Minky Plastic Steel Outdoor Retractable Clothesline (Grey, 49')

Q: It the "reach" 98 feet or 49 feet (and reported to be 98 due to there beng 2 lines)?

There are 2 lines with each one being 49 feet in length for a total of 98 feet.

Q: Does this have a locking mechanism on it or does the line have to be fully extended?

Well that pathetic little "hook" doesn't work. What a piece of jumk. The line I had for over 25 years is still locking in place. Returning this ASP.

Q: What do the oval-shaped ends attach to? Are the anchors to keep the line taut attached to the unit itself, or separate? Is all hardware included?

the oval ends attach to eye hooks that you screw into a post (or whatever) at the other end. the anchors are part of the unit. all hardware is included.

Q: Is this line plastic coated wire, or nylon? - What is the max workload?

I believe it's plastic-coated wire. I don't know the workload offhand, it's been up for a few years, and hasn't let me down yet. I hang ALL my laundry on it all winter near the woodstove, except really heavy items like rugs or husband's heavy work coat.