Hexlox Basics
Hexlox is a security system for bike parts made in Germany. The main parts of the system are the Hexlox Insert, the Hexlox Key, and the Hexlox Key Code. The key and insert are engineered to mechanically fit perfectly together – but only if they share the same 3-digit Hexlox Key Code. When you buy from Hexlox, you’ll get a random 3-digit code assigned to your order.
The Hexlox Insert is a small stainless steel piece that fits into the magnetic (steel) hex bolts already on your bike, so you don’t have to replace any of your bolts. Once the Hexlox Insert is in place, it blocks access to the hex bolt.
The Hexlox Insert can protect pretty much any part of your bike – wheels, saddle and seatpost, handlebars and stem, pedals, lights, and more – all in a sleek, lightweight way.
To quickly and easily find the right product, check out our easy-to-use Product Finder.
Hex bolts are used to fasten bicycle parts like saddles, seatposts, stems, handlebars, pedals, and much more to your bike. Unfortunately, anyone with an Allen key can simply unfasten the bolt and steal your part. Hexlox has a simple and elegant solution for this problem. By inserting the Hexlox into the bolts, you block access to the bolt and significantly increase the security of your parts.
Hexlox was established in 2016 and we sell to customers all over the world in over 67 countries (last time we counted) and is offered by over 500 bike shops worldwide.
Using the Hexlox System on your bike will significantly increase the security of your parts.
There isn't a single lock that is 100% secure – not against a thief who has enough time, motivation, and the right tools. That's the reality when it comes to security – especially with bicycles and bicycle parts.
Most thefts of bicycle parts happen spontaneously. Someone walks by a bike, sees that a saddle or wheel isn't properly secured, and grabs it. All lock manufacturers, including Hexlox, develop products specifically designed to help combat opportunistic theft.
We always recommend combining Hexlox with a solid frame lock and securing your frame to something solid, like a lamppost or bike rack. Security works in layers—a single solution is never enough.
No, in the majority of cases it works with your existing magnetic hex bolts, making installation fast and easy.
It all comes down to peace of mind—and how much your time is worth.
We believe our products offer great value, not just for those with high-end bike parts, but for anyone who wants to avoid the hassle of theft. It's not just about the cost of what you're protecting—it's about the convenience and the freedom to stop worrying.
Even if your bike isn’t loaded with expensive components, having parts stolen is still a headache. If you've ever had to ride home without a saddle, you know exactly what we mean.
Most people would rather avoid filing police reports, dealing with insurance, or spending time and money replacing parts. So the real question is: how much is your peace of mind—and your time—worth?
No, in most cases you do not need anything to install and use Hexlox. Just use the Hexlox Key to place the Hexlox Insert into the already existing bolts on your bike. Done!
Hexlox is designed and manufactured in Berlin, Germany.
The insight that sparked Hexlox was a simple idea: bicycle bolts are already highly specialized, so why replace them? Instead, we developed a system that fits perfectly into existing bolts, is easy to install, and looks great.
We've spent thousands of hours refining the system through testing and research. The result is a range of more than 30 products built for any bike rider and everyday use. We are continuously working to further develop and improve the concept. Our goal is to offer a balanced combination of high quality, excellent customer service and competitive prices.
We get up every morning and go to work and give our best because we know what we offer is truly valued by cyclists around the world. That's what makes the difference for us.
Helping a rider keep their saddle might not change the world, but when we read the thank-you messages from cyclists, we see how much these small wins mean to them.
The Hexlox Key and the Hexlox Insert – if they have the same code – form a solid mechanical connection. The shape of the key matches the shape of the Hexlox exactly – but only if they have the same 3-digit code. Different key codes mean that the keys and inserts have slightly different shapes. This is a 100% mechanical fit — there is no magnetic interaction between the Hexlox Key and the Hexlox Insert.
That's why we call the Hexlox Key a "key," because it essentially works the same way as your front door key. If you take a close look at another Hexlox key with a different code, you'll notice that the tip of the key looks slightly different—not much, but still visible.
Hexlox Insert
The Hexlox Insert is a very small stainless steel component designed to protect your bike parts by blocking access to hex (Allen key) bolts for a potential thief equipped with a normal allen key or hex wrench. It’s tightly integrated with the Hexlox Key - as two halves of a whole. Together, they form the very core of the Hexlox Security System. You need both to secure your bike components.
Hexlox Inserts fit directly into the socket of standard hex bolts and are available in sizes 4mm, 5mm, 6mm, 8mm, and 10mm. A small magnet on the bottom of the insert holds it firmly in place inside magnetic (steel) bolts.
Important Note:
If your bolt is non-magnetic (e.g., stainless steel, titanium, or aluminum), the Hexlox Insert will not stay securely in place. In this case, you should either:
- Replace your non-magnetic bolt with one of our magnetic (steel) bolts, or
- Keep your non-magnetic bolt and order the Hexlox Insert for non-magnetic bolts.
No! It’s held in place in the bolt by a magnetic field, but cannot be removed with a magnet — even an industrial one. This is a very common question so we even made a video about this - Have a look here:
Yes, all bolts on your bike are secured using one of three hex key sizes. Hexlox inserts are available in these three standard sizes: 4mm, 5mm, and 6mm hex key sizes. To determine the required size, insert an Allen key into the bolt;If a 5 mm Allen key fits you need a Hexlox Insert 5 mm.
Most bolts sit in a recess, protecting them from being grasped with pliers. However, if your bolt head is exposed and protruding, the outside of the head can be clamped with pliers. If this is the case, replace your bolt with one of our special bolts.
No, we use the highest quality 316 stainless steel.
However, bolts get dirty - especially if you ride year round in dirty city conditions - and some might rust and seize the Hexlox Insert. To prevent this there are a few things you should do. Remove the Hexlox Insert from time to time and clean the socket of dirt and grime. Excess rust and dirt must be removed, and an Allen wrench must fit freely and easily into the socket. (We also recommend that you avoid riding around with rusty parts 😉)
Finally, add a drop of oil to the socket. Done.
Hexlox Key
The Hexlox Key is a stainless steel key designed to place, and remove, the Hexlox Insert from the bolts of your bike. It’s tightly integrated with the Hexlox Insert - as two halves of a whole. Together, they form the very core of the Hexlox Security System. The shape of the key exactly matches the internal shape of the insert - if they share the same Hexlox code. You need both to secure your bike components.
No, the connection between the Hexlox Key and the Hexlox Insert is 100% mechanical. The shape of the key and the insert fits with extreme precision - but only if they share the same 3 digit Hexlox code.
Yes, but only if you provide your original Hexlox code that is printed on the Hexlox Key card that you received from us with your first order.
No, each item in your order will have the same Hexlox code so you only need one key to lock - and unlock your parts.
Hexlox Code
The Hexlox Code is a security feature of the Hexlox System. Each Hexlox Key and its corresponding Hexlox Insert are assigned a 3-digit numeric code. This code determines the specific shape of both the key and insert—meaning only a matching pair will mechanically fit - and work together. As a result, only the correct key can install or remove its paired insert from a bike component, providing an added layer of theft protection.
No worries. Our backend keeps your code linked to the email address you used when you placed your first order.
Wheels – Thru Axles
Thru axles are quickly becoming the new standard on bikes. They are much thicker (12-15 mm) than ordinary QR skewers. They can have a lever to open and close - but not always. Unlike quick release skewers, thru axles are screwed into the frame/fork on one side for a very secure and rigid fit. If you see threads in your frame and/or fork you use a thru axle. Many modern bikes use thru axles.
No, most thru axles are made from aluminum (non-magnetic) and will not hold the Hexlox Insert in place. They are also most likely hollow so the insert will fall into the axle. Replace your current thru axle with the Hexlox Thru Axle which has a magnetic stainless steel head.
To pick the right Hexlox Thru Axle, you’ll need three mesurements: axle diameter, axle length, and thread pitch.
Axles sometimes have some measurements printed on them — something like “12×142 M12x1.5.”
Important! the length you need to know is the axle length from the inside of the axle head to the tip of the axle. Often, the printed measurements show the distance between the frame or fork dropouts — not the actual axle length. So be sure to double-check this to get the perfect fit. Our axles fit with a +/- 2 mm tolerance.
If there are no measurements printed on your axle simply download our Thru Axle Fitment Guide here to find out what measurement your axle has:
Front wheel diameter – 12 mm or 15 mm
Rear wheel diameter – always 12 mm
Replace your old thru axle with the Hexlox Thru Axle. Tighten with a 6 mm hex wrench/Allen key. Consult the frame or fork manufacturer for the maximum torque. Use the Hexlox Key to place the Hexlox Insert 6 mm into the head of the Hexlox Thru Axle. Pop in the protection cap to protect the axle head against dirt and grime.
Done.
Yes — simply remove the Hexlox with your Hexlox Key and unfasten the axle with a normal 6 mm allen key.
Wheels - Quick Release Skewers
Quick release (QR) skewers have been a long-standing standard on bikes. They are thinner (usually 5 mm) than thru axles and use a lever to easily open and close the wheel attachment.
Quick release (QR) skewers go through the hub and use tension to hold the wheel securely to the frame or fork. If your bike’s axle has an external lever and there are no visible threads where the axle connects to the frame or fork, it's most likely a quick release system.
They offer convenience for removing wheels quickly—no tools needed - which makes them extremely vulnerable to theft.
Yes, just replace your current skewer with the Hexlox Quick Release Skewer , use a Hexlox Key to place a Hexlox Insert 5 mm into the head of the skewer.
Very — installation is as simple as a regular quick release. We ship two different length skewers (per wheel) so you do not need to measure anything!
Do not tighten more than 7 Nm (Roughly ¾ turn after finger tight) or the axle can break!
Yes — simply remove the Hexlox Insert with your Hexlox Key and unfasten the axle with a normal 5 mm allen key.
Wheels – Nuts
Axles with nuts are a traditional method of fastening bike wheels. They use solid axles secured to the frame or fork with hex nuts on either end. These axles are typically thicker than quick release skewers but don't have levers or cams. Instead, you'll need a wrench to loosen or tighten the nuts.
If your wheel has two large nuts holding it in place and no quick-release lever or visible threading going into the frame, it’s likely a nutted axle. They provide a strong and reliable connection, especially common on commuter, kids’, and older bikes. Most Single Speed/Fixies use nuts.
Yes, replace your current nut with the Hexnut, use the Hexlox Key, to place a Hexlox Insert 6 mm into the Hexnut. Done!
The Hexnut is a high-quality security nut designed to hold a Hexlox insert, preventing the nut from being removed — and thus protecting the wheel from theft. The Hexnut was specifically developed for bikes with traditional axle nuts — from everyday bikes and singlespeeds to e-bikes with rear hub motors. Simply replace your existing nut, insert a 6mm Hexlox, and your wheel is protected from unauthorized access.
The clever part: the freely rotating security ring prevents access with tools like pliers or wrenches — and all without the need for an additional lock. Precision-made and constructed from stainless steel, it offers maximum durability, even in wet, dirty, or wintery conditions.
It fits standard threaded axles. Measure your axle's diameter before ordering. The Hexnut comes in:
- M9
- ⅜
- M10
- M12 (for eBikes with a rear hub motor)
Front Wheel – Most front wheels use M9 (9mm axle diameter). If your front wheel nut also fits on your rear wheel, or if it's a VanMoof, Miche, or Dura-Ace, then use M10 (10mm).
Rear Wheel – Most rear wheels use M10 (10mm axle diameter).
Shimano Alfine/Nexus Hubs – Use Hexnut 3/8.
Shimano Hub Dynamo – Use Hexnut M9.
Replace your existing axle nut with Hexnut and insert your Hexlox. Tighten the Hexnut not more than the maximum torque specified by the hub manufacturer. (30 Nm is sufficient)
Yes, we designed the Hexnut M12 especially for eBikes with a rear hub motor.
Saddles & Seatposts, Handlebars & Stems, Pedals
Easy! Just insert a normal Allen key into the bolt you want to protect. If a 5 mm fits you need a Hexlox Insert 5 mm and so on. Also, check with a normal fridge magnet that the bolt is magnetic. Hexlox Inserts are held in place magnetically in steel bolts so if your bolts are non-magnetic (Aluminum, Magnesium or Titan) choose the Hexlox Insert for Non-Magnetic Bolts
Yes, to secure seatposts with quick release, please order our M5 Seatpost Security Set – Replacement for quick release, which replaces your current quick release.
Post-Purchase, Orders and Shipping
I’m ordering from the UK. What should I expect?
British customers have to expect additional import fees since Brexit. The Brexit agreement means that some of our UK customers may have to pay additional import taxes. Only the VAT of the destination country is charged.
We collect taxes directly at the time of purchase, so there are no additional fees upon delivery.
These regulations are still under development and we will update this information as soon as we have new details. As always, if you have any questions, please feel free to contact us at support@hexlox.com .
How can I return a product?
Please contact us at support@hexlox.com so we can send you the relevant documentation – return processes vary considerably by country.
How long will it take for me to get my order?
Unless otherwise stated in the offer, delivery within Germany takes place within 2-4 business days, and abroad within 7-14 days from the conclusion of the contract (if advance payment has been agreed upon, from the payment order).
Technical Help - Videos
No problem, just download the Hexlox Thru Axle fitment guide and follow the simple instructions.
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