Skip to content
Menu
Quick & Precise Gear Reviews
  • Home
  • Reviews
  • Running
  • Cycling
  • Drones
  • Travel
  • Shop
Quick & Precise Gear Reviews

Urban Bike Security Redefined with the Tough and Portable OTTOLOCK SIDEKICK Folding Lock

Posted on November 27, 2024November 27, 2024

The OTTOLOCK SIDEKICK Folding Lock is a popular security option for bike owners, particularly those with e-bikes or urban commuters. The versatile SIDEKICK folding lock offers superior security, thanks to its 5mm-thick, hardened-steel links in a lightweight, portable design. The limitless shape options of the link design work especially well with the wide variety of e-bike frame designs, but it’s equally suitable for locking any bike. All these great benefits come at a competitive price of $79.00 – the sweet spot of toughness, versatility, and price.

Design and Construction

The SIDEKICK boasts a robust design that prioritizes both security and portability. Its standout feature is the heavy-duty steel construction, utilizing 5mm thick hardened steel links. This provides a formidable defense against potential thieves, making it significantly more secure than traditional cable locks.

Despite its sturdy build, the SIDEKICK remains surprisingly lightweight. Weighing just over 2 pounds, it strikes an impressive balance between strength and portability. This makes it an excellent choice for cyclists who need reliable security without additional weight during their rides.

Usability and Convenience

One of SIDEKICK’s strongest selling points is its user-friendly design. The folding mechanism allows for versatile locking options, adapting to various shapes and sizes of bike racks or other anchor points. This flexibility is particularly useful in urban environments where secure locking spots are hard to find.

The lock’s 11-inch (28 cm) diameter offers ample space to secure your bike to various structures like racks, poles, or fences.

The lock comes with a convenient bike mount, making it easy to transport while riding. Additionally, it includes three keys, which is a thoughtful touch for those prone to misplacing things.

Observation:

The bike mount fits perfectly on the water bottle cage screws (seat tube and down tube) on my Ridley road bike. But with my Aventon e-bike, I had to use the Velcro straps to hold the bike mount on the seat tube. Maybe a longer strap would also come in handy for mounting on top of the battery (down tube).

Security Level

While the SIDEKICK offers a significant step up from cable locks, it’s important to understand its intended use. This lock works for short-term security, such as quick stops at a coffee shop or brief errands in low to medium-risk areas. It’s not meant for long-term, overnight security in high-risk areas.

Locking Mechanism

The SIDEKICK uses a ratcheting-style mechanism that’s smooth and quick to engage. This design allows for fast and easy locking, which is particularly useful in situations where you need to secure your bike quickly.

Price and Value

Priced competitively, the SIDEKICK offers excellent value for its features. It’s positioned as a mid-range option, providing more security than basic cable locks but at a lower price point than some high-end U-locks.

Durability and Longevity

The lock features a protective silicone coating, which not only prevents scratches on your bike but also adds to the lock’s overall durability. This coating helps protect the lock from the elements, potentially extending its lifespan.

Potential Drawbacks

While the SIDEKICK has many positive attributes, it’s not without its limitations. As mentioned earlier, the size might be an issue for some users, particularly those needing to secure multiple parts of their bike. Additionally, like any lock, it’s not impervious to determined thieves with power tools, though it offers significantly more protection than cable locks.

Conclusion

The OTTOLOCK SIDEKICK Folding Lock is a solid choice for cyclists looking for a portable, easy-to-use security solution for short-term use. Its combination of sturdy construction, lightweight design, and user-friendly features make it particularly appealing for e-bike owners and urban commuters. While it may not be suitable for high-risk, long-term locking situations, it offers a great balance of security and convenience for everyday use. As with any bike lock, it’s important to use it as part of a comprehensive security strategy, understanding its strengths and limitations.

Shop OTTOLOCK SIDEKICK

Access Newsletter Archives

Minimalist Shoe Reviews

by Brand

Recent Posts

  • One for Work. One for Travel. Which KÜHL Pant is Right for You?

    One for Work. One for Travel. Which KÜHL Pant is Right for You?

    May 22, 2025
  • The new Ruko U11MINI 4K Ultra-Portable Pocket Drone

    The new Ruko U11MINI 4K Ultra-Portable Pocket Drone

    May 19, 2025
  • The Altra Experience 4mm Drop Shoe Collection: Flow, Wild, and Form

    The Altra Experience 4mm Drop Shoe Collection: Flow, Wild, and Form

    May 18, 2025
  • REI Anniversary Sale 2025

    REI Anniversary Sale 2025

    May 17, 2025
  • WTGR Gear Giveaway: LEMs Shoes Switchback Sandals

    WTGR Gear Giveaway: LEMs Shoes Switchback Sandals

    May 14, 2025
  • Get ready for Summer with Smartwool Everyday Short Sleeve Shirt & 8-inch Shorts

    Get ready for Summer with Smartwool Everyday Short Sleeve Shirt & 8-inch Shorts

    May 13, 2025
  • The Switchback Innovative Game Changer From LEMs Shoes

    The Switchback Innovative Game Changer From LEMs Shoes

    May 10, 2025
  • Comparison of Xero Shoes Sandals & New Spring Colors

    Comparison of Xero Shoes Sandals & New Spring Colors

    May 7, 2025
  • LEMs Shoes Tariff Buster - 20% OFF Sale

    LEMs Shoes Tariff Buster - 20% OFF Sale

    May 5, 2025
  • Modern Take on the Classic Denim Jacket with Style and Comfort

    Modern Take on the Classic Denim Jacket with Style and Comfort

    April 21, 2025

SPONSORED

Never Miss A Post

Join our mailing list:

Post Archives

  • May 2025 (9)
  • April 2025 (7)
  • March 2025 (11)
  • February 2025 (1)
  • January 2025 (4)
  • November 2024 (16)
  • October 2024 (10)
  • September 2024 (7)
  • August 2024 (6)
  • July 2024 (4)
  • June 2024 (6)
  • May 2024 (4)
  • April 2024 (5)
  • March 2024 (1)
  • February 2024 (1)
  • January 2024 (1)
  • December 2023 (2)
  • November 2023 (4)
  • October 2023 (5)
  • September 2023 (2)
  • August 2023 (2)
  • June 2023 (4)
  • May 2023 (7)
  • April 2023 (1)
  • March 2023 (4)
  • November 2022 (6)
  • July 2022 (2)
  • June 2022 (1)
  • May 2022 (4)
  • April 2022 (2)
  • May 2021 (1)
  • November 2020 (1)
  • September 2020 (1)
  • August 2019 (1)
  • November 2018 (2)
  • September 2018 (1)
  • August 2018 (2)
  • June 2018 (1)
  • May 2018 (3)
  • February 2018 (6)
  • January 2018 (2)
  • December 2017 (2)
  • November 2017 (5)
  • October 2017 (1)
  • September 2017 (6)
  • August 2017 (3)
  • July 2017 (3)
  • June 2017 (6)
  • May 2017 (12)
  • April 2017 (4)
  • March 2017 (7)
  • February 2017 (7)
  • January 2017 (3)
  • December 2016 (5)
  • November 2016 (6)
  • October 2016 (2)
  • September 2016 (6)
  • August 2016 (6)
  • July 2016 (6)
  • June 2016 (6)
  • May 2016 (6)
  • April 2016 (1)
  • March 2016 (11)
  • February 2016 (2)
  • January 2016 (3)
  • December 2015 (8)
  • November 2015 (6)
  • October 2015 (10)
  • September 2015 (2)
  • August 2015 (1)
  • July 2015 (8)
  • June 2015 (8)
  • May 2015 (6)
  • April 2015 (10)
  • March 2015 (12)
  • February 2015 (8)
  • January 2015 (12)
  • December 2014 (12)
  • November 2014 (19)
  • October 2014 (10)
  • September 2014 (6)
  • August 2014 (4)
  • July 2014 (8)
  • June 2014 (6)
  • May 2014 (5)
  • April 2014 (7)
  • March 2014 (5)
  • February 2014 (4)
  • January 2014 (9)
  • December 2013 (12)
  • November 2013 (9)
  • October 2013 (13)
  • September 2013 (7)
  • August 2013 (6)
  • July 2013 (8)
  • June 2013 (7)
  • May 2013 (13)
  • April 2013 (6)
  • March 2013 (14)
  • February 2013 (14)
  • January 2013 (13)
  • December 2012 (12)
  • November 2012 (15)
  • October 2012 (14)
  • September 2012 (5)
  • August 2012 (10)
  • July 2012 (13)
  • June 2012 (7)
  • May 2012 (10)
  • April 2012 (5)
  • March 2012 (20)
  • February 2012 (11)
  • January 2012 (8)
  • December 2011 (7)
  • November 2011 (8)
  • October 2011 (6)
  • September 2011 (7)
  • August 2011 (10)
  • July 2011 (8)
  • June 2011 (6)
  • May 2011 (7)
  • April 2011 (10)
  • March 2011 (15)
  • February 2011 (10)
  • January 2011 (4)
  • December 2010 (8)
  • November 2010 (10)
  • October 2010 (1)
  • August 2010 (1)
  • June 2010 (2)
  • May 2010 (7)

Compliance

Review
WTGR received one or more of the products or services mentioned in our reviews for free in exchange for a full test review article in our blog. Some of the links in the review posts are "affiliate links." This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, WTGR will receive an affiliate commission.
Regardless, WTGR will only recommend products or services that will be good for our readers. WTGR is disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."
  • Minimalist Running Shoes
  • About Us
  • Privacy Policy
  • Contact Us
  • Where To Buy
©2025 Quick & Precise Gear Reviews | Powered by SuperbThemes | Hosting by Host Gator Cloud