Is the Thule Quad Lock phone mount worth it?

Short answer: Yes.

A Thule rep put it plainly when I asked: “You don’t want to mount your R20 000 phone on a R89 mount, do you?” He’s right – we spend thousands on our phones but then clip them onto cheap, wobbly mounts that rattle on every bump. That’s not looking after your gear. “You want reliable adventure,” he added.

And after spending time with the Thule Quad Lock system, I think he might be onto something.

What You’re Actually Buying

The Thule Quad Lock system is built around one simple idea: a secure connection between your phone and whatever you’re riding. Quad Lock started in Melbourne, Australia in 2011 when two founders wanted a phone mount that could handle real mountain bike terrain. That same thinking runs through everything they make today.

Here’s how it breaks down:

The case (from R999) is the foundation. It’s slim enough to slip into your pocket, tough enough to handle drops and vibrations, and features magnetic alignment so mounting is instant. No fiddling, no wrestling with clips.

The universal adapter (R549) is for anyone whose phone model isn’t in the case range. You stick it on the back of your phone and it works with any Thule Quad Lock mount.

The mounts give you options depending on your bike and how you ride:

Quick Release Strap Mount (R699) – simple, versatile, works on almost any bar or tube.

Stem Cap Mount (R899) – minimal, clean, tucks in close to your bars.

Adjustable Stem Cap Mount (R1,099) – same idea but with a hinged design so you can angle your phone.

Out Front Mount (R1,299) – sits ahead of your handlebars for that sleek, aerodynamic look road cyclists love.

Nice to have extras:

MAG Wireless Charging Head (R1,249) – charges your phone while you ride. No more finishing a long ride with a dead battery.

Vibration Dampener (R549) – extra peace of mind if you’re doing serious trail riding.

The Twist-and-Lock Difference

What sets Thule Quad Lock apart is the patented dual-stage lock. You attach your phone, twist, and it clicks into place. That twist is the key – it locks on two levels, which means it holds firm even when the going gets rough. Smooth roads, gravel paths, rock gardens – your phone stays exactly where you put it.

The system is also completely modular. Buy one case, own multiple mounts, swap your phone between bikes instantly. Heading out on your mountain bike? Twist it onto that mount. Switching to your commuter? Grab the other mount from your road bike. Same case, same phone, different setup in seconds.

Thule + Quad Lock

Thule recently acquired Quad Lock, which makes sense – both brands focus on quality gear for active people. Thule brings global reach and expertise in adventure equipment; Quad Lock brings leading bike and motorcycle mounts. It’s a natural fit…

Is It Worth the Money?

Here’s the thing: a cheap mount saves you R800 now but risks cracking your screen or losing your phone on a rocky descent. The Thule Quad Lock system costs more upfront, but it’s an investment in peace of mind. Your phone stays protected, stays put, and you can focus on the ride.

So yes – if you ride with your phone and care about keeping it safe, this system is worth every rand. 

• This article was not sponsored and contains no affiliate links. All opinions expressed are those of the editorial team.