The VeliSo Mirage smart bike has some lofty goals, turning the simple bicycle into a sophisticated safety system using AI and machine learning to keep the rider safe from collision, skidding and other common dangers. While the sleek concept above shows what it could look like if they reach their lofty crowdfunding goal of $500,000, the prototype shows all the wires needed to develop proof of concept:
As far fetched (and perhaps unnecessary) some of this seems, there are some potentially game changing applications if they can get the parts small and light enough. Imagine a 360º proximity sensor that showed a higher definition look at what’s around you than the Garmin Varia radar system. For pro racers, knowing someone’s in your draft and which side they’re likely to attack on might be the difference between first, and first loser. For commuters, anti-lock braking systems are a no-brainer and an electronic system could end up smaller than the options we saw at Eurobike this year. Fat bikers and gravel racers could certainly benefit from automatic tire pressure management that maximized the traction based on terrain sensors.
In addition to the complete bicycle concept with integrated body panels, they’re looking to provide some or all of the parts as add-on aftermarket units that can bolt to your existing commuter bike.
If funded, the form factor would look much more elegant than the Frankenstein’s monster of a prototype in the video. The complete concept bike would likely come as an e-bike, which might be a welcome assist for carrying the additional weight.
The company plans on using existing technology in most cases, borrowing heavily from the automotive industry. The lowest priced backer rewards are the ETPM (electronic tire pressure monitor) shown in yellow and the electronic disc brake system shown in red, for $275 and $475, respectively. Get the whole add-on package including sensor array for $1,175, or just go for the complete bike for a pledge of $6,675. Final retail is set at $8,775 with delivery expected in October 2018 if goals are met. Check out the campaign page here for a whole lot more tech talk.
