Self-Locking Bicycle

Bicycle theft is is a widespread issue, and in 40% of thefts the bicycle was locked. This lead me to question: how can conventional bike locking systems be reimagined to counter this issue?

My solution is a self-locking bicycle, which utilises the handlebars as an integral lock. It has the ability to lock the bicycle in multiple orientations to various static objects, including both vertical and horizontal bars found at conventional locking stations. It also has the ability to lock the front wheel of the bike, which is a common target for thieves since these are often quick release. The handlebars can be manoeuvred very easily thanks to their smooth, synchronised motion, such that each side moves in a mirror image of the other, meaning the user can manipulate the lock from one side with just one hand.

This product is inherently theft proof: if a thief was to try to break the lock to steal it, they would render the bike un-rideable, without means for steering, confounding any plans to escape on the newly stolen bike.

I produced a final prototype, fitted with a front wheel and stand, along with a full design log. I achieved full marks for this project in my Product Design A Level, and also reached the TDI Finals, presenting it to a judging panel.