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TiGr: Innovative Titanium "Bow" Lock Design Just Got Kickstarted
Congratulations to New Jersey-based bike enthusiast John Loughlin, whose "TiGr" bike lock just crossed the threshold for funding on Kickstarter.
It's a simple concept: the TiGr is a titanium bow that is secured with a pick-resistant cylinder to form a closed loop around the wheels and lower part of the frame (and, of course, a stationary object). The long, slim form factor allows the rider to secure both wheels—without having to remove them—and lends itself to a unique method of storage: it doubles as an ad hoc top-tube protector when not in use.
Loughlin elaborates:I met Joshua A.C. Newman on Velospace.org when I went there to discuss the viability of TiGr. That's him behind the camera in the video, and that's his Cannondale. We hit it off immediately and we started working together to bring this design to reality. He's used half a dozen prototypes ever since, from the very earliest to the ones you see here. He brings his design expertise to the challenges of the lock, sending sketches back and forth about usability, practicality, and aesthetics, from the color of the coating to way to store the lock when it's not in use. He's making sure the lock is about the same efficient beauty as the rest of the bicycle it integrates with.
Not sure about the integrity of titanium? Loughlin is on the case:
Check out their Kickstarter page for full specs. You have just under a month to get your hands on the first edition.
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Thanks!
My question... in the video it is used to lock to a parking meter. What would prevent a thief from raising the bike up and allowing the meter head to pass right through? Lift to top tube, tilt and lift to clear top tube, straighten and lift, bend the lock to open it up a bit, and pull it right over the top?
(Or at least click the link. Sheesh.)
In the Netherlands we know our locks. You'll need basically 2 types of locks. A wheel lock (axa) for quick protection and ease of use, a thick cable lock for longer protection. I'll bet you'll get laughed at if you use the TiGr lock to get some groceries.