A bike lock is an essential piece of cycling equipment. In France, and especially in Paris, its suburbs, and the major cities of the Île-de-France region, bike theft remains a major problem for urban cyclists. Bikes are regularly stolen—at metro and RER stations, in front of offices, shops, or residential buildings. Even an inexpensive bike can be stolen for its spare parts, which is why effective protection is essential, whether for parking in the city, at a local shop, or for an overnight stay while traveling.
Summary:
Types of bicycle locks
Anti-theft device security certification
How to properly use a bike lock
Conclusion
No bike lock guarantees 100% security, but it significantly reduces the risk of theft. In this article, the experts at Routes and Roads explain the different types of bike locks, how to use them correctly, and how to choose the most suitable model for city riding, suburban cycling, or your cycling trips in France.
Types of bicycle locks
There are several types of bike locks, which vary according to their security level, weight, and ease of use. In France, the choice often depends on the parking location: RER station, city center, suburbs, or home.
U-lock / U-lock
The U-lock consists of a rigid shackle made of hardened alloy steel and a solid locking mechanism with a cylinder or disc. The shackle often incorporates multi-layered steel that is resistant to cutting and torsion.
Its operation is simple: the hoop locks into the housing, forming a rigid frame that is difficult to deform without a power tool. This is why the U-lock is considered one of the most reliable solutions for urban use in France, recommended for Paris and other major cities.
Specific features:
– limited flexibility, difficult to attach a bicycle to thick supports;
– cheap models may have a vulnerable cylinder;
– Incorrect use without securing the frame greatly reduces its effectiveness.
Average weight: 900 g – 2.2 kg.
Chain with padlock
A chain lock consists of hardened steel links covered with a textile or rubber sheath. The links are locked with a separate or integrated padlock.
The chain's main advantage is its flexibility: it can be wrapped around non-standard supports, such as posts, fences, or arches, often found in the historic districts of French cities. Heavy-duty chains are highly resistant to bolt cutters and pry bars.
Specific features:
– high weight, not very practical for daily transport;
– cheap models with thin links break easily;
– the padlock is often the weak point.
Folding lock
The folding lock is made of steel plates connected by hinged rivets. It folds in on itself for compact storage on the frame.
It forms a closed loop from several rigid segments. It's a compromise between a U-lock and a chain: practical, relatively flexible, and compact.
In France, this type of lock is chosen by bike commuters for daily journeys and quick stops in front of a shop, cafe or office.
Specific features:
– joints vulnerable to targeted blows;
– lower level of protection than a quality U-lock;
– not recommended for overnight parking in Paris or at RER stations.
Average weight: 800 g – 1.5 kg.
Cable lock
The cable is made from multi-strand steel wire covered with a plastic sheath. Lightweight, economical and flexible, it is easy to transport.
The principle is simple: you pass the cable through the wheel or frame, then lock it with the padlock. This type of lock is often used as an additional lock to secure a helmet, wheels, or other accessories.
Specific features:
– can be cut in seconds with hand tools;
– not suitable as primary protection;
– effective only when used in conjunction with a more robust anti-theft device.
Average weight: 200 – 600 g.
Frame or wheel lock
This lock attaches directly to the frame and prevents the rear wheel from rotating. The body is usually made of hardened steel with an integrated locking mechanism.
In France, it is often used on urban and electric bikes (VAE), especially for short stops in front of a bakery, pharmacy or cafe.
Specific features:
– does not anchor the bicycle to a support;
– does not prevent taking the entire bicycle with you;
– serves only as additional protection.
Average weight: 500 – 900 g.
It's important to understand that no lock guarantees absolute protection. Therefore, in France, and especially in Paris, the suburbs, and tourist towns, the best strategy is to combine two types of locks, for example, a U-lock and cable lock, or a chain and frame lock. This significantly increases the time it takes to break the lock and reduces the risk of theft.
Anti-theft device security certification
Certification is one of the best indicators for choosing a bike lock, especially if you leave your bike in public places: subways, RER stations, offices, shops, or courtyards in Paris and the suburbs. It guarantees the lock's actual resistance to picking.
In Europe, several independent systems test locks in the laboratory and under real-world conditions using bolt cutters, levers, hammers, drills, and power tools. After these tests, a security level is assigned.
This level indicates how long and with what tools an anti-theft device can be broken. The higher the level, the longer it will take a thief, and therefore the greater the chances that they will give up.
Sold Secure Certification
One of the most recognized certifications in Europe, widely used in France, particularly for urban and electric bikes.
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Bronze — basic protection for short stops and quiet neighborhoods.
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Silver — recommended level for commuting by bike in the city.
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Gold — high protection for parking for several hours.
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Diamond — maximum protection for high-risk areas, such as central Paris or train stations.
Many insurance companies in France consider the Sold Secure Gold or Diamond labels as the minimum requirement for insuring a bicycle.
ART Certification
A very strict and popular certification system in France. For Paris and the suburbs, ART 2–3 is the recommended minimum.
ART 2 — suitable for city and daytime parking.
ART 3–4 — high protection, recommended for overnight parking and electric bikes.
ART 5 — maximum level, generally reserved for motorcycles.
VdS Certification
German certification system geared towards high safety standards, often used by premium manufacturers.
Levels:
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A / B / B+ — from basic level to enhanced protection.
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Serves as an additional quality indicator, particularly for chain and U-lock locks.
Recommendations according to usage:
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Daily urban journeys — Sold Secure Silver / ART 2.
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Daytime parking for metro, RER, office — Gold / ART 3.
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Overnight parking and expensive bicycles — Diamond / ART 4.
Many French insurance companies require a certified anti-theft device.
How to properly use a bike lock
Even the best lock is useless if it's not used correctly. In French urban areas, it's essential to follow a few basic rules:
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Always lock the frame and the wheel.
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Use bicycle storage areas or metal racks.
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Minimize the free space inside the lock.
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For long-term parking, combine two different types of locks.
Conclusion
A bike lock is a key element in securing your bicycle in France. It doesn't make theft impossible, but it significantly reduces the risk and gives the thief time to give up. At Routes and Roads, you'll find a wide range of reliable locks. A good lock is an investment in the security of your bike and peace of mind during your daily commutes in Paris, the suburbs, and throughout France.
