The best gadgets and apps to increase your safety while cycling

Cycling is a great way to stay fit, travel sustainably and explore the city. However, cycling can also be dangerous. According to Gov.uk, in 2022, 91 cyclists were killed in the UK, over 4,000 were seriously injured and a further 11,000 were slightly injured.

Cyclist safety is extremely important, especially as city roads become busier. Fortunately, there are plenty of gadgets and apps available to help cyclists stay safe.

Let’s get to know them…

Gadgets that increase your safety while cycling

1. Smart helmets

Smart helmets come with a variety of features such as 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 turned on via the steering wheel, allowing cars to better see you and your direction.

Some smart helmets even have built-in communication technology, which means you can contact your contacts in the event of an accident.

2. Bike cameras

Recording your rides can be useful as evidence if an accident occurs, especially if you want to take legal action or claim compensation.

The Cycliq Fly6 is a good option for this because of its rear light with Full HD camera, which means you have a clear recording of the traffic behind you.

3. Reflective equipment

Being visible is important for bicycle safety, especially in countries where it gets dark early at certain times of the year.

Gadgets like the Proviz Reflect360 jacket are made of reflective materials to help cars see you better.

To help you be even more visible, LED lights on the wheels or handlebars make your bike visible from every angle.

4. Car detection systems

Garmin Varia Radar is a gadget that lets you know if vehicles are approaching from behind. This connects to your phone and notifies you, meaning you can keep abreast of conditions around you and prevent vehicles from catching you off guard.

5. Anti-theft devices

Securing your bike is also part of staying safe.

Gadgets like the TiGr ​​lock provide increased security without being too heavy.

Alternatively, GPS tracking devices such as AirTags can be hidden on the bike, allowing its location to be tracked in the event of theft.

Apps for bicycle safety

1. Komoot

Komoot is a great app for planning safe and scenic cycling routes.

Features detailed maps and easy-to-use navigation to help you avoid busy roads and find bike-friendly paths. The app also includes offline maps, which are useful for drives in rural areas.

2. Strava

Known for being a fitness tracking app, Strava also has features that make your ride safer.

With the Beacon feature, you can share your real-time location with anyone you want, so they can track your whereabouts while you ride, meaning you’ll be looked after even off the track.

3. AccuWeather

Cycling in the rain can be dangerous, especially off-road. AccuWeather helps you stay up to date with the weather, so you don’t have to worry about being caught off guard.

4. British Red Cross First Aid

The British Red Cross First Aid app provides detailed advice on what to do in an emergency. In many cases, acting quickly is the best way to minimize injury and damage, so it’s always helpful to have a guide on hand.

5. Relive

The Relive app creates a 3D image of your ride in advance, helping you plan your route and anticipate dangerous areas.

Especially when it comes to off-road biking, routes and trails change constantly depending on the weather. The best way to stay safe is to plan carefully, and Relive helps you achieve this.