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The best motorcycle locks offer the perfect balance of security and convenience. They’re portable, lightweight, and easy to use. But, they still get the job done.
If you’re not sure what to look for in a motorcycle helmet lock, you’re in the right place. We’re going to take a closer look at everything you need to choose the right lock for you.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for Best Motorcycle Helmet Locks
- OUR TOP PICK: HelmetLok II
- RUNNER-UP: BigPantha Motorcycle Helmet Lock & Cable
- BEST BUDGET OPTION: Master Lock 99KA-2
Comparison of the Best Motorcycle Helmet Locks
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What is a Motorcycle Helmet Lock?
It’s not always convenient or possible to take your motorcycle helmet with you when you park your bike. If you don’t feel right leaving it behind, a motorcycle helmet lock might be just what you need. A helmet lock is a quick and easy way to safely secure your helmet to your motorcycle while it’s parked.
There are many styles of motorcycle helmet locks. Before you buy one, it helps to think about what type will work best for you. Would you rather use a lock with a key? A combination lock? Do you prefer something permanently attached to your bike? Or a portable lock that you carry with you?
How Does a Motorcycle Helmet Lock Work?
Some motorcycle locks use a mount to attach to the bike. Others require you to attach them to an immobile part of the bike. Then, you loop the helmet through the lock and secure it to the bike.
There are a lot of different types of locks and they all work a little differently. Some have small keys while others have a combination lock. There are pros and cons to each type, but ultimately you have to choose what works best for you.
Are All Motorcycle Helmet Locks The Same?
As we said, not all motorcycle locks are the same. Here are some things that distinguish the types of helmet locks available:
Material
All motorcycle locks are sturdy, but they’re all made slightly differently. The best locks are made of durable metal like strengthened steel. Some may have a rubber or flexible plastic coating to protect against the elements. A coating also prevents the lock from scratching the bike.
Lock
Products that use a key are simple to open, provided you have the key. If you would rather not carry a key around, a combination lock might be a better choice. These usually have a simple dial design with a three or four number combination.
Shape
There are a lot of options for what the lock looks like. Some resemble a metal carabiner while others are long tubes. All of these designs are effective. The key is to find the type that best suits your needs.
Review of the Best Motorcycle Helmet Locks
The best way to determine what motorcycle lock is best for you is to take a closer look at a few models. Here are some of the best products on the market.
Best Overall:
HelmetLok II
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Buyers report that the material is sturdy and the lock is well-constructed. The carabiner design fits around multiple places on a bike. Plus, it’s small enough to carry around in your pocket when not in use. A lot of people appreciate the rubber coating because it protects the paintwork.
Why it Stands Out to Us
One of the best things about this lock is the simple design. Everybody knows how to use a carabiner. Push in the bar, slip it through your helmet, then hook it over a solid part of the bike. The combination lock is easy to use, and we like that you can change the combination. This means you’re not stuck with whatever combination comes with the lock. You can set it to a series of numbers that’s easy to remember.
Another thing that we like about this lock is that a lot of people didn’t mind leaving it on the bike. If you want a lock you can leave on your bike until you need it, this is a good choice.
Bottom Line
The HelmetLok II has an easy-to-use design that most people are familiar with. It has a utilitarian look that’s simple but strong. Plus, you can change the combination of a series of numbers that you won’t forget.
Runner-up:
BigPantha Motorcycle Helmet Lock & Cable
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Most people agree that this lock is really easy to use and well worth the money. That said, the coiling cable is not particularly secure. Will it deter thieves? Yes. Will it stop someone who is very determined to get your gear and has the right tools on hand? Probably not. That said, if you use the carabiner without the cable, it’s a bit more secure.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Not everyone needs a heavy-duty lock. If you’re looking for a simple way to keep your gear on your bike, this is a good choice. As a few people commented, this product says, “Please don’t steal my stuff.” If you frequent bad areas where your gear is likely to get stolen, this might not be the best option. If you want to keep your gear together while you run into a shop for a bottle of water, this is the perfect lock for you.
Bottom Line
This lock likely won’t deter someone hell-bent on stealing your gear. But, it does offer some protection. If you have an inexpensive helmet or live in an area where theft is unlikely, this lock provides a fair amount of security.
Best for the Money:
Master Lock 99KA-2
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Most users love this lock and find it secure enough to give them peace of mind. The 14-inch cable is long enough to fit through two helmets in a pinch. But, since this product includes two locks, you have a lot of options. Some people were so happy with this product, they ended up using it as a gun lock.
Why it Stands Out to Us
We like the simple design. This lock is nothing more than a metal cable with a small keyed lock on the end. But that’s exactly why we like it. It’s easy to use and can be threaded through a variety of places on your bike.
A few people mentioned that the lock is strong enough to deter opportunistic thieves but unlikely to prevent a determined thief. That's a fair assessment, but you’d need a wire cutter to get through the cable. We still think this lock is strong enough to protect you against an average thief.
Bottom Line
This is a simple lock for people who want a lock without a lot of bells and whistles. The metal cable is secure enough to stop anything short of wire cutters. It’s extremely affordable and versatile enough for other applications.
4. Master Lock 8413-12P
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
The long 12-foot cable makes this a versatile product. It’s long enough for two helmets, two jackets, and many other things. Since it’s coated, you don’t have to worry about it scratching your bike. A lot of people had trouble with fitting the key in the lock. The product comes with a limited lifetime guarantee, though, so any problems should be easy enough to fix.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The best thing about this lock is you have the option to lock a single helmet or multiple items. Because the locking mechanism works anywhere along the 12-foot cord, you can adjust this lock for whatever you need.
We also love that the cable is made of braided steel. This lock is extremely tough and will deter even the most determined thieves. The weatherproof lock won’t rust or corrode, even in bad weather. Plus, you can’t go wrong with a limited lifetime guarantee.
Bottom Line
If you’re looking for an extremely versatile lock, this is the one for you. The long length allows you to lock up multiple helmets and jackets, and you can also use it for many other things, too.
5. OnGuard PITBULL U-Lock and Cable
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
This lock was originally designed as a bike lock. The large U-lock design is easily threaded through a helmet. It comes with an extension cable, too, so you can easily use it for multiple helmets and even a jacket or two.
Why it Stands Out to Us
A lot of buyers commented on how heavy this lock is, and they’re not wrong. The lock weighs about four pounds. But it’s weight is part of why we like it. This lock is heavy, durable, and gets the job done. The design resists drilling, picking, and pulling. According to the manufacturer, it’s meant for areas with medium to high crime.
Another great thing about this lock is that it comes with five keys. One of them has a micro-LED light attached. This makes it easy to get to your gear, even at night. No more fumbling around in the dark in high-crime areas.
Bottom Line
This lock is extremely durable and versatile. Use the extension cable and you can easily lock up two helmets at once. The biggest downside is that it’s heavy. That weight is reassuring, though, because it gives you a sense of exactly how strong this lock is.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Motorcycle Helmet Locks
There are good and bad things about using a motorcycle lock. Here are some things to think about before committing one.
Pros
Using a motorcycle helmet lock gives you peace of mind that someone can’t just walk past your bike and take off with your helmet.
Some helmet locks allow you to lock up multiple helmets and even a jacket.
Helmet locks come in multiple styles and levels of security. You can find something that suits your needs and your bike.
As many commenters pointed out, in some cases, a bike lock is nothing more than a deterrent. It won’t always stop thefts. That said, some of these are so tough, a thief would have to be carrying wire cutters or a hacksaw to get through them. In most cases, a motorcycle helmet lock is enough to make a determined thief move on and look for an easier target.
Cons
Some locks don’t provide a lot of protection. This isn’t necessarily bad because you don’t always need something impossible to break. But, if you frequently park in a high crime area, remember that some locks are easier to break than others.
Some locks are very heavy and aren’t easy to travel with. Heavy locks add a lot of weight to a pack, and leaving them attached to the bike can be obtrusive.
Types of Motorcycle Helmet Locks
There are multiple types of helmet locks, including some that were originally made for other purposes. Here are some of the most popular options.
Bolt
Bolt locks are the most permanent type of helmet lock. They’re installed onto the bike, usually to the frame or engine guard. These locks are small and convenient because you don’t have to worry about carrying them around with you. But, they’re not exactly attractive and may ruin the look of your bike.
Corded
Corded locks wrap around the helmet and another part of the bike. The cord is usually made of braided metal and covered in a rubberized coating to prevent scratches. Some locks have cords that are very long and can be used to secure multiple items. Because the cord hangs loose, it’s not a good idea to leave this type of lock attached to your bike when not in use. It could damage something or get in the way. This type of lock uses either a key or a combination.
Handlebar
Handlebar locks are specifically designed to attach to the handlebar. They’re usually painted bright colors and stand out when attached to the bike. Why? To tell would-be thieves not to bother.
OnGuard PITBULL U-Lock and Cable
How to Use a Motorcycle Helmet Lock
How to use a motorcycle lock depends on the type of lock you have.
- After parking your bike, remove your helmet and prepare the lock.
- If you have a lock that you mounted to your bike, locking up your helmet is pretty straightforward. Corded locks are a little trickier, but much more versatile.
- Thread the cord through the helmet then around a solid, non-movable part of the bike.
- Make sure it is securely locked and you’re all set.
How to Use a U-Lock to Lock up Motorcycle Helmet
U-locks look like one of the more complicated types, but they’re easy to use when you break them down. Here are simple instructions for how to use a U-lock.
- Remove your helmet.
- Use the key or combination to open the lock.
- Thread the U-shaped bar around the helmet. Most people place it through the chin bar. If you don’t have a chin bar, use the D-rings or any other sold part of the helmet that doesn’t move.
- Hook the U-shaped bar over a part of the bike that doesn’t move.
- Place the bar into the lock and secure it closed.
BigPantha Motorcycle Helmet Lock & Cable
Conclusion
If you’re worried about someone walking off with your motorcycle helmet, a lock is a great way to deter a would-be thief. It also gives you peace of mind. With so many types of locks to choose from, we’re sure you’ll find one that suits your needs.
People Also Ask
We know you’re bound to have questions when shopping for a helmet lock. Here are some of the most common things that people ask.
How Can I Lock My Helmet Without a D-Ring?
You have to find a place on the helmet that’s solid, sturdy, and won’t break. For example, attaching it to the lining is not a good idea. They’re easy to cut or remove. Instead, wrap the lock around the chin bar.
How Much is a Motorcycle Helmet Lock?
There are helmet locks for just about every price point. Some cost around $15, others cost $50 or more.
What is Pin Lock on a Motorcycle Helmet?
A pin lock has nothing to do with locking up a motorcycle helmet. A pin lock is a way that most visors fit into place in a helmet. This is the easiest system for changing out visors. It doesn’t require any tools and can be done quickly. But, it is not a helmet lock.
Where to Put Helmet on a Motorcycle Using Helmet Lock?
This depends on the type of lock you're using. Handlebar locks should be used around the handlebars. Cord locks can be attached anywhere you can thread the cord. There are even some styles that are meant to go around the license plate.
Are D-Ring Motorcycle Helmet Locks Any Good?
Some are. The thing about D-ring locks is that a thief can always just cut the chin strap if they’re determined to steal the helmet. Yes, this means the helmet is no longer safe, but a thief isn’t necessarily thinking about safety.
Can You Ride a Motorcycle With a Helmet on the Motorcycle Lock?
It depends on the lock. Some are designed to stay on the bike when not in use. If you prefer this kind of lock, make sure it’s designed for this purpose. The lock shouldn’t hang so low that it gets in your way while you’re riding or risks damaging a part of your bike.
BigPantha Motorcycle Helmet Lock & Cable
Can a Helmet Lock Really Keep My Helmet From Being Stolen?
Maybe. The truth is that a lock is more of a deterrent. A determined thief will find a way to get what they want. The good thing is that a lot of these locks would require wire cutters or a drill to open. Is a thief going to show up with a tool like this and draw attention to themselves as they try to steal your helmet? Maybe not. A lock acts as a deterrent and makes it infinitely more difficult for a thief to walk off with your stuff.
