How to Properly Lock an Electric Scooter: The Best Lock Types & Methods

If you use an electric scooter for going to work, you can always park it inside the workplace if it does not take a lot of space. The same goes for running errands or doing groceries. Compact scooters are easier to take with you inside the store, post office, or anywhere you go. 

What if you own a more powerful and heavier scooter that is not portable to fit inside a locker? You will have to park it outside. Electric scooters are not cheap and it will definitely attract the eyes of thieves and bad people lurking around the area. 

What is the best solution? Learning how to lock an electric scooter. 

Luckily for you, there are several security options to choose from. Some locks are designed for bikes and mopeds, but they still work like a charm for securing your electric scooter. 

Importance of Locking an Electric Scooter

The primary importance of using a lock for your electric scooter is to avoid theft. Electric scooters do not come cheap, so it is better to invest in locking equipment. 

Although some models like the Qiewa Q1 Hummer and Q-Mini have an anti-theft design, not all scooters are built as such. There is no need to worry because there are cheaper alternatives to keep your electric scooter safe from thieves. 

Electric Scooter Lock Types

The following lock types will not fit just any electric scooter. What you need will depend on the model of your electric scooter. It is important that you read the next section to find out what kind of electric scooter lock to use. 

Ring Lock

A ring lock is a suitable electric scooter lock for specific models that are equipped with wheels with open spokes such as the Segway Ninebot ES4 or the Gotrax GXL. These types of locks have a reinforced steel ring with a cable in the middle. The cable will prevent the ring from rotating when it is in the locked position, securing your electric scooter’s wheel.

Ring locks have a Silver rating (1), meaning that it provides more security and protection than a simple cable lock. You can also add more security by purchasing a ring lock with a plug-in capability. This feature allows you to add a cable lock for improved security. 

Cable Lock

Cable locks are the most affordable lock options. They were initially designed for bicycles, but you can also use them to secure electric scooters. Cable locks have enough flexibility to wrap around the handlebar and then lock into a bike rack or wherever suitable. These cable locks are small enough to fit inside your backpack. You can also store and wrap them around the scooter when not in use. 

However, these types of lock only have a bronze lock rating and can be cut through easily with the use of wire cutters. It can stop thieves for a little while, but it cannot stop people who came prepared to steal your electric scooter. 

Scooter Chain Lock

Scooter chain locks are an improved cable lock that have been given a silver Sold Secure Rating (1). In fact, some of the higher-end chain locks have a gold rating, making them a more secure choice than both cable and ring locks. These locks work the same as cable locks, but instead of a thin cable, they are made up of chain links to secure your electric scooter to a bike rack. 

This type of lock cannot be cut by simply using wire cutters. It will take a hacksaw or bolt cutter to get the job done. This is sure to add a level of difficulty for thieves. Chain locks may cost more than cable locks but these provide more security. 

D-Locks

D-locks are probably the most secure type that is designed for an electric scooter. Some people refer to them as a U-lock, but it doesn’t matter because they are the same thing. These locks have a gold rating because it is made out of a hardened steel shackle that secures your scooter when it’s attached to something sturdy like a bike rack.

These locks cannot be cut easily, as thieves would need power tools or strong bolt cutters to take them down. They may not be as portable as a chain or cable lock, but it is the best option for keeping your electric scooter secure. 

Locks Designed for Motorcycles and Mopeds

If you live in an area with higher crime rates, using locks that are designed for motorcycles and mopeds might be a better option for you. They are on an entirely different level than standard bike locks. 

Grip lock

You can use a grip lock to secure the handlebars of an electric scooter. It is an affordable option that can be attached easily. A grip lock will work for scooters that have a hand-controlled squeeze brake such as most Razor electric scooter models. This keeps the brake pulled on, making it difficult to be pushed or pulled away. 

This type of lock is better if you use it as an add-on lock together with a D-lock or chain lock. Because it only stops thieves from rolling your electric scooter, it will not stop them from picking it up and throwing it in their car. This lock alone, would not be the best choice.

Disc Lock

A disk lock was initially designed to lock motorcycles and mopeds, but if you own an electric scooter with a brake caliper such as the Mercane Wide Wheel. These types of locks can be quickly attached to the brake caliper to strictly prevent an electric scooter’s wheel from turning.

A disc lock is a lot safer compared to a grip lock. Opportunistic thieves would have a hard time running away on your electric scooter. A disc lock is hard to penetrate because it is made of high-quality alloy steel. It is also waterproof, making it a reliable lock for any type of weather condition.  It is always best to pair a disc lock with a chain or D lock for extra security. 

Cuff Lock

Cuff locks are made of very hard and durable steel that is close to impossible to cut. This lock resembles handcuffs and makes a great lock for electric scooters, bikes, motorcycles, and mopeds. It’s a portable lock that can be used for parking your electric scooter on a fence post, bike rack, or parking meter.

You can lock the other end on the handlebars of the electric scooter and the other end on an immovable anchoring point whether it is indoor or outdoor. Because cuff locks can be folded in half, these will only take up a small amount of space in your backpack, making them convenient to bring virtually anywhere.

Cuff locks are strong, portable, and easy to use. This is why they are one of the best choices to lock any electric scooter.

Alarms

Many locks designed for motorcycles and mopeds will include alarms. Adding an alarm will draw more attention and stop opportunistic thieves from stealing your electric scooter. 

Certain types can be integrated with your lock of choice, while some work as a stand-alone security device to protect your electric scooter. 

Electric Scooter Lock: How to Lock a Scooter Properly

Although some locks are more effective than others, they do not guarantee that your electric scooter will not get stolen. This is especially true for persistent and relentless thieves. For this reason, we prepared some of the most effective locking tips that would make it nearly impossible for thieves to steal your parked electric scooter.

Here are some effective locking tips that add extra security to your parked electric scooter:

Locking Tips

• Use a Cover

Covering up your electric scooter will make it less attractive to thieves. Some people even swear that using an old cover instead of a shiny new one will make a scooter less attractive. Thieves are always looking for something easy to steal, which is why taking this extra step will add more protection. A cover will also protect your electric scooter from dust and other outdoor elements that could ruin its finish. 

• Do Not Forget to Lock the Scooter

An electric scooter should always be locked when parked outside, even if you are just doing a quick errand. It doesn’t matter if you’ll be back in a jiffy because you can never tell when a thief is around to steal your scooter. 

• If you Own a Portable and Foldable Scooter, Take It with You

If you own a foldable electric scooter, it is much better if you bring it inside with you. Knowing that it does not take a whole lot of space, it is easier to keep it with you at all times. These portable electric scooters are easier to park in your house or apartment safe and sound. 

• Always Choose a Shorter Lock

When you are out to buy a lock for your electric scooter, always pick a shorter option. For example, a shorter D-lock, Cable lock, or Chain lock prevents thieves from inserting a cutting tool between the locks, making it impossible for them to cut it. If you have a long cable or chain lock, you can wrap it around the scooter a few times to make it shorter and impenetrable. 

• Always Anchor Your E-Scooter to Something Sturdy

When locking your electric scooter, make sure that you chain it to something sturdy. Try to move the bike rack or fence to see if it is sturdy enough before locking the scooter on to it. You might have the best electric scooter lock, but it would mean nothing if you anchor it on something that breaks easily. 

• Use Two or More Locks

It is best to combine two types of locks for extra layers of security. If you can afford it, make sure you invest in one extra lock. It may cost more, but anything that can prevent your electric scooter from getting stolen is absolutely worth it. 

Conclusion

Some high-end electric scooters have extra security features, such as a key to start and anti-theft alarms. If your electric scooter is not equipped with any of these, you can always buy a lock and learn how to lock a scooter properly.

Of course, there is no guarantee that your scooter is safe at all times. A little effort when locking your scooter will definitely help to secure it in place. Electric scooters do not come cheap, so spending a few bucks on locks is a tiny investment. Ride safe, park safe, and enjoy!

References

1. https://www.soldsecure.com/search?product_type_id=411&product_type_caption=Ring+Lock&all_product_types_sel=411&grading=308&company=&action=