Photo: RDV Labs
Cycle AT is a new tire pressure monitor prototype, developed by San Francisco-based new company RDV labs. The CycleAT (Kickstarter campaign here) brings forth the latest low-power Bluetooth wireless communication for easy phone integration and the “smart” attribute. Besides pressure readouts, the CycleAT system also provides the user with info such as temperature, motion data, speed and detailed ride mapping.
The system can be used with both bicycles and motorbikes, as long as they are using standard air valves. The phone app also allows the rider to choose which types of data gets logged, so those in search of minimalist functions will not be overburdened by data they don’t need.
One of the cool features of the CycleAT is “in-line” filling, which allows riders to inflate or even deflate their tires without removing the monitor off the valve. Apparently RDV Labs is the first manufacturer to prototype and patent this system, too.
The CycleAT is available in two flavors, for high and low installation, allowing riders to choose what kind of pressure monitors are better suited to their ride. Made in high-grade anodized aluminium and nylon, the CycleAT project is raising money from early-bird backers to continue developing the system with an Android app, anti-theft it, and minimized design.
Tipping the scales at 29 grams (1 ounce), it’s rather interesting to see who the CycleAT copes with high-speed riding, and how happy the valves will be. Most of the new TPMSs add unwanted bulk to the wheels, calling for a new trueing job and added leads, so choosing between manually checking tire pressure and adding more weights to your wheels is definitely a matter of convenience for each rider. Plus the 100-hourt battery life is probably the last thing some riders would like added to their weekly task lists…
The CycleAT is available as an Early Bird Wave 1 offer for $139 (€103) a set of two sensors, with more “waves” promised as the fundraising campaign goes on, and an Arkon phone holder thrown in as well. Honestly I hope the funding goes well, so we can all get to see a miniature version, possibly one integrated in the valve. Via motorbiker.
One of the cool features of the CycleAT is “in-line” filling, which allows riders to inflate or even deflate their tires without removing the monitor off the valve. Apparently RDV Labs is the first manufacturer to prototype and patent this system, too.
The CycleAT is available in two flavors, for high and low installation, allowing riders to choose what kind of pressure monitors are better suited to their ride. Made in high-grade anodized aluminium and nylon, the CycleAT project is raising money from early-bird backers to continue developing the system with an Android app, anti-theft it, and minimized design.
Tipping the scales at 29 grams (1 ounce), it’s rather interesting to see who the CycleAT copes with high-speed riding, and how happy the valves will be. Most of the new TPMSs add unwanted bulk to the wheels, calling for a new trueing job and added leads, so choosing between manually checking tire pressure and adding more weights to your wheels is definitely a matter of convenience for each rider. Plus the 100-hourt battery life is probably the last thing some riders would like added to their weekly task lists…
The CycleAT is available as an Early Bird Wave 1 offer for $139 (€103) a set of two sensors, with more “waves” promised as the fundraising campaign goes on, and an Arkon phone holder thrown in as well. Honestly I hope the funding goes well, so we can all get to see a miniature version, possibly one integrated in the valve. Via motorbiker.
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