Protector 13mm vs 16mm Security Chain
The Protector 13mm and 16mm are both serious security chains, but they suit different priorities.
Choose the 13mm chain if you need a strong chain that can still be transported occasionally. Choose the 16mm chain for motorcycle security at home, where the chain can normally remain beside the ground anchor.
13mm vs 16mm at a glance
| Feature | Protector 13mm | Protector 16mm |
|---|---|---|
| Typical use | Motorcycle or bicycle security where some portability is needed | Motorcycle and high-security home use |
| Manual bolt-cropper resistance | Designed to resist conventional manual bolt croppers | Designed to resist conventional manual bolt croppers, with substantially heavier links |
| Portability | Can be transported over shorter journeys if necessary | Usually best left at its normal locking location |
| Nominal internal link size | Approximately 80 × 22mm | Approximately 100 × 30–32mm |
| Lock clearance | Smaller internal opening | Larger internal opening accommodates a wider range of substantial locks |
| Our usual recommendation | Mixed home and away use | Home motorcycle security |
Link dimensions are nominal and may vary slightly because of manufacturing tolerances and protective finishes. Always confirm compatibility with the intended lock.
Why choose the Protector 13mm?
The Protector 13mm provides a strong balance between security and usability. It is large enough to resist attacks using conventional manual bolt croppers but remains more manageable than the 16mm chain.
It is usually the better option if you need to move the chain regularly, carry it in a suitable case or use it in several different locations.
The 13mm chain is also useful for high-value bicycles and cargo bikes where an ordinary portable bicycle chain would not provide the desired level of protection.
View the Protector 13mm Security Chain.
Why choose the Protector 16mm?
The Protector 16mm is our usual starting recommendation for a motorcycle secured at home. Its larger links provide a considerable increase in physical size and attack resistance, but the additional weight makes it much less convenient to carry.
It is particularly well suited to a permanent arrangement using a strong ground anchor in a garage, shed or private parking area.
The larger internal link dimensions also make the 16mm chain compatible with some locks that will not pass through the smaller internal opening of the 13mm chain. Compatibility should still be checked for the particular lock model.
View the Protector 16mm Security Chain.
Is the 16mm chain that much better?
The difference between 13mm and 16mm is more substantial than the 3mm measurement suggests. A 16mm link has approximately 51% more steel in cross-section than a 13mm link of the same material. That does not translate directly into a percentage increase in security, but it helps explain the significant increase in weight and resistance..
The security of the complete arrangement also depends on:
- The lock.
- The ground anchor or fixed object.
- The part of the bike being secured.
- Whether the chain is left on the ground.
- The amount of slack available to an attacker.
- Whether other security layers are also present.
A 13mm chain used well may provide better real-world security than a heavier chain used with a weak lock or poor anchor and a 16mm chain is no good if it's too heavy for you to carry around.
Can I carry a 16mm chain on a motorcycle?
It is physically possible, but a 16mm chain becomes very heavy as its length increases. We generally regard it as a chain to leave at home rather than something to carry routinely. However some of our customers do carry out 16mm chains on the rear of their motorcycle using our Chain Carry Case.
If you need security both at home and while travelling, a better arrangement may be a 16mm chain kept at home and a separate, more portable lock or 13mm chain for use away.
Should I choose a standard or noose version?
Both gauges are available in different configurations. A standard chain is usually simplest when the bike can be positioned close to the anchor. A noose chain provides greater usable reach and may allow you to use a shorter overall chain.
Read Standard chain or noose chain: which should I choose? for a detailed comparison.
Our recommendation
- Choose 13mm if the chain must sometimes be transported or used in different locations.
- Choose 16mm if it will remain at home and maximum practical motorcycle security is the priority.
- Consider 19mm or 22mm only when you want a still heavier stationary setup and have checked the required length, lock and anchor compatibility.
For the complete range, read What thickness security chain do I need?.
