Adding CydeKick to Your Bike Provides Pedal-Generated USB Power

Adding CydeKick to Your Bike Provides Pedal-Generated USB Power

For many commuters, cycling is the most efficient way to travel. A bike’s running costs are negligible, it is fuelled by your breakfast, and it gives off absolutely no harmful emissions. But in an age when connectivity is deemed essential, the inability to top up your phone while you pedal seems a terrible waste of leg power. Spinetics, a two-person team from Miami, has spent the past couple of years designing a workaround. The result of their efforts is the CydeKick, a small electricity-generating gadget that can be added to any regular bike to provide USB power.

The main generator fits onto the axle of your bike, on the outside of the main frame, while the supplied magnetic disk affixes to the wheel. As this disk rotates past the generator, power is generated through electromagnetic induction. In essence, it is an advanced version of the basic magnet-and-copper-wire school experiment. To maximize efficiency, the design incorporates strong neodymium magnets, a “special arrangement of coils,” and the careful use of materials. Impressively, this does not add any friction to already insufferable hill climbs.

0903308c723853fc1d7148ffc829ac74_original

From the generator, the current is converted from AC to DC power and fed up a wire to the handlebars. The cable attaches to a small LED headlight, which provides constant or flashing illumination. The Pro version of the CydeKick also has a battery for storing excess power, and a USB port on the underside of the headlight for charging devices. When combined with a suitable handlebar mount, this means you can easily get GPS directions or film your ride without wasting battery.

Spinetics1

The CydeKick Mini (without a battery or USB) is currently available to backers for $150 and it is due to ship next July. The Pro version is $275, and will be delivered a couple of months later.

Mark is best known for writing about apps, but he also loves the tactile, hardware side of technology. Being a professional photographer, he's pretty handy with a camera, and he's a self-confessed tweetaholic.
Join the Discussion

You Might Also Like

4 Cryptocurrency trends for 2024 and beyond

4 Cryptocurrency trends for 2024 and beyond

Keeping up with the latest developments in the cryptocurrency market is handy for investors looking to maximize their investments. Doing so enables you to make smart investment choices while maximizing profits. For that reason, we’re highlighting the top 4 cryptocurrency..
LEFEET P1 underwater scooter: ideal for exploring shipwrecks and caves

LEFEET P1 underwater scooter: ideal for exploring shipwrecks and caves

I live near the sea and try to explore the depths whenever I can. Over the years, I’ve found that an underwater scooter is an excellent way to cover more mileage while I’m beneath the waves. So I was thrilled..
What is OSS in telecom? Information, benefits & product examples

What is OSS in telecom? Information, benefits & product examples

What is OSS in telecom? OSS stands for Operational Support Systems. These software systems enable efficient and effective management of telecommunications services and network management. Telecommunications operators use such solutions. Today, many options make it easier to manage and connect..
HeatsBox Go review: this heated lunch box warms your meals in 15–25 minutes

HeatsBox Go review: this heated lunch box warms your meals in 15–25 minutes

If I’m on the go all day, I hit up McDonald’s or Panera for lunch. Lately, however, I’ve been trying to cook more of my food at home. The trouble is, bringing casseroles and other cooked dishes with me has..
MWC Barcelona 2024: flying taxis, bendable phones & so much more

MWC Barcelona 2024: flying taxis, bendable phones & so much more

As chief business development officer (CBDO) of Gadget Flow, I love witnessing new tech releases to the consumer market. At MWC 2024, I got the chance to experience firsthand some of the latest ideas and innovations that will impact our..
These 6 technologies give your business 5-star customer service ratings

These 6 technologies give your business 5-star customer service ratings

Years ago, all it took to run a successful business was an innovative product that customers wanted. After that, everything else was secondary. You could succeed with relatively high prices. You could even get by with subpar customer service technologies...