Our guide to cargo bike and e-bike security and home storage

Some e-bikes and cargo bikes come with price tags as much as a small car, but are so much easier to steal if left unchecked so e-bike security and storage are paramount.

In recent years, the world has seen a surge in the popularity of e-bikes and cargo bikes. These versatile two-wheelers have become a favorite choice for eco-conscious commuters, families, and urban explorers. However, their high cost and vulnerability to theft have led to a growing demand for secure storage solutions.

And the majority of thefts happen right at home. According to the latest statistics, this is where more than 54 per cent of bike thefts happen.

In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the various options available to safeguard and store your valuable e-bikes and cargo bikes at home.

E-bike Security

Ground and Wall Anchors

Inside sheds, garages and bike tents, a great security option are ground anchors. These sturdy anchors can be used to secure your bike using a high-quality lock and chain. They are an excellent choice for open areas and provide added peace of mind.

The size and weight of some e-bikes and cargo bikes make bringing them indoors impractical, and relying on a garage might not always guarantee safety, as an open door could lead to theft. To address this concern, various floor anchors serve as reliable locking points for bike owners.

Here are some options to consider from the e-bike security experts at ABUS.

• WCH 90: Equipped with an integrated chain, this anchor provides a convenient and secure solution for bike storage.

• WBA 100: Ideal for concrete surfaces, this anchor is mounted using large Fisher bolts, offering robust support for securing your bike.
• WBA 60: Versatile and adaptable, this anchor can be mounted into either concrete or studs, providing flexibility in installation.

WBA60 with chain and bike

• WA 50: Designed for stud mounting, this anchor offers a stable point for securing bikes in areas where concrete installation may not be feasible.

For urban dwellers without garage access, installing a floor anchor in communal areas or walkways may be a viable option, especially if landlords are willing to accommodate such installations. The low-profile design of anchors like the WBA 100 allows for vehicle passage, making it suitable for various locations.

ABUS WBA 100

To enhance security, floor anchors without integrated chains can be paired with longer chains or folding locks. This additional measure ensures that your bike remains well-protected against theft, providing peace of mind for bike owners in diverse living situations.

U-Locks

U-locks are the gold standard when it comes to securing high-value bikes. They provide exceptional e-bike security due to their robust construction and resistance to cutting tools.

• Strength and Durability: U-locks are typically made from hardened steel and have a solid, unyielding structure, making them extremely difficult to break.
• Thief Deterrence: Their formidable appearance alone can deter potential thieves.
• High Security Rating: Look for U-locks with high security ratings, such as Sold Secure Gold or ART 4, for the best protection.

A u-lock can also be used in combination with an accessory cable to provide an additional deterrent to thieves while also securing the front wheel.

Chain Locks

Chain locks are another excellent choice for protecting expensive bikes, especially if you opt for a high-quality, heavy-duty chain lock.

• Versatility: A thick, high-quality chain lock allows you to secure your bike to various anchor points, including ground anchors, bike racks, or dedicated locking posts.
• Durability: Look for chains with thick links made of hardened steel to resist cutting or prying attempts.
• Length and Thickness: Ensure the chain is both long enough to accommodate your bike and thick enough to provide superior security.

Folding Locks

Folding locks are a compact and portable option for securing your high-value cargo bike, offering a balance between security and convenience.

• Compact Design: Folding locks fold into a compact shape when not in use, making them easy to carry and store.
• High-Quality Materials: Opt for folding locks made from hardened steel to ensure they provide robust security.
• Additional Security Mechanisms: Some folding locks also feature extra locking mechanisms, such as anti-pick cylinders, further enhancing security.

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Smart Locks with Alarms

Smart locks with built-in alarms are cutting-edge e-bike security solutions that offer both protection and convenience for expensive bikes:

• Remote Control: Smart locks can be controlled remotely using a smartphone app, allowing you to lock and unlock your bike from a distance.
• Alarms: These locks are equipped with motion sensors and alarms. If your bike is tampered with, the lock will emit a loud alarm, deterring thieves and alerting you or neighbors.
• GPS Tracking: Some smart locks offer GPS tracking features, allowing you to locate your bike in real-time if it’s stolen.

Bike Sheds

Bike sheds are dedicated outdoor storage units designed to protect your valuable bikes from the elements and theft. They come in different sizes, accommodating a single bike to multiple bikes and equipment. Bike sheds often feature lockable doors and windows to enhance security.

Galvanized steel bike sheds such as the HANBIKESHD from Hanover are secure, long-lasting, and can handle bicycles for a family of four with ease. While reliable brands such as Rubbermaid and Keter offer durable, weather-resistant resin outdoor sheds that can fit three bikes. Wooden bike sheds such as those from Bosmere or the Bike Shed Company are good choices for those concerned with aesthetics but tend to be a little pricier per square foot than the plastic and aluminum options. Companies such as Suncast offer durable plastic sheds in a range of sizes.

Bike Tents

Bike tents are an affordable, easy-to-assemble and portable outdoor bike storage option for people who are looking to keep their bikes protected from the elements and out of plain sight. They aren’t incredibly durable and as such aren’t very secure, and also need to be used in tandem with a rack or stand to keep the bikes upright. They’re a good option for people in areas with minimal-to-no risk of bike theft who just want their bikes out the rain and don’t want a permanent fixture in the yard.

Yardstash Solutions offers a particularly portable 2-bike tent for $129.99 USD, while ShelterLogic offers more durable (but more tedious to assemble) heavy-canvas tents in the over-$200 USD range.

Bike Covers

Bike covers are the cheapest bike storage option for outdoors, and for a good reason. They literally do nothing but keep the rain and snow off of your bike. But if that’s all you need, then they’re an excellent (small) investment.

Bike covers such as this one from Himiway are typically made of thick vinyl, and range in price from $15 USD to $30 USD. You can find them at Electra, and Topeak, amongst many other places.

Bike Covers

Bike covers offer temporary protection against the elements. They are a cost-effective solution to shield your bike from rain, sun, and dust. Look for covers made from durable, weather-resistant materials. While not a substitute for secure storage, they provide a protective layer when combined with other security measures.

Indoor Options

Bike Racks

Wall-mounted bike racks are designed to be affixed to walls and provide an efficient way to store bikes vertically. They are especially useful in garages and basements where floor space is limited. Some models come with hooks for helmets and accessories.

Freestanding bike racks, on the other hand, offer more flexibility and can be placed anywhere in your home. They often have a sturdy frame that can accommodate multiple bikes, making them an excellent choice for families or avid cyclists.

Wall Mounts for E-bike Security

Wall mounts are a space-saving solution for individuals with limited floor space. They come in various designs, from simple hooks to more complex hanger systems that hold the bike horizontally or vertically. Wall mounts keep your bike off the ground, preventing accidental damage.

Some wall-mounted bike racks, such as some of the options from Feedback Sports, and Delta Cycle, hang your bike by the top bar of the frame so it sits horizontally along the wall. These are great for small spaces, and also create a nice aesthetic by turning your bike into a wall adornment. A few wall-mounts also have independent arms that adjust in two dimensions to accomadate a wider range of frames such as the Velo Wall Rack 2D. The downside is they don’t work well with step-through or mixte frames. The Velo Wall Post by Feedback Sports is one solution to storing step-through or mixte frames because it supports the bike by the seat rather than the frame.

Bike Stands

Freestanding bike stands come in various designs, from simple A-frame racks to more elaborate systems. They are an excellent option for those who want flexibility in placing their bikes within their home. These stands are portable and can be moved around to suit your needs, making them suitable for apartments and houses alike.

The Delta Cycle Michaelangelo and Saris Bike Bunk are both affordable, minimalist gravity racks that simply lean against the wall. They both have adjustable arms which enable them to accommodate sloping frames. Feedback Sports and Delta Cycle both make tension racks, which have a minimal footprint and don’t attach to the wall, they stand with tension between the floor and the ceiling. These are very easy to install and the soft rubber arms on Feedback Sports’ Velo Column help protect your bike’s paint.  If design is your primary concern, the Saris the Hottie 2-bike stand is a good bet.

Factors to Consider

Location

1. Urban vs. Suburban Settings:

• Urban areas often have higher rates of bike theft due to the higher population density and increased opportunities for thieves. As a result, secure storage becomes a paramount concern for city-dwellers.
• Suburban settings, while generally safer, also require attention to bike security. Even in suburban areas, bikes left unattended are susceptible to theft, especially valuable e-bikes and cargo bikes.

2. Weather Conditions:

• Consider your local climate when choosing storage options. If you live in a region with frequent rain, humidity, or extreme temperature fluctuations, it’s essential to protect your bikes from moisture and rust. Indoor storage or bike covers can be especially beneficial in such climates.

Tracking Devices for Recovering Stolen Bikes

Even with the most robust locking systems, the unfortunate reality is that theft can still occur. To enhance your chances of recovering a stolen expensive bike, consider incorporating tracking devices into your e-bike security strategy. Here’s what you need to know:

GPS Tracking Devices

GPS tracking devices are cutting-edge tools that allow you to monitor the location of your bike in real-time. They are often integrated into smart locks, but standalone options are available as well. A great example of this is the popular Apple Airtag, which can also be hidden inside a bike reflector with a product like this TagLock Airtag mount.

• Real-Time Location: GPS tracking devices use satellite technology to provide precise location information, making it easier to locate your bike if it’s stolen.
• Remote Monitoring: Many GPS trackers can be accessed via a smartphone app or a web portal, giving you the ability to track your bike’s movements.
• Geofencing: Some GPS devices allow you to set up geofences, which are virtual boundaries. If your bike moves outside of these predefined areas, you’ll receive an alert.

Bluetooth Tracking Devices for E-bike Security:

Bluetooth tracking devices are smaller and less expensive than GPS trackers. They work over shorter distances but can still be valuable in tracking a stolen bike. An example of this tracking device is this Cycloop Bike GPS Tracker. 

• Proximity Tracking: Bluetooth trackers rely on the proximity of your smartphone. If your bike is stolen and a user with the corresponding app on their phone comes into close proximity to your bike, you’ll receive an alert with the location.
• Community Tracking: Some Bluetooth tracking networks rely on a community of users. If any user with the app comes near your stolen bike, it can send location data back to you.

Alarm and Tracker Combos:

Several smart locks designed for high-value bikes come with both alarm and tracking features. These integrated systems provide a comprehensive e-bike security solution:

• Theft Deterrence: The audible alarm can deter potential thieves, while the tracker allows you to locate your bike in case it is stolen.
• Synchronization: The alarm and tracker are usually connected to your smartphone via an app, ensuring you are alerted to any tampering with your bike.

Registration with Bike Databases:

Some countries and regions have bike registration databases. Registering your bike with these databases can aid in recovery if it is stolen and later recovered by the authorities.

• Serial Number: These databases often require you to enter your bike’s serial number, making it easier to match recovered bikes with their rightful owners.
• Stolen Bike Alerts: Authorities and potential buyers can check these databases to see if a bike has been reported stolen, reducing the market for stolen bikes.

When incorporating tracking devices into your e-bike security plan, it’s essential to choose a system that suits your needs and budget. Additionally, regularly check the device’s battery life and ensure your account is active and up-to-date to maximize the chances of recovering your stolen bike.