CHICAGO (BRAIN) — Lock maker Abus Mobile Security, LLC and online bike registration company Project 529 are joining forces in offering a new bike security package.
The 529 Garage platform includes an online bike registration program and a crowd-powered stolen bike recovery feature. The system can broadcast a "Missing Bike Bulletin" to the other users and social networks, complete with bike photos and details that help law enforcement identify and recover the bike. Additionally, the 529 Garage generates a detailed report that can be provided to the police and the victim's insurance company.
Abus' marketing manager, Joan Hanscom, said, "At Abus our goal is to make the best locks in the world. Our locks are engineered and produced in our own factories to incredibly demanding quality standards that we set — standards that meet and exceed many of the most widely recognized testing standards employed globally. But even then — whether it be due to human error or the use of power tools — bikes still get stolen. By partnering with Project 529 we are delivering a more comprehensive security solution to cyclists and we are thrilled to be working with them."
The partnership will launch on the ground in Portland and online nationally this month. This season, a security "bundle" will roll out with select Portland IBDs that will include a an Abus lock and a 529 Garage registration kit. The partnership extends further into cyclist education and new product development efforts.
"This partnership represents the marriage of simplicity and security backed by world-class engineering," said J. Allard, founder of Project 529. "Bike theft is an epidemic, and the solution lies in industry cooperation and community engagement. We're excited to partner with Abus and the IBD community to bring new thinking and new solutions to this difficult problem."
