Back in December, I mentioned that the Lumos Smart Bike Helmet was available to pre-order. Since then, my review sample showed up. At the same time, Utah weather dropped to single digits. Also, our air quality was the worst in the nation, due to an inversion. While I’m excited to review this helmet, I’m not so keen on “testing” it. Pretty sure if I attempt to ride on our icy roads, its impact protection will be called into play. And I would end up gasping for air. So this week, I’m sharing first impressions.
Inside the box was the helmet, turn signal switch, mounting bits, a magnetic charging cable, and a manual. It looks like some thought went into the mount, to make it as universal as possible. Heavy duty rubber bands attach the base to your bars, with a grippy gasket underneath. Then the switch is turned 90 degrees to install or remove. Simple, but effective. Not sure I’m as happy with the charging cable. Although I’m not a fan of proprietary cables, it seems durable. Hopefully, Lumos will make spares available. My guess is many riders will want one for work, and one for home.
As covered in my original article here, the Lumos has quite a few LED lights. Up front, there are 28 super bright white LEDs. Out back are 22 red super bright LEDs. And both sides have a bank of amber turn signal LEDs. That should provide a lot of visibility. By the next installment of this ongoing review, I hope to have video of them in action, during daylight and night time. Below, you’ll see images of them in my studio, under bright lights, and in the dark.
After charging the helmet and switch, I downloaded the Lumos app. This lets you check the status of both batteries. In addition, it allows you to change settings for the switch and helmet. One lets you select your battery level notifications. Another is the beeping frequency. You can even set the sensitivity of the warning lights. There is also a firmware update option, which allowed me to update the helmet’s firmware.
Pairing was the same as with any Bluetooth device. That button the back of the helmet turns it on, and also puts it in pairing mode. From there, I was able to set up the warning lights. As you slow, the switch detects deceleration, and sends a signal to the helmet to activate the rear lights, not unlike a brake light. Dial that in, and you’ve made yourself safer. Motorists instinctively associate sudden red lights with slowing.
Finally, it has to fit. Right? Luckily, the strap was perfect out of the box. Then it just took a twist of the rear dial, and I had a great fit. Even though Lumos only offers a single size, it seems that it will cover the 54cm to 62cm range nicely. Now, I’m really stoked to get out and ride. About the only other concern is that I’m running out of room on my handlebars. Ditching the GPS will help, but the switch and a headlight make things cozy on my riser bar. Switching to a wider flat bar may be in order. Either way, check back soon for a follow up.
Brian