Despite its short history, it’s hard to deny that crowdfunding has produced quite a few cool products for cyclists. It seems commuters are the biggest target for online entrepreneurs, and in this article we’ll check out two new products designed to keep riders safe on the roads.
The FLECTR 360 reflectors provide a simple yet effective way to increase your visibility without adding weight or unsightly bolt-on components to your bike. The Rayo tail light packs some high-tech internals to offer clever safety features and uses special lenses to throw lots of light behind and beside you. Both products have already won over the crowdfunders, so let’s take a closer look at each…
FLECTR 360
Last year Bikerumor covered the FLECTR ZEROs, which are essentially small reflective stickers that attach to your spokes in lieu of clunky plastic reflectors. After a successful Kickstarter campaign FLECTR moved on their next concept, the FLECTR 360.
The new FLECTR 360’s stick to your rims, and much like the last version, the creators tout their light weight and aerodynamic efficiency. They also create a minimal aesthetic interruption, so they won’t compromise the curb appeal of your flashy ride.
Since many modern rims have a deep profile or rounded shape the FLECTR decals can catch light from many angles and reflect it around you. There are different sizes available for road or MTB rims, plus versions that work for rim-brake setups as well. The only rims that won’t work with the FLECTR 360s are models that flatten out right above the brake surfaces.
The FLECTR 360’s big claim is that they make you visible from 360 degrees, but you’re probably wondering how you can be seen from in front or behind with rim decals… The answer is that the reflectors use microprismatic technology to throw reflected light in all directions, surrounding you with illumination.
The decals are made from a conformable film so they will wrap nicely around different rim shapes. The creators say they stick reliably and won’t crinkle, and they even have a dirt-repellent surface to keep them shining.
The FLECTR 360’s Kickstarter campaign has exceeded its funding goal, and it’s still live until Dec. 30th. A set of FLECTR 360 decals (two for each wheel) can currently be pre-ordered for approx. $20 USD, or you can grab two sets for $34. Kickstarter supporters should receive their product in Feb. 2018, and you can view the campaign here.
Rayo Light
The Rayo (pronounced rye-oh) is a new tail light that’s also catching people’s eyes on Kickstarter. With integrated Bluetooth connectivity and a 6-axis motion sensor, the Rayo provides brake light and theft alert functions, plus a few other nifty features.
The Rayo uses three LED’s and two optically engineered lenses that focus light in three different ways- The lenses project narrow, long distance and wide beams to keep you visible from the rear and sides. The LED’s can blink, surge, glow, or burst, and through the configurator you can customize different combinations for each bulb. The Rayo’s maximum output is 90 lumens.
Based on algorithms used by drones, the Rayo’s automatic brake light feature brightens the light whenever you slow down. The Bluetooth also comes in handy if you like to ride with friends; the light’s group LED synchronization automatically pairs your unit with nearby Rayos. With your light patterns matched, the creators say you’ll be more easily seen as a group. Watch it in action in the video below, pretty cool.
Of course there’s an app where you can control the light, customize its settings, monitor battery life, and utilize the theft alert function. When enabled, your phone will alert you if your bike is moved. The unit itself is operated by a single button that switches the Rayo on/off and cycles through light modes.
The Rayo’s waterproof body measures 72mm long, 35mm wide and 40mm deep, and it weighs 50g. A simple rubber strap fits seat posts up to 32mm in diameter. The battery charges via USB in 3-4 hours. It can run for up to 20 hours in Low Power mode, but no other run times are given.
The Rayo is currently selling for $44 USD, and shipping is expected for April 2018. Color options include In The Pink, Royal Blue, Feather White, Carbon Black and Lemon Yellow. Check out the campaign page here.
