For all the complaints I've issued in the past, I have to admit that the mass transit systems in New York City are very capable. But on a nice day, I would prefer to ride my bike to work than deal with the wait and the crowds during my commute. The only thing stopping me has been the fact that my office building does not allow bikes into the building. There's no way I'm leaving my bike out for the thieves and mother nature. That may soon change, heard there was litigation making its rounds forcing all office buildings to allow bikes into them.

In the meantime, I wouldn't mind locking up my bike in one of these cyclepods. Designed by James Steward and Natalie Connell, their Cyclepod has made them this year's UK's Young Entrepreneurs Of The Year. Already in use in London, the cyclepods take up less room than regular bike racks, provide more security and above all, provides shelter to the bikes. I'm sure thiefs will still be able to tear a bike away, but I may be more willing to leave my bike outside on this cyclepod than a regular bike rack should one magically appear in midtown.

Though it looks great and is extremely functional, I'm still bothered by the fact that it looks like a lamp. And unlike regular bike racks, this thing looks massive, especially it's base. I wonder if the filler between the tracks are needed. Having a flat roof tilted down to one side may also reduce it's heft and lower the amount of materials employed in constructing this thing. All in all, a great design and one I would love to see in my neck of the woods/buildings.

[via Cool Hunting]