The SkunkLock is a motorcycle lock that fights back!
The SkunkLock motorcycle lock releases pressurised gas when cut, spraying the thief with a ‘vomit-inducing chemicals’
MOTORCYCLE security is constantly having to look at ways of staying ahead of ever-more ardent criminals. Be it through high-tech tracking systems, or ear-splitting alarms, the firms behind security devices are having to get more and more creative – and now it seems devious!
That’s pushed the people behind the SkunkLock to create a motorcycle security device that fights back when attacked. It’s a fairly conventional-looking D-lock device, with a slightly thicker than normal removable ‘D’ section.
And it’s this part of the lock that packs the punch. The SkunkLock features a hollow structure within the ‘D’ that is filled with pressurised gas. It’s actually probably easier to cut because of its design, but to the makers, that’s not an issue. They are of the opinion that if any lock can be cut with an angle grinder in around 30-seconds, why not just make the whole experience as unpleasant as possible, hopefully stopping the would-be thief in their tracks in the process.
When a thief tries to grind or break a SkunkLock, a very potent, though non-toxic and legally compliant formula escapes from the lock exposing itself to the thief. Once the compound is airborne, sight may be compromised, breathing becomes difficult, and a lot of time vomiting is induced.
Is the SkunkLock legal?
Some question marks do still hang over the use of the device, especially in the law suit-loving US of A. What if the would-be thief becomes disoriented and stumbles into live traffic, has a reaction to the chemical or long-lasting side effects?
SkunkLock’s makers claim the concoction to be ‘non-toxic and legally compliant’ although anything that could potentially do harm to anyone – bike thief or not (sadly) – is considered an issue in a court of law. Yes, it does carry warning signs on the lock advising not to cut it, but what if the transfers wear off, or the thief can’t read?
Personally we’d thin twice before using it, or at least take some legal advice before we did!
For more information, head to: Skunklock.com
Simon (AKA Toad) has been working within the motorcycle industry for more than twelve years, and a member of the motorcyclist family since birth. Growing up around British-built single and twins, it was inevitable that a life on two wheels was on the cards, from a very early age!
