{"product_id":"ottolock-sidekick-compact-u-lock-orange-lightweight-12mm-double-shackle-with-silicone-coating","title":"OTTOLOCK Sidekick Compact U-Lock — Orange, lightweight 12mm double-shackle with silicone coating","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe OTTOLOCK Sidekick Compact U-Lock is a lightweight, silicone-coated U-style bicycle lock that uses double-shackle 12mm hardened steel and an antirotation deadbolt to protect a single tube to a post without the bulk of a traditional U-lock.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eDesigned to bridge the gap between cable locks and heavy-duty U-locks, the Sidekick prioritizes portability while offering meaningful resistance to opportunistic theft. At only 750 grams (1.65 lbs) and with a 2.75\" x 5.75\" (7 cm x 14.5 cm) opening, it slips into backpacks, panniers or larger pockets, and comes in a bright orange finish that boosts visibility. Each lock ships with three keys and a silicone-coated body to prevent frame scratches.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eHow secure is the Sidekick compared with standard U-locks?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Sidekick uses a double-shackle design crafted from 12mm hardened steel and an antirotation deadbolt, which offers greater cut and pry resistance than basic cable locks. While it’s lighter than full-size hardened U-locks, the Sidekick is engineered to deter opportunistic thieves and is best paired with a secondary lock for longer stops in high-risk areas.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eDouble-shackle 12mm hardened steel resists basic cutting attempts.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eAntirotation deadbolt reduces leverage attacks on the lock core.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eBest used for quick stops or combined with another lock for extended security.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eHow easy is the Sidekick to carry and use daily?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePortability is the Sidekick’s main advantage: it weighs roughly 1.65 lb and has compact external dimensions that fit into many backpacks, messenger bags, or deep pockets. The bright orange color makes it easy to locate, and three included keys mean you can keep spares at home or with a trusted companion.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eCompact footprint: 2.75\" x 5.75\" opening for common tube-and-post locking.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e750 g (1.65 lb) keeps load light for commuters and travelers.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eThree keys included for convenience and backup access.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWill the Sidekick damage my bike frame or finish?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNo — the Sidekick’s body is wrapped in a high-quality silicone coating designed to cushion contact and prevent scratching. The coating also improves grip when handling the lock and adds weather resistance to the lock exterior without adding significant bulk.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eSilicone-coated body protects paint and reduces rattling.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eSmooth finish prevents abrasive contact during transport or storage.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eBright finish increases visibility and acts as a visual theft deterrent.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhen should I use this lock alone or with a second lock?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Sidekick shines for brief stops in low- to moderate-risk locations where portability matters, such as quick errands, cafés, or school drop-offs. For longer parking durations, crowded urban centers, or overnight storage, add a heavier chain or U-lock to secure both wheels and the frame for layered protection.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eUse solo for short-duration, low-risk parking.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eCombine with a cable or chain to lock wheels and frame for longer stops.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eRecommended extra lock in high-theft areas or overnight situations.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWho is this for: The OTTOLOCK Sidekick Compact U-Lock suits commuters, students, parents, and anyone who needs a balance of security and carry comfort. It’s ideal for riders who want more protection than a cable lock without the weight and inconvenience of a full-size U-lock, and for households that prefer a bright, easy-to-handle option for kids or new cyclists.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003csection class=\"product-faq-snippet\"\u003e\u003ch3\u003eFAQ\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"faq-item\"\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"faq-q\"\u003eQ: What are the Sidekick's weight and opening dimensions?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"faq-a\"\u003eA: The lock weighs 750 g (1.65 lb) and the opening measures 2.75\" x 5.75\" (7 cm x 14.5 cm).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"faq-item\"\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"faq-q\"\u003eQ: Does the Sidekick include keys or a mounting bracket?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"faq-a\"\u003eA: The Sidekick ships with three keys; it does not include a frame mount—store in a bag or pocket.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/section\u003e","brand":"OTTOLOCK","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":59357267067228,"sku":"B082FP677Q","price":56.62,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1059\/5604\/9244\/files\/ottolock-sidekick-front-view-orange.jpg?v=1791174312","url":"https:\/\/sportium.co.uk\/products\/ottolock-sidekick-compact-u-lock-orange-lightweight-12mm-double-shackle-with-silicone-coating","provider":"Sportium Sports And Outdoors","version":"1.0","type":"link"}