Platform Lifts Used for Safer Bike Storage
If you are a keen and dedicated cyclist, you probably wish you could ride your bike everywhere. The sense of pure freedom that comes with every journey, the undoubted boost to your fitness levels and helping the environment – these are all great reasons for wanting to ride your bike as much as possible. As most cyclists are aware, though, practicality often gets in the way of these good intentions. When you have reached your destination, just where do you leave your bike? Finding safe and secure storage for cycles can be a decidedly tricky business, particularly in larger cities. However, a Spanish company called ma-SISTEMAS have come up with a unique solution to this eternal problem.
An Innovative Storage System
Now expanding across Europe at a fairly swift rate, Biceberg is an extremely clever and highly innovative bike storage solution. The system’s name is derived from its concept being based on icebergs – large parts of which remain hidden from view underneath the surface. Cyclists insert a user card and personal PIN number into the control pad of a large box-like structure. The cards are fitted with a microchip which stores information about both the user and the location of their chosen parking place. Once the PIN details have been accepted and verified, the structure’s secure door opens to reveal an elevator inside. Cyclists simply place their bike inside the elevator, which then descends to a secure underground parking area where the bike is securely stored. Once the user returns, all they have to do is simply re-enter their card and PIN code. The cycle is then returned to the surface to be reunited with its owner.
The Biceberg system is available in a wide variety of sizes, with the smallest providing space for 23 bicycles and the largest accommodating up to 93. Additionally, space is included in the elevator for cyclists to also store their helmets and a bag if they so wish. Security measures have been included in the system to prevent any unauthorised items being placed inside, such as fuel or any living thing such as an animal. If the system believes there is an unauthorised item within the elevator space, the door will not close until the user has removed it. Forbidden materials are detected via an internal radar system.
Positive User Reaction to Biceberg
Reaction to the system has so far been very positive, with many cyclists thankful that they no longer have to go through the inconvenience of chaining their bikes to railings or even taking one of the wheels off to carry around with them. Biceberg is certainly one of the most secure ways of storing a bicycle in a busy city centre.
