Bike Innovations

Torch created an illuminated helmet with built-in LED lights (clear in the front and red in the rear).  The lenses disperses the light 360 degrees at a more visible elevated position that those attached to handlebars and seat posts.  Initial funds were raised on Kickstarter.  With four different light functions, including flash and steady, the 10 integrated LEDs run for up to 12 hours.  The helmets have eight air vents with interior ventilation channeling.  The batteries are rechargeable with USB connection (1.5 hours recharge time). $140-$150.

The Blaze Laser projects a green image of a bike on the pavement about 15 feet in front of a cyclist.  The Li-ion battery lasts about 13 hours (USB recharged).  The key feature of this innovation is the laser which highlights the presence of a cyclist at night by literally projecting them onto the road ahead. This alerts other road users of the approaching bike and allows them more time to react.  The bracket’s safety magnetic mechanism is there to ensure that the laser cannot be used except when it’s on the bike. $200.

The Copenhagen Wheel turns any bike into an electric hybrid with a top speed of 20mph and covers a 30 mile range using its 48-volt Li-ion battery. First announced in 2009, the development has been hatched at MIT and is being brought to market by Superpedestrian, a Boston-based startup.  The device attaches to a standard 26-inch wheel.  It is a pedal assist type electric motor which provides additional power as needed.  A mobile app and Bluetooth technology control the motor.  Scheduled to start shipping in late 2014. $799.

The Hammerhead One guides a cyclist along his route with intuitive light signals indicating where and when to make turns on a route.  The unit pairs with the rider's smartphone via Bluetooth.  The Hammerhead syncs with the tablet or smartphone to guide the rider with three rows of LED lights that can be followed with peripheral vision. It also conveys information on distance, speed, hills and road hazards.  It doubles as a headlight in a pinch.  The big pitch for this device is that  it is saver than having to glace at dedicated bike GPS devices or smartphones with driving apps  There is no date given on the website for availability but pre-orders are accepted. The New York city team raised  $190K through crowdsourcing funding to start the company.  The only caveat is that unit with the bracket will conflict with handlebar bags, if used.  $85.