Bicycles

Hiplok - part bike lock, part urban fashion accessory

Hiplok - part bike lock, part urban fashion accessory
The Hiplok is a bicycle lock that can be worn like a belt while riding
The Hiplok is a bicycle lock that can be worn like a belt while riding
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The Hiplok is a bicycle lock that can be worn like a belt while riding
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The Hiplok is a bicycle lock that can be worn like a belt while riding
The Hiplok is a bicycle lock that can be worn like a belt while riding
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The Hiplok is a bicycle lock that can be worn like a belt while riding
The Hiplok is a bicycle lock that can be worn like a belt while riding
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The Hiplok is a bicycle lock that can be worn like a belt while riding
The Hiplok is a bicycle lock that can be worn like a belt while riding
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The Hiplok is a bicycle lock that can be worn like a belt while riding
The Hiplok is a bicycle lock that can be worn like a belt while riding
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The Hiplok is a bicycle lock that can be worn like a belt while riding
The Hiplok is a bicycle lock that can be worn like a belt while riding
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The Hiplok is a bicycle lock that can be worn like a belt while riding
The Hiplok is a bicycle lock that can be worn like a belt while riding
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The Hiplok is a bicycle lock that can be worn like a belt while riding
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Just as there are a variety of types of bicycle locks, so there are a variety of ways in which riders carry them. U-locks can be thrown into a backpack or pannier, clipped into a mounting bracket, or just left to dangle from the handlebars, while cable or chain locks are often jauntily looped around the rider's torso, like a shoulder bag. The makers of the Hiplok, however, claim that their product has all of those approaches beat – it's designed to be worn like a belt.

The bulk of the Hiplok is a heavy-duty steel chain, covered in a nylon sleeve. Attached to one end of the chain is a combination belt buckle and padlock. In "lock" mode, the last link of the other end of the chain simply goes through the hasp of the padlock. In "belt" mode, a length of webbing that extends past the non-buckle end of the chain is threaded through the buckle, allowing everything to be cinched tight around the rider's waist.

It's a niggling point, but a quick-release buckle would have been a nice touch, so users could just set the tightness once, then forget about it.

The Hiplok is a bicycle lock that can be worn like a belt while riding
The Hiplok is a bicycle lock that can be worn like a belt while riding

So, why is a belt lock supposedly better? For starters, say the creators of the Hiplok, you won't have to bring along a backpack just for carrying your U-lock, the weight of the lock won't cause strain on your back and shoulders, and you won't have to mar your bike's appearance by attaching a frame mount. When riders wear chains or cables locked across their torso, they add, there is a risk that rescue personnel won't be able to easily remove them in the event of an accident.

It would be interesting to find out, however, if the belt starts to dig into the hips after a while – or conversely, if it eventually works its way down until it's riding too low.

The Hiplok weighs 1.8 kg (4 lbs), and comes in five color combinations. It is available online for GBP 69.99 (about US$114).

Via Bicycle Design

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7 comments
7 comments
DemonDuck
4 pounds? And so stylish. What a bargain...
Gadgeteer
Four pounds is considered a low to medium security chain, DemonDuck. The Kryptonite Fahgettaboudit high security chain is 12 pounds. If you don\'t care about getting your bike stolen, by all means get a light cable or cheap U-lock.
Dimi Tree
does it have self-cleaning sleeve or the user shouldnt mind marring himself? .)
3HullsRbest
Like you couldn\'t make this....
Nick Herbert
Methinks it\'s time for some bright spark to come up with an idea which combines a standard diving weightbelt - with its 2\" webbing and quick-release buckle - plus a flat-link chain or heavy-duty plastic-covered cable for the security aspect. Or even several, smaller diameter steel cables, encased in plastic and encapsulated in the webbing belt. Oops - there we go again with another free invention for all...!
Dimi Tree
thats right :) i would refrain from contradictory features .)
Dimi Tree
eh just to clarify my position (was too quick to fire): this is a great new thing in the field! i personally admire \"stealth black\" one! well designed and hopefully manufactured. tho i wouldnt market it for white lycra urban fashionistas :) but as i can see now its just author\'s opinion :) have good sales! :)