Coros Linx Smart Cycling Helmet
The Coros Linx smart cycling helmet was a Kickstarter success story, amassing an impressive $320,000 – six times its $50,000 funding goal . This year at CES, the company is showing off the cyclist safety product, which is now shipping.
Three main features
As a quick refresher, the Linx features three main hardware features that set it far apart from the cycling helmet of yesteryear. First of all, there are stereo bone conduction speakers that transmit sound without obstructing the ear canals, and allow you to hear the sounds around you. In urban environments, being able to hear approaching cars is extremely vital.
The speakers can transmit directions from your navigational software of choice so you can keep your eyes on the road rather than having to divert your eyes to check a screen. There’s also a handlebar-mounted remote with big buttons for volume control, music control, and taking calls.
A microphone situated at the temple inside the helmet is shielded from wind noise, but is also sensitive enough to pick up the voice of the wearer. When used in conjunction with the bone conduction speakers, a cyclist could take a phone call while riding.
Perhaps the most important feature that defines the Linx as a “smart” helmet is the sensor package that can detect a crash incident and call for help. Using the app, the wearer can define an emergency contact. In the event of a crash, the wearer has 30 seconds to check-in with the app before an alert is sent to summon help.
