The Beam RS 1000 Ride Safety System harnesses the power of AI to detect and alert you to risky cars approaching behind as you ride. Taking rider safety to a new level – even beyond rear-facing radar – the RS 1000 system combines a live rear-view camera streamed directly to a smartphone on your handlebars, AI-powered alerts, dashcam-style incident recording, a smart taillight/brake light, and even ebike system integration.
Do you think AI detection of risky drivers could make urban cyclists safer?
The Beam Ride Safety System RS 1000, safer cycling with AI
The Beam thinks their RS 1000 connected smart taillight and live-view display system can make urban commuters, ebikers, and even long-distance road cyclists safer, by making it easier to see and be seen. Already focused on bringing more conventional safety equipment to a wider audience, like helmets and tiny mirrors, now The Beam wants to leverage more technology to keep riders safe together with tech company Alps Alpine.
They say “maintaining full situational awareness while navigating busy roads is a constant struggle for cyclists“. And while their tiny mirrors aim to make it a bit easier to see what’s coming up behind you without fully taking your eyes off the road ahead, they admit it’s not a great solution either.
So The Beam’s new fix is an AI-powered rear-view camera system.
But OK, why AI?
The thinking is that the cyclist doesn’t need to look at the always-on rear-view display on their smartphone.
AI is always looking. And when The Beam RS 1000 detects a risky car approaching quickly, it identifies the threat, notifies the rider, and only then do you need to glance down at the screen to see if you need to take evasive actions.
Key Tech Features
- Live Rear-View HD Camera: 720p HD 158° wide-angle camera streams live view to paired smartphone (iOS or Android app available)
- AI-based Hazard Detection: offline in-app algorithm detects fast-moving vehicles and other similar threats, providing instant visual alerts via the connected smartphone & auditory alerts from its own built-in buzzer
- Accident Recording & Dashcam: Automatic recording also saves video 10 seconds before and 50 seconds after detected incidents for post-accident analysis or insurance claims
- Smart Brake Lighting: bright multiple-LED StVZO-approved taillight with multi-stage/intensity brake light function
- Shimano E-Tube ebike system integration for long-lasting power or Di2 button controls
- 1/4-turn quick-release seatpost or rack mounting
- 4-hour runtime, with USB-C recharging or continuous external power
- 32Gb internal memory, plus MicroSD slot for longer recording
- 105 x 33 x 40mm and <160g claimed weight
The Beam RS 1000 – Pricing & availability
The Beam’s RS 1000 Ride Safety System began life with Alp Alpine, who you probably better know for their aftermarket car stereos. And Alpine is already selling these to consumers now. The Beam distributed version appears to be unchanged, with the same runtime and 350€ price tag. And while it has been officially unveiled, it hasn’t quite made it to market. And there’s not yet an official release date for The Beam’s version. But sign up now for more info, and receive 5% off when it does launch soon.
