Pediscope gives cyclists eyes in the top of their head

The pediscope is a handlebar-mounted prism that allows a cyclist to see the road ahead while their head is down.

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Road bikes can have an extreme riding position that has the rider leaning forward with the neck craning upwards – a discomfort alleviated by lowering the head. This ‘sprint position’ is more aerodynamic, as well as comfortable, but prevents the rider from keeping their eyes on the road ahead.

The Pediscope claims to allow a rider to safely look down while seeing what is directly in front. By giving your neck and back this relief, even for a few moments, the makers of the Pediscope claim it enables you to ride longer, stronger and more comfortably than ever before. Find out more about the Pediscope at Kickstarter.com

Whether or not the Pediscope performs as it promises - and it's certainly not something you'd want to rely on in the city - it is pleasingly low-tech. There seems to be a never-ending succession of app, Bluetooth or GPS-enable gadgets that promise to make cycling better, safer or faster.

High hopes for hi-tech

The high-tech alternative to the Pediscope is a camera linked to a handlebar-mounted 3.5-inch LCD video screen. The Hindsight 30 was unveiled fours years go for racing cyclists who want to monitor fellow competitors and commuter cyclists who need to keep an eye on motorists.

The digital camera is mounted to the seat post and incorporates an LED rear light. The system is powered by a re-chargeable lithium-ion battery.

However, like so many cycling gadgets that are solutions to problems that don't really exist, the Hindsight 30 is no longer on the market.

The ethical choice

The ETA was established in 1990 as an ethical provider of green, reliable travel services. Over 30 years on, we continue to offer cycle insurance , breakdown cover and mobility scooter insurance while putting concern for the environment at the heart of all we do.

The Good Shopping Guide judges us to be the UK’s most ethical provider.

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