Cyclists may get a hand (and arm) with safety

(Credit: Pocket-lint)

Although automobiles have countless safety devices and technologies, there are relatively few for bicycles by comparison. And that makes little sense when you look at the global trends, which will only increase in coming years with the growth of green initiatives.

That shortcoming inspired London design student Michael Chen to come up with a concept for a jacket he calls the "Reactiv" (that's right, there's no "e" at the end--it's not at typo or some weird British spelling). Using an accelerometer to track movement, the high-tech garment has LEDs on the sleeves that change colors depending on the cyclist's actions--such as green for acceleration, red for braking, and flashing amber for turns, according to Pocket-lint. The design has won a James Dyson Award from the foundation of the same name that's dedicated to inspirating design innovation.

The Reactiv jacket is only a concept at present, but Chen hopes to make a reality in production. In the meantime, there's always the "Bicygnals."

[tommays]

I have had BRIGHT flashing LED markers and a nightsun high/low beam headlight system for 20 years poeple still drive right into you when trying to pass a bicycle while making a RIGHT turn OR they make a LEFT turn and try to plant you on there hood


Tommays

[tommays]

I have had BRIGHT flashing LED markers and a nightsun high/low beam headlight system for 20 years poeple still drive right into you when trying to pass a bicycle while making a RIGHT turn OR they make a LEFT turn and try to plant you on there hood


Tommays

[tommays]

I have had BRIGHT flashing LED markers and a nightsun high/low beam headlight system for 20 years poeple still drive right into you when trying to pass a bicycle while making a RIGHT turn OR they make a LEFT turn and try to plant you on there hood


Tommays

[admin44]

My advice is to NEVER count on the people behind you to do the right thing or to even see you, no matter how many lights you have flashing and blinking. Your best defense is to have a proper rear view mirror and keep an eagle eye on what is going on back there for yourself!

I have been hit from behind by a car going 55 and it wasn't pleasant I can assure you. I now use a mirror 100% of the time and already it has saved my life more than once. In one case I was able to avoid someone deliberately trying to run me down who obviously thought he was being cute or funny or something.

The world is a scary place at times and one always, always have to take a defensive posture when riding your bike, especially in a bike unfriendly country like the U.S. Europe is another matter in that they give cyclists the respect they deserve. Here is the States they sometimes like to treat us like target practice.

Well, I will get my last laugh, I can assure you, when we all run out of oil and there won't be any more SUVs out there threatening to run me down anymore!