My Next Lid [I Wish]

[free2ride]

ah, technology . . . you move too fast for me . . . and you're too expensive.



LiveMap

[sgtslag]

There are some new helmets which have a mirror system to provide a HUD view of what's behind you.  It's all low-tech, mirrors, and possibly fiber optics, but there is nothing low about the price tag!  Waiting for it to come down in price...  May be waiting less time for my retirement!  Cheers!

[cdaiscool]

I work in fiber optics - how else do you expect us to run 10 gb networks in buildings? ;)

On that note, I can personally assure you there is nothing cheap about fiber optics. But you can achieve near-instantaneous information streams with it.

[sgtslag]

Not sure it has fiber optics, after reviewing the review (WebBikeWorld Review).  It is a nice concept:  Link.  Interesting, and here today -- no batteries required.  

[seestheday]

I imagine that in a few year google glass will simply get integrated into helmets.

http://www.google.com/glass/start/what-it-does/

[cdaiscool]

I sure hope so. I don't think they will, but it would be cool.

[TOOLS1]

Just what we need. More technology to distract us while driving. As if we don't have enough idiots trying to run us over while using a cell phone, watching a GPS, or staring at our pretty taillights flashing mesmerizing patterns. Now we need an interactive face shield, so we can play Halo 4 at 70 MPH.
TOOLS

[sgtslag]

I understand Tools' concerns, but this is quite a leap forward.  It is too rich for my blood, but perhaps one day?  It is aimed squarely at people who tour, and that is a niche, within a niche.

Today, there are bluetooth GPS units, which interface with current intercom systems:  you can sync up to your phone, GPS, your passenger, and other riders who have a bluetooth-compatible intercom system, within range of your system.  The downside to the bluetooth systems, is that you have to switch channels, to interact with each device.  Some channels will interrupt, and switch you over to them, automatically, but then you must manually switch back.  We only use our intercom with each other (FM radio built in, non-bluetooth, if desired) -- too much hassle to use it with other devices.  While riding, I could not care less about phone calls (a review on our system stated that the tester received, and conducted, a hands-free  phone conversation, while riding at highway speeds, and the caller never even knew he was riding, until he stated so -- still, a HUGE distraction while riding, which he noted in his review...  No thanks!).

The GPS bluetooth systems are more money, and we use maps, instead.  With maps, you just need to familiarize yourself with the streets of interest, and commit them to short-term memory.  I don't blindly trust my GPS, unless necessary (I almost always have maps, as back-up...).  Maps may be old-school, but they worked for decades before GPS systems, with/without voice commands.  Pulling over to check a map, can (should!!!) be done in a safe manner.  The video made it look worse than it is.

As to information overload, and distraction, it happens, and it is a valid concern.  The HUD GPS within the helmet is not really overload, as portrayed in the video.  The science of info-overload, is well known, well researched, by the military -- pilots have crashed due to distraction.  This is nothing compared to the cockpit of a fighter jet (pilots use hands and feet to control the plane, just like piloting a motorcycle, minus the G-suit, of course).

Maybe in 10 years it will be commonplace, widely accepted/used, and affordable to the average rider...  Time will tell.  HUD's on cars have been around for over 15 years, but they're not common, or readily affordable -- yet.

[TOOLS1]

That's all good Sarg, but you are leaving out the "idiot factor," and that is a pretty big factor. Not everybody is as responsible as you, and I. Just because it is a "niche" item does not mean it is only going to be used in that fashion.
TOOLS

[seestheday]

This is my personal preference, but for me, the last thing I want on my motorcycle is a phone, or to be able to talk to people.  I don't want anyone to even have the option of calling me or texting me.

I don't want GPS, and I don't want a HUD.

Part of the reason I love my bike is because of how close I am to how it is working all of the time.  I am shifting the gears, I am listening to the engine, I feel the clutch working, and I know how hard I can squeeze my brakes before the tires start to slide.

If it weren't for speed limits and it being illegal to ride without one I'd happily remove my speedometer.

If I wanted GPS, a cell phone, an automatic gearbox, ABS, or a HUD I'd drive my cage.  

For cages the tech is moving to self driving cars.  When that happens it will be a revolution.  Roads will be *much* safer and less congested.

[sgtslag]

I think I see what you mean, now:  it may be used by folks making deliveries, within a metro-area, I suppose.  I don't know how else it might get used.  Craig's List, drug deals, maybe?


I agree, there are stupid people, both in cars, and on bikes.  The Darwin Effect is ever-present.

For us, we would rarely need that kind of precision guidance on our trips (we almost never have a specific street address we need to reach).  The only thing I could see using it for, would be to find nearby gas, food, and lodging POI's (a regular GPS can do that, just fine -- we have always relied on road signs for those, seven years and counting, with only two scary experiences).  Dad gum'it!!!  Talked myself right out of the idea of ever getting one after I win the Lottery -- which I don't even play...  Cheers!

[free2ride]

after my experience this week with GPS and google maps [minor as it was] I'm back to "normal".

if they integrated an "idiot ahead" or "behind" warning system it would be good!