Apple AirTags on your bike, and three other "smart" cycling devices for getting around a city

Do you ever catch yourself riding your bike and thinking, "Why is this bike so dumb? What I need is a smart bike!"
OK, don't answer that. But there are a lot of products on the market these days that purport to make your bike smart. In this video, I look at four of them in an attempt to figure out if a smart bike is a better bike.
0:00 Introduction
1:04 A smart tail light
3:14 A smart pannier bag
4:59 Smart light-up pedals
6:50 Apple AirTags
Interested in these products?
Cliq Smart Bike Light
Website: smartbikelights.com/products/...
Amazon: amzn.to/39lfqwo
Two Wheel Gear Alpha Smart Bags
Website: www.twowheelgear.com/pages/al...
RedShift Acrlight Smart LED Pedals
Website: redshiftsports.com/products/a...
Amazon: amzn.to/3NL1Npg
Apple AirTags
Website: www.apple.com/ca/airtag/?afid...
Amazon: amzn.to/3MEkWb7
Sponsor
Two Wheel Gear: My favourite bike bags for commuters and urban cyclists www.twowheelgear.com/
#cycling #bike #commuting
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[@dudeonbike800]

Just flew overseas with the tandem in two suitcases. AirTags in both. Yup, one didn't arrive. Sucks to have HALF a bike for two riders! I was psyched to be able to say, "I see it's in my layover airport now. Please send it to me here. Thanks." None of this, "Sorry Mr. Bike, we don't know where your suitcase is." Glad it made it as intended and our tour wasn't affected.

[@phoenixbloomfield8946]

Definitely not a smart device but one of the absolute BEST purchases I made was retroreflective tape (the same reflective stuff that's sewn into high viz vests). It's sold at my local hardware store for about $2/foot and it reflects light back the exact direction it hit it, just like a street sign. The light from a car's headlights or even a jogger's headlamp facing you will reflect back brightly greatly increasing visibility. I put a bunch on all sides of my bike so the whole thing positively glows when headlights hit it.

[@kytkosaurus]

The longer I use a bike for moving about the city, the more I dream about almost an opposite. Infrastructure so "smart" not by using lots of electronics (so maybe clever, as you describe it), but well thougt out, made and maintained, that allows me to use the "dumbest" (or better said simplest, because even the most simple of bikes isn't dumb at all) bike possible. From this list I quite like the lights, but I already got a (fairly cheap, nothing fancy) battery rear light stolen from my city bike parked outside a shop for just 15 minutes. The idea of removing four not so cheap lights from both pedals every time I park the bike in front of a shop? No thanks. The less things I have to take with me after I lock my bike, the better. In ideal situation, the key to the frame lock would be enough. If we want people to use bikes for the common short trips in cities, we have to have the infrastructure allowing for the use of cheap, simple bikes. Shared as well as owned. I know it could be different for longer distance commuters, who have secure bike parking at both sides of their way (and if they get a safe bike parking at stores along the way the better), but then again safe and protected bike parking is a necessary part of really clever bike infrastructure. It seems clever infrastructure is really the thing needed, for both smart and simple bikes alike...

[@karlahovde]

An excellent point. I really like the idea of clever infrastructure so everyone can use the simplest bikes.

[@pepeinostroza]

Making the tag visible protects your bike more, however hidden ones protect all bikes a little. Its better if thieves don't know which bike might be tracked.

[@Shifter_Cycling]

I'm not sure I agree with this. I want theft prevention, not theft recovery. I want a bike that thieves don't want to touch.

[@dandcc9192]

@@Shifter_Cycling What's stopping the thief from taking the air tag device off or crushing it and then stealing the bike anyway? If it's an expensive bike, put on one so it's visible and hide one in one of the tubes or wherever so it stays on the bike if it's stolen.

[@Shifter_Cycling]

@@dandcc9192 Nothing is stopping them. That's why in the video I pleaded for smart people out there to invent a device that can make an AirTag unremovable except by the owner, but is visible to outsiders. It's also why I have mixed feelings about AirTags

[@ahaveland]

Tracking devices can be scanned, zapped and disabled - my strategy is to make something so customized, beat up and undesirable that nobody would look twice. Make it look rusty, put duct tape everywhere and on the saddle - I did this with my 2kW ebike from a 20 year old converted mountain bike and still have it after 6 years almost daily use. All locks can be defeated with an angle grinder - the bigger the lock, the more you advertise the bike's value. I use a thin cable lock to prevent someone just walking off with it, but it also says I don't care so much so they aren't likely to bother either. (I do care very much, as I've spent a lot of time on it, and 3d printed lots of accessories, like a dashboard with voltage meters to rest phone on with velcro, a mug holder, mounts for lights, mudguard extensions to prevent spray, windscreen to protect phone against rain etc...) Still a gps tracker is a very useful thing, and Lo-Ra looks promising as the radio uses a very low bandwidth with very long range and can run for months without battery running down. Just haven't found much on the market using this tech yet, so we have to make our own so far.

[@Friek555]

@@Shifter_Cycling They do deter thieves though. If lots of people have airtags on their bikes, that makes bike theft in general a more risky crime. It means a thief either has to check the whole bike for an airtag or risk getting tracked (or get rid of the bike *fast* , which also isn't that easy)

[@dailybikingcommute1132]

I tend to be a minimalist in my daily commute, but have to admit, my Birthday list is getting longer 🤣👍

[@squelchedotter]

I'm honestly unconvinced by all of these except the airtag. Part of the joy of owning a bike is the worry-free simplicity, and for the inconvenience of adding more chores and things to break, lose or have stolen none of these really add a lot.

[@Shifter_Cycling]

I totally get this.

[@swedneck]

i feel like a lot of these things (especially the more minor ones like lights) could work really well if you have a dynamo or on an e-bike, and with an e-bike everything could be integrated into a central control system as well!

[@ahaveland]

A remotely operated taser in the saddle might cause a thief to think twice before doing it again!

[@mikebronicki8264]

Funny, my opinion is the exact opposite. I would use the other devices but the air tag is a hard no. The question on the other devices is cost. How much are they worth to me?

[@joshsouthan6971]

@@ahaveland Automatic with DNA sensor so anyone not approved to ride cops it to there nether regions instanly

[@jimhansen5395]

Those pedals are freaking GENIUS. There are many studies that show that drivers see Biometric movement more that a steady single light on your seat/fender/bag. I wish the had something that attached to your heal or pantleg, as I use clip-in pedals on my commuter.

[@VitalVampyr]

8:12 You could have the Air Tag installed somewhere it's hard to find/remove and have some prominent stickers saying "Tracked by Apple Air Tag".

[@Handford]

Or just the sticker, make the thief work trying to find it 😋

[@dudeonbike800]

As long as it isn't encased within metal (frame, stem, handlebar, etc.). The Faraday Cage effect will render it useless. But good to ensconce deep within your carbon frame! (Like my Ibis, for example.)

[@umutcanmese]

That is one of the reason why I love Brompton. I can keep it with me almost anywhere I go.

[@jhoff80]

The smart taillight that everyone should own is the Varia radar (the non-camera version). Absolute game changer for road riding.

[@boohurns4080]

I got one also, its a bit pricey though.

[@extrastuff9463]

Interesting device, got no particular need for it myself and I suppose its use might be technically illegal here in the Netherlands. Bicycles by law are only allowed to use one red rear light that is not blinking, not sure how they'd treat the "tail unit brightens and flashes to notify approaching traffic of a cyclist ahead" feature. I have noticed that enforcement on blinking lights must not be all that strict since it's a pretty common sight in the city. If the blinking could be disabled and just a steady higher brightness setting is available too that might pass the legal requirements. I don't have a particular need for it though, my usual routes are pretty safe as it is with separation from high speed car traffic and a rear view mirror already adds a lot of situational awareness making the cars behind me at least not unseen or unexpected by myself (sneaky electric vehicles can be quiet these days). I do really like the concept of that radar feature and it telling how close other vehicles are behind you, does it distinguish between regular cars and larger objects? Maybe even identify bicycles/motorcycles too? or is it just determining the distance of metal blobs approaching you from behind? I'm also really curious if the radar feature might be setting off detectors in cars for people who try to use that to avoid police catching them speeding. Ever heard about that from anyone, or might be fun to test it if you know someone with such a detection system set up in their vehicle.

[@jhoff80]

@@extrastuff9463 It does identify other bikes. No distinguishing between size of objects, it detects literally everything going faster than you. It gives an approximation of the distance and a warning level based on the relative speeds. Can't answer your other questions but it's worth noting they have modified light features in some markets as well as a non-taillight version.

[@MultigrainKevinOs]

I like the pedals, the motion should help draw attention. Also excellent observation on the airtag/whatever theft device exists it needs to be visible to the thief that this bike is not with their time. Maybe an opportunity for a shifter branded "this bike is monitored" sticker 🙂

[@sinatrabone]

I second the sticker idea! I mean… what’s stopping us all from simply using the sticker and saving money on the AirTag?

[@sinatrabone]

But seriously Tom, you should make that sticker. I’ll buy it!

[@Shifter_Cycling]

One of the important aspects of Project 529 anti-theft program is stickers that advertise that the bike is registered. To pair that with a tracking device might be a nice combo

[@scottmcshannon6821]

the pedals are really nice, but they are 4 more things to charge, and they are 200 bucks. not that cool.

[@MultigrainKevinOs]

@@scottmcshannon6821 yikes that is a bit too pricey, yeah I suppose its also 4 individual lights to manage charge for that could get old quick. Will stick to reflectors :)

[@ahaveland]

I made a smart bike once - it refused to work until I went on a diet! Seriously, my must-have is a really bright front light such as a Sunnysky 30W headlight with 18 high power leds and runs off a 9 to 85V supply - it's too bright for normal use except offroad through forests etc, but a lifesaver to alert drivers about to pull out that you are there. Just mount a switch on the handlebar. I also made a strobe using 2 x 100W leds driven by processor and mosfet - bright enough to put on a plane! No trouble being seen when it runs.

[@nunyabidness3075]

Here’s an idea for you. Make stickers that say the bike has a tracker, and sell them to your fans! Good Luck.

[@selinarenfrow]

I like the pedal lights. Anything to be more visible at night is worth it for me; I'm terrified of getting hit at night. My Gazelle e-bike has built-in lights, so while the rear light is cool - I like the break feature - I wouldn't necessarily spend extra for a fancy light. Maybe on my regular bike, but only if it can't be removed easily by thieves. I've had so many lights stolen - and as much as I try to remember, I don't always pull them off before I go inside. Not sure about that pannier bag, though it looks like a decent backpack. And I'm with you on the air tags. I just don't want my bike stolen.

[@christill]

I definitely think having a brake light is something that really could catch on and improve safety. Especially as more and more people cycle and you’re riding in close proximity with other bike riders in the dark. And obviously it should help when riding with cars as well, although I don’t think it’s as important with cars since they’re always going to be travelling faster than you anyway, and they’re less likely to be right behind you when you brake.

[@craigmeritz896]

In a mixed urban environment where I live - Center City Philadelphia, PA - (no bike lanes & unprotected bike (double parking) lanes) with lots of lights and stops to keep traffic at reasonable speeds, cars are going slowly enough to see a brake light assuming they are not looking at their phone etc.

[@christill]

@@craigmeritz896 That’s true. Hopefully not for long though. Get rid of cars in urban areas.

[@christill]

@phillip wareham I think cycling has evolved to become a lot more accepting now. There will still be some idiots but probably not many. And who cares what they think anyway?

[@atomiccat2002]

I have a Tile tracker on my bikes, I gorilla tape it to the crank, my wife loses her keys about once a week and the tile tracker on her keys comes in handy, she even has one on her phone since she loses that too lol /// Also if they made a bike stem cap that was a apple air tag and it required a special tool to remove the stem cap that would be perfect, make the stem glow you can usb plug it in or just replace it every year.

[@jasonschubert6828]

When I was a kid I remember wanting things like brake lights on my bike, I think it is sort of a thing to make it more like a car, similar to having a card clicking on the spokes that is a stage every kid goes through! Went through the cyclo computer stage as a must have too, but in all honesty I prefer to not have any of that stuff now. We are tracked too much as it is. Also, it seems criminal to create "smart" pedal lights and not have them charge from the motion of the pedal!

[@klanko64]

One to check out (if you like not having to think about things) would definitely be a Reelight. Have one on the front and back of my bike and they’re great - they use induction from the rim spinning to power the lights so they come on when you start pedalling

[@tom.jacobs]

Got a not-so-smart e-bike, and a smart one (route, theft, enviolo automatic), and although at first also not convinced it would make my ride better, the route (small display) helped [although depending on the manufacturer to make better maps], the GPS tracker making that I park my bike with more confidence and the automatic gearing is a game-changing experience. Not sure about internationally but here it is prohibited to put lights that move or blink, or at places that are not the standard front/backlight (and I sort of get that, it makes it less easy to recognize what is happening/approaching/departing)

Regarding the visibility and ease of placement of the airtag there are some stem cap mounts. (Which wont fit all bikes but I think that is a neat design)

[@lesleykenwood2715]

I like the smart pedals. Thanks for testing them. Did not know they existed.

[@patrickquinn1304]

Hi Tom. I watched this video about 6-8 months ago, and just purchased the pedals tonight. I just got home after being hit by a car on my Dutch style e-bike while towing my 2 and 4 year old in a Burley trailer. Everyone is okay, the car hit me squarely while it made a left in an intersection. I was in a bike lane, and watching the car traveling the same direction as me, who was making a right across the bike lane. He saw me and I acknowledge him, slowing down, but I guess the driver coming the opposite way didn’t see me. Luckily he was moving slow and jammed the brakes so didn’t cause any major harm to us. It was about 6:30 EST in Toronto. Dark and rainy, so worst visibility conditions. It really shook me up only because of the kids, though they were not hurt and hardly scared. If you’re curious. I was on Dundas St riding east, past Broadview Ave. Hit in the intersection of Dundas Ave East and Boulton Ave. I think the decision I’ve made is not to ride with the kids after dark, even though they love taking the bike to swimming lessons and other activities. I’m annoyed with myself for not respecting the intersection more given the conditions. Anyways, love your videos and bought the pedals through your link, I’ll have them on my e-bike while I ride solo after dark for groceries, errands, and social events. Keep up the great work.

[@toothpastehombre]

Solid review vid. That last line was smart too :)

[@guringai]

I really like the brake light function, as I commute on busy roads.

[@AlexanderRoseTz]

Great video! Never seen that stuff in other videos! Impressed even. Keep up!

[@petet7458]

Love the channel and content... especially this "tackle vid" - introducing the new sport of "Contact Cycling" .... lol

[@torianjallen]

Great list. I’m thinking about that rear light. The app was overkill, but I like the functionality.

[@mithuharjani3620]

Hello Shifter, thanks for this phenomenal video and for showing us all the news for our bicycle very well explained, I also congratulate you for the beautiful publications that you always show us in your video in wide , green, and really very beautiful places, I congratulate you for all your effort to make life better on our bikes, greetings and until the next video. 😊👍👌☘️

[@ChristopherDempsey13]

The trick here is to make where you are 'wide, green, and really beautiful'.

[@user-og1er2qo5m]

Thanks for video - very interesting overview

[@PhilipSalen]

I love the pedal lights, but I like my (non smart device) toe clips. Also, the cliq smart bike light is nifty.

[@XylessBrawl]

The pedal lights seem like a great idea to me in particular.

[@olivernote9162]

I have one of the dedicated motion sensing alarms, which helps a lot.

[@andreslh]

Bravo man! Loved this video. The only gadget I liked was the smart pedals. Keep your fantastic work in the bike community. Greetings from Ottawa

[@Shifter_Cycling]

Thanks for watching!

[@Dellvmnyam]

Pedal lights are great. I have overshoes with the red light at the back so for autumn and winter riding I have much greater confidence that anyone behind me will see me.

[@jason-white]

I use smart devices on my bike. My favorites are my Garmin Edge 830, Garmin tail light and radar and garmin headlight.

[@Altema22]

The brake light is good for those with non-integrated lights. I still shake my head at 3k e-bikes that have integrated lights, but no brake light function. Especially on group rides (looking at you, Trek). Not sure I'd need the backpack since I ride with a RockBros rack bag that has hidden panniers, but that's me. The pedal lights are a great idea and there would be no mistaking the pedaling motion. AirTags could be helpful in some situations, but call the police and have them meet you there. Of course, if I was a thief, I'd run an app that scans for AirTags on demand. Thanks for the video!

[@DougGrinbergs]

Cliq smart taillight $70. Clever Arclight pedals $170. Both seem steep. Trying to decide what I'd actually pay for the seemingly useful but crazy-expensive pedals. Reference point: mall outdoor goods store basic pedals $20-35.

[@Shifter_Cycling]

Thank you for the prices. I don't love putting prices in my descriptions because they vary so much from country-to-country, but it's good for people to have a ballpark price, so thanks!

[@Shifter_Cycling]

What do you think of the smart devices? Do you need to make your bike smarter?

[@Briaaanz]

One of the things I've loved about cycling is that it (was) self contained and human powered. Adding a bunch of things that need recharging repulses me.

[@Zen-uy5ho]

It looks cool, and believe to make it smarter, but its just mad expensive.

[@robinjones5169]

Would love to hear your thoughts on indicators on a bike. I don't have a lot on mine but I have a bell, mirror, rear light/indicators and a big front light to improve awareness both ways. I plan to use my bike at night (gym, etc) and wondered whether somebody is really going to see me sticking my arm out in the dark? Love the channel, keep up the good work.

[@uzjenompajicek2023]

Airless tires 🙌 not smart but definitely makes my life better

[@guringai]

Definitely a big fan of the brake light. Critical safety feature for commuting on roads

[@OhTheUrbanity]

Those pedal lights are pretty rad!

[@Pseudynom]

Those things kinda destroy the point of the hub dynamo. And the lights are illegal where I live anyways. But there are hub dynamo rear lights, that have a brake light function. E.g the Busch+Müller Toplight Line Brake Plus.

[@een_schildpad]

I have that Busch and muller light and love it for it's simplicity... the dyno slows down and the brake light comes on 😎

[@RajuSingh-xn3od]

Hi Shifter, I just wanted to take a moment to comment to let you know you earned a subscriber. Nice to see a fellow calgarian, that is a youtuber and focused on healthy and bicycling rather than fitness bicycling. I just thought could you rate the different parts of the city on there bike pathway route availability, like downtown versus South West and Northwest, Notheast ...etc.

[@ricardosemino8133]

Buen video Saludos desde Perú un abrazo.

[@atomiccat2002]

those pedals would be awesome for a commuter bike!

[@stuarthirsch]

The pedal lights are cool and the brake light is cool. I just don't see the need for a smart pannier but I like that the pannier can convert to a back pack. The apple Airtag would be useful to find your bike in a city or where there is a bike parking lot.

[@evakildjdkslsl]

Lights for pedals are gorgeous

[@brightondude9327]

I'm pretty much rolling my eyes at all of them. The lights on the pedals is the most impressive however I think it is clever just for the sake of being clever. I just have my very stupid lights on my bike and they work very nicely thank you. The one smart thing though that has been transforming for me on my bike is my iPhone which I mount to my handlebar stem. Now when I go up to London on the train (it isn't far by train for me) I can navigate London so easily using my iPhone. That is a brilliant thing.

[@Michaelblasco]

Thanks!

[@Shifter_Cycling]

Thanks Michael! I appreciate the support. It means a whole lot.

[@donkee011]

Here's a suggestion on a couple of items that can make your ride much smarter: front fender and rear fender. You live in a rain prone climate. Get over it. Clean pants and back is the new cool.

[@TheNiteinjail]

the synchronized tail/brake lights would look cool on a bike and trailer :)

[@derekgliddon]

Greetings from Abu Dhabi. Great channel. I enjoy and appreciate the focus on cycling for practical purposes and the advocacy for cycling infrastructure in cities. I am curious ... Do you film at 6AM on Sundays? Many of your off-bike pieces are shot in built-up areas, but there is not a soul in sight!! I know Canada is sparsely populated, but...

[@annleach7908]

It gets dark early here in winter and we don't have a car so the lights look like great additions for us.

[@jellybeansi]

I have an idea for a future review: the NoxGear Tracer2! I bought one for night cycling the other day, after seeing someone running at night with it a few years ago, and it's incredibly bright/eye-catching. I think it would be a cool thing to review on the channel.

[@moisesrosario9716]

Quite smart stuff

[@MrNutz52]

Cool stuff

[@culhen]

An alternative to an AirTag is a Knog Scout. Security bolted to your bottle bosses either by itself or under the bottle cage. It uses the same tracking tech that Apple AirTags do but it also doubles up as a bike alarm (motion sensitive)

[@jolly7728]

Loved the taillight/brake light gadget. Would be great if it was also a turn signal light (maybe it would be too small for this to be visible to motorists).

[@quentinl.9072]

Nice video as usual, but you have to find a solution for the annoying wind sound. And talking about gadget and bike lights, i personnaly hate anything that seems fragile and thats not permanentaly attached to the bike. Best light i've ever seen is the lightskin solution, it's simple, it's always on your bike and with good rechargeable battery they last at least one month before recharging (i daily drive 15km a day). Nothing smart about it, just the best non-dynamo rear light outhere at the moment. Simple effective, long lasting, durable, anti-theft, and always on your bike. A must have for the city. I personally use the GPS solution sold by Invoxia to track my bikes, it's more expensive than a airtag but works better too.

[@karlInSanDiego]

Charging all these individual devices can suck the joy out of cycling (thinking of 4 pedal lights). But I like all the things you choose to include. Thanks, as always, Tom for your worthwhile cycling content. #modeshift4climate

[@fanom1]

I have the arc light pedals....I helped crowd fund them...I use a smart helmet with turn signals and lights....I have a solar panel for long tours....I use a GPS Garmin cycle computer...I even have a blue tooth speaker to listen to music and e-books....I am a serious cyclist..I like to tour....

[@Greg-zr4wm]

Most of these are interesting but way over priced. Definitely not within my budget for what they are. The air tag is an ok idea but rely on a couple of things. First you need to have an iPhone, as well they need to be around an iPhone to bounce a signal off and that iPhone can always be set not to do that and as you said how are you going to attach it to the bike so that its effective but yet can't just be ripped off. Thanks for the video, even though these products aren't my thing nice to see whats out there. As always I enjoyed watching

[@TheSpaceBrosShow]

Oooo been really looking @ those Redshift pedals for a buddy's bike but $$$$$$. He's super afraid of getting hit while biking so the more reflectors and lights I can cram on his bike the better

[@steemlenn8797]

You probalby get a 100 pack of reflectors for the same price. Make his bike into a christmas tree.

[@grahambonner508]

Could perhaps move to the Netherlands, but seriously probably one of the best and cheapest products is a really good high vis jacket. Consider also pedals with reflectors, rear view mirror, radar vehicle detector, tyres with reflective strips/side walls and something which is often overlooked - cyclist education/road craft. (There are lots of behavioural things we can do to protect ourselves)

[@TheSpaceBrosShow]

@@grahambonner508 completely agree. Knowing what to look for helps identify dicey situations and thus avoid them. Great suggestion on the hi-vis jacket!

[@TheSpaceBrosShow]

@@steemlenn8797 I hang out at a local bike non profit. They have a whole crateload of reflectors. I've thought about it, a lot

[@natfoote4967]

The lit pedals are pretty brilliant, so to speak. The truth is light sources beat reflectors by a long margin. Moving light sources beat stationary light sources, too. There is good research that led to putting reflectors on pedals. This technology takes that logic to the next level.

[@z33r0now3]

Brake lights are great, love them for trail/enduro biking with my buddy. Re AirTag: If the police wouldn’t act on me reporting where my stolen ebike is located, I’d try getting it back myself. We don’t have a gun problem here. My buddy got his kid’s bike stolen (AirTag in the frame), called the police and met them at the new location. 30 mins later it was his again. Here in Munich/Germany. Best 30€ spent imho.

[@TheObimara]

I am 100% for the idea that you can go on your bike naked or wearing all matte black and not having to worry about being lit up responsibly and legally. Having pedals that light up and detect direction are great, but I would not use the blinking mode. The sticky issues are that the lights need to be re-charged and are removable. If this type of light could be charged in some manner without user intervention they would be a perfect complement to dynamo hub lights on an acoustic and similar on an e-bike.

[@ecopennylife]

Tile is an option for Android phone users, similar to an Airtag. Those pedal lights are cool but wouldn't fit in a lot of pedals. I'm a fan of lights on the bike day and night. Keep up the good work.

[@CMG78]

looks like you use special peddles

[@Shifter_Cycling]

The Arclights come with custom pedals

[@Korina42]

@@Shifter_Cycling How do they work as pedals?

[@JaydelCorro]

I would like the holy grail of a light, theft-proof super lock. Don’t knock the old school. Clever design doesn’t have to depend on companion apps or USB.

[@another3997]

I must admit the only one I like are those illuminated pedals, but they're not something I would spend that much money on. For night riding, I like to have simple, highly reflective patches on my panniers, and tyres with a built in reflective strip. I wear a fluorescent vest with them on too. On my recumbent trike l also have them on the the flag and the pole. They are extremely effective. Simple, multi mode LED lights for visibility, with a powerful front light to see with. A head torch is great for when you look toward drivers emerging from side roads etc. The smartest thing on a bike should be the rider. Unfortunately, that isn't always the case. 😁

[@fallenshallrise]

Clever. This is a great point that I myself and probably 90% of riders overlook. A small amount of reflective material goes a long way since the vehicles that I'm most worried about running me over have their own super bright headlights on the front. 3M makes excellent reflective tape that you can cut into whatever shapes you want to apply to chainstays or a rear rack. Schwalbe tires have really good reflective stripes on the side walls of their tires that I'm sure have saved me at least once or twice.

[@mtbboy1993]

Perfect placement for a tracker is inside the frame if signal still is good. I've not tested it, but I saw somone had a rubber thing they inserted into the the fowntube via the head tube and placed an air tag there, so only way to remove it is to take the fork off. But I don't know which kind of rubber thing he used, and if this would work on any bike or which.

[@jamesphillips2285]

That would probably work better with a carbon frame. Water Bottle mount may be an option if you can cover the bolts.

[@mtbboy1993]

@@jamesphillips2285 I know a valve mounted holder for the air tag tracker exist, Muc Off released it this year . So you have a tracker inside where nobody can see have to Pop the bead to remove it. I don't know if it only works with their valves. I have Stzy valves, which I reccomend, also Miles Wide valve sate good, but don't have valve core tool on cap, so Stzy is the whole package. Muc Off also has bottle cage mount, but with color choices. But black or silver don't scream tracker. Muc Off pink does. I know Archer components released a holder for bottle cage mounts too, but made from softer material, I think Muc Off is aluminium, but not sure, not looked into it yet.

[@steemlenn8797]

All those things need a battery. And I have to charge them. The most work I have to do with my bike today is putting on a bit of air once a month. If at least those pedal lights were self-charging! That would be really clever! They have a constant up-down movement so there is definitely energy to harvest.

[@emma70707]

Love your videos so far, but there's a slight echo in the audio here that's absolutely driving me nuts, especially in the wrap up scene at the end in the field. Can you please look into this? :)

[@theendofmyropemydude]

I have a large "this bike is protected by gps tracking devices" sticker on my frame. It helps as a bit of a deterrent (if the thief can read). That way, you can hide the airtag so they can't remove it, but they know it's there somewhere and will probably move on.

[@RedlineXLR]

The snark of "Why is this bag so DUMB?" 😂 I highly recommend an airtag or equivalent, if not for the peace of mind of being able to quickly check my bike is where I left it when I'm at work or in class. The cost of the AirTag and a cheap case was well worth it in my case.

[@Imbatmn57]

I like the light up pedals but i hope im not out in the dark on my bike, i have two solar lights on my bike though so they charge themselves in case i am out when its dark out, they were from a sports store so they were probably pretty cheap.

[@majgloud6899]

People will get all these "smart" devices but wont get fenders haha (really liked the backlight though)

[@Shifter_Cycling]

I usually use fenders and they are the way to go, but I broke one recently and haven’t replaced it yet

[@grahambonner508]

My initial thought - I liked the rear/brake light , but would it prevent getting rear ended by a car, probably not, The pedal lights are nice but it's a lot of stuff to have to keep charging up, and I have reflectors that work pretty good. Simple is normally reliable, bicycles are fundamentally very simple machines and for me that is one of the attractions. So in summary, no I won't be buying any of those products.

[@Shifter_Cycling]

I am both appreciative of the simple nature of bikes (and that's one of the things I love about them) and a bit of a sucker for gadgets. Hence this video 😆

[@pbilk]

8:30 maybe Garage 529 can develop one in addition to their "protection" sticker.

[@bobskewer1874]

The motion sensor should make an alarm sound at the bike AND alert the phone. Missed opportunity there. Make it like newer cars with keyfobs and proximity; when the fob/owner is close to the bike the motion sensor is deactivated. If the owner is away, the bike becomes a loud nuisance for anyone trying to move it. Plus GPS tracking. Lol

[@BullzOfSteel]

what floodlight are you using on the bike in this video???

[@mtbboy1993]

Clever pedals, but they are tiny, so no go for me, I use Pedaling Innovations Catalyst pedals, for arch support. Bigger feet need bigger pedals, most ride with way too small pedals.

[@extrastuff9463]

Some of those are interesting devices but I would like to caution anyone to read up on legal requirements before buying and using these, everything below was valid the last time I read up on the lighting and reflectors requirements for bicycles in the Netherlands. Using blinking illumination while riding your bicycle is illegal, for both the front and rear light. Although I suppose the braking make it go brighter feature might be acceptable since it's not actually blinking. Additionally a normal two wheeled bicycle is required to use only one white or yellow front light and one red rear light during darkness or bad weather that reduces sight. But the pedal lights are likely not acceptable, I remember yellow/amber reflectors being specified as required there and white reflectors for the sides of the wheels. Also a red reflector at the rear. So if your bicycle has integrated lighting that's already being used adding the smart rear light or front light would probably not be allowed, choosing one of the two should be fine though. I do accept there are use cases for the various lighting options shown here and especially when you're forced on the road a lot more with cars in high speed areas it likely makes sense too. The pedal lighting will be quite distinctive going up and down, but if it's expensive I don't see it catching on anytime soon and integrated reflectors should do a good job already at a much lower cost if people use their car headlights.

[@CMG78]

those peddles are cool the rest to be honest like I drove a old car to keep it from being web connected I don't want my bike online either

[@maxdarling2669]

What kind of bike does he have? I want something like that. Minimal frame with cruiser handlebars.

[@mhossen]

I just wanna know where you got the shirt from!

[@Shifter_Cycling]

www.simons.ca/

[@definitelynotacrab7651]

I do kinda like the tail light, rest I can kinda do without

[@Capitanvolume]

My mountain bike was just stolen in Calgary today. Defi Cut 3 locks but left the front wheel. The property crime here is bad. The airtags are definitely going on my next bike.

[@guringai]

Consider the titanium bike lock by Altor. My bike feels much safer with that

[@mah6183]

I just noticed that you don’t ride with fenders. Since you commute, I thought you might. How about a short video on fenders: why/why not? (Or maybe you did one already?)

[@Shifter_Cycling]

I usually do, but broke one recently and haven't replaced it! kzbin.info/www/bejne/gmqoq6CFiraKrM0

[@tconnolly9820]

I have a lot of "stuff" on my bike I leave on permanently to make it a real alternative to my car. Mirrors, bell, horn, bags front and back of the handlebars and on the crossbar, a 25 litre double pannier bag on the back and other bits and pieces. But it's all deliberately cheap. The double pannier bags are the most expensive at under €10 from Amazon. Fine for carrying small cargo, a few groceries, coats etc. Everything else cost between €3-7 from Amazon, AliExpress and other bargain sites or bricks and mortar stores. I keep nothing on the bike or in the bags worth more than €10 but I still have loads of items from water, drinks, snacks, pen and pads, masks and sanitiser (still doing it) and more. Just like the glove box and storage areas in my car. But basically I hope nothing is individually worth stealing and so far so good. I've found my bags opened and rifled through but nothing taken. If anything had a brand name like Ortlieb or Arkle, it might as well be shouting, "steal me". But even in my small local town I still take all good or easily removable lights, repair kit, bags and anything else with me and usually just lock it with one heavy D lock. In larger urban areas I also bring a Diamond rated 2 metre chain lock. Having 8kg of locks (and maybe also add an airtag or two) may make my hugely expensive €400 bike a little less stealable than the one next to mine, but it is an added inconvenience although since everything about my attitude to cycling is around commuting PLUS always carrying cargo of one kind or another, it's just another extra to carry too. The real and justifiable fear of having your bike or anything you leave on it stolen is probably the biggest disincentive to more people commuting and casually riding bikes socially around their local towns and cities than the lack of actual paths and infrastructure. And I'm on the edge of beginning a rant so I better put on the brakes. All of these gadgets are very clever but eventually they will get stolen if they are left on your bike. Even the pedal lights if you lock your bike up outside your local shopping centre and walk away. Somebody will eventually see them and want them. Everything needs to be easily clip on and clip off if you're going to be out of sight of your bike even for just a few minutes.

[@TheMonemone2]

Maybe we should have a sticker sign that says "Protected by AirTag", like one of those house security alarm system sticker decals.

[@TheDangFoo]

Pinhead Locks make an AirTag holder that mounts to any tube and uses a coded key to unlock it… but it’s really bulky.

[@nickwilson6883]

How about putting the device in a hidden place, like inside the tube, and putting a warning sticker where it’s visible? Sort of like the ADT stickers on windows. I wouldn’t steal that bike,lol. I imagine you’ve already thought of this. Can you tell me why this would not be a great idea?

[@jakeeschen7868]

How does one keep the pedal lights from getting stolen?

[@SashoDeBoy]

Not trying to ruin your parade but buyer beware - have had no luck in getting the Cliq lights delivered. Although I ordered over 1 1/2 months the only feedback I get to my inquiries is: "your order is waiting to be shipped - hang in there"

[@mtbboy1993]

I reccomend to use different type of locks and one alarm lock.

[@kippywylie]

Yep, my expensive Gazelle has 3 locks that are simple to secure in 30 seconds. A simple cheap alarm disk brake clamp lock. The AXA Cafe lock. And finally the ABUS Bordo X-treme folding lock. Beyond this I will remove the battery

[@mtbboy1993]

@@kippywylie thx for sharing, I've not heard of Gazelle. I have Bordo Alarm folding lock. I make sure to lock both wheels.

[@mtbboy1993]

@@kippywylie I've not tried disk locks. but wheels can be removed disk can be taken off or replaced. But I have huge disks so doing that will probably not happen. But an alarm disk lock is much better, as attempting to remove the wheel to remove the disk won't do any good.

[@javimontes1]

How much liters have your bag?

[@sagichdirdochnicht4653]

I don't like any of those, except for the AirTag, if you got an Apple device. Convertable Bags are great, I absolutely love my Ortlieb Vario PS. The smart thingy is pretty much a power bank. Throw one in a bag and call it smart. The light gadgets... There is no need for another ten billion additional phone apps and I'm not in the mood of recharging a bunch of stuff.

[@greenhippie5360]

I personally like clever devices over smart devices.

[@patrickphippspa584]

The Cliq Smart Bike Lights seem to be in real trouble. I almost bought but luckily found that they are not communicating with buyers and are taking money. There are a number of videos on this and "trust pilot" has given them a 2.2 rating. Looks like you'll say goodbye to your cash and never see the product. Buyer beware! Thanks Tom!

[@Shifter_Cycling]

Thanks for the heads-up on this.

[@wildaviation5528]

My solution to the airtag problem: Have one airtag visible on the handlebar. But then have a sign on the bike (perhaps a sticker next to the tag) with "this is not the only one". You wouldn't even necessarily need to put another tag on. Just the thought of the possibility that there could be a tag hidden somewhere should be enough to deter thieves. And this is better than just a sticker saying "this bike is monitored" because the tag is proof that whoever's bike it is (yours) actually put a tracking device on it. So why wouldn't there be another? Honestly I reckon that would be enough of a psychological hassle to put any thief off of stealing your bike.

[@reneperalta5449]

Maybe a sticker on your bike that warns that the bike has a smart tracker.

[@ShannaTrenholm]

If the AirTag could let out screams like the infant on my last transatlantic flight--that would be a theft deterrent!