Bike security is one of the non-negotiables for urban cyclists. With theft remaining a constant threat in cities and towns, a reliable lock becomes as essential as your helmet or lights. For regular commuters, that means finding something compact, secure, and hassle-free to use every day. The Abus Ultimate 420 + Loop Cable positions itself as a budget-friendly lock with serious protection credentials, and six months into daily use, it’s easy to see why it’s become a commuter favourite.
Security that earns its name
What sets the Ultimate 420 apart for the price is its combination of real-world toughness and certification. The 13mm hardened steel shackle, paired with a double-locking mechanism, means it’s more than a cosmetic deterrent. This lock holds a Sold Secure Gold rating in the UK, and also passes Scandinavian standards for ice spray and physical attacks.
Its compact 140 x 105mm locking area doesn’t just aid portability – it makes prying and twisting harder for thieves by giving them less room to manoeuvre tools. The 120cm Loop Cable adds versatility, letting you secure both wheels and your frame to fixed street furniture, though you should treat it as a secondary measure. Cable locks can be easily compromised by power tools, so they work best when paired with a D-lock in areas of moderate risk.
The compact version of the 420 is a solid pick for mid-commute errands or daytime lock-ups, but it’s less ideal for overnight storage or high-theft zones. No lock is invincible, but this one makes the job significantly harder for opportunists.
Design and practical use
The build quality feels reassuring in hand. Weighing 815g for the lock and 330g for the cable, it strikes a balance between heft and usability. The 13mm shackle is coated in a thick, rubberised sleeve that protects frame paint while adding bulk – visually, it mimics heavier-duty locks and works well as a deterrent. Abus leans into this with the bright red finish, which stands out and signals security at a glance.
What’s slightly disappointing is the omission of a weatherproof keyhole cover. Over time, rain and road spray could cause internal corrosion or sticking. The cylinder itself is smooth, reliable and resistant to picking, but long-term exposure to the elements could shorten its lifespan without regular care.
Mounting is simple. The supplied bracket installs with a Phillips screwdriver and spacers accommodate a range of tube shapes. The lock sits cleanly on the frame, but small-frame riders may find it brushes against their legs depending on placement. On larger bikes, it’ll tuck away under the top tube or behind a seat tube bottle cage without fuss. Otherwise, the whole setup fits easily into a backpack or pannier without weighing you down.
Daily riding and locking routine
In real use, the Ultimate 420 + Loop Cable is fuss-free. You unlock, loop, click, and go. The cable threads through front wheels and onto anchor points smoothly, with the D-lock securing the frame and rear wheel through the triangle. This two-point method is commuter best practice, and Abus’ compact dimensions make it easier to pull off in built-up areas with crowded racks.
Noise-wise, it stays silent. There’s no annoying rattle when mounted, and the bracket holds steady even on pothole-strewn commutes. If your frame doesn’t allow easy mounting, the lock’s light weight means it’s perfectly viable to just carry it instead. The cable, although lacking its own bracket, coils neatly and doesn’t take up much bag space.
Verdict
For £54.99, the Abus Ultimate 420 + Loop Cable bike lock is outstanding value. It’s light, portable, and secure enough for daily commuter use. If your regular parking involves Sheffield stands or fixed rails in moderate-risk areas, it’s ideal. It’s not built to stop a determined thief with power tools, but for most city cyclists looking for insurance-approved protection that’s practical and budget-conscious, this is one of the best options currently available.
Who’s it for? Urban riders, students, and everyday commuters who want maximum security per gram without spending triple figures. It’s not one for locking up overnight outside the pub – but for everything else, it’s hard to beat.
