App-based bike locks

A new type of bike lock that can be retrofitted to existing cycle stands could be trialled in Southampton.

The solar-powered “smart locks” fit to existing Sheffield stands and can be locked/ unlocked by registered users using an app. 

“They are designed to offer the same or better security than a traditional lock (including locking of bike wheels) whilst saving the weight/space requirements for users to carry their own lock,” says Solent Transport’s bid to the DfT’s Future Mobility Zone fund. 

A trial is proposed in Southampton and, if successful, the locks could then be rolled out more widely. 

“The smart bike locks trial would be the first major trial of this product in the UK,” says the bid.