Securing your electric bike 101 with a complete guide to protecting your bike
Not sure how to effectively secure your electric bike? We've put together a comprehensive guide based on personal experience and our expertise, to help you prevent your bike from being stolen. Find out how Augustin kept his e-bike safe for 1.5 years, despite a high-risk parking spot. Now it's your turn to make your e-bike theft-proof!
The basics of securing your electric bike
- No overpriced bikes: Chez Upwayyou can buy an e-bike for up to 60% less than a new one.
- Removable battery: easily carry the battery with you to deter thieves.
- Learn how to secure your bike properly: Even the best lock is useless if it's not used properly.
The anti-theft device: the heart of electric bike security
Securing the frame
Kryptonite Evolution Mini 7 A classic. Augustin has been using it for 7 years. Always effective. Price: 69 € at Upway.
Stronger alternatives to grinders
- Hiplok D1000 (€300, 1.9 kg)
- Abus GRANIT Super Extreme 2500 (€250, 1.8 kg)
- Litelock X1 Bike (€180, 1.7 kg)
Securing the wheels
Front wheel :
Abus Nutfix axles: lock the wheel as long as the bike is upright. Ineffective if the bike is overturned (€25 each, €40 per pair).
Rear wheel (with motor) :
Not Nutfix-compatible, Augustin uses an Abus Bordo Lite (not insurance-certified, but sufficient). new price: ± €60
Other options :
- Axa Wheel Lock
- Kryptonite Ring Lock
- Nutfix compatible with your axle (if applicable)
Securing the saddle
- Replace the quick-release fasteners.
- Use Hexlox anti-theft magnets to secure almost all components. Price: ± €42 with key.
- Or opt for any other set of anti-theft screws available in bike stores.
Ultimate checklist: is everything secure?
- Is the frame well protected?
- How is the front wheel secured?
- And the rear wheel?
- Is the saddle secure?
- Are forks/handlebars protected? (optional: vandalism is rare but sometimes covered by insurance)
Additional measures: make flying unattractive
- Make your e-bike unsaleable on the black market:
- Take out theft and damage insurance: because even with good security, vandalism remains a risk.
Smart parking is part of safety
- Focus on visible, high-traffic areas: this deters thieves with grinders.
- It's not a guarantee, but it does increase their risk.
- Even an affordable bike can attract attention if it appears to be the most expensive on the lot.
Budget for maximum safety
| Element | Estimated cost |
|---|---|
| Electric bike | ± 1.400 € |
| Locks | ± 230 € |
| Insurance (per year) | 100 € |
Cost of safety = ± 25% of purchase price
(recommended: 10%, but in this example, more is deliberately used)
And it's worth it: despite 1.5 years of outdoor parking, Augustin's bike has never been stolen.
Summary: How to secure your electric bike
- Invest in quality locks for every component
- Make it unattractive for resale
- Park in visible, well-frequented areas
- Add insurance and identification marks