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Test Riding Smart Bikes

May 29, 2017

More and more bicycle makers are experimenting with digital networking. The options for smart bikes range from cellular tracking chips to smart rider's assistance apps. But how much can they really do?

https://p.dw.com/p/2YMwW
DW Sendung Shift Smartbike
Image: DW

Test riding smart bikes

Bike locks that can be opened by smart phone, anti-theft protection from integrated chips and smart lighting systems - the Dutch VanMoof Company is looking to the future with smart bikes. Swiss bike maker Stromer has also integrated mobile phone tracking into its ST2. The high-tech wheels can even digitally monitor the performance of their riders. And the Cyclotron, made in the U.S.A., boasts a smart lighting system that automatically illuminates the wheels in the dark, while lasers project markings on the ground to the right and left. SHIFT took these smart bikes for test rides.