ABUS Chain Lock 1200 Web Review

Security

Unlike other lightweight bike locks from our lineup, the ABUS Chain Lock 1200 Web deserves a special shout-out. Typically, our testers can defeat the lightweight locks with one cut and one tool. However, the 1200 Web defies this standard because of its steel chain and its nylon sheath. And, before you say, Nylon can't protect my bike!, give us a chance to explain. Even on a low-priced product, ABUS provides a small innovation.

Most locks are kaput after tin snips, or bolt cutters cut them — the cut opens the lock, allowing the thief to remove your bike. In contrast, this ABUS chain hangs on stubbornly because the thick nylon is still wrapped around your tires and frame and whatever object you've locked it to. We seriously struggled to get through the sheath with tin snips or bolt cutters. We had to use the blade of a pocket knife to get through it. So, the ABUS 1200 chain requires a second step to steal the bike. Either the thief fumbles with tin snips or wire cutters to get through the nylon (which takes forever!), or they have to use another cutting device to go through a thick textile fabric.

Is it undefeatable? No. But, it does require an extra step that provides additional deterrence. And that, we think, is something… especially for a lock of this size and weight.

Ease of Transport

In terms of portability, this lock rocks! Because it's so light and flexible, you can coil the lock around your seat post, and you'll hardly notice it's there. It can also go up front (if you don't mind looking at your bike lock while you're riding), or it tucks easily into a purse, murse, messenger bag, backpack, pannier bag, or saddlebag.

If you're looking for a lock to secure your bike and gear on pit stops, you won't notice the extra 7.3 ounces on climbs (alas, it doesn't give lighter riders much assist on the downhills). It could easily fit in a jersey pocket, too, if you had to.

We also appreciate the nylon sheath for the added security it provides and the extra layer of padding that keeps the lock from scraping up the paint job on your frame.

Ease of Use

We appreciate the ABUS Chain Lock because it is straightforward to use. The lock comes with a little “key” (it's not functional, just a fancy sort of tag) that tells you the lock's three-digit combination. That's another detail we super-appreciate; people tend to respond and remember information presented in threes.

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While it's not the smoothest combination lock we've encountered, there's nothing wrong with it. The lock itself is flexible enough that you can always move it around to get the combination lock at an angle that is easy to manipulate. Of all the locks we tested, this one's simplicity stands out near the top of the pack.

Versatility

Because the ABUS Chain is (no surprise here) essentially a chain, it's able to accommodate a variety of locking situations and bikes while offering an extra layer of protection due to the nylon sheath that won't scratch up your bike frame. Because it's so light, we also gave this lock extra points in this category because you really can carry it just about anywhere, and you'll hardly notice it's there.

The lock lost points in this category because, even if you can carry it with you everywhere, it's not the most appropriate lock for ALL situations. If you're a mountain biker and need to lock your bike to a tree, this lock won't help. Likewise, if you have a fat bike with really thick tires, chances are this lock will not enable you to lock both wheels to the frame (as we recommend you do).

Should You Buy the ABUS Chain Lock 1200 Web?

The ABUS Chain Lock 1200 Web offers a much bigger bang for your buck compared to other lightweight locks in our lineup. We love it for low-risk situations — like a pitstop on a long ride or small-town, daytime use. The lightness of the lock combined with its easy-to-use combo lock and ability to be stashed pretty much anywhere made it a favorite of our testers who just needed something to keep their rides safe for a dash into the local coffeehouse.

What Other Bike Locks Should You Consider?

If you're locking your bike up longer than a few hours, check out more secure options, such as the OnGuard Brute STD, which offers the most security per dollar spent on a bike lock. Or, if cost isn't an issue, go for the Kryptonite New York Standard U-Lock, which is the best bike lock for urban bike life when high security is a must.