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# ART 2: what it is and why insurers require it

ART is a Dutch certification from Stichting ART that rates the theft resistance of locks. Ratings run from 1 to 5 stars. ART 2 is the standard for bikes, e-bikes and cargo bikes in the Netherlands and Belgium and is accepted by insurers and the bicycle industry as a reliable security benchmark.

**Who's behind ART testing**
Stichting ART defines the security requirements and issues the official ART certification label.
The practical and attack tests themselves are carried out by SKG-IKOB Certificatie B.V., an independent test institute. SKG-IKOB performs lab tests that follow the official ART test protocol, including durability tests, corrosion tests and resistance to various tool-based attacks.

**What ART 2 guarantees**
Stichting ART performs independent lab testing that simulates real-world theft attempts. Locks are tested on resistance to cutting, pulling and picking, as well as how long they can withstand a focused attack. Only locks that meet the minimum attack time and pass all test categories receive an ART 2 label.

**Why insurers require ART 2**
Because the testing is standardized and independent, insurers can objectively compare the security level of different locks. Many bike insurance policies therefore require at least an ART 2 certified lock for theft coverage. Using an ART 2 lock shows that your bike is protected with a proven, recognized level of theft resistance.