If you’ve ever had a bike stolen, your compassion for bike thieves probably went right down to zero percent. After losing a few bicycles, Daniel Idzkowski decided to re-visit the concept of deterring thefts in progress, and much to any victim’s vengeful delight he’s come up with a nasty surprise for thieves- the Skunk Lock.
When a thief breaks or grinds into the Skunk Lock, it releases a potent (but non-toxic and legally compliant) formula which makes breathing difficult, may compromise eyesight, and induces vomiting in the victim! It’s pretty hard to pedal off on a bike when you’re suddenly choking and puking instead, and this scene would likely draw enough attention for the thief to abandon the attempt and wander off wondering what the hell just happened…
The Skunk Lock’s creators say any bike lock can be cut in less than a minute with the right tools on hand. With their clever design even well-equipped bike thieves can still be deterred, and just when they think they’ve almost got your bike they’ll get a face full of skunky chemicals instead!
The Skunk Lock is made from hi-tensile and hardened medium-carbon steel like a typical U-Lock, but its unique feature is the pressurized noxious chemicals hidden inside. Once the chemical chamber is compromised the formula escapes into the air, choking out the thief and making them sick to their stomach. Not only that, but the chemical spray will also ruin any clothing it touches, which actually costs the thief money.
While the Skunk Lock should effectively deter a thief at close range, the chemicals don’t expand enough that innocent bystanders would be impacted any more than noticing the smell. If the chemicals get sprayed on your bike the company provides instructions on how to remove the formula, but by design it should project towards the thief.
The lock does not rely on any electronic components, and it’s guaranteed to be safe for normal use without accidentally deploying its chemical weaponry. The chemicals are contained within a sealed chamber inside the U part of the lock, so nothing short of power tools or prying it apart will release the substance.
Each lock comes with a unique code which customers can use to get extra keys if needed. Skunk Lock plans to provide overnight shipping for replacement keys.
As for legality the Skunk Lock is OK in many states but because their noxious formula uses capsaisin compounds, the device is essentially treated like pepper spray. Initially, some states (or countries) may not be able to purchase this product, but the company has cooked up an alternative formula that does not contain capsaisin to circumvent stricter state regulations.
The Skunk Lock’s Indiegogo campaign has just begun, so they still need some funding to go to production. Early bird buyers can currently pre-order a Skunk Lock for $109 USD, and delivery is expected for June 2017.
