Steering lock

A steering lock secures the fork at full lock, usually turned to the left, so the bike cannot be ridden or easily pushed away. On most bikes it is built into the ignition switch: turn the bars, push and turn the key to the lock position. Older bikes may have a separate lock on the steering head.

It is a basic deterrent but can be forced, so for better security combine it with a disc lock, a chain lock to a fixed object, an alarm or a GPS tracker. Insurers sometimes require approved locks.

The term 'steering lock' is also used for the maximum angle the bars can turn. A small steering lock makes U-turns harder, which matters for sport bikes.