FoldyLock Premium Folding Bike Lock Review
FoldyLock Premium Folding Bike Lock
The FoldyLock bicycle safety, security system, locking mechanism has lived up to the task. After 5-6 weeks of testing, my bike is still in my possession, and has yet to feel the need to “walk-off” because of some low life stealing my pride and joy. Bike thieves are the worst in my opinion, but we’ll save that thread for another day. Here’s a great way to prevent your steed from becoming victim
FoldyLock Initial Thoughts
Of course, there are a wide variety of options out there that will allow you to make sure that your bike is locked up properly. U-locks, chains, ‘ropes’, etc. come in various shapes and sizes, and will provide a certain level of protection from would-be thieves. The FoldyLock is definitely a new and unique way to lock up your precious mode of transportation, and the advertised features have gone a long way to convincing me that this is going to be a fun bicycle accessory to test over the next few months.
Lock, 3 unique keys, instructions, plastic lock holder, and hardware to assemble said holder to your bike.
What’s in the box?
Pretty straightforward. A lock, some keys, mounting hardware to screw the case into the bike frame where your bottle cage would go, or some straps to tighten to whatever part of your bike you’d like.
Features and Technical Specifications
I like the fact that it can pretty much fold up into itself when in ‘rest’ mode. It’s a pretty small package, but does have some weight at 3.3 lbs. It slides into the case, and is secured by a rubber strap.
A compact package when folded and in its cage.
Also, when completely opened, the flexibility and circumference of 35.4 inches helps for those tricky times when your traditional bike stand is not available. Fence posts, trees, other bikes, railings, you name it, and I have played around with making sure that I was comfortable leaving my bike when I went to work, the gym, my kids school, or my favorite brew pub. My go to lock has been a U-lock for the past several years, but its limitations have become quite evident, and I was pleased to put the Foldylock to the test.
FoldyLock in traditional bike rack
The lock is really a 6-sided Hexagon. The straight sections consist of hardened steel links connected by anti-drilling rivets, and an anti-drilling cylinder also secured in that same hardened steel housing. This lock has a high quality plastic coating to protect your precious bicycle. A good thing, because I always seem to be in a rush trying to lock my bike.
100% Rust Free
Weight: 3.3 lbs/1.5 kg.
Length: 35.4 inches/90 cm
Close up of the steel and rivet.
Putting the FoldyLock to the test
First of all, the storage system is awesome. Really! I decided to put the red plastic storage mechanism on one of my commuters because the need to carry a water bottle is really not necessary. Having it right there in easy reach is great. Not having to hold it, throw it my bag, over my shoulder, or attach it clumsily to my bike was really nice.
Storage cage attached to my bike where bottle cage usually goes.
This commuter happens to be an older Mountain Bike that now does the heavy lifting so to speak by pulling a bike trailer with a 5 and 2.5 year old. On top of that is also hauls whatever else is needed like bags full of library books, swim gear, groceries, or a cooler with snacks. I suppose I am telling you this because my trips are many and my cargo is precious. The ability to lock up our mode of transportation securely goes a long way towards my piece of mind.
The timing for me to take the lock out of its holder, whip it open, weave it through the tire, frame, and bike rack on average takes me about 20 to 25 seconds. Quick and easy. It’s great because my 2 little ones get impatient real quick as they want to get unbuckled and taken out.
The foldable nature of the FoldyLock has also served me well as I have had to get creative with my choice of suitable bike racks. Not every place has a formal and secure system, so steel posts, downspouts, fencing, and even other bikes (a friends bike) have served as the anchor point for my FoldyLock.
Locking mechanism slides in and out quite easily
The integrated sliding deadbolt mechanism has opened and locked quite smoothly for me up to this point. It’s seen a bit of weather the past few months as it is the dead of winter. My former lock used to get tossed into my bag or into the bottom of the bike trailer. Crumbs, dirt, and who knows what else found its way into the locking mechanism giving me some serious troubles as I tried to use it.
Final Thoughts
I know there is quite an assortment of bike locking systems on the market that will do a great job. The FoldyLock system is a solid and unique way to keep you bike locked up. My commuting bikes are not necessarily the most expensive bicycles out there, but I still appreciate the peace of mind that comes with knowing that my bike will still be there when I get back. The hardened steel and anti drilling rivets reinforce that notion. Add in the ease of use, and handy storage, and the FoldyLocks will be a great addition to my garage bicycle arsenal.
Available Colors: Crazy Red, Calm Cream, and Peaceful Green
MSRP: $95. Seriously, how can you put a price on your bike. I don’t care if it’s a high end carbon racing machine, or a $100 fixed gear play around town fun bike. The emotional attachment I have to my bikes old and new is one I’d like to keep. Don’t touch my bike, and the FoldyLock will serve me well as I enjoy to the beauty of riding my bike.
For more information and purchase please visit: www.foldylocks.com
It’s tough putting a price tag on knowing that your bike will still be there to transport your precious cargo. I may need another one for my trailer though 🙂
