As smartphones are becoming more and more integral to our daily lives, their long list of applications is growing by the day. While it might seem frivolous to have a bike lock that’s activated by your phone via Bluetooth, the Noke has some cool advantages and unique features. First and foremost, you’ll never lose a set of keys or forget a lock combination again.
The brains behind the Noke U-Lock is Fuz Designs, a company that found success with their Noke Bluetooth padlock last year. They’ve adapted the idea into a bike lock that’s produced a great response on the company’s fifth Kickstarter campaign, raking in over $400,000 so far.
Read on to unlock all the details…
With the lock on your bike and the app installed on your smartphone, simply walk up to the lock and hit the button on its butt end. The Noke lock then locates your phone via Bluetooth and if it is found within a few feet, the electronically controlled internals instantly open it for you. You don’t need to take your phone out of your pocket, and it will even work if your phone is asleep. If you feel the need for added security, you do have the option of programming the lock to require the push of a button on your phone (or Apple watch) to open.
You can create an access code with the lock’s Quick-Click technology, so if you don’t have your phone on hand or your battery goes dead, simply tap out your unique rhythm on the button and you’re free. Furthermore, if you don’t always ride with your phone there is an optional Bluetooth key fob that allows you the same wireless access.
The Noke also includes an integrated alarm, which disarms automatically for you each time you open it with the app or Quick-Click access code. If the lock is shaken for over three seconds or if the code is entered incorrectly more than three times, it sounds a loud audible alarm.
The Noke app also acts as a GPS bike locator, not just for figuring out which bar you left it locked outside last night, but also for quick picking from crowded urban bike parking areas. The app even allows you to grant other people access to your bike, either on a one-time basis or scheduled by day and time.
The U-lock is quite unbreakable as they traditionally are, sporting a hulky three pounds of steel beneath its stylish, water resistant exterior. The lock contains an internal long-life lithium ion battery which will remind you to charge it by notifying you within the app. This won’t happen often as a single charge will last 5-6 months with the alarm feature activated, and much longer without.
The lock is compatible with iOS, Android and Windows smartphones that have Bluetooth 4.0, and uses a micro-USB connection to charge the battery. The Noke comes in black/black, black/silver or brown/silver, with your choice of a short or long shackle. A frame bracket for the seat mast is also included.
The Noke U-Lock is currently on pre-sale for $109.99 USD, with the first shipments expected to go out in September.
