A simple, dependable device to help cyclists find their way around that doesn’t involve retrofitting a smartphone to their handlebars or investing in a dedicated cycle GPS has been a long time coming, but Schwinn might have just the gadget.
The device at hand – is Schwinn’s CycleNav app for Android and iOS. Using map data from Mapquest, you simply enter your destination and it plots routes based on your preferences, incorporating cycle lanes and off-road sections if you want to.
The button in the middle of the device makes it repeat the last instruction, so you shouldn’t miss anything crucial.
At present there appears to be no in-built traffic data, nor does it incorporate user-created routes as the likes of Bike Hub do. But there’s time for it to develop, particularly as it’s confined to the USA right now.
It’s water-resistant, charges via microUSB and, according to Schwinn, has a 10-hour battery life.
The CycleNav also doubles as a bike light, and at the end of the ride gives you ride statistics including distance travelled, speed and calories burned. Not bad for US$60. It’s available in the US on March 1, and should see release elsewhere in the world later this year.
Press Release
Schwinn Debuts CycleNav Smart Bike Navigator at Consumer Electronics Show Unveiled Media Event
Las Vegas, Nevada – January 06, 2014 – Schwinn, a brand of Dorel Industries (TSX: DII.B, DII.A), unveiled the CycleNav Smart Bike Navigator, the brand’s first-ever mobile appcessory at the 2014 Consumer Electronics Show (CES) Unveiled. Schwinn CycleNav is a free mobile application paired with a handlebar-mounted smart-bike navigation unit designed to give riders turn-by-turn audio and visual navigation from their handlebars.
CycleNav is the first navigation device that, when connected to a smart phone via Bluetooth, provides audio commands and visual light indicators to direct riders to their desired destination. With your phone in your pocket, basket or bag, your hands are free to steer while CycleNav speaks directions and flashes turn indicators. With your attention on the road and not on your phone, any type of bike riding you’re doing
– from exploring new trails or commuting to work – is safer and easier than ever before.
Choosing a route to ride is simple: enter the destination address and CycleNav provides route options based on terrain and also offers you the shortest route option, by both time and distance. Need to make a stop along the way? CycleNav allows you to add a stop during your trip or to create a custom route. If you miss the audible directions, CycleNav will repeat the last instruction with a click of the center chrome button; this button on your CycleNav is located just inches away from your handlebars, ensuring your attention and hands are focused on riding safely. As an added bonus, CycleNav also acts as a bicycle headlight.
At the end of your trip, the CycleNav application records statistics from your journey, including distance, duration and calories burned, giving you a complete snapshot of your ride. Share your ride stats with friends through social networking integration. Challenge other riders with MapMyRide through uploading your ride history.
The app marks Schwinn’s first entree into the world of mobile technology, continuing the brand’s legacy of innovation and advancement of bike riding for the masses. CycleNav is available for free download via the
Apple App Store and Google Play on January 15, 2014. Schwinn CycleNav will be available at Walmart stores in the bicycling section in spring 2014 for a price of $59.99.
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