Video | Bike Mesh

The video introduces "Bike Mesh," a smart, non-removable tracking device designed to protect bicycles from theft.

It highlights the widespread issue of bike theft in Europe, with millions stolen annually and a very low recovery rate.

Traditional locks are now easily bypassed, so Bike Mesh offers a new solution: if a theft attempt occurs, both the owner and thief are immediately alerted, and the device activates tracking and anti-theft responses.

The system also shares information with a network of users, creating a form of "herd immunity" and generating data on safe parking locations, which helps authorities focus their resources.

Beyond security, Bike Mesh includes sensors that track riding metrics and health information, such as elevation, cadence, incline, power, and crash detection. The device is self-powered by the vibrations from cycling, requiring no charging and using green energy. The video concludes by positioning Bike Mesh as a step forward in making bicycles more secure, connected, and intelligent.

What are the main goals?

Watch our video here, and check out the things we are trying to achieve!

1. Significantly Reduce Bicycle Theft

Non-removable Tracking: BikeMesh is a tracking device that is integrated into the bike’s stem, making it extremely difficult to remove without damaging the bicycle. This feature is intended to deter theft and render stolen bikes less attractive to thieves and the second-hand market.

Real-time Location and Recovery: The device uses multiple tracking networks—including the latest Android Device network, Bluetooth, and

mesh networking—to provide real-time location data, increasing the chances of recovering stolen bikes.
Owner Identification: The device supports quick identification by police or users through near-field communication (NFC) and Bluetooth, allowing verification of ownership on the spot.

2. Enhance Cyclist Health and Fitness Tracking

Advanced Metrics: BikeMesh goes beyond standard security by collecting detailed health and fitness data, such as speed, distance, cadence, power, elevation, and crash detection—metrics not typically accessible through phones or fitness watches.
User Engagement: The system encourages regular cycling and gamifies fitness, supporting users in achieving their health goals.

3. Deliver a Self-powered, Low-maintenance Solution

Vibration-powered Charging: The device is powered by harnessing the vibrations generated during cycling, supplemented by a small battery. This approach is designed to keep the device operational for 2–5+ years without the need for regular recharging.
Long-term Reliability: The self-sustaining power model ensures the device remains active over extended periods, minimizing user maintenance and maximizing adoption.

4. Support Smart City Initiatives and Urban Planning

Data Collection for Cities: BikeMesh aggregates anonymized data on bike usage, crime hotspots, road quality (such as pothole detection), and congestion.
Urban Insights: This data can be shared with local authorities to inform infrastructure improvements, urban planning, and targeted crime prevention strategies.

5. Promote Cycling and Environmental Benefits

Encouraging Cycling: By making bikes more secure and providing health incentives, BikeMesh aims to increase cycling adoption, supporting public health and reducing carbon emissions.
Societal Impact: The product aspires to foster healthier, more active communities and contribute to broader sustainability goals.

6. Enable Integration with Tax and Employer Schemes

Automated Mileage Tracking: The device can automate the tracking needed for HMRC’s tax-free mileage allowance for cycling, enabling seamless payroll integration for employees who cycle to work.
Corporate Sustainability: Employers can use the data to monitor and reduce their carbon footprint related to employee commuting.

7. Scale Globally and Expand Product Offerings

Growth Ambition: BikeMesh aims to start in Belfast and expand to other cities, the UK, Ireland, and eventually Europe and beyond.
Product Diversification: Future plans include expanding to other high-value assets like e-scooters and integrating with insurance and retail partners.

8. Ensure Data Security and Privacy

Robust Protection: The product is being developed with a strong emphasis on cybersecurity and data privacy, following best practices and targeting certifications such as ISO 27001.