How to Effectively Lock an Electric Scooter

Electric scooters are incredibly convenient, often weighing less than 22.68 kg, which makes them easy to transport in a car or simply roll away. Given their portability, it’s essential to lock an electric scooter whenever you leave it unattended.

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Since portability is key, you may also wonder: Can I bring an electric scooter on a plane?

Most modern electric scooters come with a range of advanced security features. These can include ignition systems controlled by a key, key fob, app, or biometric interface, along with remote on/off capabilities and GPS tracking. While these technological features are useful, they can’t replace the security provided by a strong physical lock.

Unlike cars, which are naturally secure due to their weight, electric scooters are lighter and therefore easier to steal. To ensure your scooter remains safe, it’s vital to use robust locking methods. This guide will walk you through the best practices for locking your scooter and the various types of locks available.

Assess Your Scooter for Secure Locking Points

Finding Secure Locking Points

The first step in securing your electric scooter is to identify the most secure parts of the scooter where you can attach a lock. Rain, road conditions, or weather can also impact where and how you lock your scooter. To learn more, check out our post on Can I ride an electric scooter in the rain? Look for sturdy, immovable parts of the scooter or components that are difficult to disassemble. Learn more about scooter security systems.

An ideal lock should be able to fit around your scooter’s frame and should be resistant to cutting or breaking by tools like wire cutters, bolt cutters, or drills. Additionally, the lock should be portable so you can easily carry it with you when you’re out and about. Explore additional locking techniques here.

Best Locking Points

Here are some of the best places on your scooter to lock it:

Around the Stem: This is a strong part of the scooter that is usually made of metal and not easily removed.
Through the Folding Mechanism: If your scooter folds, use the locking mechanism to secure it.
Through a Carrying Handle: Many scooters have built-in handles that are securely attached to the frame and are good for locking.

Avoid These Locking Points

Here are places you should avoid when locking your scooter:

Wheels: If the wheels are removable, this makes them a weak point.
Handlebars: Locking around handlebars can be risky as they might be easy to disassemble.
Removable Parts: Avoid locking through fenders or any parts that can be unscrewed or detached.

Choose a High-Security Lock

U-Locks

U-locks are one of the most secure options to lock an electric scooter. They feature a U-shaped shackle that locks into a straight crossbar, providing a high level of protection against cutting and tampering. U-locks are commonly used for bicycles because they are very effective at preventing theft. If you use your scooter for commuting or need to store it at the office, you might be interested in Why electric scooters are the best option for commuters.

High-quality U-locks are made from hardened steel and are heavy-duty. They typically weigh around 5 lbs and cost approximately $100. These locks come in various sizes, so it’s crucial to choose the right size for your scooter. Opt for a shorter shackle if possible, as this will make the lock more secure.

Recommended U-Locks

Kryptonite New York Fahgettaboudit Mini: This lock is known for its thick and short shackle, offering top-notch security. It is also relatively light, making it easy to carry in a backpack. However, the short shackle can make it harder to lock to various objects.

Kryptonite New York Standard U-Lock: This model has a standard-length shackle that is a bit thinner but more flexible when it comes to lock an electric scooter to different objects.

Kryptonite New York LS: Featuring an extra-long shackle, this lock is ideal for larger scooters with wider stems. However, longer shackles are generally less secure as they provide more space for potential tampering.

Kryptonite New York Fahgettaboudit Chain: This lock is not a U-lock but a heavy-duty chain that provides flexibility in locking your scooter to various objects. It is robust but heavier to carry.

Folding Locks

If you find U-locks too heavy or cumbersome, folding locks can be a more practical option. These locks fold into a compact shape, making them easier to carry and store. They are designed to be mounted on the scooter without affecting its balance significantly.

Considerations for Folding Locks

Folding locks generally have more weak points compared to U-locks. They consist of metal bars connected by rivets, which can be vulnerable to tampering. The best folding locks use hardened steel bars and anti-drilling technology to enhance security.

Recommended Folding Locks

Fluid Fold by Fluid Freeride: This lock is made from heat-treated hardened steel and is resistant to up to 9 tons of hydraulic pressure. It features an anti-drilling cap, high-strength rivets, and a lightweight design at only 1.6 lbs

Inokim Folding Scooter Lock: Slightly more expensive than the Fluid Fold but still affordable, this lock comes in five colors and is made from heat-treated hardened steel. It also features an anti-drilling lock hole and is lightweight at 2 lbs.

Thread the Lock Through Secure Points

Locking Techniques

When using a U-lock or folding lock, thread it through a secure part of your scooter and around a stationary object. If your scooter has a non-removable part of the stem, this is usually a good spot for threading the lock.

For example, the Inokim Light 2 has a dedicated slot in its folding mechanism that’s perfect for locking. Similarly, the Apollo City 2022 and City Pro feature carrying handles that are securely attached to the frame and ideal for threading a lock through.

Best Practices

Always use your best judgment based on the specific make and model of your scooter. Consider the lock’s strength and ensure it secures both the scooter and the stationary object effectively. Compare top locks here: https://thewirecutter.com/reviews/best-bike-lock/

Secure Your Scooter to a Fixed Object

Choosing the Right Fixture

It’s crucial to lock an electric scooter to a permanent and sturdy fixture. Ideal fixtures include wide metal posts, bike racks, and stair railings that are firmly anchored and difficult to dismantle or move. Learn how to select the right locking fixture.

Avoid fixtures like short signposts or thin metal fences that can be easily cut or manipulated. Similarly, it’s essential to understand the rules about parking or riding scooters. You might want to read our post on Can I ride electric scooters on the sidewalk?

Why It Matters

Locking to a secure fixture helps prevent thieves from simply lifting or dismantling the fixture to steal your scooter. The more secure the fixture, the harder it will be for thieves to access your scooter.

Understanding Anti-Theft Warranties

Warranties and Their Limitations

Kryptonite locks come with warranties that may cover up to $2000 in replacement costs. However, relying solely on these warranties can be risky. To claim the warranty, you need to meet several conditions, including registering the lock and scooter with Kryptonite, filing a police report, and providing proof of how the scooter was locked and the broken lock.

Important Considerations

Ensure you understand the specific requirements for filing a claim and verify whether electric scooters are covered under the warranty. Check out Kryptonite’s warranty policy.

Other Locking Options

Electronic Theft Deterrents

In addition to physical locks, many electric scooters come with electronic anti-theft features. These can include key-start ignitions, NFC card readers, and key fobs that prevent the scooter from powering on without the correct credentials. Some models also have immobilizer alarms that keep the wheels from moving if the scooter is tampered with. To avoid draining the battery with electronic theft deterrents, check out our Electric scooter battery life maintenance tips.

Limitations

Electronic deterrents can be effective but have their downsides. For instance, alarms that use the scooter’s battery to sound an alert or restrict wheel movement can drain the battery if the scooter is stored for a long period. For tips on planning long trips, see How far electric scooters can travel.

Ring Locks and Disc Brake Locks

Ring locks or disc brake locks are designed to immobilize the scooter by locking the wheel. They are generally more restrictive and less effective on scooters with spokes. Some come with cables that can be wrapped around a bike rack, but these are often easier to cut with wire cutters.

Cable and Chain Locks

While commonly used for bicycles, cable and chain locks are generally less suitable for electric scooters due to their smaller size and the potential for the chain to be easily cut or compromised. They can also be less effective if not used properly.

Summary

Finally, if you’re new to scooters, explore The ultimate electric scooter buyers guide to choose the right model for your needs.

To effectively secure your electric scooter, use a combination of high-quality locks and secure locking techniques. U-locks and folding locks offer strong protection, and lock an electric scooter to a permanent fixture is crucial. While electronic security features can enhance protection, they should not replace physical locks.

Always strive to store your scooter indoors and minimize the time it spends locked up in public spaces to reduce the risk of theft. By following these guidelines, you can help ensure your electric scooter remains safe and secure. See electric scooter theft statistics here.