Frame lock guide: ring locks and plug-in chains
A frame lock, or ring lock, stays on your bike and locks the rear wheel in a second. It is the quiet standard on Dutch city bikes: perfect for the bakery, the station or a quick coffee, and even better when paired with a plug-in chain. This guide covers frame locks only. For U-locks, chains and folding locks, see our bike lock guide.
Frame lock or main lock?
Mounted on the seat stays, it slides a steel bar through the rear wheel so the bike cannot be ridden. Always on the bike, nothing to carry. On its own, it does not attach the bike to anything, so the bike can still be lifted and carried away.
A U-lock, chain or folding lock secures the bike to a fixed object, such as a rack or post. It is the lock for longer stops, the night and busy areas. Many riders in the Netherlands use both: the frame lock for every stop, the main lock when it matters.
The plug-in chain
Some frame locks have a socket for a matching chain or cable. You wrap the chain around a fixed object and plug its end into the frame lock: one key then locks both the wheel and the chain. It turns a short-stop lock into a lock that also attaches the bike.
Plug-in systems are brand-specific. Choose a chain that the manufacturer lists as compatible with your frame lock.
Will it fit your bike?
- Mounting points: most frame locks bolt to threaded eyelets on the seat stays, common on city bikes and e-bikes. Without eyelets, some manufacturers offer clamps designed for their own locks.
- Clearance: the ring must close around your tyre and, if fitted, the mudguard. Check the maximum tyre and mudguard width listed for the lock.
- Type of bike: ideal for city, touring, electric and many cargo bikes. Road bikes and fixies usually lack the mounting points.
Fitting takes a few minutes with the right tools. If you are unsure, our workshop in Meppel can check your frame.
ART certification and insurance
In the Netherlands, Stichting ART independently tests and rates bike locks with stars. Dutch bike insurers often set conditions on the lock, usually expressed as a minimum number of ART stars, and these conditions differ per insurer and per policy.
Before you buy, check two things: the exact ART rating of the lock on the Stichting ART website, and the requirements in your own insurance policy.
Frame locks in our range
ART certified
Auvray Evo Lock ART
A steel frame lock with an anti-pick cylinder, two keys and an integrated socket for a plug-in chain or cable.
View the lock
With plug-in chain
Kryptonite frame lock + Plug In chain
A frame lock supplied with a 120 cm Plug In chain, to lock the wheel and attach the bike to a fixed object with one key.
View the lockSee all frame locks and plug-in chains.
Frequently asked questions
Is a frame lock enough on its own?
For a short stop in a low-risk place, it is convenient. Because it does not attach the bike to anything, add a plug-in chain or a main lock for longer stops, at night or in busy areas.
Can I fit a frame lock without eyelets on my frame?
Sometimes, with a clamp made for that specific lock. Clamps are not universal, so check the manufacturer's compatibility list.
Is this lock accepted by my insurer?
That depends on the lock's exact ART rating and on your policy. Check both before you buy; we cannot confirm acceptance on your insurer's behalf.
Can I use any chain with my frame lock?
No. Plug-in chains only fit frame locks of the same system. Use a chain listed as compatible by the manufacturer.
Not sure your bike can take a frame lock? Bring it by and we will take a look.
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