REVIEW – With everyone in my family riding bikes these days, there will come a time when one of us needs to leave our bike unattended. Without the proper lock or deterrent, risk the chance of someone stealing the bike. Bike and e-bike theft is rampant, and protection can no longer be an afterthought. Enter the OTTOLOCK SIDEKICK Folding Lock.
What is it?
The OTTOLOCK SIDEKICK Folding Lock features heavy-duty, hardened steel links that are 5 mm thick. It weighs just over 2 pounds and is ideal for all bikes, including e-bikes. Three keys are included.
What’s included?
Tech Specs
Design and features
The OTTOLOCK SIDEKICK Folding Lock is made from 6 sections of hardened steel. The sections are connected providing individual movement of each section. On one end of the linked sections is a keyed lock that connects to the other end to close the lock. A frame mountable lock holder is included.
Performance
The OTTOLOCK SIDEKICK Folding Lock is made from what feels like strong metal parts. However, because it is not as flexible as a gooseneck-type lock, using it can be a challenge with a bike with fat tires which is common on many e-bikes. The photo below shows one way I could lock my BIGNIU BGX e-bike. If I wanted to use this lock around the frame and a bike stand, the fat frame would prohibit this.
As you can see in the photo below, it can be secured much better on a standard bike that does not have a fat wheel or frame.
The same issue occurs with the lock holder. It is a nice case, but the included velcro straps cannot be secured on a bike like my e-bike with a fat frame. However, I will fix this easily by using longer velcro straps.
Overall, the OTTOLOCK SIDEKICK is solidly built. IMHO, it will work well as a secondary lock as long as the type of bike allows. I can use it more effectively with one of my standard bikes. E-bikes are a challenge depending on the fatness of the frame and tires. I am concerned about the link between each section. It just seems like a weak point for a veteran thief. If the hardened steel was extended to overlap at least a part of each connector, that could eliminate the potential weak spot. Regardless, defeating this lock would take time, so it would be effective if used in a busy area or with additional security.
Final thoughts
The OTTOLOCK SIDEKICK Folding Lock is made from tough metal and adds security if used with another security device. I am concerned about the integrity of the connecting points if challenged by a veteran thief. It is a decent value for the price.