User submitted reviews
Review by ginoledesmaHandy and Very Convenientby ginoledesmaCycling EnthusiastCupertino, CA6 of 6 customers found this review helpful.I've been looking for a lock for my daily commuter that was lightconvenient, secure, and affordable. I used to bring a cable lock, but it was a little bit of a hassle, and most of the time I'd forget to bring the U-lock. The OttoLock is on the pricey side, but it is very light and secure enough for my purposes. I leave it attached to my bike all the time now. It's less of a hassle compared to cable locks (less time untanglingwrapping) and much, much lighter compared to a U-lock.
Some early reviews have indicated that the lock can be defeated by just yanking one end of the loop, even when the lock has already been engaged. It seems like this was fixed some time ago, because I can't replicate that problem with the lock shipped by Western Bike Works. I will be the first to admit I wouldn't leave my bike locked with just the OttoLock overnight.
Pros
- Light
- Secure enough for shortmedium-ish unattended
- Can be stored in your rear jersey pocket, or wrapped around your frame
Cons
- A tad pricey, especially for the longer versions
- 3-digit PIN only
Notes
- Double check the length you'll need for your bike. The 30 version is just enough to secure a typical road bike MTB frame to a post. It may not be enough to wrap the frame and wheel. The 60 version fixes this, but it becomes too bigbulky to be stored in a jersey pocket
Reviewed 11/1/2018Was this review useful to you? Yes, review by ginoledesma was helpful/No, review by ginoledesma was not helpfulThank you for your feedback.
I've been looking for a lock for my daily commuter that was lightconvenient, secure, and affordable. I used to bring a cable lock, but it was a little bit of a hassle, and most of the time I'd forget to bring the U-lock. The OttoLock is on the pricey side, but it is very light and secure enough for my purposes. I leave it attached to my bike all the time now. It's less of a hassle compared to cable locks (less time untanglingwrapping) and much, much lighter compared to a U-lock.
Some early reviews have indicated that the lock can be defeated by just yanking one end of the loop, even when the lock has already been engaged. It seems like this was fixed some time ago, because I can't replicate that problem with the lock shipped by Western Bike Works. I will be the first to admit I wouldn't leave my bike locked with just the OttoLock overnight.
Pros
- Light
- Secure enough for shortmedium-ish unattended
- Can be stored in your rear jersey pocket, or wrapped around your frame
Cons
- A tad pricey, especially for the longer versions
- 3-digit PIN only
Notes
- Double check the length you'll need for your bike. The 30 version is just enough to secure a typical road bike MTB frame to a post. It may not be enough to wrap the frame and wheel. The 60 version fixes this, but it becomes too bigbulky to be stored in a jersey pocket
Review by AnonymousFine for it's purposesby Anonymous1 of 1 customers found this review helpful.This lock is not going to protect your bike for very long, if not used in conjunction with a larger locking system.
But,if you want some piece of mind in situations where you would usually leave your bike unlocked, this lock is a great candidate. It's small and light and prefect for gas station resupplies and bathroom trips. For cafe and coffee stops.
My only issue is that the locking and unlocking function can feel a little stiff and sloppy. And there is a small learning curve to getting it to run smoothly.
Reviewed 10/21/2021Was this review useful to you? Yes, review by Anonymous was helpful/No, review by Anonymous was not helpfulThank you for your feedback.
This lock is not going to protect your bike for very long, if not used in conjunction with a larger locking system.
But,if you want some piece of mind in situations where you would usually leave your bike unlocked, this lock is a great candidate. It's small and light and prefect for gas station resupplies and bathroom trips. For cafe and coffee stops.
My only issue is that the locking and unlocking function can feel a little stiff and sloppy. And there is a small learning curve to getting it to run smoothly.
Review by Tom in MarinConvenient but the elastic band keep it rolled up broke after about 20 uses.by Tom in MarinCycling EnthusiastMarin County, CAI like the lock as it compact and strong for locking the rear wheel of my bike to a rack or other object when I go into a store. I would not use it to lock the bike for long periods. The combination lock seems a bit flimsy. The elastic band that keeps the rolled-up lock from unrolling in your pocket or pact is definitely too weak for multiple uses. Mine broke after about 20 times. I've ordered three back-ups (they only are sold in packages of 3), so clearly Ottolock knows it's too weak. They should beef it up, as well as the combination lock.
Reviewed 9/22/2020Was this review useful to you? Yes, review by Tom in Marin was helpful/No, review by Tom in Marin was not helpfulThank you for your feedback.
I like the lock as it compact and strong for locking the rear wheel of my bike to a rack or other object when I go into a store. I would not use it to lock the bike for long periods. The combination lock seems a bit flimsy. The elastic band that keeps the rolled-up lock from unrolling in your pocket or pact is definitely too weak for multiple uses. Mine broke after about 20 times. I've ordered three back-ups (they only are sold in packages of 3), so clearly Ottolock knows it's too weak. They should beef it up, as well as the combination lock.
Review by AnonymousGood for lightweight security in low risk areasby AnonymousCycling EnthusiastUtahLight, easy to carry. Already owned 18 inch Ottolock, and decided it was really too short to be useful. This 30 inch is much better, and works in more locations.
Just as advertised, it's more for quick stops and low risk areas. No way would I rely on this lock for overnight storage or sketchy areas.
Reviewed 10/21/2021Was this review useful to you? Yes, review by Anonymous was helpful/No, review by Anonymous was not helpfulThank you for your feedback.
Light, easy to carry. Already owned 18 inch Ottolock, and decided it was really too short to be useful. This 30 inch is much better, and works in more locations.
Just as advertised, it's more for quick stops and low risk areas. No way would I rely on this lock for overnight storage or sketchy areas.
Review by AnonymousWell worth the moneyby AnonymousCycling EnthusiastOregon6 of 6 customers found this review helpful.This little lock is awesome-it's compact, super durable, and easy to use. The mid-size is great for two bikes and a pole and doesn't differ too much in weight from the size below (added weight is from extra band only). Would highly recommend.
Reviewed 8/5/2017Was this review useful to you? Yes, review by Anonymous was helpful/No, review by Anonymous was not helpfulThank you for your feedback.
This little lock is awesome-it's compact, super durable, and easy to use. The mid-size is great for two bikes and a pole and doesn't differ too much in weight from the size below (added weight is from extra band only). Would highly recommend.
Review by Bob G.I bought this lock to keep with me on rides by Bob G.Cycling EnthusiastLongview, WAI'm usually be myself when I ride. I use this lock if I have to make a stop at a store for treats or to use the bathroom. It probably won't stop a hardcore bike bandit, but will be enough to deter an opportunist thief.
Reviewed 7/23/2021Was this review useful to you? Yes, review by Bob G. was helpful/No, review by Bob G. was not helpfulThank you for your feedback.
I'm usually be myself when I ride. I use this lock if I have to make a stop at a store for treats or to use the bathroom. It probably won't stop a hardcore bike bandit, but will be enough to deter an opportunist thief.
Review by DEUpdated review: the Ottolock HEXBAND Cinch Lock 30 is no longer functionalby DECycling EnthusiastArlington, VA1 of 1 customers found this review helpful.I've really liked this lock, but after less than a year, the button will no longer depress, and none of the steps at the Ottolock site work to fix it. Too expensive a lock to die this soon, and it almost got locked on my bike while I was out as well, which would have been unforgivable.
Reviewed 9/14/2020Was this review useful to you? Yes, review by DE was helpful/No, review by DE was not helpfulThank you for your feedback.
I've really liked this lock, but after less than a year, the button will no longer depress, and none of the steps at the Ottolock site work to fix it. Too expensive a lock to die this soon, and it almost got locked on my bike while I was out as well, which would have been unforgivable.
Review by VictorStorage problemsby VictorCycling EnthusiastKirkland, WAWorks as advertised but difficult to roll tightly and frequently unrolls despite use of the band which unfastens.
Reviewed 6/29/2020Was this review useful to you? Yes, review by Victor was helpful/No, review by Victor was not helpfulThank you for your feedback.
Works as advertised but difficult to roll tightly and frequently unrolls despite use of the band which unfastens.
Review by Nobrakeslightweight and secureby NobrakesPortland, Or.1 of 1 customers found this review helpful.Not completely bullet proof, but will keep an honest person honest, in most cases. Easy to carry in a jersey pocket or strapped to a seat post, much lighter than a U-lock, but not as secure. Useful for locking 2 bikes together plus a fixed object, like a post or street staple.
Reviewed 8/23/2019Was this review useful to you? Yes, review by Nobrakes was helpful/No, review by Nobrakes was not helpfulThank you for your feedback.
Not completely bullet proof, but will keep an honest person honest, in most cases. Easy to carry in a jersey pocket or strapped to a seat post, much lighter than a U-lock, but not as secure. Useful for locking 2 bikes together plus a fixed object, like a post or street staple.
Review by Nobrakeslightweight and secureby NobrakesCycling EnthusiastPortland, Or.1 of 1 customers found this review helpful.Not completely bullet proof, but will keep an honest person honest, in most cases. Easy to carry in a jersey pocket or strapped to a seat post, much lighter than a U-lock, but not as secure. Useful for locking 2 bikes together plus a fixed object, like a post or street staple.
Reviewed 8/23/2019Was this review useful to you? Yes, review by Nobrakes was helpful/No, review by Nobrakes was not helpfulThank you for your feedback.
Not completely bullet proof, but will keep an honest person honest, in most cases. Easy to carry in a jersey pocket or strapped to a seat post, much lighter than a U-lock, but not as secure. Useful for locking 2 bikes together plus a fixed object, like a post or street staple.
Review by DoctorJA good caf lock for your road bike that you can carry in your jersey pocket. by DoctorJCycling EnthusiastPalo Alto, CA. 1 of 1 customers found this review helpful.The lock is relatively light and you can take it on your road bike trips. The width is a good size. The length is a bit short so not always easy to lock your bike to a post. I would,consider getting the longer length option, if the bulk and weight are not going to be an issue. The combo lock is great since you dont have to worry about a key.
Reviewed 5/13/2019Was this review useful to you? Yes, review by DoctorJ was helpful/No, review by DoctorJ was not helpfulThank you for your feedback.
The lock is relatively light and you can take it on your road bike trips. The width is a good size. The length is a bit short so not always easy to lock your bike to a post. I would,consider getting the longer length option, if the bulk and weight are not going to be an issue. The combo lock is great since you dont have to worry about a key.
Review by JeffLove the Ottolock!by JeffCycling EnthusiastSan Mateo, CA3 of 3 customers found this review helpful.After doing quite a lot a research I decided to purchase the Ottolock and its turned out to be a great buy. But, its important to understand that all locks can be defeated and this lock in not intended to prevent thefts in a high crime area. It is intended to be used for quick mid ride stops and does it perfectly. If this is your intended use, go for it you won't be disappointed.
Reviewed 8/30/2018Was this review useful to you? Yes, review by Jeff was helpful/No, review by Jeff was not helpfulThank you for your feedback.
After doing quite a lot a research I decided to purchase the Ottolock and its turned out to be a great buy. But, its important to understand that all locks can be defeated and this lock in not intended to prevent thefts in a high crime area. It is intended to be used for quick mid ride stops and does it perfectly. If this is your intended use, go for it you won't be disappointed.
Review by JMossKinda pricey, but very usefulby JMossDaily CommuterGermantown, MD2 of 2 customers found this review helpful.I bought the Ottolock as a backup for when I'm between places where I have a U-Lock stored. It's super light and compact. Can fit in a jersey pocket. I went for the 30, and it's about right. It can reach where a U-lock can, but also where a cable lock can. I've used it during the apres ride beer part of an event, and also to lock my bike to the inside of my car overnight (locked through the rear seat latches when the seat is down). I'm a bit surprised at the cost, but the utility seems worth it.
Reviewed 7/21/2018Was this review useful to you? Yes, review by JMoss was helpful/No, review by JMoss was not helpfulThank you for your feedback.
I bought the Ottolock as a backup for when I'm between places where I have a U-Lock stored. It's super light and compact. Can fit in a jersey pocket. I went for the 30, and it's about right. It can reach where a U-lock can, but also where a cable lock can. I've used it during the apres ride beer part of an event, and also to lock my bike to the inside of my car overnight (locked through the rear seat latches when the seat is down). I'm a bit surprised at the cost, but the utility seems worth it.
Review by CathyLightweight securityby CathyCycling EnthusiastSimi Valley, CA3 of 3 customers found this review helpful.I bought the Ottolock 30 model to take on overnight bike tours when weight is at premium. My old cable lock worked fine, but it was heavy and took up a fair amount of space. The Ottolock is very lightweight and I can store it just about anywhere where it can be threaded through some straps. The 30 length is just long enough to lock 2 bikes together...6 more inches would have been nice, but it works. Do be mindful of the locking mechanism. Holding down the button while both unlocking and locking is required, which is different from the typical combo lock. For me, this is a big improvement over a cable lock. I would not carry a U-lock just because of the weight.
Reviewed 7/2/2018Was this review useful to you? Yes, review by Cathy was helpful/No, review by Cathy was not helpfulThank you for your feedback.
I bought the Ottolock 30 model to take on overnight bike tours when weight is at premium. My old cable lock worked fine, but it was heavy and took up a fair amount of space. The Ottolock is very lightweight and I can store it just about anywhere where it can be threaded through some straps. The 30 length is just long enough to lock 2 bikes together...6 more inches would have been nice, but it works. Do be mindful of the locking mechanism. Holding down the button while both unlocking and locking is required, which is different from the typical combo lock. For me, this is a big improvement over a cable lock. I would not carry a U-lock just because of the weight.
Review by DEGood lock for quick use, ease of carrying aroundby DECycling EnthusiastArlington, VA4 of 5 customers found this review helpful.Got this for quick trips into a coffee shop or store where the bike won't be left for long, plus to use as the occasional second lock to secure a wheel. You can run it from your top tube to down tube without it getting in the way or scratching the frame, so it's easy to carry and is light. My main problem with it and the reason it gets just three stars is that the combination will not change. After several attempts following the instructions, I gave it to a much smarter person, and she also could not get it to work. So we're stuck with the default, which is just barely acceptable for the intended purpose.
Reviewed 6/25/2018Was this review useful to you? Yes, review by DE was helpful/No, review by DE was not helpfulThank you for your feedback.
Got this for quick trips into a coffee shop or store where the bike won't be left for long, plus to use as the occasional second lock to secure a wheel. You can run it from your top tube to down tube without it getting in the way or scratching the frame, so it's easy to carry and is light. My main problem with it and the reason it gets just three stars is that the combination will not change. After several attempts following the instructions, I gave it to a much smarter person, and she also could not get it to work. So we're stuck with the default, which is just barely acceptable for the intended purpose.
Review by Barrygreat lockby BarryCA2 of 2 customers found this review helpful.I love this thing. The reasons for the four star rating are price, it is expensive, good value but expensive, the leanth is just barely long enough for one bike, I wish it had a longer combination, 3 digits is not the most secure. But I still highly recomend this lovk
Reviewed 6/16/2018Was this review useful to you? Yes, review by Barry was helpful/No, review by Barry was not helpfulThank you for your feedback.
I love this thing. The reasons for the four star rating are price, it is expensive, good value but expensive, the leanth is just barely long enough for one bike, I wish it had a longer combination, 3 digits is not the most secure. But I still highly recomend this lovk
Review by AikidokaIt was stiff when I first started using but after a few uses it is great. Light, flexible and tough. This means it actually gets used.by AikidokaCycling EnthusiastVero Beach, FL2 of 2 customers found this review helpful.As in the title, it was stiff at first and took a couple of tries to figure out how to set the combo number. After than it works great. I have a large set of bolt cutters but haven't wanted to try it out. I think smaller bolt cutters will barely scratch it. It should be a good deterrent for the casual and maybe even the professional thief.
Reviewed 5/21/2018Was this review useful to you? Yes, review by Aikidoka was helpful/No, review by Aikidoka was not helpfulThank you for your feedback.
As in the title, it was stiff at first and took a couple of tries to figure out how to set the combo number. After than it works great. I have a large set of bolt cutters but haven't wanted to try it out. I think smaller bolt cutters will barely scratch it. It should be a good deterrent for the casual and maybe even the professional thief.
Review by dDavidFailed on 4th use. And far too easy to cut. -(by dDavidDaily CommuterSeattle, WA7 of 8 customers found this review helpful.I was excited to have a latte lock to slip in the small seatbag of my roadbike. But upon only it's 4th use, the lock jammed, and I spent 1 hour with their troubleshooting tips - to no avail. I walked home -( and returned with a pair of dikes and cut through the lock in less than 30 seconds - ONE HANDED (because I was making a video goo.glwWYq6R ) Engineering or QC is lacking, and I cannot recommend this product in good conscience. Save your $65 and buy a hardened steel folding lock instead! (Green 30 model)
Reviewed 5/5/2018Was this review useful to you? Yes, review by dDavid was helpful/No, review by dDavid was not helpfulThank you for your feedback.
I was excited to have a latte lock to slip in the small seatbag of my roadbike. But upon only it's 4th use, the lock jammed, and I spent 1 hour with their troubleshooting tips - to no avail. I walked home -( and returned with a pair of dikes and cut through the lock in less than 30 seconds - ONE HANDED (because I was making a video goo.glwWYq6R ) Engineering or QC is lacking, and I cannot recommend this product in good conscience. Save your $65 and buy a hardened steel folding lock instead! (Green 30 model)
Review by kdavidLightweight & secure Peace of Mind.by kdavidDaily CommuterSeattle, WA2 of 3 customers found this review helpful.I primarily use this for my road bike (the commuter has a heavier lock) for short stops at coffee shops, lunch stops or bio breaks. I got the 30 so that I can go around my frame & wheel, a post or rack, and even catch a companion's bike frame. It's relatively light and easy to use. I am hoping the high-vis green is a deterrent as well, since it sticks out so clearly. This lock is easy to use and takes little room in my seat bag.
Reviewed 4/23/2018Was this review useful to you? Yes, review by kdavid was helpful/No, review by kdavid was not helpfulThank you for your feedback.
I primarily use this for my road bike (the commuter has a heavier lock) for short stops at coffee shops, lunch stops or bio breaks. I got the 30 so that I can go around my frame & wheel, a post or rack, and even catch a companion's bike frame. It's relatively light and easy to use. I am hoping the high-vis green is a deterrent as well, since it sticks out so clearly. This lock is easy to use and takes little room in my seat bag.
Review by AnonymousHusband Loves Itby AnonymousCasual CyclistPortland, OR2 of 2 customers found this review helpful.Works quickly. Much lighter and not as cumbersome, heavy, or awkward than the standard U-lock. Pop of color optional, but he loves the orange. It was a great Christmas gift!
Reviewed 4/2/2018Was this review useful to you? Yes, review by Anonymous was helpful/No, review by Anonymous was not helpfulThank you for your feedback.
Works quickly. Much lighter and not as cumbersome, heavy, or awkward than the standard U-lock. Pop of color optional, but he loves the orange. It was a great Christmas gift!