Smart Security for Bicycles at the Stadium – I LOCK IT x Union Berlin
Business on Wheels (BoW) and I LOCK IT have been collaborating for many years on joint bike-sharing projects. With the "Iron Donkey", this collaboration is now visible in the surroundings of the football club Union Berlin.
The "Iron Donkey" is a flexible bike-sharing concept for urban areas and use around the stadium. Different usage scenarios – from everyday life to stadium visits – are made possible by versatile accessories and shared use.
At its core is a mobility concept centered around the bicycle – complemented by a smart frame lock specifically designed to meet the needs of fans in the stadium environment.
The Challenge: Lock Up Quickly, Get to the Stadium Fast
Every minute counts before kick-off. Searching for keys, locking up, checking – that costs time that is actually needed for the journey to the stadium.
At the same time, the situation around the stadium is chaotic, and the anti-theft protection must function reliably – without additional effort when locking up.
So, a bike lock was sought for the "Iron Donkey" that functions reliably and integrates seamlessly into its use.
The solution: The smart frame lock from I LOCK IT
The smart frame lock from I LOCK IT is permanently mounted on the bicycle and controlled via an app. It locks automatically and secures the bike directly on the frame. If there is movement, the system reacts with an alarm and sends a notification to the smartphone.
Before kick-off, the bicycle is thus secured in just a few seconds. After the final whistle, the lock opens automatically via the app as soon as the user approaches the bicycle within a certain distance. While others are still unlocking their bikes, the "iron donkey" is already ready to go.
Especially when many people leave the stadium at the same time, this saves time – and ensures a smooth journey home.
Why Union Berlin relies on I LOCK IT
In addition to a reliable security solution that seamlessly integrates into the system, Union Berlin and Business auf Rädern (BaR) sought a solution that had already proven itself in use, was regional, enabled short distances, and, with robust, reliable products "Made in Germany" and strong service, aligned with their joint sustainability strategy.
I LOCK IT develops and assembles its frame locks not far from Berlin in Brandenburg an der Havel. The combination of regional production, proven technology, and reliable quality enables short distances, close coordination in the project, and fast service.
"The 'Iron Donkey' is a cool e-bike for families, locksmiths, and of course, true Union fans. With our partnership, we are committed to sustainable mobility in our district. Together with I LOCK IT, the smart bike lock also ensures that the bike is comfortably, safely, and intelligently protected."
– Stefan Döbrich from Business auf Rädern
Sharing a bike – one lock, multiple users
The "Iron Donkey" is designed as a flexible bicycle concept for stadium visitors that can be used jointly by fans.
With I LOCK IT, a bicycle lock can be shared digitally. Multiple users can access the same frame lock via the app. Whoever needs the bike can use it directly – without key handover.
This also enables shared use in everyday life beyond stadium visits, for example within the family or in the immediate vicinity. This reduces additional purchases and makes the bicycle versatile.
Project Status
- Current: 10 bikes in use at Union Berlin
- Next Step: Expansion as part of a campaign in spring
The "Iron Donkey" project demonstrates how bicycle safety around the stadium can be reimagined – simply, quickly, and reliably.
The I LOCK IT PRO in use
Discover I LOCK IT PRO-
Secure
- Frame lock with integrated security
- Alarm function upon movement
- Real-time notifications
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Smart
- Open and close via app
- Automatic unlocking upon approach
- Multiple users via digital keys
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Comfortable
- No physical key needed
- Quick locking directly on the bike
- Immediate departure without additional action