Over the last year, we've seen the launch of a number of smart helmets that integrate other functions into what is otherwise a fairly simple bit of kit, but for the most part, we wouldn't say they're something that most of us would want to wear. However this could be about to change thanks to the Fusar Mohawk system, which can bring additional functionality to your existing road helmet.
The first question to be answered is what exactly is it? The Mohawk itself is a relatively small black box that attaches to the top of your helmet and contains a camera as well as all the hardware to give GPS and GLONASS locations, and ANT+ and Bluetooth connectivity. Alongside that you have a Bluetooth remote control that can be attached to your wrist or handlebars, and a Bluetooth headset, which allows you to chat with your riding mates wherever they are in the world.
The action camera is probably the most important feature of the Fusar Mohawk. It will take 2MP photos or high definition video, and there's also the HotShot feature which allows you to push the handlebar-mounted Bluetooth remote to save the last 15 seconds of footage and share it on social media, even if you weren't actively recording.
The camera also plays its part in the crash detection feature of the Fusar Mohawk, saving the last two minutes of footage if the accelerometer in the unit senses that you've been in a collision. The unit will also send out texts to your emergency contacts showing your location in case you've had a bad accident while out riding on your own.
And if you are out on your own then you don't have to be lonely, with the Bluetooth headset allowing you to chat with up to 12 other people while you're out riding.
The Fusar Mohawk is able to send your location to your contacts in case of emergency
Finally, the Fusar Mohawk can act as an activity tracker using its GPS and GLONASS positioning systems. This will connect to an app on your iOS or Android smartphone (to be released in early 2016), and will also show other stats that you won't get from most normal cycling computers, such as how far you leaned into the corner, or how much airtime you got when you took too much speed over that hump back bridge.
The only bad news is that you can't get all this straight away. The company has only just finished crowdfunding on Indiegogo, and is aiming to get the finished product ready for shipping by the middle of 2016. When it does come to market, the RRP is expected to be $499 (£335) plus shipping, so it certainly won't be cheap, although you can currently pre-order on the Fusar Mohawk Indiegogo page at a reduced price of $349 (£168) plus shipping
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Henry Robertshaw began his time at Cycling Weekly working with the tech team, writing reviews, buying guides and appearing in videos advising on how to dress for the seasons. He later moved over to the news team, where his work focused on the professional peloton as well as legislation and provision for cycling. He's since moved his career in a new direction, with a role at the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.
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