No matter where you ride, using a bike alarm with your bike lock is a consideration worth making. Even the most secure storage area can break in, especially with many specialized and customized bikes with special features. Plus, a bike alarm allows you to be more mobile and gives peace of mind when leaving your bike for any amount of time.
The best bike alarms are effective, easy to use, work with your lock, and provide excellent safety. Using these two together deters even the most persistent thieves. This review will cover popular bicycle alarm system models and weigh their advantages and disadvantages.
Table Of Contents
Best Bike Alarm Comparisons
Brand | Details |
|---|---|
 Wsdcam Wireless Anti-Theft Vibration Alarm | |
 G Keni Bike Tail Light Rechargeable, Anti-Theft Alarm | |
 Abus Bordo Alarm Plus Bike Lock | |
 SmartHalo Cycling Computer With Anti-Theft Alarm | |
 Nunet Bluetooth App Controlled Bike Lock & Alarm |
Why You Want to Use an Alarm
Deciding to have an alarm shouldn't be difficult. Having one provides peace of mind, and in a society where it seems that anything not nailed down (and then some) is fair game, it is only right to protect your assets. This is especially true if you have a large investment in your bike, and you have every reason to go through your day without worrying about losing your means of transportation.
Whether your bike alarm is used with a lock or is a stand-alone, it is a surprising deterrent to anyone tampering with your property. They make noise, and some light up and are remotely accessible. Just seeing a lock can deter many thieves; adding an alarm provides even more security.
The History of Bike Security
Bike locks have been around for well over 100 years, with early designs popping up across Europe and later the United States to deter quick theft.
With advances in technology and material creation, locks have become more durable, lightweight, and even stronger at deterring theft.
This technology has also allowed the inclusion of alarm systems. Many locks use a built-in alarm, and it's easy to pair the lock and alarm together. However, there have been some more advances in the last few years that provide Bluetooth operation, smartphone syncing, and even tracking for stolen bikes for rapid recovery.
How Bike Alarms Work
Bike alarms are generally small devices that are generally easy to conceal on the frame or under the seat. They pick up on vibration and movement, and they emit a loud sound when activated. Some also include lights or other technological advances such as Bluetooth capabilities and even tracking.
How to Choose the Best Bike Alarm for You
Not all bike alarms are made the same, and many are simple deterrents for thieves looking for a fast getaway. Some are less expensive and excellent for low-crime areas.
Other choices can run rather high cost-wise but are made from durable, theft deterrent materials, have multiple settings, and do more than just work as an alarm.
If you have to leave your bike unsupervised, or you know that bike theft is common in your area, alarms are a worthwhile investment. Adding an alarm makes your bike that much safer.
You also have to consider what fits your bike and where you can place your alarm, although many do come with easy attachment solutions. Most alarms, unless built into the lock, are very lightweight and hardly noticeable.
Lastly, consider preference. If you like a certain style preference, but wish it was more durable, do some homework and see if you cannot find a good compromise as there are many different products to choose from.
Top 5 Bike Alarm Reviews
Although there are many makes and models of bike alarms, the following are some of the top products reviewed with very favorable ratings. They also provide a good overview of the styles available.
Wsdcam Wireless Anti-Theft Vibration Alarm
The Wsdcam Wireless Anti-Theft Vibration Alarm attaches effortlessly to your bike's frame and is triggered by vibration. With 7 variable settings, you can set it to go off at different movements and sensitivities. You also can remotely set it off with a choice of bells and alarms. It is easy to mount and requires 3 AAA batteries for the alarm, plus a 12Volt battery for the remote.
Pros
Cons
Who Should Choose This:
This is a great choice to go along with a light to medium safety lock choice for added protection of your property.
G Keni Bike Tail Light Rechargeable, Anti-Theft Alarm
Excellent for discrete placement, the G Keni bike alarm system sits under your seat or along your post to provide multiple safety and deterrent options. It has various taillight features, a bike finder location sound, and an anti-theft alarm that goes off with any vibration, or can even be used remotely. The remote has a 50-foot radius for easy bike location. You also can charge the system via USB—no batteries needed!
Pros
Cons
Who Should Choose This:
This is perfect for use with a light to moderate lock choice to provide extra security. It also is wonderful to help mark where you are if you ride at night with the bright LED lights.
Abus Bordo Alarm Plus Bike Lock
The Abus Bordo Alarm Bike Lock takes the idea of a chain lock a step further by using foldable, steel bars that provide movement and flex for bike security. The design is a smart alarm system that provides a warning beep when the bike is jostled, but will set off the alarm if the movement is continued. This helps keep the alarm from going off when it senses regular movement, especially in tight quarters. Consistent movement will set it off for 15 seconds (or until movement stops). The alarm can also be mounted to the bike for easy transportation.
Pros
Cons
Who Should Choose This:
This is a durable product that takes the guesswork out of alarm systems. The modified cable style, plus the smart technology that allows for warning and alarm capability is definitely a high tech choice.
SmartHalo Cycling Computer With Anti-Theft Alarm
This model includes a light, GPS tracking and navigation (that can lead you back to where bike thieves put it), fitness tracking, phone notifications, and a loud alarm motion detection alarm. This syncs to the cyclist's smartphone app and is perfect when riding in busy areas.
Pros
Cons
Who Should Choose This:
If you are looking for a versatile alarm that also has other capabilities, this is an excellent choice. Smart technology takes this alarm to a whole new level of security options.
Nunet Bluetooth App Controlled Bike Lock & Alarm
High-strength, braided steel cables are wrapped in PVC to provide up to 71 inches of cable lock capability. With Bluetooth capabilities that sync with your smartphone, this lock allows you to lock your bike in multiple scenarios and unlock it and determine when your batteries are running low (requires 3 AAA). The automatic vibration feature can be manually turned on, but it also activates when the smartphone is out of range. The alarm emits a loud sound if the lock is approached or tampered with.
Pros
Cons
Who Should Choose This:
This is an excellent cable lock style that combines with an effective alarm to avoid having to have a separate choice. For quick locking scenarios, or temporary situations when out and about, this is a great choice.
Conclusion
Locking up your bike deters thieves, and adding an alarm adds even much more security. The above alarm choices display top-rated various models, and give you an idea of choice and use in various situations. The important thing to remember is to choose an alarm that will keep your bike safe for your riding area.
When pairing up an alarm, find one that is discrete, easy to use, and can also handle the weather you are in. Alarms make a potential thief think again about getting a lock loose. For more advice on bike safety, this guide on bike helmet lights will help you ride late at night!