German robot tackles bicycle theft

A TV ad for German electronics supplier Conrad features an imaginative way of beating bike thieves; a portable, remote-control robot powered by motorised skateboard wheels clamps to the nearest lamp post and lifts the bicycle out of the reach of thieves and their bolt cutters.

The idea of lifting bikes out of harm’s way is not new; Dominic Hargreaves, a student at the Royal College of Art, last year came up with a similar idea after having three bikes stolen.

Unlike the portable Conrad design, his bike cradle fits to a wall. The front wheel of the bicycle is placed into a cradle and locked in position, and the hoist pulls the bike 2.5 metres up the wall.

A spokesperson for the Environmental Transport Association (ETA) said: “Design ideas that aim to keep cyclists one step ahead of thieves are welcome, but for the time being most of us will have to rely on a stout lock and a decent cycle insurance policy.”

Every policy from the ETA includes new-for-old replacement & cover for accidental damage (race events included), third party insurance, personal accident bicycle cover and if you breakdown, they will even come out and recover you and your bike. Prices start from 32 pence per week.