OTTOLOCK Cinch Lock

What is the design intent behind OTTOLOCK?

OTTOLOCK is designed for quick stops and protecting against theft opportunists, while simultaneously meeting desired low weight and compact size requirements. OTTOLOCK is not designed for overnight or long duration security in high-crime metropolitan areas.

How does OTTOLOCK compare to other types of locks?

Click here to see OTTOLOCK stand up to bolt cutters compared to a cable lock.

How secure is OTTOLOCK? Will it replace my U-Lock?

We have tested the product under many failure modes including tensile pull, torsion, impact, flame temperature and more. You can watch several testing videos on YouTube to see how the OTTOLOCK stands up. OTTOLOCK is stronger than a cable lock against common theft tools such as bolt cutters or wire cutters. Specific to shears, hacksaw, or angle grinder theft attempts, a motivated thief will be able to defeat the OTTOLOCK in a relatively short period of time. It is important to note that all locks can be defeated with proper tools, technique and time.

OTTOLOCK is not a replacement for a U-Lock. For maximum security, use a redundant locking method with both a U-Lock and a secondary lock. Read more about OTTOLOCK Use Guidelines.

Which length OTTOLOCK do I choose for bicycle use?

Your lock up application makes a difference as to which length is the right choice. Many "weight weenies" or serious riders prefer the 18" as it works great for a mid-ride stop and locking a single tube to a post or pole up to 4-5" diameter. The 18" fits in or cinched around a small saddle bag. The 30" is more universal and better for horizontal racks or grabbing hard-to-reach features. It will lock a frame and wheel to a post or pole, or two bikes together. The 60" is what you need if you want to lock both wheels and frame to a post or pole, or secure several bikes. Click here to see how each length compares.

What is the band made of?

The band is made of ten (10) total layers – a combination of high-temper stainless steel and braided DuPont™ Kevlar® internally, and anti-scratch Santoprene® on the exterior.

Can OTTOLOCK be daisy-chained?

Yes! You can connect multiple OTTOLOCKS together for added length.

My OTTOLOCK is stuck (locked bicycle). What can I do?

If your lock button will not depress or doesn't open on combination, it is possible the last digit of your code was accidentally reset somehow. Start with the code you think is right and try rolling the last the last number up one digit until you've tried all nine remaining numbers (e.g. if code is 1-2-3, try 1-2-4, 1-2-5, 1-2-6....1-2-9....1-2-1). If this does not work your lock button may be broken or jammed, and you will need to cut the lock from the bicycle if locked. Contact us at support@ottodesignworks.com for further assistance.

My OTTOLOCK tumblers are stuck and won't turn. What can I do?

Your lock may be partially engaged in combination reset mode. It's important to use a push pin, not a safety pin or paperclip, as they do not have the necessary strength required. Try the following steps:

Step 1: Confirm that the button still pushes in. You may need use some extra force in getting the button to press flush to the lock head (do not press on a table or hard surface). This may free up the locked wheels.

Step 2: If still stuck, try to reset the combination again using a push pin, making sure to push it all the way in until it stops. There should be an audible click, but it is sometimes difficult to hear. Activating the reset and pushing the button flush to the lock head should free up the wheels.

If none of those steps worked... The breakaway button may be been activated. This would mean you will be unable to withdraw the band from the lock head. You can determine if the breakaway has been activated by seeing if the button looks a little crooked. You may need to look from several angles. If the breakaway button has been activated then the lock is no longer functional. Contact us at support@ottodesignworks.com for further assistance.

Crooked angle = activated breakaway button

For additional assistance, watch our Resetting the Combination and OTTOLOCK Troubleshooting videos.

Why does my OTTOLOCK band slide out of the lock without pushing the button?

To engage the lock, do not press the button and give a little push/pull on the band in both directions. This will ensure the locking pawl is seated and engaged in the band teeth and stop it from sliding freely.

Push/pull on the band a little to get it to fully engage and lock in

How do you lock & unlock OTTOLOCK?

TO LOCK:

1. 1. Undo ladder strap.
2. 2. Uncoil band.
3. 3. Set lock tumblers to current combination (factory default is 0-0-0) between the two raised indicators.
4. 4. Press button until flush.
5. 5. Insert band into opening under tumblers while holding button.
6. 6. Release button.
7. 7. Spin tumblers. OTTOLOCK is now locked.

TO UNLOCK:

1. 1. Set tumblers to current combination (factory default is 0-0-0).
2. 2. Press button and pull band to unlock.
3. 3. Coil band around your hand and over lock head and set in place with ladder strap.

How do you reset the OTTOLOCK combination?

You can change the combination from the factory setting to a combo of your choice. This is really handy if you have multiple OTTOLOCKs and need to remember easily. To reset the combination:

1. 1. Set tumblers to current combination (factory default is 0-0-0).
2. 2. Insert a thumbtack/push pin* all the way into the small hole on the side of the lock head until it stops.
3. 3. Remove the pin.
4. 4. Turn the wheels to the desired combination.
5. 5. Firmly press the button until flush to set.
6. * NOTE: using a paperclip or safety pin is not recommended.

Watch the video demonstration of how to reset the combination. If you're having trouble, watch the troubleshooting video.

How do you coil the OTTOLOCK?

Always coil the band around the lock head in order to avoid permanent damage to the lock band.

How do you use the OTTOLOCK Pro Mount?

The OTTOLOCK Pro Mount is a rugged bike mount designed to securely hold your OTTOLOCK on the top tube (A), seat tube (B), or seat post (C). It comes with two interchangeable seat beds to accommodate both aero and round tubes, and is ideal for either the 30” or 60” OTTOLOCK. We advise putting the lock head near the post or tube you mount to so that the weight is closer to the bike frame. We've tested the heck out of the Pro Mount on long gravel rides and 5-hr MTB adventures and there is no problem holding the OTTOLOCK in place. Get the step-by-step assembly and installation instructions.

How do you use the OTTO Mount?

The OTTO Mount is a simple, silicone mount recommended for use with the 18" OTTOLOCK only. It's important to be sure and hook all four (4) of the silicone tabs to the ladder strap if you use the OTTO Mount to carry your lock on your bike. The fit should be snug but do not over-stretch or over-tighten. Also, we advise putting the lock head near the post or tube you mount to so that the weight is closer to the bike frame. Get step-by-step installation instructions on the OTTO Mount Installation page.