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Former aeronautical engineer Neil Barron has invented a new bike lock that is lightweight, flexible and secure. Professor Barron is seeking funding on Kickstarter to launch Litelok, which is made with a composite strap called Boaflexicore.
"Litelok harnesses the unique security properties of multiple innovative lightweight materials," said Barron. "Each layer provides additional security, meaning it can withstand sustained attack from tools like cable cutters, bolt croppers and hacksaws."
The lock is flexible like a chain but weighs a great deal less – the Litelok weighs less than 1 kilogram (2.2 lbs). The lock uses a patented snap clasp developed with Henry Squire and Sons.
Multiple Liteloks can be combined with the same key for extra length.
While the flexibility of the lock suggests it would be a "wearable", similar to the Hiplock, Professor Barron – who is seeking £20,000 funding – decided against this:
"We decided not to go down the wearable lock route mainly due to size and the need for adjustability in something which has to be secure, lightweight and simple to use. We think that the various carrying options we’ve suggested should satisfy most people’s cycling needs. Of course, riders can do what they want and we are very open to feedback on use."
