Best Motorcycle Helmet Lock (Review) in 2023

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

Carrying a motorcycle helmet after you get off your bike is annoying. You need somewhere safe and secure to leave it while you run errands. A motorcycle helmet lock is one of the most secure ways to lock down your helmet when you’re not around. It allows you to easily attach it to your bike and walk away without a second thought. If you need a helmet lock, here are a few to consider.

Benefits of Motorcycle Helmet Locks

Leave your helmet behind. When you ride a motorcycle, you don’t have a lot of storage space. The last thing you want to do when you get off the bike is to carry your helmet around.
Protect your investment. Some helmets are really expensive and very tempting to thieves. The best helmet locks for bikers will dissuade criminals from stealing your equipment, which in turn gives you peace of mind.
Inexpensive. Universal motorcycle helmet locks are very affordable. Plus, they protect your expensive gear, which is more than worth the price of the lock itself.

Types of Motorcycle Helmet Locks

Corded

This type of lock features a cord that is usually encased in rubber. The cord wraps around your helmet and another part of your bike to keep your helmet securely in place. Corded helmet locks can have either a combination or be accessed with a key. The cable hangs loose, so it should be stored or tucked away when the bike is in motion so it doesn’t damage any parts. One benefit is that the lock is very versatile, particularly if the cord is long.

Bolt

Motorcycle helmet bolt locks are permanently installed on your bike. They are usually cylindrical and require a key for operation. They can be installed on several areas of your bike, such as the engine guard or frame tube, so they’re quite versatile. They are small and don’t take much effort to set up. However, they’re not necessarily an attractive addition to your machine.

License Plate

License plate helmet locks are installed behind a license plate holder and are designed to be invisible to the casual observer. This is important if you want a permanent lock but don’t want to ruin your bike’s aesthetics. They’re made of strong metal and are tough for thieves to access, particularly compared to cheap motorcycle helmet locks. License plate locks are also simple to install.

Handlebar

A handlebar helmet lock is highly visible on your bike. Its purpose is obvious, and this type of lock is designed with style in mind because it’s prominently displayed on your machine. The metal on a motorcycle handlebar helmet lock is typically painted or polished. It is usually a universal fit.

Top Brands

Master Lock

Master Lock, headquartered in Oak Creek, Wis., was founded in 1921. The company targets its products towards a wide variety of users, including individuals and commercial and industrial parties. Master Lock is the largest padlock manufacturer in the world. One top product is the Motorcycle Helmet Lock by Master Lock.

Biker’s Choice

Biker’s Choice, based in Fort Worth, Texas, started out as NEMPCO (New England Motor Parts Company) in the early 1970s before changing its name in 1998. The company manufactures parts, apparel, and accessories for American motorcycles and is run by “dedicated, lifelong bikers.” One popular product is the Biker’s Choice Helmet Lock.

Kuryakyn

Kuryakyn, based in Somerset, Wis., has been producing aftermarket parts and accessories for the motorcycle industry for nearly 30 years. In addition to helmet locks, it manufactures peg and foot controls, storage covers, and performance parts. One of its top locks is the Kuryakyn Motorcycle Accessory: License Plate Helmet Security Lock.

Motorcycle Helmet Lock Pricing

$10 to $25: Many motorcycle helmet locks fall within this price range. You can get a good-quality lock that will adequately secure your gear. However, the locks aren’t necessarily 100 percent tamperproof.
$25 and up: Some locks cost upwards of $50, depending on their design. Many of these locks are permanent in nature and may provide slightly superior protection compared to their less expensive counterparts.

Key Features

Material

The best bike helmet locks are made of strong and durable materials. Ideally, the device should be constructed of heavy-duty metal, particularly steel that is heat-treated or has extra strengthening properties. The harder the steel, the tougher it will be for thieves to tamper with it. Just keep in mind that the stronger the steel, the more expensive the lock.

Portability

The best helmet locks for motorcycles come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Before making a purchase, you need to decide where you’re going to store the lock when it’s not in use (if it’s a portable helmet lock). Some locks are smaller and easier to carry and can fit in your pocket, while others may be too bulky to carry around.

Other Considerations

Cable Length. When it comes to corded locks, there are sometimes complaints from users that the cord is not as long as they would like. Sometimes even just an extra inch or two can make a difference when it comes to comfortably securing a helmet to your motorcycle. Make sure the cord meets your needs before making a purchase.
Convenience. Some helmet locks are easier to use than others. First, you want a lock that is easy to install, regardless of whether it’s a permanent lock or a portable one. Second, you need a lock that is user friendly. It should be easy to open and close to remove and affix your helmet.
Weatherproof. If you ride your motorcycle in all types of weather, there’s a good chance that your helmet lock will also be exposed to varying conditions. Some bike locks are more weather-resistant than others. Look for devices with a PVC coating or other qualities that make it more durable.

Best Motorcycle Helmets Lock Reviews & Recommendations 2021

Best Overall

Kuryakyn 4232 Tamper-Proof Helmet Security Lock

Best Value

Motorcycle Helmet Lock by Master Lock

Easiest To Use

Helmetlok Carabiner Style Helmet Lock

Most Versatile

BigPantha Motorcycle Helmet Lock

Best License Plate Mounted

Kuryakyn Motorcycle License Plate Helmet Lock

Tips

For combination code locks, make sure you write down or choose a code you can easily remember. If you forget it, you may be forced to cut through the lock to get to your helmet.
Avoid choosing combination codes that are birthdays, anniversaries, or important dates. They may be easier to remember, but they are also easier to guess.
For extra protection, park your motorcycle in a well-lit and frequently visited area. Locks are not a permanent solution, and if a thief wants the helmet badly enough, he or she will try to get away with it.

FAQs

Q: Where can I store a helmet lock while riding?

Most locks are small and compact enough that you can store one in a saddle bag or leave it on the motorcycle while you ride. However, if you put it on the frame, rack, or handlebars, make sure it is secured tightly and does not drag or hang from the motorcycle.

Q: Can another helmet lock key be used to open mine?

Each device should be keyed differently to help prevent anyone with a similar device from unlocking another’s person’s lock.

Q: Can a helmet lock be used to lock multiple helmets?

Only some will be long enough or robust enough to do this. To efficiently lock down multiple helmets, find a lock with a longer cable.

Q: What do I do if I lose a helmet lock key?

Most helmet locks come with a spare key. If you misplace both sets, call a locksmith to open the lock. If that doesn’t work, you may need to break the lock to remove the helmet. You can, however, contact the manufacturer to see if it makes replacement keys for your specific model lock.