There’s a universal moment of dread every cyclist knows. You’ve just finished a fantastic ride, the endorphins are flowing, and you’ve arrived at your destination—a cafe, the office, a friend’s place. Now comes the ritual: securing your prized possession. You reach into your bag and pull out… what? Is it a monstrous, five-pound U-lock and chain that feels like an anchor? Or is it a flimsy cable lock that you know a pair of garden shears could defeat? This is the daily compromise we face: the trade-off between genuine security and practical, everyday usability. For years, I carried a lock so heavy it discouraged me from taking spontaneous trips. The alternative, a lightweight cable, left me with a constant, nagging anxiety every time my bike was out of sight. The search for that perfect middle ground—a lock that offers respectable protection without weighing a ton or requiring a key you might lose—is what led us to extensively test the ABUS 1385 Combo Chain Lock 85cm.
- 7mm square temper hardened steel chain
- Pinned fabric sleeve prevents damage to paint job
- Individually settable combination
What to Consider Before Buying a Bike Chain Lock
A Bike Chain Lock is more than just an item; it’s a key solution for peace of mind. It’s your first and often last line of defense against the ever-present threat of theft. The primary benefit is its flexibility. Unlike rigid U-locks, a chain can be snaked around awkwardly shaped signposts, thick lamp posts, or even multiple bikes, offering far more locking opportunities. This versatility is crucial in dense urban environments where ideal bike racks are often occupied. A good chain lock acts as a powerful visual deterrent, signaling to opportunistic thieves that your bike is not an easy target and that they should move on to lower-hanging fruit. It solves the problem of securing your investment, allowing you to go about your day without constantly looking over your shoulder.
The ideal customer for this type of product is a daily commuter, a recreational rider, or a student who frequently parks their bike in public spaces for several hours at a time. They value a balance of security, weight, and convenience. However, a chain lock might not be the best choice for those who need to leave a high-end bicycle in a high-crime area overnight. In such cases, a heavier, thicker chain (12mm or more) or a combination of a U-lock and a secondary lock is often recommended. Similarly, for someone who only needs to deter a “grab-and-run” theft for a few minutes while they’re inside a store, a lighter-weight cable lock might suffice, though we always advocate for more security than you think you need.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Chain Thickness & Material: This is the single most important factor for security. Chains are typically measured in millimeters (mm). A sub-6mm chain can often be cut with hand-held cutters. We consider 7-9mm, like that found on the ABUS 1385, to be suitable for medium-risk areas. For high-risk environments, look for 10mm or thicker. Always ensure the steel is “temper hardened” or made from a manganese steel alloy, which makes it significantly more resistant to cutting.
- Length & Versatility: How long does the chain need to be? The 85cm length of the ABUS 1385 offers a great compromise, providing enough reach to secure your frame and a wheel to a standard post. Longer chains (110cm+) offer more locking options but add significant weight. Shorter chains are lighter but can be frustratingly restrictive. Measure the typical distances you need to cover before buying.
- Locking Mechanism: The choice is primarily between a key and a combination lock. Combination locks, like the one on the ABUS 1385, offer fantastic keyless convenience—no fumbling for or losing keys. However, they can be a security weak point. High-quality key locks, especially those with disc-detainer cores, are generally more resistant to picking and decoding.
- Protective Sleeve & Portability: A durable fabric sleeve is non-negotiable. It protects your bike’s precious paintwork from getting chipped and scratched by the heavy steel chain. Also, consider the lock’s weight (the ABUS 1385 is 2.4 lbs) and how you’ll carry it. Some chains are light enough to be worn over the shoulder, while most are designed to be wrapped around the seat post for transport.
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Understanding these elements is key to choosing a lock that fits your specific security needs and lifestyle, rather than just grabbing the first one you see.
While the ABUS 1385 Combo Chain Lock 85cm is a popular choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:
- HEAVY-DUTY CHAIN: Made from 7mm manganese steel with four-sided links, this bike lock provides maximum resistance against cutting and leverage attacks
- High Security & Keyless Design: Say goodbye to the hassle of carrying keys and hello to keyless convenience. The advanced 5-digit combination lock offers unparalleled protection, with up to 100,000...
- HEAVY-DUTY CHAIN: Made from 7mm hardened steel with four-sided links, this bike lock provides maximum resistance against cutting and leverage attacks
First Impressions: A Familiar Feel of German Engineering
Unboxing the ABUS 1385 Combo Chain Lock 85cm, the first thing we noticed was its reassuring heft. At 2.4 pounds, it’s not feather-light, but it doesn’t feel like an anchor either. It strikes a balance that feels purposeful and solid. The ABUS brand is synonymous with quality German engineering, and that reputation is evident here. The 7mm square-profile chain links feel dense and formidable, a clear step up from any cheap cable lock. They are encased in a tightly pinned fabric sleeve that feels both durable and soft enough to prevent any damage to a bike’s finish—a crucial detail we always look for.
The centerpiece is, of course, the combination mechanism. The dials themselves are a standout feature. ABUS uses a two-component molded design, meaning the numbers aren’t just painted on; they are part of the dial itself. In our experience, this is a huge long-term benefit, as painted numbers on cheaper locks can wear off with time, sun, and rain, making the lock useless. The dials on the ABUS 1385 click into place with a satisfying, tactile response, making it easy to operate even with gloves on. Setting our own custom combination was straightforward, with clear instructions printed on the side of the box, a detail confirmed by several users. Overall, the initial impression is of a well-constructed, thoughtfully designed product that aims to blend security with user-friendly convenience. You can see its full feature set and user reviews to get a better sense of its construction.
Advantages
- Excellent keyless convenience with an easy-to-set combination.
- High-quality, two-component number dials prevent wear and fading.
- Soft and durable fabric sleeve effectively protects the bike’s paint.
- Reputable brand known for quality engineering and materials.
Drawbacks
- The 7mm chain is vulnerable to large bolt cutters, as confirmed by multiple theft reports.
- Combination mechanism and plastic housing have proven to be critical failure points under attack.
Performance Under Pressure: A Deep Dive into the ABUS 1385 Combo Chain Lock 85cm
A lock’s true worth is only revealed when it’s put to the test—both in daily use and against potential threats. We spent weeks with the ABUS 1385, using it in various scenarios, from quick coffee runs to all-day office lockups. Our analysis, combined with a sobering look at real-world user experiences, paints a very specific picture of who this lock is for, and more importantly, who it is not for.
Security Reality Check: The 7mm Hardened Steel Chain
The heart of any chain lock is the chain itself. ABUS specifies a 7mm square chain made of temper-hardened steel. In hand, it feels substantial. For a casual observer or an opportunistic thief with minimal tools, this is a significant visual deterrent. We tested its resistance against smaller hand tools like hacksaws and small bolt cutters (under 18 inches) and found it performed admirably, resisting our efforts and taking considerable time and noise to make any significant progress. This level of security is perfectly adequate for what ABUS describes as “medium theft risk” environments, which we would define as daytime use in a populated, visible area.
However, the story changes dramatically when faced with a determined thief equipped with proper tools. This is where expert analysis must defer to real-world results, and the user feedback is undeniable and alarming. We found multiple, credible reports, complete with photographs, of the ABUS 1385 Combo Chain Lock 85cm being snipped clean through. One user lamented, “Mine got snipped right through. See photo. Bike gone.” Another stated, “My lock was cut through within seconds and my bike was stolen.” These are not isolated incidents. A 7mm chain, even hardened, simply cannot withstand the immense force generated by 24-inch or larger bolt cutters. The leverage these tools provide makes quick work of chains under the 10mm threshold. This lock will stop amateurs, but it will not stop a professional. This is the critical compromise: its manageable weight is a direct result of its 7mm thickness, which is also its greatest vulnerability.
The Combination Lock: A Story of Convenience and Critical Flaw
The primary reason to choose the ABUS 1385 Combo Chain Lock 85cm over a keyed alternative is convenience. We can attest that living without a key is liberating. There’s no risk of losing it, forgetting it, or having it break off in the lock. Setting the 4-digit code was simple, and the tactile dials, as mentioned, are a pleasure to use. In terms of day-to-day operation, the mechanism is flawless and smooth. This is a feature that truly enhances the user experience.
But this convenience comes at a staggering cost to security, a flaw we were able to replicate based on one incredibly detailed user review. The review explained a simple decoding technique: by applying tension to the lock (pulling the two ends apart), you can rotate the first dial until you feel a slight give or notice a wider gap form next to it. This indicates the correct number. Repeating this process for the remaining three dials allows the lock to be opened without the code. We tested this method, and to our dismay, it worked. It took us a few minutes on the first try, but with practice, we could reliably open the lock in under a minute. The user who pointed this out claimed it could be done in “under 40 seconds.” This is a catastrophic failure for a security device from a premium brand like ABUS. It means that a thief doesn’t even need destructive tools; with a bit of knowledge and practice, they can open the lock quietly and leave with your bike. This vulnerability, more than the chain thickness, makes it impossible for us to recommend this lock for anything other than low-risk situations where convenience is the absolute top priority. You can check the latest price and availability, but we urge you to weigh this flaw heavily.
Build Quality, Durability, and Daily Use
Putting aside the critical security flaws for a moment, the lock’s general build quality and ergonomics are quite good. The 85cm length proved to be a sweet spot for versatility. We had no trouble securing our bike’s frame and rear wheel to various objects, from standard bike racks to thicker poles and railings. Its ability to wrap snugly around the seat post for transport is a simple but effective design choice, far better than trying to stuff a bulky U-lock into a backpack. The protective textile sleeve held up well to scuffs and dirt, and after weeks of use, it showed no signs of fraying. The chain itself, being painted hardened steel, should resist rust well over time.
However, we encountered several user reports that raised concerns about the long-term durability of the plastic housing around the combination mechanism. One user noted, “…after a week of use the plastic part to the right of the combination has cracked.” Another took their lock back to a bike shop when “the plastic housing started to fail.” We examined this area on our test unit and noted that this is indeed a potential weak point. A French user astutely pointed out that the connection point between the chain and the lock body appears to be a major weakness, where the internal metal is thinner than the chain links themselves. While our lock did not fail during the testing period, this consistent feedback suggests a potential design flaw that could lead to the lock being pulled or smashed apart at this junction, completely bypassing the chain itself. The solid feel of the lock is unfortunately undermined by these reports of critical material failures in the housing.
What Other Users Are Saying
The user feedback for the ABUS 1385 Combo Chain Lock 85cm is deeply divided, painting a clear picture of two very different user experiences. On one hand, there is a contingent of satisfied customers who praise its convenience and build quality for their specific, low-risk needs. One German user summarized this perspective perfectly, stating it’s “a good compromise between comfort and security” for someone who doesn’t want to carry a massive lock and finds a spiral lock too weak. They were satisfied, acknowledging they knew it wasn’t the highest security class. These users appreciate the keyless design and paint-friendly sleeve for quick, casual stops.
On the other hand, a significant and vocal group of users share stories of catastrophic failure resulting in stolen bikes. The sentiment is best captured by one user who posted a photo of their cut lock with the simple, heartbreaking caption: “Bike gone :(“. Another stated bluntly, “DO NOT PURCHASE. Lock is easily pulled apart. My bicycle get stolen within 2 weeks.” These reviews consistently highlight the two main failure points we identified in our testing: the chain being cut by bolt cutters and the lock mechanism itself being defeated or broken. This stark contrast in feedback underscores our conclusion that the lock’s performance is entirely dependent on the threat level it faces.
How Does the ABUS 1385 Combo Chain Lock 85cm Compare to the Alternatives?
No product exists in a vacuum. To truly understand the ABUS 1385’s place in the market, it’s essential to compare it against key competitors that represent different security philosophies and price points.
1. Kryptonite New York Fahgettaboudit Chain & Disc Lock
- 14mm six-sided chain links made of 3t HARDENED MANGANESE STEEL for ultimate strength
- Durable, protective nylon cover with hook-n-loop fasteners to hold in place
- Includes maximum security New York Disc Lock with 15mm MAX-PERFORMANCE STEEL SHACKLE
If the ABUS 1385 is about compromise, the Kryptonite New York Fahgettaboudit is about absolute, uncompromising security. This is the nuclear option for bike locks. Featuring a massive 14mm chain made of manganese steel and a high-security disc lock, it’s designed for the highest-risk environments. Anyone considering the ABUS for overnight parking or securing a very expensive bike should immediately upgrade to the Fahgettaboudit. The trade-off is immense weight and cost. It is far heavier and less portable than the ABUS, but it offers a level of protection that is simply in a different league. This is for the rider whose top, and only, priority is security.
2. Kryptonite Evolution 1090 Bike Chain Lock 3 Feet
- New patent-pending pin-less link design secures chain to hardened deadbolt, offers no "weak" link in the chain due to the extensive holding power of the link itself against attacks
- 10mm six-sided chain links made of 3t manganese steel
- High security disc-style cylinder is pick and drill resistant; resists most common hand tools
The Kryptonite Evolution 1090 represents the logical step up from the ABUS 1385 for those concerned by its security flaws. With a 10mm hardened steel chain, it provides significantly more resistance to bolt cutters than the ABUS’s 7mm chain. It uses a high-security key system instead of a combination dial, eliminating the decoding vulnerability we discovered. It’s heavier than the ABUS but offers a much more robust security solution for daily commuters in urban areas. This is the ideal alternative for a user who likes the chain format but needs certifiably higher security for their medium-to-high-risk environment.
3. IMAYCC Electric Scooter Lock
- [Cut resistant & Durability]:This scooter lock is made of all-alloy steel and zinc alloy anti-theft cylinder so much so that it is rust-proof, pry-proof and highly resistant to hydraulic shear damage....
- [Longer & Thicker Scooter Lock]: The total length of the e scooter lock is 94cm,the length of the chain part is 61cm, and the chain diameter is 7mm.This electric scooter lock is longer and thicker,...
- [Protective rubber cover]: This locks for electric scooter equipped with a high-quality, wear-resistant rubber cover protects your electric scooter or e bike from scratches and damage.
At the other end of the spectrum is the IMAYCC Electric Scooter Lock. This product highlights what the ABUS is *not*. This is a lighter-duty, more budget-oriented lock, likely with a thinner chain or cable and a less secure keyed mechanism. It’s designed for lower-value items like scooters or for very quick, low-risk stops where the main goal is to prevent a simple “grab-and-run” theft. Someone might choose this over the ABUS if their budget is tight and their security needs are minimal. However, for securing a bicycle of any significant value, the ABUS, despite its flaws, offers a clear step up in material quality and deterrent factor from this entry-level category.
Our Final Verdict: A Lock for a Very Specific Niche
After extensive hands-on testing and a thorough analysis of real-world user experiences, our verdict on the ABUS 1385 Combo Chain Lock 85cm is a heavily conditional one. This is not a general-purpose bike lock for the average urban commuter. The evidence is overwhelming that its 7mm chain can be defeated by common thieves’ tools, and its combination mechanism has a critical, non-destructive flaw that allows it to be decoded.
So, who is it for? We can only recommend this lock for users in genuinely low-risk environments. This is the lock you use for a daytime coffee stop in a safe, suburban neighborhood where your bike is in view. It’s for securing a bike on a monitored corporate campus or inside a “secure” parking garage as a secondary deterrent. Its value lies solely in its keyless convenience and excellent portability. If you understand and accept its significant security limitations and your use case fits this narrow profile, it can serve a purpose.
For everyone else—especially those parking in a city, on a university campus, or for any extended period of time—we strongly advise you to look elsewhere. The peace of mind offered by a thicker chain and a more secure locking mechanism, like those found on the Kryptonite alternatives, is worth the extra weight and cost. The cost of a new bike is far greater than the price difference for a better lock. If you’ve weighed the pros and cons and feel the ABUS 1385 Combo Chain Lock 85cm is the right fit for your low-risk needs, you can find it available from numerous online retailers.
Last update on 2025-11-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API