Say goodbye to earphones for cycling

Much is said about the risks of cycling while listening to music, but a new type of ear phone, which forgoes speakers in favour of ‘surface sound technology’, promises a safer alternative.

Sound Band fits behind the ear and uses a process referred to as surface-excitation to produce sound without the need for traditional in-ear speakers.

According to the designers of Sound Band: “The user experiences exceptional audio quality, with crisp treble and resonant bass, all while being able to carry on a conversation and remain aware of the world around them.”

Cycling while listening to music

Listening to music while cycling on the road is a contentious issue.

It is vitally important to keep your wits about you on the road, whatever your mode of transport, but routinely equipping cars with loud sound systems while at the same time discouraging those riding bicycles, or on foot, the chance to listen to music, appears to be a case of double standards. Let us know what you think.

Do you listen to music while cycling or walking? Do you feel it puts you at greater risk?

https://youtu.be/oDV0lCCnCko

Another alternative to traditional ear buds or headphones, that does not drown out ambient sound, is possible by conducting sound through the skull.

Cynaps is the world's first Bluetooth bone conduction headset incorporated into a hat.

Sewn into an ordinary-looking baseball cap, the high-tech device allows you to answer calls and listen to music via an iphone or android handset.

The advantage for cyclists is that hearing via the ear is unhindered – perfect for remaining aware of approaching traffic.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dudy-zw4yj4

Cycling and future tech

The Sound Band and Cynaps designs may sound far fetched, but both are available to buy now and are simply the latest examples of how high-tech devices may soon become as commonplace a cycling accessory as a water bottle.

An increasing number of cyclists now use helmet cams to record evidence of bad driving in case they are knocked off, but the forthcoming Google Glass promises a world of new possibilities.

Google Glass is a voice-activated computer worn like a pair of spectacles that projects images into the top corner of the wearer’s field of vision. They offer full internet access as well as the option to record video footage on the move. Google Glass is to go on sale later this year in America for £1,000 a pair. As with all technology, expect the price to drop.

Cycle insurance for here and now

There are GPS anti-theft trackers for bicycles available to buy now, but they are not effective enough to do away with the need for traditional cycle insurance. Cover from the ETA includes protection against theft, accidental damage and vandalism (including at race and charity events), £5m liability, breakdown cover for your bike and you and a host of other benefits. From less than £22 per year.

Get an instant bicycle insurance quote.