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When securing your vehicle, motorcycle, or anything else for that matter with a lock and chain/cable, not all are created equal. Here we will go over some things to look for and some recommendations that will help maximize the effort thieves have to use to steal your property. Please keep in mind that all chains, cables, and locks can be defeated with enough effort, which is why it is crucial to always use multiple layers of theft prevention.
Padlocks
When choosing a padlock for maximum security, look for a solid body one made of hardened steel with a thick shackle that resists cutting and prying. Avoid cheaper locks with a laminated body (looks like stacked metal) as they tend to be of much lower quality. A closed or shrouded shackle design is even better, since it limits access for bolt cutters. The lock should use a high-security, pick-resistant cylinder with anti-drill features, and it’s best if it’s rated by independent testing standards such as Sold Secure or CEN. Weather resistance is also important if it will be used outdoors, since rust and corrosion can weaken the lock over time.
Chains
For chains, bigger is better. When selecting a security chain, prioritize one made of hardened, high-grade steel with links that are at least 10–14 mm thick, since thinner chains can be quickly cut with bolt cutters. Square or hexagonal link designs are more resistant to cutting tools than round ones. The chain should be short enough to reduce slack, making it harder for thieves to gain leverage, and long enough to secure to a solid anchor point. For outdoor use, look for chains with a protective sleeve to prevent potential damage to your vehicle and resist weather-related wear. Avoid chains designed for transport, zinc plated (bright silver), and grade 30 & grade 43 chains as these are softer and can typically be easily defeated with bolt cutters. You want hardened steel, ideally intended for theft prevention.
Cables
When considering a security cable, look for one that is thick, made with braided or multi-strand hardened steel, and coated in a durable weather-resistant sheath to prevent corrosion and protect your car or bike’s finish. While cables are lighter and more flexible than chains, they’re also more vulnerable to bolt cutters, so they work best as a secondary layer of protection rather than the primary lock.
Recommended Products (Click items to view on Amazon):
Lock & Chain Combos:
*Check to make sure locks/chains are appropriate size for your vehicle and anchor point
- ABUS Hardened Steel 14KS 9/16″ Thick Square Security Chain / ABUS 37/80 Granit Padlock (Top Choice)
- REETOMETAL Heavy Duty Security Chain (Multiple lengths available) / American Lock A701D Padlock (Not quite as heavy-duty, still quality/more affordable)
Angle Grinder Resistant Lock:
- Hiplok Dx1000 Anti Angle-Grinder U-Lock (Special composite material resists cutoff wheels, this lock is designed for use with bicycles but could be useful for motorcycles as well. Please note that the shackle is very large in diameter and is not suitable for use with most chains.)
Cables:
- Commercial Heavy Duty Braided Galvanized Steel Theft Deterrent Security Cable with Looped Ends (1/2″ Diameter, Multiple lengths available)
More Padlock Options:
- American Lock A5300D Shrouded Solid Steel Padlock
- ABUS 37/55MB50 KA Granit Alloy Steel Padlock
- View American Lock Collection on Amazon
- View ABUS Store on Amazon
- View Squire Store on Amazon (Combination locks)
Choosing What To Chain Your Vehicle To
If you’re going to use chains to secure your car or motorcycle, choosing what to put the chain through/around is just as important as the lock and chain you choose. You could have the best padlock in the world, but if you chain your motorcycle through it’s wheel or to a flimsy object, it will be of little use. On your vehicle, make sure you secure the chain around the frame or another part that is hard to remove, and ideally hard to cut. Once you have done this you will need something secure to chain it to. Some examples would be: a heavy duty eye bolt properly anchored in concrete, around a LARGE tree, or around a large pole. The important part is to imagine that you are trying to steal it and think about what would make it more difficult.
What Might Thieves be Doing to Defeat Your Locks and Chains?
Thieves have multiple ways of getting past locks and chains if they are motivated enough, which is why it is important to both choose high quality products, and use other lines of defense.
Cutting with Bolt Cutters
Cutting with Cordless Cutoff Tool
Cutting with Portable Bandsaw
Lockpicking
