The world-first radar-powered Backtracker cycling safety device was officially launched in Stellenbosch, South Africa, on June 24.
Safety-conscious road cyclists from all over the world will be able to order the device via Dragon Innovation, a platform that has helped to launch other crowd-funded success stories such as the Pebble Smartwatch and Hammerhead Navigation System.
South African radar and computer vision specialists Ikubu have been creating prototypes for Backtracker since 2010. They believe their device will bring much-needed confidence back to a sport too frequently compromised by fear of inattentive motorists.
Ikubu managing director Frans Struwig says Backtracker is a type of sixth sense that helps cyclists see what they ordinarily cannot, since rear-approaching cars remain unseen until it is too late, usually with tragic consequences, or have passed the rider safely.
Backtracker consists of two small, lightweight units that detect and interpret the speed and acceleration of rear-approaching vehicles at a distance of up to 140m.
The handlebar-mounted front unit indicates your potential safety risk using a simple peripheral vision range indicator. The intelligent backlight alerts motorists to your position via increasingly frequent light pulses.
Backtracker’s radar technology is invaluable when cycling in low visibility conditions such as fog and rain, and in evening or early morning hours. Its functionality is not affected by the proximity of other cyclists, which is useful when riding in pelotons or on social rides.
Website: www.backtracker.io
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