Cycling is a great way to stay healthy, travel sustainably and explore a city. But cycling can also be dangerous: 91 cyclists were killed in the UK in 2022, more than 4,000 were seriously injured and a further 11,000 suffered minor injuries, according to Gov.uk.
Bicycle safety is crucial as roads, especially in urban areas, become more congested. Luckily, there are a number of gadgets and apps available to help keep cyclists safe.
Let’s take a closer look…
Bicycle safety gadgets
1. Smart Helmet
Smart helmets come equipped with a variety of features, including built-in lights, turn signals, fall detection, and even built-in communication systems.
One example is the Lumos helmet, which has front and rear lights that can be activated from the handlebars to help cars see you more clearly and know which direction you’re going.
Some smart helmets also have built-in communications technology that can contact emergency contacts in the event of an accident.
2. Bicycle Camera
Keeping a record of your rides can serve as evidence in the event of an accident, especially if you are taking legal action or making an insurance claim.
The Cycliq Fly6 is a great choice in this regard, as it has a rear light with a full HD camera, giving you a clear record of the traffic behind you.
3. High visibility gear
Staying visible is important for cycling safety, especially in countries where the sun sets early at certain times of the year.
Gadgets like the Proviz Reflect360 jacket are made with reflective materials that help cars see you more clearly.
To make yourself even more visible, you can install LED lights on the wheels or handlebars so your bike can be seen from all angles.
4. Vehicle Detection System
Garmin Varia Radar is a gadget that will let you know if a vehicle is approaching from behind. It works with your phone to alert you so you can stay aware of your surroundings and avoid being caught off guard by a vehicle.
5. Anti-theft devices
Keeping your bike safe is also part of staying safe.
Gadgets like the TiGr lock provide added security without being too heavy.
Alternatively, you can hide a GPS tracker, such as AirTags, on your bike so you can track its location if it is stolen.
Bicycle safety apps
1. Komut
Komoot is the perfect app for planning safe and scenic cycling routes.
It comes with detailed maps and easy-to-follow navigation to help you avoid busy roads and find bike-friendly paths, and the app also includes offline maps, making it convenient for cycling in the countryside.
2. Strava
Best known as a fitness tracking app, Strava also has features that make riding safer.
The Beacon feature allows you to share your real-time location with anyone you love, so they can track your whereabouts while you’re riding and keep an eye on you when you’re off course.
3. AccuWeather
Cycling in the rain can be dangerous, especially off-road. AccuWeather helps you stay on top of the weather so you’re never caught off guard.
4. British Red Cross First Aid
The British Red Cross First Aid app gives you step-by-step advice on what to do in an emergency – acting quickly is often the best way to minimise injury or damage, so it’s always useful to have a guide to hand.
5. Relive the experience
The Relive app creates a 3D image of your ride in advance, helping you plan your route and predicting dangerous terrain.
Especially on off-road bikes, routes and trails are constantly changing due to weather, so the best way to stay safe is with careful planning – and Relive helps you do just that.