New bike lock doubles up as an adjustable belt

For years, cyclists have been solving the age-old conundrum of what to do with their cable or chain lock while they’re actually riding their bike by pressing them into service as makeshift belts, or draping them, bandolier-style, across the shoulder. Now, a British company, Plus Eight Industries, has devised the Hiplok, claimed to be the first bicycle lock designed also to be worn specifically as, yes, a belt.

On the outside, the Hiplok, which comes in five different colourways, incorporates the company logo picked out in 3M reflective letters for increased visibility at night. Unlike your standard chain or cable, the belt is also adjustable, and it doesn’t need to be locked into place while worn round the body.

On the inside, there’s an 8mm hardened chain that attracts a Sold Secure Silver rating, and the makers point out that by transferring the weight of the product – 1.8kg, or 4lbs in old money – to your hips, it provides greater stability while riding.

The Hiplok has a minimum circumference of 26 inches and a maximum of 44 inches, and the outer sleeve can be removed and washed. It comes with four keys with 1 million different combinations, and has a maximum locking circumference of 90cm.

The product costs £69.99 plus £5 delivery for the UK, £10 for Europe and £18 for the United States, and can be ordered through the Hiplok website.