User submitted reviews
Review by Anonymous
I usually ride alone so I bought this to secure my bike for quick stops. The 18 inch lock is way too short to secure my bike to just about everything. It does work when you can find something though. Kind of pricey for a lock that may not work.
Review by LoRider
Is it too much to say that a lock changed your life? Well, I think the Ottolock Cinch changed my cycling life. 80% of the time I'm out, I take only this lock and feel confident that my bike is safe while I'm away. When I'm in a risky part of town, I use Ottolock and a U-lock (and sometimes a chain). If you doubt the strength of this lock, check out this video from OUTSIDE MAGAZINE httpswww.youtube.comwatch?vGiVGho83Rf8 Pretty impressive, right? Bottom line BUY THIS LOCK NOW. It's so great!
Review by Johanzel
Use it often and feel the security.
Review by richgfcst
Light, easy to use theft deterrent.
No need to carry a key.
I use with a thin 6' coated steel cable to secure other wheel and saddle which would not be secured otherwise.
30 works better than 18 for locking bike to racks and posts
Be forewarned - you cannot change your combination after you set it up the first time.
There have been several design improvements compared to my 18 early version of OTTOLOCK.
Review by Anonymous
I use this almost everyday. It's easy to store in my jersey pocket or saddle bag. You can even set your own personalized code. I only use this lock if I'm running inside really quick to buy a snack and I still can keep my eye on my bike. Or I use it in conjunction with my U-lock if I'm going to leave my bike locked up outside for a longer duration of time.
Review by Northernbiker
This is really a great lock, especially when you are out riding and want to stop for a bite of lunch or a coffee - and don't want to lug your heavy U-lock with you. This has a 3-combo lock that can be set to your preference. It may be a bit hard to setopen if you have large hands, but I've had no problems. Having had this 18 for a while now, I'm seriously considering getting the 30. A little more length would be even better given the array of racks & such available for locking your bike to. 30 would be more versatile. All in all, tho', the lock lives up to it's light and safe hype! I'm glad I made the purchase.
Review by Bici_del_Rioba
Looks like a good form factor for a lock. I weill use it to secure th bikes to my 1UP rack.
Review by cycloman
very easy to stash in a pocket or pack - just enough security to lock for quick trips into the cafe and the like
Review by biker Bob
very good pit-stop lock that is light and compact
Review by Thomas
My bike is never really out of sight, but like it locked. Carry it under my seat and it is perfect.... appreciate the Cincinnati Bengals orange!
Review by Tom
This was the 2nd Otto Lock Ive owned, owning to my loosing the previous one. Relatively light, strong, and rolls up into an under saddle bag. Get One!
Review by John
Really like this lock.
This lock is great for those rides when you can't be next to your bike at the Cafe stop and want a deterrent.
It fits nicely in a rear jursey pocket, isn't heavy and is easy to use.
Review by Anonymous
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 Marin
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 Anonymous
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 Anonymous
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 Bob G.
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 DE
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 Victor
Works as advertised but difficult to roll tightly and frequently unrolls despite use of the band which unfastens.
Review by Nobrakes
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.