The 10 Best Helmet Locks

Editor's Notes

July 09, 2020:

Most thieves are opportunists and, in most cases, a simple deterrent is enough to make them lose their interest. While a helmet lock will not stop a determined criminal from stealing a helmet, it's usually enough to convince them to move on to the next potential target, leaving your bike and gear intact. The items in this ranking are all universal, meaning they are suitable for all types and makes of motorcycle, however, there are many designed specifically to suit popular brands and models, if you wish to go down the bespoke route.

When choosing a helmet lock, they can be divided into those that are attached to a motorcycle frame and those that are not. The former include the Mtsooning 1pc Universal, Rebacker Universal, and the Kuryakyn 4232. These feature a clamping mechanism that bolts directly to any tubing on the motorcycle body, including handlebars, racks, and engine guards. One thing to bear in mind is that these often use anti-tamper screws, which cannot be easily removed once tightened, so it's a good idea to be sure of your lock placement beforehand. Other fixed models include the Kuryakyn 4248 and the Guaimi Universal, both of which bolt to the license plate bracket of the vehicle, providing a discreet and secure alternative to body-mounted locks.

In the other category are non-fixed locks, and these include the Tengfeng Mini, Master Lock 99KA, Lockstraps 901, Rocky Creek Helmetlok, and the BigPantha Combination. All of these attach to a helmet's D-ring, or loop around the chin guard, before encircling a secure part of the bike's frame, with the Rocky Creek Helmetlok including a handy T-bar extension for added length. Other models, including the BigPantha Combination, Lockstraps 901, and Tengfeng Mini have coiled steel cables that can either be threaded through the helmet, or used to secure items of luggage, or articles of clothing, by passing it through a biker jacket's sleeve, for example.