It's official – we are now living in the age of the keyless Bluetooth bike lock. We've already seen the Skylock, BitLock and Ulock. Now, there's also the Noke U-Lock.
The Noke's features are quite similar to those of the other Bluetooth locks.
First of all, to open it, you just press a button on the lock. It then searches for the signal from your smartphone, and unlocks as long as the phone is within Bluetooth range. Should you wish, you can also use the accompanying iOS/Android/Windows app to temporarily grant access to other people who might want to borrow your bike.
If a potential thief starts messing around with your bike after it's been locked up, the Noke's accelerometer will detect the movement and respond by sounding an alarm. Additionally, if you forget where you parked, the app will show you where you were when the lock was last activated.
If you lose your phone or its battery dies, you can still open the Noke by entering a Morse code-like personal passcode using its lock/unlock button. If you don't want to use a smartphone at all, you can also opt for a Bluetooth fob that serves the same purpose.
The lock itself is made from hardened steel, has a protective leather covering to keep it from scratching your bike's paint, and is powered by a USB-rechargeable battery. It's made by FUZ Designs, the same startup that previously brought us the Noke Bluetooth padlock.
FUZ is currently raising production funds for the U-Lock on Kickstarter, where a pledge of US$99 will currently get you one when and if they're ready to go. The planned retail price is $129. That's less expensive than the Skylock and Ulock, but $10 more than the BitLock.
Source: Kickstarter
