Over the years, there have been a number of developments in many areas of motorcycle technology. Engines have been redesigned to provide more horsepower, bikes have become more fuel efficient, and motorcycles overall have become smaller and more compact. However, one area that has not really changed that much is the motorcycle helmet. A full helmet is still a boxy, confining piece of equipment that many people hate but few people can deny can be lifesaving in an accident.
Nevertheless, Skully Helmets Inc. is ready to change that.
A New Helmet for the Technological Age
The Skully AR-1 looks like a standard helmet from the outside, but inside it is anything but normal. This high-tech device features a heads-up display, a rearview camera, navigation, and can even connect to an Android phone for more options. Even better, once the helmet is released in May of 2015, Skully plans to release an open source development kit that will let enterprising programmers create apps for the AR-1. Updates to this software will be available to assist developers and to provide these apps to users. The helmet will be compatible with both iPhone and Android.
The Heads-Up Display (HUD) will display several different things. The rider will be able to see what is directly behind them thanks to the small camera built into the back of the AR-1. It is also possible to see what's in both the left and right blind spots. It can be configured to show turn-by-turn directions when needed, and the helmet is designed to interface with compatible motorcycles to show speed and other information.
Will it be Distracting?
Some riders wonder if all of these displays, navigational directions, and rearview angles will be distracting. Skully has taken that into account. The rearview display is situated outside of the primary field of view, so it's not going to be constantly in sight. It is also designed to appear in the distance. This makes it easier to stay focused on the road while also looking at the display. It actually makes riding safer because the driver will not be looking back over his or her shoulder. The camera can be adjusted via the smartphone app, too.
The turn-by-turn navigation system is also an unobtrusive as possible. Directions only appear when they are needed, so the map and turn arrows are not constantly displayed. If this system is distracting, the visuals can be turned off.
Controlling the AR-1 does not involve looking away from the road to press buttons, either. Instead, the device features a built-in microphone that accepts voice commands.
Going Global
The Skully AR-1 is currently available for pre-order through an Indiegogo campaign. While a demonstration of the helmet was available at DEMO in October, it is still not quite ready for use on the roads. The expected released date is May 2015. Until then, the company will continue beta testing with volunteer bikers. Unfortunately, those hoping to get their hands on one of these early testing units may be disappointed. Skully has reported that over 100,000 bikers have already volunteered to be a part of the beta testing program.
