Compact locks for road and gravel bikes put to the test: Hiplock Z-Lok Combo

Leaving a high-quality road bike or gravel bike unattended is always a risk. However, mini locks can make theft more difficult and deter opportunistic thieves. Their main advantage lies in their light weight and compact size. They are therefore a practical addition for short stops within sight.

What matters when it comes to mini locks

In our test, we assessed the locks according to the criteria of ease of use and security. All models feature a combination lock. In practice, they differ significantly in terms of how easy it is to set and read the numbers. There are also differences in the security mechanism: some locks use a thin, plastic-coated coiled cable. Others rely on a more durable metal strap, which also protects against scratches.

Ease of use makes all the difference in everyday life

A mini lock needs to be ready for use in a flash, especially during a quick stop. Sticky dials, hard-to-read numbers or a deeply recessed combination lock waste time and are a source of frustration. The length also determines whether you can lock just the wheel or the whole bike to a fixed object.

Hiplok Z-Lok Combo at a glance

Price: 26.99 euros >> available here
Weight and length: 68 grams, 40 centimetres
Safety: 4 out of 5 stars
Handling: 2 out of 5 stars

Verdict on the Zefal mini lock

The metal strip from the Hiplok Z-Lok Combo It’s only suitable for one bike, but is very robust. The operation, however, leaves something to be desired: the combination lock is set deep into the casing and offers little grip for the fingers. Furthermore, the numbers are very small and difficult to read. The short metal strap further limits its versatility.