×

TMD Chain Lock, but the combination of materials, performance, and insurance-friendly ART-2 certification makes it worth considering.

TMD’s first bicycle lock combines a Bluetooth proximity sensor and motion alarm with a slender core of hardened steel chain wrapped in a soft and lightweight sleeve of high performance Dyneema and Kevlar fibers. That makes this lock tough, yet flexible enough to conveniently wrap around your seat post when cycling. TMD also designed the keyless lock to be shareable with friends and family, and capable of withstanding shock, rain, dust, and extreme temperatures. That makes it highly suited to city bikes parked outside and ridden all year long.

I like the TMD Chain Lock I’ve been testing, but spending €249 (about $283) on something that typically costs far less is a big ask.

$280

The Good

  • Strong yet flexible lock won’t scratch bike
  • Digital key can be shared with friends and family
  • Convenient if you lock your bike several times a day
  • ART-2 certified for insurance
  • Loud enough alarm

The Bad

  • Very expensive
  • Lacks USB-C charging
  • Annoying operating sounds

The chasm separating ATM security from bike security isn’t as wide as it might seem. TMD developed a centralized, keyless system for banks to authorize access to its ATMs for service, replacing the physical master keys that created a massive security risk whenever they were lost or stolen. It’s this same keyless knowhow that TMD now brings to the Bluetooth bike lock.

There are many advantages to turning phones into digital keys, especially in bike-centric societies like the Netherlands, which TMD calls home. For example, I could ride to the train station and have an authorized friend pick the bike up later. And the keyless convenience quickly adds up for those of us that use our bikes to commute to work, pick up the kids from daycare and football, run errands, and shop for groceries. In my home city of Amsterdam, it’s not unusual to grab my keys more than a dozen times a day to lock and unlock my bike.

I tested the TMD Bike Lock in the 110cm (about 3.5 feet) length with an iPhone 15 Pro running the latest version of iOS. Generally — I’d say 19 out of every 20 attempts — the TMD Chain Lock immediately recognized my approach, allowing me to seamlessly unlock it with a push on the lock’s only button. When I did have to wait, it took no more than a second for the button to flash blue, indicating the lock had detected my nearby phone in a pocket or bag. Pretty good, but that convenience comes with some tradeoffs.

The bike sat unlocked across the street since it was still within Bluetooth range of my phone at this cafe.

My bike, parked outside this window, would automatically unlock whenever I cooked.

Charging the lock off my laptop. It’ll also charge off a phone’s USB-C port.

Don’t lose this proprietary charging cable!

For example, my bike remained within range of my phone when parked outside a cafe, so anyone could have walked up and unlocked it. I had the same issue when cooking in my kitchen with the bike parked just outside the window, as I normally do. In both cases, I either had to move the bike or turn off my phone’s Bluetooth radio. And since my phone is now my bike key, if it’s stolen, my much more expensive e-bike is vulnerable as well.

TMD says its Chain Lock is “immune to conventional drilling and picking,” but all bike locks can be defeated by a determined thief. The Chain Lock has earned an ART-2 certification issued by an independent Dutch organization that tests and certifies bike locks on a scale from one to five. Most Dutch insurance companies require ART-2 at a minimum to validate policies on expensive e-bikes and cargo bikes. It’s akin to something like a Sold Secure Silver or Gold rating in the UK, a 2 Roues in France, and VdS approval in Germany. (The US and Canada do not have a single, centralized, independent testing body that dictates insurance requirements for bicycles.) Should your bike be stolen, you can produce a digital log file for the insurance company from within the TMD app as official proof that your bike was locked.

To deter theft, the lock also features an integrated motion alarm that can be armed and disarmed in the app or with a double press of the lock’s button. At 100dB it’s less shrill than I expected, but it does the job when it senses the lock being jostled. It shuts off automatically after about 10 seconds of inactivity.

TMD tells me that a future software update will let you disable these sounds.

The lock is rather noisy in day-to-day usage. Unlocking it is accompanied by a loud tone that hits 75dB when measured at a distance of one meter. I hate that it draws attention to me and my expensive e-bike. Just flash green and unlock — that’s more than enough. TMD tells me that a future software update will let you disable these sounds.

TMD claims the lock’s battery will last up to nine months on a single charge. However, my test unit has already dropped 16 percent after a week of testing, suggesting a lifespan closer to six or seven weeks. But that’s likely because I store my bikes inside my house when not in use, so the lock’s Bluetooth radio is constantly being lit up by my phone’s proximity.

To prevent water and dust ingress and leave more room for the battery and speaker, TMD says it opted for a shallow magnetic pin connector – not USB-C – to charge the Chain Lock. That’s a shame because plenty of phones have USB-C ports and offer even better IP68/69 protection against rain and debris. That means you’ll need to have the lock’s proprietary cable on you should you ignore the low-battery warnings and let it die. It can be quickly recovered, however: I saw a completely dead (and locked) Chain Lock spring back to life after just two or three minutes of charging off the USB-C port of an iPhone.

You can still unlock the TMD Chain Lock should your phone die. You just have to tap in your four digit “emergency code” on the lock’s button. Choosing a code like 1324 would require 1 push, then 3 pushes, then 2, and 4. The ring around the button changes colors to visually prompt you for each new number. The TMD app also lets you share the lock with friends and family, who can also come to your rescue with their own phones.

1/6

100cm is my preferred length.

For added peace of mind, it’s always a good idea to double-lock your bike, so most urban cyclists combine a chain lock with a ring lock that’s permanently mounted to the frame and prevents the rear wheel from spinning. TMD has already announced an “anti angle grinder” U-Lock and GPS-equipped Ring Lock coming later this year. Having my phone unlock both of my bike’s locks simultaneously would really up the convenience factor and better justify TMD’s pricing.

Right now, paying €249 when equivalent analog bike locks costs a quarter of that would be foolish for most people. The ART-2 certified ABUS 8900, for example, in the same flexible 110cm length, costs around €60 (about $68). If you can afford the TMD Chain Lock and really hate keys, or need a keyless lock that can be shared digitally with others, then have at it. Otherwise, it won’t justify its exorbitant price.

  • Security rating: ART-2 certified
  • Operation: Keyless Bluetooth
  • Deterrence: Motion activated 100dB alarm
  • TMD Locks App: Manages sharing, location tracking and more (iOS and Android compatible)
  • Sizes: 70cm (1.3kg), 110cm (1.7kg) and 160cm (2.1kg)
  • Colorways: Navy, Beige and Black
  • Power: 9 month battery life. Charge to 100% in 2 Hours
  • Durability: IP57 water and dust resistant
  • Warranty: 2 years
  • Pricing: from €229

All photography by Thomas Ricker / The Verge

Follow topics and authors from this story to see more like this in your personalized homepage feed and to receive email updates.
#TMDs #keyless #bike #lock #solution #problemElectric Bikes,Reviews,Rideables,Tech,Transportation"> TMD’s keyless bike lock is a 0 solution to a  problemI’ve seen lots of so-called “smart” bike locks over the years, but none so far could justify the added cost. A newcomer that got its start securing ATMs for banks is trying to change that. There’s nothing wholly unique about the TMD Chain Lock, but the combination of materials, performance, and insurance-friendly ART-2 certification makes it worth considering.TMD’s first bicycle lock combines a Bluetooth proximity sensor and motion alarm with a slender core of hardened steel chain wrapped in a soft and lightweight sleeve of high performance Dyneema and Kevlar fibers. That makes this lock tough, yet flexible enough to conveniently wrap around your seat post when cycling. TMD also designed the keyless lock to be shareable with friends and family, and capable of withstanding shock, rain, dust, and extreme temperatures. That makes it highly suited to city bikes parked outside and ridden all year long.I like the TMD Chain Lock I’ve been testing, but spending €249 (about 3) on something that typically costs far less is a big ask.0The GoodStrong yet flexible lock won’t scratch bikeDigital key can be shared with friends and familyConvenient if you lock your bike several times a dayART-2 certified for insuranceLoud enough alarmThe BadVery expensiveLacks USB-C chargingAnnoying operating soundsThe chasm separating ATM security from bike security isn’t as wide as it might seem. TMD developed a centralized, keyless system for banks to authorize access to its ATMs for service, replacing the physical master keys that created a massive security risk whenever they were lost or stolen. It’s this same keyless knowhow that TMD now brings to the Bluetooth bike lock.There are many advantages to turning phones into digital keys, especially in bike-centric societies like the Netherlands, which TMD calls home. For example, I could ride to the train station and have an authorized friend pick the bike up later. And the keyless convenience quickly adds up for those of us that use our bikes to commute to work, pick up the kids from daycare and football, run errands, and shop for groceries. In my home city of Amsterdam, it’s not unusual to grab my keys more than a dozen times a day to lock and unlock my bike.I tested the TMD Bike Lock in the 110cm (about 3.5 feet) length with an iPhone 15 Pro running the latest version of iOS. Generally — I’d say 19 out of every 20 attempts — the TMD Chain Lock immediately recognized my approach, allowing me to seamlessly unlock it with a push on the lock’s only button. When I did have to wait, it took no more than a second for the button to flash blue, indicating the lock had detected my nearby phone in a pocket or bag. Pretty good, but that convenience comes with some tradeoffs.The bike sat unlocked across the street since it was still within Bluetooth range of my phone at this cafe.My bike, parked outside this window, would automatically unlock whenever I cooked.Charging the lock off my laptop. It’ll also charge off a phone’s USB-C port.Don’t lose this proprietary charging cable!For example, my bike remained within range of my phone when parked outside a cafe, so anyone could have walked up and unlocked it. I had the same issue when cooking in my kitchen with the bike parked just outside the window, as I normally do. In both cases, I either had to move the bike or turn off my phone’s Bluetooth radio. And since my phone is now my bike key, if it’s stolen, my much more expensive e-bike is vulnerable as well.TMD says its Chain Lock is “immune to conventional drilling and picking,” but all bike locks can be defeated by a determined thief. The Chain Lock has earned an ART-2 certification issued by an independent Dutch organization that tests and certifies bike locks on a scale from one to five. Most Dutch insurance companies require ART-2 at a minimum to validate policies on expensive e-bikes and cargo bikes. It’s akin to something like a Sold Secure Silver or Gold rating in the UK, a 2 Roues in France, and VdS approval in Germany. (The US and Canada do not have a single, centralized, independent testing body that dictates insurance requirements for bicycles.) Should your bike be stolen, you can produce a digital log file for the insurance company from within the TMD app as official proof that your bike was locked.To deter theft, the lock also features an integrated motion alarm that can be armed and disarmed in the app or with a double press of the lock’s button. At 100dB it’s less shrill than I expected, but it does the job when it senses the lock being jostled. It shuts off automatically after about 10 seconds of inactivity.TMD tells me that a future software update will let you disable these sounds.The lock is rather noisy in day-to-day usage. Unlocking it is accompanied by a loud tone that hits 75dB when measured at a distance of one meter. I hate that it draws attention to me and my expensive e-bike. Just flash green and unlock — that’s more than enough. TMD tells me that a future software update will let you disable these sounds.TMD claims the lock’s battery will last up to nine months on a single charge. However, my test unit has already dropped 16 percent after a week of testing, suggesting a lifespan closer to six or seven weeks. But that’s likely because I store my bikes inside my house when not in use, so the lock’s Bluetooth radio is constantly being lit up by my phone’s proximity.To prevent water and dust ingress and leave more room for the battery and speaker, TMD says it opted for a shallow magnetic pin connector – not USB-C – to charge the Chain Lock. That’s a shame because plenty of phones have USB-C ports and offer even better IP68/69 protection against rain and debris. That means you’ll need to have the lock’s proprietary cable on you should you ignore the low-battery warnings and let it die. It can be quickly recovered, however: I saw a completely dead (and locked) Chain Lock spring back to life after just two or three minutes of charging off the USB-C port of an iPhone.You can still unlock the TMD Chain Lock should your phone die. You just have to tap in your four digit “emergency code” on the lock’s button. Choosing a code like 1324 would require 1 push, then 3 pushes, then 2, and 4. The ring around the button changes colors to visually prompt you for each new number. The TMD app also lets you share the lock with friends and family, who can also come to your rescue with their own phones.1/6100cm is my preferred length.For added peace of mind, it’s always a good idea to double-lock your bike, so most urban cyclists combine a chain lock with a ring lock that’s permanently mounted to the frame and prevents the rear wheel from spinning. TMD has already announced an “anti angle grinder” U-Lock and GPS-equipped Ring Lock coming later this year. Having my phone unlock both of my bike’s locks simultaneously would really up the convenience factor and better justify TMD’s pricing.Right now, paying €249 when equivalent analog bike locks costs a quarter of that would be foolish for most people. The ART-2 certified ABUS 8900, for example, in the same flexible 110cm length, costs around €60 (about ). If you can afford the TMD Chain Lock and really hate keys, or need a keyless lock that can be shared digitally with others, then have at it. Otherwise, it won’t justify its exorbitant price.Security rating: ART-2 certifiedOperation: Keyless BluetoothDeterrence: Motion activated 100dB alarmTMD Locks App: Manages sharing, location tracking and more (iOS and Android compatible)Sizes: 70cm (1.3kg), 110cm (1.7kg) and 160cm (2.1kg)Colorways: Navy, Beige and BlackPower: 9 month battery life. Charge to 100% in 2 HoursDurability: IP57 water and dust resistantWarranty: 2 yearsPricing: from €229All photography by Thomas Ricker / The VergeFollow topics and authors from this story to see more like this in your personalized homepage feed and to receive email updates.Thomas RickerCloseThomas RickerPosts from this author will be added to your daily email digest and your homepage feed.FollowFollowSee All by Thomas RickerElectric BikesCloseElectric BikesPosts from this topic will be added to your daily email digest and your homepage feed.FollowFollowSee All Electric BikesReviewsCloseReviewsPosts from this topic will be added to your daily email digest and your homepage feed.FollowFollowSee All ReviewsRideablesCloseRideablesPosts from this topic will be added to your daily email digest and your homepage feed.FollowFollowSee All RideablesTechCloseTechPosts from this topic will be added to your daily email digest and your homepage feed.FollowFollowSee All TechTransportationCloseTransportationPosts from this topic will be added to your daily email digest and your homepage feed.FollowFollowSee All Transportation#TMDs #keyless #bike #lock #solution #problemElectric Bikes,Reviews,Rideables,Tech,Transportation
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TMD Chain Lock, but the combination of materials, performance, and insurance-friendly ART-2 certification makes it worth considering.

TMD’s first bicycle lock combines a Bluetooth proximity sensor and motion alarm with a slender core of hardened steel chain wrapped in a soft and lightweight sleeve of high performance Dyneema and Kevlar fibers. That makes this lock tough, yet flexible enough to conveniently wrap around your seat post when cycling. TMD also designed the keyless lock to be shareable with friends and family, and capable of withstanding shock, rain, dust, and extreme temperatures. That makes it highly suited to city bikes parked outside and ridden all year long.

I like the TMD Chain Lock I’ve been testing, but spending €249 (about $283) on something that typically costs far less is a big ask.

$280

The Good

  • Strong yet flexible lock won’t scratch bike
  • Digital key can be shared with friends and family
  • Convenient if you lock your bike several times a day
  • ART-2 certified for insurance
  • Loud enough alarm

The Bad

  • Very expensive
  • Lacks USB-C charging
  • Annoying operating sounds

The chasm separating ATM security from bike security isn’t as wide as it might seem. TMD developed a centralized, keyless system for banks to authorize access to its ATMs for service, replacing the physical master keys that created a massive security risk whenever they were lost or stolen. It’s this same keyless knowhow that TMD now brings to the Bluetooth bike lock.

There are many advantages to turning phones into digital keys, especially in bike-centric societies like the Netherlands, which TMD calls home. For example, I could ride to the train station and have an authorized friend pick the bike up later. And the keyless convenience quickly adds up for those of us that use our bikes to commute to work, pick up the kids from daycare and football, run errands, and shop for groceries. In my home city of Amsterdam, it’s not unusual to grab my keys more than a dozen times a day to lock and unlock my bike.

I tested the TMD Bike Lock in the 110cm (about 3.5 feet) length with an iPhone 15 Pro running the latest version of iOS. Generally — I’d say 19 out of every 20 attempts — the TMD Chain Lock immediately recognized my approach, allowing me to seamlessly unlock it with a push on the lock’s only button. When I did have to wait, it took no more than a second for the button to flash blue, indicating the lock had detected my nearby phone in a pocket or bag. Pretty good, but that convenience comes with some tradeoffs.

The bike sat unlocked across the street since it was still within Bluetooth range of my phone at this cafe.

My bike, parked outside this window, would automatically unlock whenever I cooked.

Charging the lock off my laptop. It’ll also charge off a phone’s USB-C port.

Don’t lose this proprietary charging cable!

For example, my bike remained within range of my phone when parked outside a cafe, so anyone could have walked up and unlocked it. I had the same issue when cooking in my kitchen with the bike parked just outside the window, as I normally do. In both cases, I either had to move the bike or turn off my phone’s Bluetooth radio. And since my phone is now my bike key, if it’s stolen, my much more expensive e-bike is vulnerable as well.

TMD says its Chain Lock is “immune to conventional drilling and picking,” but all bike locks can be defeated by a determined thief. The Chain Lock has earned an ART-2 certification issued by an independent Dutch organization that tests and certifies bike locks on a scale from one to five. Most Dutch insurance companies require ART-2 at a minimum to validate policies on expensive e-bikes and cargo bikes. It’s akin to something like a Sold Secure Silver or Gold rating in the UK, a 2 Roues in France, and VdS approval in Germany. (The US and Canada do not have a single, centralized, independent testing body that dictates insurance requirements for bicycles.) Should your bike be stolen, you can produce a digital log file for the insurance company from within the TMD app as official proof that your bike was locked.

To deter theft, the lock also features an integrated motion alarm that can be armed and disarmed in the app or with a double press of the lock’s button. At 100dB it’s less shrill than I expected, but it does the job when it senses the lock being jostled. It shuts off automatically after about 10 seconds of inactivity.

TMD tells me that a future software update will let you disable these sounds.

The lock is rather noisy in day-to-day usage. Unlocking it is accompanied by a loud tone that hits 75dB when measured at a distance of one meter. I hate that it draws attention to me and my expensive e-bike. Just flash green and unlock — that’s more than enough. TMD tells me that a future software update will let you disable these sounds.

TMD claims the lock’s battery will last up to nine months on a single charge. However, my test unit has already dropped 16 percent after a week of testing, suggesting a lifespan closer to six or seven weeks. But that’s likely because I store my bikes inside my house when not in use, so the lock’s Bluetooth radio is constantly being lit up by my phone’s proximity.

To prevent water and dust ingress and leave more room for the battery and speaker, TMD says it opted for a shallow magnetic pin connector – not USB-C – to charge the Chain Lock. That’s a shame because plenty of phones have USB-C ports and offer even better IP68/69 protection against rain and debris. That means you’ll need to have the lock’s proprietary cable on you should you ignore the low-battery warnings and let it die. It can be quickly recovered, however: I saw a completely dead (and locked) Chain Lock spring back to life after just two or three minutes of charging off the USB-C port of an iPhone.

You can still unlock the TMD Chain Lock should your phone die. You just have to tap in your four digit “emergency code” on the lock’s button. Choosing a code like 1324 would require 1 push, then 3 pushes, then 2, and 4. The ring around the button changes colors to visually prompt you for each new number. The TMD app also lets you share the lock with friends and family, who can also come to your rescue with their own phones.

1/6

100cm is my preferred length.

For added peace of mind, it’s always a good idea to double-lock your bike, so most urban cyclists combine a chain lock with a ring lock that’s permanently mounted to the frame and prevents the rear wheel from spinning. TMD has already announced an “anti angle grinder” U-Lock and GPS-equipped Ring Lock coming later this year. Having my phone unlock both of my bike’s locks simultaneously would really up the convenience factor and better justify TMD’s pricing.

Right now, paying €249 when equivalent analog bike locks costs a quarter of that would be foolish for most people. The ART-2 certified ABUS 8900, for example, in the same flexible 110cm length, costs around €60 (about $68). If you can afford the TMD Chain Lock and really hate keys, or need a keyless lock that can be shared digitally with others, then have at it. Otherwise, it won’t justify its exorbitant price.

  • Security rating: ART-2 certified
  • Operation: Keyless Bluetooth
  • Deterrence: Motion activated 100dB alarm
  • TMD Locks App: Manages sharing, location tracking and more (iOS and Android compatible)
  • Sizes: 70cm (1.3kg), 110cm (1.7kg) and 160cm (2.1kg)
  • Colorways: Navy, Beige and Black
  • Power: 9 month battery life. Charge to 100% in 2 Hours
  • Durability: IP57 water and dust resistant
  • Warranty: 2 years
  • Pricing: from €229

All photography by Thomas Ricker / The Verge

Follow topics and authors from this story to see more like this in your personalized homepage feed and to receive email updates.

#TMDs #keyless #bike #lock #solution #problemElectric Bikes,Reviews,Rideables,Tech,Transportation">TMD’s keyless bike lock is a $280 solution to a $60 problem

I’ve seen lots of so-called “smart” bike locks over the years, but none so far could justify the added cost. A newcomer that got its start securing ATMs for banks is trying to change that. There’s nothing wholly unique about the TMD Chain Lock, but the combination of materials, performance, and insurance-friendly ART-2 certification makes it worth considering.

TMD’s first bicycle lock combines a Bluetooth proximity sensor and motion alarm with a slender core of hardened steel chain wrapped in a soft and lightweight sleeve of high performance Dyneema and Kevlar fibers. That makes this lock tough, yet flexible enough to conveniently wrap around your seat post when cycling. TMD also designed the keyless lock to be shareable with friends and family, and capable of withstanding shock, rain, dust, and extreme temperatures. That makes it highly suited to city bikes parked outside and ridden all year long.

I like the TMD Chain Lock I’ve been testing, but spending €249 (about $283) on something that typically costs far less is a big ask.

$280

The Good

  • Strong yet flexible lock won’t scratch bike
  • Digital key can be shared with friends and family
  • Convenient if you lock your bike several times a day
  • ART-2 certified for insurance
  • Loud enough alarm

The Bad

  • Very expensive
  • Lacks USB-C charging
  • Annoying operating sounds

The chasm separating ATM security from bike security isn’t as wide as it might seem. TMD developed a centralized, keyless system for banks to authorize access to its ATMs for service, replacing the physical master keys that created a massive security risk whenever they were lost or stolen. It’s this same keyless knowhow that TMD now brings to the Bluetooth bike lock.

There are many advantages to turning phones into digital keys, especially in bike-centric societies like the Netherlands, which TMD calls home. For example, I could ride to the train station and have an authorized friend pick the bike up later. And the keyless convenience quickly adds up for those of us that use our bikes to commute to work, pick up the kids from daycare and football, run errands, and shop for groceries. In my home city of Amsterdam, it’s not unusual to grab my keys more than a dozen times a day to lock and unlock my bike.

I tested the TMD Bike Lock in the 110cm (about 3.5 feet) length with an iPhone 15 Pro running the latest version of iOS. Generally — I’d say 19 out of every 20 attempts — the TMD Chain Lock immediately recognized my approach, allowing me to seamlessly unlock it with a push on the lock’s only button. When I did have to wait, it took no more than a second for the button to flash blue, indicating the lock had detected my nearby phone in a pocket or bag. Pretty good, but that convenience comes with some tradeoffs.

The bike sat unlocked across the street since it was still within Bluetooth range of my phone at this cafe.

My bike, parked outside this window, would automatically unlock whenever I cooked.

Charging the lock off my laptop. It’ll also charge off a phone’s USB-C port.

Don’t lose this proprietary charging cable!

For example, my bike remained within range of my phone when parked outside a cafe, so anyone could have walked up and unlocked it. I had the same issue when cooking in my kitchen with the bike parked just outside the window, as I normally do. In both cases, I either had to move the bike or turn off my phone’s Bluetooth radio. And since my phone is now my bike key, if it’s stolen, my much more expensive e-bike is vulnerable as well.

TMD says its Chain Lock is “immune to conventional drilling and picking,” but all bike locks can be defeated by a determined thief. The Chain Lock has earned an ART-2 certification issued by an independent Dutch organization that tests and certifies bike locks on a scale from one to five. Most Dutch insurance companies require ART-2 at a minimum to validate policies on expensive e-bikes and cargo bikes. It’s akin to something like a Sold Secure Silver or Gold rating in the UK, a 2 Roues in France, and VdS approval in Germany. (The US and Canada do not have a single, centralized, independent testing body that dictates insurance requirements for bicycles.) Should your bike be stolen, you can produce a digital log file for the insurance company from within the TMD app as official proof that your bike was locked.

To deter theft, the lock also features an integrated motion alarm that can be armed and disarmed in the app or with a double press of the lock’s button. At 100dB it’s less shrill than I expected, but it does the job when it senses the lock being jostled. It shuts off automatically after about 10 seconds of inactivity.

TMD tells me that a future software update will let you disable these sounds.

The lock is rather noisy in day-to-day usage. Unlocking it is accompanied by a loud tone that hits 75dB when measured at a distance of one meter. I hate that it draws attention to me and my expensive e-bike. Just flash green and unlock — that’s more than enough. TMD tells me that a future software update will let you disable these sounds.

TMD claims the lock’s battery will last up to nine months on a single charge. However, my test unit has already dropped 16 percent after a week of testing, suggesting a lifespan closer to six or seven weeks. But that’s likely because I store my bikes inside my house when not in use, so the lock’s Bluetooth radio is constantly being lit up by my phone’s proximity.

To prevent water and dust ingress and leave more room for the battery and speaker, TMD says it opted for a shallow magnetic pin connector – not USB-C – to charge the Chain Lock. That’s a shame because plenty of phones have USB-C ports and offer even better IP68/69 protection against rain and debris. That means you’ll need to have the lock’s proprietary cable on you should you ignore the low-battery warnings and let it die. It can be quickly recovered, however: I saw a completely dead (and locked) Chain Lock spring back to life after just two or three minutes of charging off the USB-C port of an iPhone.

You can still unlock the TMD Chain Lock should your phone die. You just have to tap in your four digit “emergency code” on the lock’s button. Choosing a code like 1324 would require 1 push, then 3 pushes, then 2, and 4. The ring around the button changes colors to visually prompt you for each new number. The TMD app also lets you share the lock with friends and family, who can also come to your rescue with their own phones.

1/6

100cm is my preferred length.

For added peace of mind, it’s always a good idea to double-lock your bike, so most urban cyclists combine a chain lock with a ring lock that’s permanently mounted to the frame and prevents the rear wheel from spinning. TMD has already announced an “anti angle grinder” U-Lock and GPS-equipped Ring Lock coming later this year. Having my phone unlock both of my bike’s locks simultaneously would really up the convenience factor and better justify TMD’s pricing.

Right now, paying €249 when equivalent analog bike locks costs a quarter of that would be foolish for most people. The ART-2 certified ABUS 8900, for example, in the same flexible 110cm length, costs around €60 (about $68). If you can afford the TMD Chain Lock and really hate keys, or need a keyless lock that can be shared digitally with others, then have at it. Otherwise, it won’t justify its exorbitant price.

  • Security rating: ART-2 certified
  • Operation: Keyless Bluetooth
  • Deterrence: Motion activated 100dB alarm
  • TMD Locks App: Manages sharing, location tracking and more (iOS and Android compatible)
  • Sizes: 70cm (1.3kg), 110cm (1.7kg) and 160cm (2.1kg)
  • Colorways: Navy, Beige and Black
  • Power: 9 month battery life. Charge to 100% in 2 Hours
  • Durability: IP57 water and dust resistant
  • Warranty: 2 years
  • Pricing: from €229

All photography by Thomas Ricker / The Verge

Follow topics and authors from this story to see more like this in your personalized homepage feed and to receive email updates.
#TMDs #keyless #bike #lock #solution #problemElectric Bikes,Reviews,Rideables,Tech,Transportation

I’ve seen lots of so-called “smart” bike locks over the years, but none so far…

bikepacking adventures and dropping the kid at daycare on your cycle to work.

The all-terrain TL series is built around Amflow’s incredibly compact yet powerful Avinox M2 mid-drive motor. The Amflow TL Carbon offers 125Nm of hill-flattening torque and up to 1100W of peak output. It supports up to 1280Wh of battery capacity when its 800Wh removable battery is paired with a 480Wh extender. You can even opt for a hub that charges up to four batteries sequentially.

This sport-tourer comes standard with mudguards, integrated lights, and a rear rack supporting up to 27kg, with the option to add a front rack to haul another 20kg. The rear is MIK HD-compatible allowing you to quickly attach everything from a child seat to panniers or a bike trailer for the family dog, while the front fork, rear suspension, and wide knobby tires help soak up trail ruts and potholes. The Amflow TL’s total weight capacity goes up to 200kg (440lbs) from a bike that can be configured to weigh as little as 22.6kg (50lbs) — that’s very light for a full-suspension utility bike.

The Amflow TL also features electronic shifting that detects gear-shift signals to smoothly shift the cassette without the rider needing to pedal. It also works on steep hills by reducing torque during a gear shift to minimize shock and protect the chain.

Rounding out a long, long list of features is Apple Find My integration to help locate a stolen bike, heart rate sensor integration that delivers the appropriate pedal assist to keep the rider in their target heart rate zone, and integration with DJI’s Osmo cameras so you can control recordings directly from the e-bike’s display.

None of this will come cheap: in Europe, it’ll be priced at €3,499, or £3199 in the UK. US pricing is still TBD, as are all shipping dates for the new Amflow TL series that will be “available globally later this year.”

#Amflows #ebike #ready #babys #mountain #adventureElectric Bikes,News,Rideables,Transportation"> Amflow’s TL e-bike is ready for baby’s first mountain adventureAmflow, the e-bike brand spun out of DJI, just announced its TL series, a do-it-all “eSUV” suitable for both bikepacking adventures and dropping the kid at daycare on your cycle to work.The all-terrain TL series is built around Amflow’s incredibly compact yet powerful Avinox M2 mid-drive motor. The Amflow TL Carbon offers 125Nm of hill-flattening torque and up to 1100W of peak output. It supports up to 1280Wh of battery capacity when its 800Wh removable battery is paired with a 480Wh extender. You can even opt for a hub that charges up to four batteries sequentially.This sport-tourer comes standard with mudguards, integrated lights, and a rear rack supporting up to 27kg, with the option to add a front rack to haul another 20kg. The rear is MIK HD-compatible allowing you to quickly attach everything from a child seat to panniers or a bike trailer for the family dog, while the front fork, rear suspension, and wide knobby tires help soak up trail ruts and potholes. The Amflow TL’s total weight capacity goes up to 200kg (440lbs) from a bike that can be configured to weigh as little as 22.6kg (50lbs) — that’s very light for a full-suspension utility bike.The Amflow TL also features electronic shifting that detects gear-shift signals to smoothly shift the cassette without the rider needing to pedal. It also works on steep hills by reducing torque during a gear shift to minimize shock and protect the chain.Rounding out a long, long list of features is Apple Find My integration to help locate a stolen bike, heart rate sensor integration that delivers the appropriate pedal assist to keep the rider in their target heart rate zone, and integration with DJI’s Osmo cameras so you can control recordings directly from the e-bike’s display.None of this will come cheap: in Europe, it’ll be priced at €3,499, or £3199 in the UK. US pricing is still TBD, as are all shipping dates for the new Amflow TL series that will be “available globally later this year.”#Amflows #ebike #ready #babys #mountain #adventureElectric Bikes,News,Rideables,Transportation
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bikepacking adventures and dropping the kid at daycare on your cycle to work.

The all-terrain TL series is built around Amflow’s incredibly compact yet powerful Avinox M2 mid-drive motor. The Amflow TL Carbon offers 125Nm of hill-flattening torque and up to 1100W of peak output. It supports up to 1280Wh of battery capacity when its 800Wh removable battery is paired with a 480Wh extender. You can even opt for a hub that charges up to four batteries sequentially.

This sport-tourer comes standard with mudguards, integrated lights, and a rear rack supporting up to 27kg, with the option to add a front rack to haul another 20kg. The rear is MIK HD-compatible allowing you to quickly attach everything from a child seat to panniers or a bike trailer for the family dog, while the front fork, rear suspension, and wide knobby tires help soak up trail ruts and potholes. The Amflow TL’s total weight capacity goes up to 200kg (440lbs) from a bike that can be configured to weigh as little as 22.6kg (50lbs) — that’s very light for a full-suspension utility bike.

The Amflow TL also features electronic shifting that detects gear-shift signals to smoothly shift the cassette without the rider needing to pedal. It also works on steep hills by reducing torque during a gear shift to minimize shock and protect the chain.

Rounding out a long, long list of features is Apple Find My integration to help locate a stolen bike, heart rate sensor integration that delivers the appropriate pedal assist to keep the rider in their target heart rate zone, and integration with DJI’s Osmo cameras so you can control recordings directly from the e-bike’s display.

None of this will come cheap: in Europe, it’ll be priced at €3,499, or £3199 in the UK. US pricing is still TBD, as are all shipping dates for the new Amflow TL series that will be “available globally later this year.”

#Amflows #ebike #ready #babys #mountain #adventureElectric Bikes,News,Rideables,Transportation">Amflow’s TL e-bike is ready for baby’s first mountain adventure

Amflow, the e-bike brand spun out of DJI, just announced its TL series, a do-it-all “eSUV” suitable for both bikepacking adventures and dropping the kid at daycare on your cycle to work.

The all-terrain TL series is built around Amflow’s incredibly compact yet powerful Avinox M2 mid-drive motor. The Amflow TL Carbon offers 125Nm of hill-flattening torque and up to 1100W of peak output. It supports up to 1280Wh of battery capacity when its 800Wh removable battery is paired with a 480Wh extender. You can even opt for a hub that charges up to four batteries sequentially.

This sport-tourer comes standard with mudguards, integrated lights, and a rear rack supporting up to 27kg, with the option to add a front rack to haul another 20kg. The rear is MIK HD-compatible allowing you to quickly attach everything from a child seat to panniers or a bike trailer for the family dog, while the front fork, rear suspension, and wide knobby tires help soak up trail ruts and potholes. The Amflow TL’s total weight capacity goes up to 200kg (440lbs) from a bike that can be configured to weigh as little as 22.6kg (50lbs) — that’s very light for a full-suspension utility bike.

The Amflow TL also features electronic shifting that detects gear-shift signals to smoothly shift the cassette without the rider needing to pedal. It also works on steep hills by reducing torque during a gear shift to minimize shock and protect the chain.

Rounding out a long, long list of features is Apple Find My integration to help locate a stolen bike, heart rate sensor integration that delivers the appropriate pedal assist to keep the rider in their target heart rate zone, and integration with DJI’s Osmo cameras so you can control recordings directly from the e-bike’s display.

None of this will come cheap: in Europe, it’ll be priced at €3,499, or £3199 in the UK. US pricing is still TBD, as are all shipping dates for the new Amflow TL series that will be “available globally later this year.”

#Amflows #ebike #ready #babys #mountain #adventureElectric Bikes,News,Rideables,Transportation

Amflow, the e-bike brand spun out of DJI, just announced its TL series, a do-it-all…

, but my favorite is the dual battery system. This $850 system isn’t cheap, but it adds another battery to the frame, which ups the range by another 40 miles. If you’re not taking this bike on long rides, it may not be worth the expense, but I appreciated the chance to maximize its range.

The rest of the accessory line focuses on storage. These include a cool in-frame rack, front and rear racks and boxes, and, for the beach bums, a very cool surfboard rack that mounts your board on the side of the bike.

Rough Ride

Image may contain Machine Wheel Spoke Computer Hardware Electronics Hardware Monitor Screen and Escooter

Photograph: Billy Brown

The H/T comes with five levels of pedal assist, but I mostly used the throttle, partly because I’m lazy and partly because the pedal-assist response could be wildly inconsistent. For levels 1 through 3, the pedal assist was smooth; it just felt like a little boost to my pedaling. On levels 4 and 5, however, the bike seemed to jerk forward every time I pressed down on the pedal. It felt more like my bike was leaping forward rather than assisting, to the point that I almost wobbled off the bike the first time I tried level 5. If you’re a chronic pedaler who’s looking for a more traditional cycling experience, this may not be the bike for you.

#Finally #Ebike #Doesnt #Dorkyreviews,review,outdoors,bicycles,shopping,electric bikes,commuter bikes"> I Finally Found an Ebike That Doesn’t Look DorkyThe handling at that top speed was excellent. Thanks to the comfortable upright position and frame geometry, cruising along at 28 miles per hour felt smooth and comfortable. Turning at speed and quickly adjusting to avoid a pothole was also easy and smooth, even when I was gunning the throttle. The thrill of riding fast on the H/T comes from the exhilaration of speed, not the fear of losing control.I appreciate that there’s no app to go along with the H/T. It makes hopping on the bike and going for a ride feel much more natural than it does with the app-controlled bikes I’ve tested. The handlebar-mounted screen is also very intuitive and easy to use, and it has a personal passcode for added security. There’s also a USB-C charging port if you decide to get a handlebar mount for your phone. The bike has a front daytime running light that automatically brightens when the sun goes down, two front and rear turn signal lights, and a brake light. The front and rear hydraulic disc brakes are responsive and have excellent stopping power.Add OnsIt’s easy to customize the bike and add utility. Pedal offers a range of accessories, but my favorite is the dual battery system. This 0 system isn’t cheap, but it adds another battery to the frame, which ups the range by another 40 miles. If you’re not taking this bike on long rides, it may not be worth the expense, but I appreciated the chance to maximize its range.The rest of the accessory line focuses on storage. These include a cool in-frame rack, front and rear racks and boxes, and, for the beach bums, a very cool surfboard rack that mounts your board on the side of the bike.Rough RidePhotograph: Billy BrownThe H/T comes with five levels of pedal assist, but I mostly used the throttle, partly because I’m lazy and partly because the pedal-assist response could be wildly inconsistent. For levels 1 through 3, the pedal assist was smooth; it just felt like a little boost to my pedaling. On levels 4 and 5, however, the bike seemed to jerk forward every time I pressed down on the pedal. It felt more like my bike was leaping forward rather than assisting, to the point that I almost wobbled off the bike the first time I tried level 5. If you’re a chronic pedaler who’s looking for a more traditional cycling experience, this may not be the bike for you.#Finally #Ebike #Doesnt #Dorkyreviews,review,outdoors,bicycles,shopping,electric bikes,commuter bikes
Tech-news

, but my favorite is the dual battery system. This $850 system isn’t cheap, but it adds another battery to the frame, which ups the range by another 40 miles. If you’re not taking this bike on long rides, it may not be worth the expense, but I appreciated the chance to maximize its range.

The rest of the accessory line focuses on storage. These include a cool in-frame rack, front and rear racks and boxes, and, for the beach bums, a very cool surfboard rack that mounts your board on the side of the bike.

Rough Ride

Image may contain Machine Wheel Spoke Computer Hardware Electronics Hardware Monitor Screen and Escooter

Photograph: Billy Brown

The H/T comes with five levels of pedal assist, but I mostly used the throttle, partly because I’m lazy and partly because the pedal-assist response could be wildly inconsistent. For levels 1 through 3, the pedal assist was smooth; it just felt like a little boost to my pedaling. On levels 4 and 5, however, the bike seemed to jerk forward every time I pressed down on the pedal. It felt more like my bike was leaping forward rather than assisting, to the point that I almost wobbled off the bike the first time I tried level 5. If you’re a chronic pedaler who’s looking for a more traditional cycling experience, this may not be the bike for you.

#Finally #Ebike #Doesnt #Dorkyreviews,review,outdoors,bicycles,shopping,electric bikes,commuter bikes">I Finally Found an Ebike That Doesn’t Look Dorky

The handling at that top speed was excellent. Thanks to the comfortable upright position and frame geometry, cruising along at 28 miles per hour felt smooth and comfortable. Turning at speed and quickly adjusting to avoid a pothole was also easy and smooth, even when I was gunning the throttle. The thrill of riding fast on the H/T comes from the exhilaration of speed, not the fear of losing control.

I appreciate that there’s no app to go along with the H/T. It makes hopping on the bike and going for a ride feel much more natural than it does with the app-controlled bikes I’ve tested. The handlebar-mounted screen is also very intuitive and easy to use, and it has a personal passcode for added security. There’s also a USB-C charging port if you decide to get a handlebar mount for your phone. The bike has a front daytime running light that automatically brightens when the sun goes down, two front and rear turn signal lights, and a brake light. The front and rear hydraulic disc brakes are responsive and have excellent stopping power.

Add Ons

It’s easy to customize the bike and add utility. Pedal offers a range of accessories, but my favorite is the dual battery system. This $850 system isn’t cheap, but it adds another battery to the frame, which ups the range by another 40 miles. If you’re not taking this bike on long rides, it may not be worth the expense, but I appreciated the chance to maximize its range.

The rest of the accessory line focuses on storage. These include a cool in-frame rack, front and rear racks and boxes, and, for the beach bums, a very cool surfboard rack that mounts your board on the side of the bike.

Rough Ride

Image may contain Machine Wheel Spoke Computer Hardware Electronics Hardware Monitor Screen and Escooter

Photograph: Billy Brown

The H/T comes with five levels of pedal assist, but I mostly used the throttle, partly because I’m lazy and partly because the pedal-assist response could be wildly inconsistent. For levels 1 through 3, the pedal assist was smooth; it just felt like a little boost to my pedaling. On levels 4 and 5, however, the bike seemed to jerk forward every time I pressed down on the pedal. It felt more like my bike was leaping forward rather than assisting, to the point that I almost wobbled off the bike the first time I tried level 5. If you’re a chronic pedaler who’s looking for a more traditional cycling experience, this may not be the bike for you.

#Finally #Ebike #Doesnt #Dorkyreviews,review,outdoors,bicycles,shopping,electric bikes,commuter bikes

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