Hmmm the clockweights (actually sash window weights I think, dug 'em up in the garden)...

The washing line is attached to a hook at one end and the weights at the other via the pulley. This means I can pull it down to hang stuff up and it goes back up when I let go. It also acts as a 'your clothes are dry' indicator. It sags down when all the clothes are wet and goes straight when all the clothes are dry .

Forgot to mention, the bike weighs 24lb.