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PlantLock

The PlantLock was created in response to Reinventing the Bike Shed in 2006. PlantLock is an evolution of the typical ‘rail’ parking solution. The rail is combined with a ‘planter’. The concept makes a functional link between greening the environment via the planter and the use of the bicycle. PlantLock aims to provide safe, attractive and tidy bike storage. When filled with soil and plants it weighs 75kg. PlantLock accommodates most bicycle types on the market. The locking bar is made from boron steel, case-hardened and tempered. Each PlantLock accommodates 2 bicycles, and is available in a range of colours. PlantLock is available with a variety of pre-seeded compost blocks and for permanent fixture, PlantLock can be attached to the ground, using fixing holes.

Typical Context of Use
The PlantLock can be used in a private context or in public and semi public spaces including front gardens, back gardens, balconies, communal gardens, schools and colleges and other maintained public places.

Typical Length of Stay
Short to medium stay 0-6 hours.

Number of Bikes per Unit
1-2.

Approximate Cost per Bike
£68 per bike.

Locking Opportunities / Lock Compatibility
Adequate / Good – PlantLock accommodates most bicycle types on the market. Bicycle frame and both wheels can be secured to the bar with the owner’s existing locks providing they have adaquate span to encompass rail, wheel and frame.

Ease of Use / Time to Lock
The same as a normal rail, the rail is simple and straightforward to use and takes approximately 2 minutes to lock the bike.

Strengths
• A multi-purpose stand suitable for short / medium stay use in all contexts
• Durable design
• Supports a wide variety of bicycles
• Combines greening the environment through planting and cycling

Weaknesses
• Requires maintenance of the plants to remain attractive
• Could be used as an ashtray / stash spot
• May encourage insecure locking via top tube only due to height of rail

Useful References
www.frontyardcompany.co.uk