You may remember Torch’s unique helmet with integrated LED’s from their Kickstarter launch a while back. I made a point to stop by their booth and speak with founder Nathan Wills about not only their upcoming helmet, but also their new bag line as well.
The Torch helmet is intended for urban cycling use, and it’s made from polystyrene foam wrapped in a polycarbonate shell. What sets this helmet apart from the others is the use of its front (white) and rear (red) LED lighting. These lights are designed using projection LED technology, and allow for 360 degree visibility. It’s nice being seen! They also get the lights up from the normal bar position, and the lower outpout (not specified) helps to not blind drivers. After all, this helmet is to help get you seen, and is not really intended to light up the road. Charging comes in the form of USB 2.0 (thank god), and the battery should net you up to a four hour run time dependent on which mode you use (flashing vs steady of course). Weight is expected to be just under one pound. The helmet will be introduced in two sizes, three color options, and your choice of smoke or clear lenses. Retail is set at $120.
For info on their upcoming backpack make the jump.
New at Interbike for Torch was their LED lit backpack. These bags are constructed using a waterproof fabric (standard 1000 denier Corduar Plus Nylon) on the exterior, with a tarpaulin Sunbrella liner. This should be enough to keep your goods dry. But, it wouldn’t be a Torch product if it didn’t have LEDs. The lower panel of the bag is luminescent to keep you visible. It is a waterproof 10″ x 4″ fiber optic panel that is back lit by 4 individual LEDs. I was told at Interbike that power is supplied by AAA batteries for now, but the press information states it will be USB 2.0 rechargeable and use button cell batteries. We shall see, as they are release another Kickstarter project for the bag soon.
The future of Torch sounds promising as well. Nathan informed me that they have plans to expand their lineup to include an MTB helmet with higher output lights, a messenger bag, as well as bike mounted lighting.
