ATM Tech Secures Your Bike with Bluetooth

A new smart bike lock, the TMD Chain Lock, leverages technology originally developed for ATM security. It combines a Bluetooth proximity sensor and motion alarm with a durable core of hardened steel, encased in Dyneema and Kevlar fibers. This construction allows the lock to be both robust and flexible enough to wrap around a bike's seat post.

The keyless design, inherited from TMD's ATM access systems, enables users to unlock their bikes using their smartphones. This feature is particularly beneficial in bike-centric regions, allowing for easy sharing with friends or family. The lock is also designed to withstand various environmental conditions, making it suitable for year-round urban use.

While the TMD Chain Lock offers advanced convenience, its €249 (approximately $283) price point is considerably higher than many traditional bike locks. Users must be mindful of the Bluetooth range, as the lock can be vulnerable if a phone remains within unlocking proximity. The lock has achieved ART-2 certification, a standard recognized by most Dutch insurance companies for high-value bicycles.

Security features include an integrated motion alarm and an emergency code that can be entered manually if a phone's battery dies. Charging is done via a proprietary magnetic connector. TMD plans to release additional smart security devices, including a U-Lock and a GPS-equipped Ring Lock, later in 2026.