Litelok Core Plus 75cm wearable lock review: A Sold Secure diamond-rated bike lock for those travelling light

Traditionally, the best bicycle locks have been carried in pannier bags, backpacks or secured to the bike's frame. However, wearable locks offer commuters another option for those who prefer to travel light.

The Litelok Core Plus is such a lock. It is designed to be worn around the waist while in transit and features a flexible strap that can be adjusted for size. Litelok isn't the only company that makes wearable bike locks; Hiplok, Squire, and Abus also offer similar products.

Litelok Core Plus construction

The Litelok Core Plus has a certified Diamond rating by independent test house Sold Secure, the highest achievable rating for a bicycle lock. Very few wearable locks are able to meet this standard. So, how has Litelok managed it?

The brand claims that its Boaflexicore+ strap is designed to withstand attacks thanks to its layered protection, which includes “a plant-based polymer, radial reinforcement, and high-tensile core.”

The tensile steel strap is fastened by a lock body with corrosion-resistant internals - it’s said to have been tested to -40c - as well as pick-resistant disc retainer locks and drill-resistant automotive standard rivets.

The lock features a keyhole cover that’s designed to keep the locking cylinder free of moisture and dirt. Its 'click lock' closure means it locks without the need for a key, clicking into place in the way you might secure a seatbelt in a car.

Each side of the lock features an adjustable Velcro strap, enabling various lengths for a snug fit around your waist. Additionally, the lock includes frame mounts, which let you attach it directly to your bike frame. Mounts on both the top and seat tubes allow the lock to be tucked away within the frame. Altogether, this results in a lock that weighs 1.9kg / 4.1 lbs.

Litelok Core Plus specification

Litelok Core Plus in use

Let's start with locking a bike; this is where the Core Plus’s strengths certainly lie, and it really impressed me. The lock mechanism is both smooth and secure. I appreciated being able to take the key out when it’s unlocked, and the click lock feature is brilliant, meaning you will never forget to lock it.

While the Litelok lacks the flexibility of a chain lock, it offers superior reach and flexibility over any U-lock. I had to wrestle with it at times, particularly when locking up next to another bike or securing it to a lamppost as it is quite stiff, but this was no more hassle than trying to slide a U-lock between multiple bikes at an awkward angle.

If you intentionally choose a wearable lock instead of one stored on your bike or in a bag, you would expect it to be comfortable. Unfortunately, this wasn’t the case with the Litelok Core Plus.

When wearing the Core Plus, I was acutely aware of its presence, perhaps understandably given its Diamond rating and nearly 2kg weight. Still, it was cumbersome, and the outer webbed finish was a tad 'scratchy', especially when I was wearing only a single layer. Given the security offered, I feel like this negative attribute is forgivable, and when used on short journeys, it was bearable.

What was more annoying was the Litelok constantly slipped down beyond my hips - not ideal when you’re in motion. I would suggest that the rubber O-ring that’s responsible for holding the wearable adapter in place is inadequate. It doesn't allow you to ratchet it up like a belt to hold the lock in place; when you try, the result is you just stretch the O-ring. Had there been a fixed point, like on the opposite end of the adapter, which clicks into the lock mechanism, this wouldn't be an issue. I fear this lock was designed with the more traditionally skinny cyclist build in mind, which I am not.

Litelok Core Plus Conclusions and Value

The Core Plus certainly meets the criteria if you're looking for a high-security wearable lock, and because of this, it receives my recommendation.

However, be aware that this level of security does come with a portability penalty. While my experience wearing it wasn't particularly favourable, slimmer users may not face the same challenges. Nevertheless, at this level of security, the lock's wearability presents several drawbacks that outweigh its benefits. If security is your priority, I would recommend one of the best U-locks or a chain lock instead.

At £139.99/$169.99, the Litelok also doesn't represent the best value and is considerably more expensive than several other diamond-rated locks. The OnGuard Pitbull comes to mind, which can be purchased for around £45/$55. Additionally, for just £10/$10 more than the cost of the Core Plus, you can buy Litelok's X1, which offers angle grinder resistance.

If wearability is a top priority, I'd recommend the Squire Straplok. It offers superior comfort, and at £69.99, you can buy two for the price of the Core Plus.