With all the crazy technology we enjoy these days, integration is definitely a big trend. While it’s not exactly a high-tech example, the creators of Lemurlock figured it would be convenient to secure both your head and tail lights while locking up your bike at the same time. Losing your lights is bad enough for the replacement costs, let alone the added risks of having to pedal home in the dark without them.
The Lemurlock combines three commuter essentials into one package, but definitely invites some discussion over the pros and cons of providing simplicity this way. Is the Lemurlock suitable for your needs, or are you still thinking a separate lock and lights seem like a better option? Read on for all the details…
As you can see, the Lemurlock is essentially a cable lock with a headlight on one end and a tail light on the other. Its coiled steel cable is 9mm thick and 6’ long, and it’s built into the light housings on each end so they cannot be removed. The necessary wiring runs along the steel cable inside its waterproof housing.
The locking mechanism is a barrel-key style that has a convenient push-button locking feature. The two halves of the lock mechanism slide along the length of the cable so they can be positioned wherever you need them.
The Lemurlock’s headlamp produces 200 lumens using a Cree LED bulb. The aluminum housing is weatherproof to IPX6 standard, and the light clips onto the handlebar mount with a simple quick-release tab. The headlight mount is easily attached to your handlebar with two hex screws.
The tail light puts out over 50 lumens (see updated website info) via two LED’s, and is also IPX6 rated. It easily snaps in and out of its seat post mounting bracket with a quick-release tab. If your seat post is too short to accommodate the mount, Lemurlock provides a silicone band that attaches to your seat rails instead. The tail light projects at a full 180° to ensure you are visible from various angles.
The Lemurlock’s on/off button is located on the tail light. On a full charge the lithium ion battery will provide power for seven hours in steady or 14 hours in blinking mode. Charge time is not given, and there’s no mention of whether you’re plugging into a wall socket or USB for power.
Now there are some issues with this design that shouldn’t be ignored. First of all, a steel cable is not the ultimate in bike security, and Lemurlock’s creators even caution you of that, stating “Proper locking involves the use of both a cable lock and U-lock. Make sure to use both”. Also, if you were wondering about those lights loosely dangling around, well, they will- but there are plans to add a silicone overmold so the housings won’t scratch your bike.
The biggest issue for me is that the Lemurlock has to be coiled around your top tube while you ride, which looks flat-out primitive and leaves the cable and lock mechanism in contact with your frame. They are both coated, but how long can you ride until some wear begins to show? There may be some convenience to fixing your lights and lock together, but there are certainly some drawbacks as well.
Currently supporters can pre-order a Lemurlock for $49 USD. If their Kickstarter campaign is successful, delivery is expected for June 2017.
