Electric scooters are attractive targets for thieves. They're valuable, portable, relatively easy to steal if not properly secured, and have a ready resale market. While the best security is never leaving your scooter unattended, that's not always practical. This guide covers the strategies, locks, and habits that will help keep your e-scooter safe.
The reality is that no lock is unbreakable given enough time and the right tools. Security is about deterrence—making your scooter a harder target than others nearby, buying time, and creating obstacles that discourage opportunistic theft.
Understanding the Theft Risk
Before investing in security, understand how e-scooters typically get stolen:
- Grab and go: Unlocked scooters are simply picked up and walked away
- Quick cuts: Cable locks cut in seconds with basic tools
- Vehicle loading: Scooters lifted into vans, defeating any ground anchor
- Part theft: Batteries, displays, or wheels removed from locked scooters
- Inside theft: Stolen from "secure" areas like apartment foyers
Types of Locks
Different locks offer varying levels of security. Match your lock to your risk level.
D-Locks (U-Locks)
D-locks are generally the most secure portable option.
🔒 D-Lock Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Highly resistant to bolt cutters and leverage attacks
- Quick to use once you develop the habit
- Relatively compact
Cons:
- Limited reach—can be hard to find suitable anchor points
- Heavy (quality D-locks weigh 1-2kg)
- E-scooter frames often don't fit well in the "D"
When using a D-lock with an e-scooter, lock through the frame (stem is ideal) to a solid anchor. Fill as much of the D's internal space as possible—this prevents leverage attacks.
Chain Locks
Chain locks offer flexibility but vary wildly in security.
- Hardened steel chains: Good security, very heavy
- Standard chains: Easily cut—avoid for valuable scooters
- Length advantage: Can reach more anchor points than D-locks
Look for chains with at least 10mm hardened steel links. Anything thinner can be cut quickly with bolt cutters. Wrap excess chain to eliminate slack that helps leverage attacks.
Cable Locks
⚠️ Cable Lock Warning
Cable locks provide minimal security. A basic cable lock can be cut in under 10 seconds with inexpensive tools. Use cable locks only for very short, supervised stops—never for extended parking.
The only appropriate use for cable locks is as a secondary deterrent in addition to a primary lock, threading through wheels or easily removed components.
Folding Locks
Folding locks (articulated metal plates connected by rivets) offer a compromise between D-lock security and chain flexibility.
- More versatile positioning than D-locks
- Compact when folded
- Security varies significantly by brand and model
- Riveted joints can be a weak point on cheaper models
Built-In Locks
Some e-scooters include electronic locks or steering locks:
- App-based locks: Disable the motor; doesn't prevent carrying the scooter away
- Steering locks: Prevent rolling; easily defeated by lifting
Treat built-in locks as supplements, not replacements for a physical lock. They're best for short stops where you have line-of-sight.
How to Lock Properly
Even the best lock is useless if applied incorrectly.
Lock to Something Solid
Your lock is only as strong as what you lock to:
- Good anchors: Dedicated bike racks, substantial steel poles/rails, solid street furniture
- Bad anchors: Wooden posts, thin signposts, anything that can be cut/unbolted, objects a scooter can be lifted over
Before locking, test the anchor. Pull on it, check for loose bolts, ensure the scooter can't be lifted over or slipped under.
Lock the Frame
Always lock through the frame—the strongest, most permanent part of your scooter. Locking only a wheel means a thief takes the scooter and leaves you the wheel.
Ideal lock points on most scooters:
- Through the stem above the folding mechanism
- Through the frame where the deck meets the stem
- Around both the frame and rear wheel if possible
Minimise Slack
Excess cable or chain provides leverage for attacks. Keep your lock tight around the scooter and anchor with minimal slack.
Lock Position
Position the lock where it's hard to attack:
- Keep the keyhole facing down (harder to pick, less water entry)
- Position away from the ground (prevents hammer attacks)
- Avoid giving attackers leverage against anchor points
Security Beyond Locks
GPS Trackers
A GPS tracker won't prevent theft, but it can help recover a stolen scooter:
- Hidden trackers are harder for thieves to find and remove
- Some offer motion alerts when the scooter is moved
- Consider battery life—some need regular charging
- Subscription services may be required for tracking features
If your scooter is stolen and tracked, never attempt to recover it yourself—contact police and provide the location data.
Alarms
Motion-activated alarms create noise that attracts attention and may deter thieves:
- Some locks include built-in alarms
- Standalone disc lock alarms attach to brake discs
- Sensitivity matters—too sensitive causes false alarms, annoying everyone nearby
Registration and Documentation
Help police recover your scooter if stolen:
- Record the serial number (usually under the deck or on the frame)
- Keep proof of purchase
- Take photos of your scooter including any unique marks
- Register with local bike registries if they accept e-scooters
Storage Strategies
At Home
- Inside your dwelling: Best security, also protects from weather
- Garage or secure shed: Lock the scooter even inside; garages are burgled
- Apartment common areas: These are NOT secure; treat as public space
At Work
Arrange storage before you start commuting:
- Ask to bring it inside—under desk, in cupboard
- Use secure bike storage if available
- Reception storage may be possible
- Public bike racks should be last resort
Out and About
- Minimise time locked in public
- Choose visible locations with foot traffic
- Some venues may allow you to bring the scooter inside
- Consider alternative transport for situations requiring extended public parking
💡 The Best Security
The most secure option is always to take your scooter with you. Its portability is a feature—use it. Fold and carry rather than lock outside when possible.
Insurance
Insurance provides financial protection when prevention fails:
Options
- Contents insurance: May cover your scooter under portable valuables
- Specific e-scooter insurance: Dedicated policies exist for high-value scooters
- Extended warranty/theft protection: Some retailers offer add-on coverage
Considerations
- Check if theft is covered and under what conditions
- Note excess amounts and coverage limits
- Understand requirements (e.g., specific lock types, police reports)
- Keep documentation and receipts for claims
If Your Scooter Is Stolen
- Report to police: File a report immediately—needed for insurance
- Provide details: Serial number, photos, description, circumstances
- Check GPS tracker: If fitted, provide location to police (don't confront thieves)
- Contact insurance: Begin claim process promptly
- Monitor marketplace sites: Stolen scooters sometimes appear for sale locally
E-Scooter Security Essentials
- Bring your scooter inside whenever possible—best security
- Invest in a quality D-lock or hardened chain—cables are easily cut
- Lock through the frame to a solid anchor point
- Minimise slack and position lock to resist attack
- Consider GPS tracking as a recovery tool
- Document your scooter and consider insurance
- Secure storage at home and work is essential
No security system is perfect, but layered precautions significantly reduce your risk. The goal is making your scooter a harder target than others—and ensuring you can recover financially if the worst happens.