Some manufacturers of bike locks offer their own security ratings to guide consumers. While these can be beneficial, the most secure locks that have been tested generally use standardized ratings from objective sources. These include Sold Secure, which provides ratings for various vehicle types ranging from Bronze to Diamond, and ART, which uses a rating system on a scale from 1 to 5.
To clarify the meaning behind these ratings, an overview of two leading lock-security firms and their systems is provided:
Sold Secure, established in 1992 by Northumbria and Essex police in the UK, is currently managed by the Master Locksmiths Association, a not-for-profit trade group. Sold Secure utilizes a four-level rating system as follows:
– Bronze: The lowest level, providing security against basic tools.
– Silver: Midrange security, effective against enhanced tools and determined attacks.
– Gold: The second-highest rating, offering resistance to dedicated tools and attacks.
– Diamond: The highest level, protecting against destructive attacks and “special tools.”
Sold Secure applies separate ratings for different vehicle types, such as bikes (referred to as pedal cycles) and motorcycles (referred to as powered cycles). For instance, the Hiplok DX holds a Pedal Cycle Diamond rating and a Powered Cycle Gold rating. Although this is a commendable score, it is less secure compared to leading grinder-resistant locks like the Litelok X1 or more robust locks such as the Litelok X3 and Hiplock D1000, all of which achieve Diamond ratings in both categories. Typically, grinder-resistant locks highlight this feature on the manufacturer’s website. For verification, individuals can consult the Sold Secure website to confirm their lock’s rating.
ART, an independent security firm based in the Netherlands, employs a five-star security system that evaluates vehicle type, durability, weather and environmental resistance, and attack resistance. The ART rating levels are as follows:
– 1/5: The minimum security rating, suitable only as a secondary bike lock.
– 2/5: A higher security rating indicating good theft protection for bicycles, and the minimum requirement for most insurance policies.
– 3/5: Provides bicycle security in high-risk theft areas and is also appropriate for mopeds and scooters for insurance purposes.
– 4/5: A very high security rating for bicycles, offering good theft protection for motorcycles while traveling.
– 5/5: Represents the highest security rating, sometimes necessary for insuring motorcycles stored at home.
