Now launched on crowdfunding platform Kickstarter, BeeLine ‘changes the way cyclists navigate their city by informing and updating riders of the direct distance and direction to their chosen destination.’
The handlebar mounted bluetooth device uses the rider’s phone to enable the smart compass functionality of BeeLine. A release from the company notes that ‘cyclists can rediscover the fun of cycling with their new-found freedom as BeeLine lets them pick their own path, unlike most navigation devices that use turn-by-turn GPS navigation.’
Aiming to put cyclists back in control of their journey, BeeLine aims to reduce the complexity of urban journeys, opening up the city for exploration. Using the principles of ‘fuzzy navigation’, BeeLine shows only the direct distance and direction to the rider’s destination.
A single BeeLine device will be available to early backers from £30, representing a 50% discount from the eventual recommended retail price. The developers add that BeeLine’s affordable price point is made possible by removing the need for a GPS antenna and instead pairing BeeLine with a smartphone.
Riders can use the BeeLine app, for iPhone and Android, to set their destination and any waypoints with a simple drag and drop. Once the destination has been selected, riders can put their phones away and BeeLine will guide them from start to finish.
Mark Jenner, co-founder of BeeLine, said “Many of us can relate to journeys when we start cycling, only to stop a few minutes later to check the map on our phone. We felt this stop-start style of journey, following strict directions, was taking the fun out of cycling and one of the main reasons we started getting around the city on our bikes – the freedom.
“We wanted to create a device, that guided us, but still put us in control of our journey and encouraged us to find new and interesting routes.”
Cased in ABS plastic and secured to the handlebar by a silicone strap, BeeLine offers a balance between inner-city ruggedness and style. BeeLine folds away neatly after use and can be easily attached to a keyring or a bag. Built with versatility in mind, urban explorers should be able to contribute and expand on BeeLine’s uses, with the creators planning to involve their existing user base in the development of future features.
Tom Putnam, co-founder of BeeLine, added “We have worked very hard on the design to ensure BeeLine slots seamlessly into a cyclist’s lifestyle. We’ve been working with an industrial design agency and electronic engineers to get BeeLine to where it is today, and now we’re launching on Kickstarter to raise funds to go into mass production. We are very excited to be bringing BeeLine to the Kickstarter community.”
In terms of hardware, BeeLine is comprised of an e-paper screen that should give clear, crisp information in all light conditions – plus there’s a backlight for night riding. Further within the device is a Bluetooth receiver to talk to the phone, and a magnetometer, accelerometer and gyroscope to keep riders on the right track.
BeeLine is also fully waterproof and will last for up to four weeks of normal use before needing a recharge. BeeLine is available to back on Kickstarter now from £30, and will ship to backers by summer 2016.
Founded in April 2015 by Mark Jenner and Tom Putnam, London-based BeeLine aims to use technology to solve problems for cyclists to make the pursuit both safer and more enjoyable. BeeLine works in partnership with a London industrial design agency, Map Project Office, founded by Barber and Osgerby.
