Let’s face it, electric scooters aren’t cheap. With prices ranging from a few hundred to well over a thousand bucks, these zippy little rides represent a serious investment. And guess what? Thieves know it too. E-scooter theft jumped by a whopping 129% in 2021 alone, with around 40,000 scooters stolen across the US.
I learned this lesson the hard way last summer when my brand-new Hiboy was swiped outside a coffee shop. Yeah, I was that person who thought, “I’ll just run in for five minutes- it’ll be fine!” Spoiler alert: it wasn’t fine, and my insurance didn’t cover it.
So I dove deep into the world of e-scooter security, talking to everyone from veteran delivery riders to security experts. This article will explore how to lock an electric scooter and keep your electric scooter safe.
Table of Contents
Why Electric Scooters Are Easy Targets?
Before jumping into lock types and techniques, let’s get real about why scooters are such attractive targets:
- They’re lightweight – Most weigh under 50 pounds. This makes them easy to carry away if not secured properly.
- They’re valuable – Even budget models cost a few hundred dollars, while premium scooters can fetch well over $1,000 on the black market.
- They’re in demand – The booming popularity of e-scooters means ready buyers for stolen goods.
- They lack built-in security – Unlike cars with complex ignition systems, many scooters have minimal built-in theft prevention.
Choosing the Right Lock: Your First Line of Defense
If there’s one place you shouldn’t cut corners, it’s with your lock. During my research, I tested various locks by, well, trying to break them (with permission, on my own scooter!). The differences were eye-opening.
1. U-Locks: The Gold Standard
U-locks consistently outperform other options for several reasons:
- Made from hardened steel that resists most cutting tools
- Compact design with minimal space for leverage
- Difficult to attack with common theft tools
After trying several brands, I found the Kryptonite New York Fahgettaboudit Mini particularly impressive-though at nearly 4.5 pounds, you’ll feel it in your backpack. The Abus Ultimate 420 offers similar protection with slightly less weight.
Cost consideration: Expect to pay $80-150 for a quality U-lock. Yes, that’s steep, but remember what you’re protecting. My stolen Hiboy cost $600-a $100 lock would’ve been a bargain in comparison.
2. Chain Locks: Flexible Protection
Chain locks offer more flexibility than U-locks while still providing solid security:
- Can wrap around awkward shapes and larger objects
- More versatile for different locking scenarios
- Good ones are nearly as secure as U-locks
The Kryptonite New York Legend Chain is a beast- it’s heavy (nearly 7 pounds!) but practically impossible to cut without power tools. For something more manageable, the ABUS CityChain provides decent security at around 3.5 pounds.
Pro tip: Look for chains with hexagonal or square links, which resist cutting better than round ones.
3. Folding Locks: The Compromise Option
Folding locks strike a balance between security and portability:
- Fold down compactly for easier transport
- Provide more flexibility than U-locks
- Offer decent security, though not as robust as quality U or chain locks
The Abus Bordo Granit X-Plus 6500 is probably the best folding lock available, though still not quite as secure as a top-tier U-lock. I keep one as my backup lock.
4. Disc Locks: Supplemental Security
Disc locks attach directly to brake discs and prevent wheel movement:
- Small and lightweight
- Some include motion-sensing alarms
- Cannot secure the scooter to an immovable object
The Xena XX15 disc lock includes a 120 dB alarm and is practically impossible to remove without the key. But remember-someone could still pick up your scooter and throw it in a van, lock and all. Always use disc locks as secondary protection.
5. Cable Locks: Just Say No (As Primary Security)
Despite their popularity and convenience, cable locks offer minimal protection:
- Can be cut in seconds with basic wire cutters
- Provide false sense of security
- Appropriate only for very low-risk situations or as secondary locks
I keep a lightweight cable lock to secure my helmet or to use as a secondary lock for wheels, but never rely on it as primary protection.

Step-by-Step Guide to Properly Locking Your Electric Scooter
Now that you’ve got a good lock (or two), let’s walk through exactly how to use it effectively.
Step 1: Scout Your Scooter’s Secure Points
Not all parts of your scooter are created equal when it comes to locking. Take time to examine your specific model and identify its strongest structural elements.
Best places to lock:
- The main stem (below the folding mechanism)
- Through the actual folding mechanism
- Integrated carrying handles (if they’re solidly attached to the frame)
- Purpose-built locking points (some manufacturers include these)
Never lock to:
- Handlebars (often removable with basic tools)
- Wheels only (can be unbolted from the frame)
- Plastic components like fenders (easily broken)
- Accessories or add-ons (usually attached with simple screws)
For my Segway Ninebot Max, the best locking point is through the triangular space in the stem below the folding mechanism. On a Xiaomi M365, the carrying handle works well. Every scooter has different optimal points- get to know yours.
Step 2: Find Something Sturdy to Lock To
The strongest lock in the world is useless if you attach it to something flimsy. I’ve seen thieves simply uproot small trees or dismantle signposts to steal secured bikes and scooters.
Good anchoring options:
- Proper bike racks (especially those embedded in concrete)
- Heavy-duty metal railings
- Thick lamp posts or street signs (with concrete bases)
- Permanent street furniture (ensure it can’t be disassembled)
Avoid locking to:
- Wooden structures (can be cut)
- Chain-link fences (easily cut)
- Temporary scaffolding or construction equipment
- Small trees or plants
- Short posts that scooters can be lifted over
- Anything that wobbles when you give it a good shake
The “shake test” is crucial- if it moves when you push it, find something else. I always tug firmly on potential locking points before committing my scooter to them.
Step 3: Position Your Scooter Strategically
Before applying your lock, position your scooter to maximize security:
- Place it close to the immovable object, minimizing gaps where tools could be inserted
- For folding scooters, consider whether locked, folded, or unfolded is more secure (usually folded is better)
- Orient it so the locking points are easily accessible to you, but awkward for potential thieves
- Consider surrounding foot traffic- more eyes generally means more security
I typically position my scooter so the lock will be facing inward toward a wall or post, making it harder for someone to manipulate tools without being obvious.
Step 4: Apply Your Lock Correctly
Now for the actual locking technique. This varies slightly depending on your lock type, but these principles apply universally:
1. For U-locks:
- Pass the U-portion through both your chosen secure point on the scooter and around the immovable object
- Position the lock as high off the ground as practical- locks on the ground are vulnerable to smashing attacks
- Ensure the keyhole faces downward to prevent water damage and make lock-picking harder
- Make the lock as tight as possible extra space gives thieves leverage for tools
2. For chain locks:
- Thread the chain through a structural part of your scooter and around the immovable object
- Loop it through itself if possible for maximum tightness
- Keep the locking mechanism off the ground and ideally in an awkward position for tampering
- Eliminate any slack in the chain that could allow cutting tools to be inserted
3. For folding locks:
- Unfold completely before applying
- Thread through the scooter frame and around your anchor point
- Fold it as tightly as possible, eliminating any gaps
- Position the locking mechanism in a protected location
The golden rule for any lock: eliminate slack. A tight lock makes it much harder to position cutting tools or apply leverage. I always double-check by trying to move the scooter after locking- if there’s wiggle room, readjust.
Step 5: Add Secondary Security Measures
For maximum protection, especially in high-risk areas or for longer parking periods, implement additional security:
Double up on locks: Using two different types of locks forces thieves to have multiple tools and doubles their work time. I often use a U-lock as primary security and add a chain or folding lock as backup.
Secure removable components: Many scooters have easily removable batteries, displays, or other valuable parts. Either lock these separately or take them with you. I always remove my scooter’s display and battery (when possible) for longer stops.
Add motion alarms: Small, battery-powered alarms that trigger with movement can be attached to your scooter. The WSDCAM 113dB Wireless Anti-Theft Alarm costs under $20 and can scare off opportunistic thieves.
Use visual deterrents: Sometimes, perception is reality. Bright orange or yellow locks signal serious security to potential thieves. Some riders add fake alarm stickers or even non-functional “camera” lights.
Track your ride: Consider adding a hidden GPS tracker to your scooter. Apple AirTags work well if you’re in the Apple ecosystem, while dedicated GPS trackers like Invoxia offer more features at a higher cost.
Advanced Security Strategies for High-Risk Situations
Living in a high-theft area or need to leave your scooter overnight? These advanced tactics might help.
1. The Triple-Security Approach
For maximum protection, combine these three elements:
- Physical security – Use multiple high-quality locks of different types
- Electronic deterrents – Add alarms, GPS tracking, and if your scooter has them, enable all digital security features
- Practical measures – Choose visible locations, remove valuable components, use covers to make your scooter less identifiable
When I had to leave my scooter overnight in downtown Chicago, I used a U-lock through the frame, a chain lock through the wheel and frame, a disc lock with alarm, and removed the battery, display, and throttle assembly. Overkill? Maybe, but my scooter was still there in the morning.
2. Location, Location, Location
Sometimes, where you park matters more than how you lock:
- Well-lit areas with security cameras are ideal
- 24-hour businesses with staff who can see your scooter provide passive monitoring
- Dedicated parking facilities with attendants offer excellent security for longer stops
- Indoor options (when permitted) eliminate most theft risk entirely
I’ve found that some coffee shops and stores will let you bring your folded scooter inside if you ask nicely and it’s not busy. Never hurts to inquire!
3. Disguise Tactics
Making your scooter less attractive or recognizable can deter theft:
- Weatherproof covers not only protect from elements but also hide what’s underneath
- Some owners add duct tape or removable stickers to make expensive scooters look cheaper or damaged
- Personalizing your scooter with distinctive markings makes it harder to resell
I keep a scooter cover in my backpack for longer stops- it takes 10 seconds to throw over my ride and obscures both the make/model and my security measures.

Common Locking Mistakes That Practically Invite Theft
Despite good intentions, many riders inadvertently make their scooters easy targets. Avoid these common errors:
1. The “Just a Minute” Fallacy
One of the most common mistakes is leaving your scooter unlocked for “just a quick stop.” This is exactly when opportunistic thieves strike. I’ve timed how long it takes to apply a U-lock properly-under 30 seconds. There’s simply no excuse for skipping security, even briefly.
2. Inadequate Locks
Using a flimsy cable lock as your only security is basically an invitation to theft. In demonstration videos, thieves cut through common cable locks in under 3 seconds with basic wire cutters. Invest in proper security or prepare to buy a new scooter.
3. Securing Non-Structural Components
Locking to easily removable parts like handlebars or quick-release wheels means a thief can simply detach that part and take the rest of the scooter. Always lock through a structural component that cannot be easily removed without tools.
4. The “Out of Sight, Out of Mind” Approach
Hiding your scooter behind a dumpster or in an alley might seem clever, but isolated areas give thieves more privacy to work. Parking in visible, high-traffic areas means more potential witnesses, which deters theft.
5. Ignoring Lock Maintenance
Locks need occasional maintenance, too! Dirt, debris, and moisture can jam locking mechanisms. I apply a small amount of graphite lubricant (never use oil-based products) to my lock mechanisms every few months to ensure smooth operation.
What to Do If the Worst Happens: Post-Theft Recovery
Despite your best efforts, theft can still occur. Having a plan can increase your chances of recovery:
- File a police report immediately – Provide the serial number, photos, and any identifying features
- Check nearby surveillance cameras – Businesses might have footage of the theft
- Activate tracking features – If you have a GPS or a hidden AirTag, now’s the time to use it
- Search online marketplaces – Many stolen scooters end up for sale locally
- Alert local scooter communities – Fellow riders can keep an eye out for your model
- Contact your insurance company – Some home, renter’s, or specialized policies may cover the loss
Documentation tip: Before theft occurs, photograph your scooter from multiple angles, record the serial number, and save your purchase receipt in a secure digital location.