How To Properly lock Your Electric Scooter from theft

Over the last five years, the number of people using electric scooters for transport has grown but this growth has also led to electric scooter theft. Sydney and Melbourne have seen an upsurge in bike and scooter thefts, and almost 20,000 are stolen every year in Australia, according to a 2023 Bicycle Network report. According to Greater Manchester Police data, thefts from unattended e-scooters increased by over 30% between 2020 and 2022.
E-scooters range in price from $500 to $2,000, so it can be a significant blow financially for people who rely on them. This blog is all about the importance of locking and theft prevention tools like GPS trackers to secure your electric scooter, emphasising awareness and vigilance as a key factor in preventing theft.

What’s the Best Way to Prevent Electric Scooter Theft?

It is a tricky question, but here comes the reality. The best security is to keep it indoors, especially at night, but locking it is still important. We understand that carrying it inside isn't always possible.

Physical Locks to Secure Your Electric Scooter

Riders can use different types of locks suited to the different security needs to lock up their electric scooters. We have mentioned some common type of physical locks in this section.

U-Locks

They are heavy-duty designed U-locks with high security as they are constructed of steel. It is small in size and strong. Riders must make sure that the lock can go through the designated locking points on the scooter.

• Advantages: U-locks are among the strongest. They are stronger than others and easier to be safe from any theft using conventional tools.
• Drawbacks: They are powerful in security but vulnerable to advanced methods like angle grinders. They may also cost more than the others.

Folding Locks

These locks are flexible, smaller than chain or U-locks, have multiple metal plates that fold into a compact shape. They offer good security but may not be as resistant to determined attacks as U-locks as these locks are made of interlocking metal pieces that can be folded out for use and folded back up for storage.

• Advantages: These are more portable and offer the same level of security as the U-locks. They are also versatile because different locking configurations are allowed.
• Drawbacks: It is not very common and can be costly. They do take time and effort to cut through​.

Chain Locks

Chain locks are made of thick, heavy-duty metal chain with a heavy-duty padlock. They are often hardened steel for increased resistance against cutting tools. They are just too bulky to carry around thus best suited for stationary parking.

• Advantages: It has more resistance against cutting tools than cable locks. They can lock the frame to a fixed object securely.
• Drawbacks: Heavy, thereby not so portable​. High-quality versions can be quite bulky​.

Cable Locks

Cable locks are flexible, coiled steel cables which are flexible enough to coil around both the scooter frame and the object. Such locks are often combined with a keyed or combination locking mechanism. They are light in weight, easy to carry, and come in various lengths for different locking needs.

• Advantages: Light-weight, portable, inexpensive and good as a secondary to secure the wheels, as added layers of security.
• Drawbacks: Easily cut with wire or bolt cutters. Not a great option for primary security.​

Wearable Chain Locks

Wearable chain locks are an innovative invention that lets riders to carry their lock as a belt or attach it to their body. They often consist of thick chains and come with strong padlocks which are meant to be worn around the waist or shoulders when they are not in use. In addition, the chain is often covered with a protective sleeve to prevent scooter damage and wear.

• Advantages: These are highly secure as the chains are made of hardened steel, resistant to bolt cutters and other hand cutting tools. Riders find them easy to carry while riding.
• Drawbacks: Heavy and bulky, uncomfortable for some riders. The bigger and thicker the chain is, the more difficult it is to carry.

Alarmed Locks

These locks usually come with a built-in motion-sensitive alarm system. Cable, chain, and U-lock versions are available, providing security as well as an alert system. If it is deactivated, then the alarm makes a loud noise of over 100 decibels to scare the burglar and alert those within its vicinity. Some of the models come with advanced features like remote control or even Bluetooth, to deactivate the alarm from a distance.

• Advantages: The alarm alerts anyone within the vicinity to unusual behavior.
• Drawbacks: The alarm's battery can run out, and if the scooter is locked in a noisy area, it may not be effective​.

Combining Locks for Maximum Security

Riders like to use a set of locks for increased security. A cable or chain lock combined with a solid U-lock doubles the safety of the scooter's chassis and wheels. Each type of lock has a purpose, based on the rider's demands, the location, and its value of the scooter. No lock will provide complete security, however selecting the appropriate lock for your scooter can lower the risk of theft.

Other Ways to Keep Your Electric Scooter Secure

There are ways to protect your electric scooter from theft other than physical locks. You can consider the following strategies to secure your electric scooter.

GPS Tracker

You can install a GPS tracker in hidden places in the scooter and you will then be able to trace the scooter through your smartphone app. Once your scooter is stolen, you can trace it to its location and inform the authorities for recovery.

Smartphone Apps

A majority of electric scooters have built-in apps, electronic locks integrated directly into the scooter, that can even lock or disable the scooter remotely. These apps typically use Bluetooth technology to connect with your scooter, so the scooter won't start unless it is unlocked via the app.

Park in Safe Areas

Always try to park your scooter in bright, and busy spots. If available, place your scooter in one of those secure bike racks or parking lot spaces, like the ones typically at train stations or in shopping centres.

Use a Scooter Cover

A simple yet effective way to reduce theft risk is to use a scooter cover. A covered scooter is less noticeable to a thief, and it will probably discourage them from even trying to steal it.

Remove the Battery

One step that is interesting, but useful is that you can always take the battery with you when away from your electric scooter to prevent theft.

Security Marking

The security marking on your scooter's frame or parts serves as a unique identify. This makes it easier to track down a stolen scooter and discourages resales. Local police stations offer free engraving services for bicycles and scooters.

Insurance

You could also get insurance coverage on the electric scooter. There are types of insurance that can actually cover theft, damages, or accidents that would bring compensation in case it is stolen. Just do well to verify the details for any specific policy.

Wheel Lock

Wheel locks can be used to provide additional security in addition to standard locks. These locks immobilise the wheel, which in some way prevents robbers from taking your scooter. It is a basic yet effective extra security measure.

Record Serial Number

One other simple but effective recovery step is recording your scooter's serial number once you buy it. It sounds trivial, but when you need to pick out your scooter from many others that look the same, you will wish you had.

In Summary

The most foolproof method to keep your electric scooter safe is to bring it indoors and not leave it unattended outside. If that is not possible, the best defence is a mix of physical and electronic locks, as well as the installation of a tracking device. A single method might not make the thief go away, but combining these precautions may raise your chances to secure your electric scooter.

Read more:
Are Electric Scooters Legal in Sydney?
Electric Scooter Laws in NSW (2024)