves target the tires. Why? I don’t know for certain, but it’s most likely because they must replace a damaged one.
If you have really good electric bike tires, you might want to secure them separately using one of the above mechanism locks.
Read More: Electric Bike Tires Guide.
Some tires can be costly, and you must keep them protected. Also, you don’t want to look one and then be unable to return home.
I believe the rear one could be the most valuable from both sets of tires since it could have the motor embedded (if it’s a hub motor).
E-Bike Insurance?
It is possible that this topic has not come to mind for some of you. As with any other valuable element, electric bikes can also be insured. Think about what you want to be covered for in terms of theft, accidents, and liabilities.
E-bike insurance is handy as part of your approved license to operate a powered bicycle; this is for models that reach high speeds.
Read More: Electric Bike Laws.
The good news is that quite a few companies offer good insurance policies, but of course, each differs slightly, for instance, in the type of approved locks!
Don’t worry; I will guide you through them in an article soon.
What is New Regarding E-Bike Locking Systems?
Integrated Locking Systems
Many manufacturers are working in conjunction with other brands, such as Bosch, to integrate locking mechanisms directly into the bike’s systems. This is awesome as it provides convenience and ensures riders can secure their bikes without bulky locks.
Smart Locks
Smart locking systems, including Bluetooth and Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology, are becoming popular. These locks can be controlled using your smartphone, allowing users to lock and unlock their bikes remotely.
Some locks even have a GPS feature that provides extra convenience to the user.
Remember that this will require your phone to have a battery; otherwise, you could get in trouble.
Wrap Up
E-bikes are super fun, but much like your car or truck, you must take the proper precautions to ensure they are secured.
As mentioned, the main thieves’ targets will be whatever is valuable and easy to take. For this reason, removing elements and securing the obvious ones will give you peace of mind.
It is a good habit to think in advance about where you are traveling to, how secure the area is, and whether or not there is a way to lock the bicycle properly.
All in all, remember that no e-bike anti-theft locking system is perfect. There are many ways to break any security mechanism, but thieves need time.
