Since it was introduced in 2022, the LITELOK X1 has been widely regarded as one of the best bike locks on the market. In fact, it earned the top spot in our bike lock roundup with its Sold Secure Diamond rating for theft resistance while earning bonus points for being more affordable than comparable locks. Now, in response to consumer requests, LITELOK is introducing the X1 Mini, a smaller, lighter version of its popular, award-winning lock.
The X1 Mini joins the standard-size X1 and the oversized X1 Plus as the most compact and easily portable in LITELOK’s growing X1 family. The brand says it created this new model because the other X1 products are sometimes larger and/or heavier than needed, and that some customers have been asking for a smaller version. Despite its diminutive dimensions, the lock is made with the same materials and theft resistance as its larger siblings.
LITELOK X1 Mini Details
Like the other X1 models, the Mini is a U-lock or D-lock, with a curved shackle that secures at both ends into a locking crossbar. It’s made with a hardened, fine-grain, high-tensile steel core encased in LITELOK’s proprietary, patented Barrionium composite armor, which has proven effective at resisting angle-grinder attacks. The shackle has an anti-rotation feature, meaning it must be cut twice for thieves to fully compromise it.
It comes with two high-security keys and has a self-closing cover to keep water and debris out of the locking cylinder. The entire lock is covered in a soft rubber coating to prevent damage to your bike frame or other items in your bag during transport, and it has a reflective stripe for visibility.
X1 Mini Dimensions
The width of the Mini’s locking area is the same as the standard X1 and X1 Plus at 99.5mm (3.9”), but its length is a bit shorter at 136.7 (5.3”) compared to the 197mm (7.75”) and 255mm (10”) lengths of its siblings, respectively. The smaller size results also in a lighter weight, which is 1.48 kg or 3.2 pounds, making it easier to carry. That said, its locking area is limited in comparison, which could mean that users may only be able to lock around a frame tube and a bike rack, while larger locks may be able to fit a frame tube and a wheel, for example.
X1 Family Dimensions Comparison
- X1 Mini: 99.5 mm x 136.65 mm (3.9” x 5.3”), 1.48 kg (3.2 lbs)
- Standard X1: 99.5 mm x 197 mm (3.9” x 7.75”), 1.7 kg (3.7 lbs)
- X1 Plus: 99.5 mm x 255 mm (3.9” x 10”), 1.9 kg (4,2 lbs)
Security
LITELOK’s X1 family of locks is among the most theft-resistant on the market, with all models boasting a Sold Secure Diamond rating. This is the highest level of theft resistance and means the lock can withstand attacks from common tools such as hacksaws, pry bars, and bolt cutters for up to 5 minutes, including 1.5 minutes against an angle grinder.
LITELOK’s not-so-secret ingredient is its patented proprietary Barronium armor, an ultra-hard coating that grinds back against cutting wheels. We’ve actually conducted destructive tests on the LITELOK X1 and can confirm that it’s not easy to cut through with an angle grinder. It’s slow, it’s smelly, and it takes at least two wheels per cut, plus the time to change them. On top of that, it takes two cuts to fully compromise the lock because of its anti-rotation feature.
Sure, you can eventually cut through the X1 and all of the other angle grinder-resistant locks, too. But the time and effort required are probably enough to deter most determined bike thieves, even if they come prepared with an angle grinder and extra cutting wheels. And the locking cylinder itself is also ART 4-accredited, meaning it has passed the Dutch ART certification standards and is rated for high-risk bicycle theft situations.
Portability
With its smaller dimensions and lighter weight, the X1 Mini is meant to be easier to transport than the larger X1 models. It should fit more easily in your messenger bag or commuter pack than larger locks, and the lower weight should make it feel less cumbersome. It also comes with an X1 Mini Tactical mount to attach it to your frame, and should fit more easily on more bikes than its larger siblings. If you prefer a body-carry solution, LITELOK has teamed up with Restrap to offer a co-branded X1-specific lock holster available as an aftermarket purchase.
LITELOK X1 Mini: Pricing and Availability
The X1 Mini and all of LITELOK’s bike locks are made in Britain in the brand’s solar-powered factory in Swansea, UK. It retails for $200 USD / £140 / €160 and is available now through the LITELOK website.
