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SideLights, the Swiss startup founded by Arthur Claessens, is innovating in cyclist safety with a handlebar-integrated lighting system offering 360° visibility and turn signals. The innovation was launched on October 29, 2024 on Kickstarter, with immediate success: the initial goal was reached in just 1 hour and more than 300 customers have already supported the project within 5 days. The campaign is currently ongoing and will end on Wednesday, November 27, 2024. Link to the Kickstarter page .

A project born from a family passion for cycling

Arthur Claessens, a BMX enthusiast and commuter cyclist, launched SideLights at the end of 2020 during his studies at HEIG-VD. Coming from a family of cyclists – his sister Zoé won the bronze medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics – Arthur has made cyclist safety his priority. Today, the startup benefits from the support of various national innovation programs, including Innosuisse, and is in the “Patent Pending” phase.

SideLights: total visibility for greater safety

SideLights stands out for its comprehensive approach to cyclist safety. This light system is installed at the ends of the handlebars and provides 360-degree visibility , allowing cyclists to be seen from all angles. Here are the main features:

• Visibility in width of the bike : Thanks to the double lights, the width of the bike is clearly perceived by motorists, which increases the overtaking distances of cars.
• Integrated direction indicators : A turn signal, especially safe at intersections and roundabouts, improves communication between cyclists and drivers.
• Powerful dual front lighting : Inspired by car lighting, SideLights features dual front lights that ensure better visibility, both for seeing and being seen, especially in poorly lit areas.

An innovation designed for commuter cyclists

While more than 5,000 cyclists are injured each year in Switzerland, it is estimated that half of all accidents could be avoided with an extra second of visibility in poor visibility conditions. SideLights is specially designed to meet the needs of urban and commuter cyclists, who face safety challenges on a daily basis. Easy to install and compatible with most bikes, the system adapts without the need for complex tools.

“As a regular cyclist, I wanted a product that was easy to use, efficient and, above all, safe for everyday rides,” explains Arthur Claessens. Securely attached to both ends of the handlebars, the system is difficult to steal once in place. In addition, the batteries are interchangeable and can be easily removed for charging, while leaving the device fixed in the handlebar for optimum safety. SideLights also offers an optional kit with ergonomic grips and a rearview mirror, specially designed for a perfect fit.

A unique and elegant design

The goal was also to create a lighting system with an elegant design, capable of making each bike unique. A successful bet: the new design, unveiled in mid-September on social networks, stands out for its originality. This result is the fruit of a collaboration with Martin Stricker, a designer specializing in the field of bicycles and a former elite alpine skier.

A highly anticipated launch

The official launch of the product on the market is planned for April 2025 , a crucial step for the young startup that wants to expand its market internationally. “We have big ambitions for SideLights. This product is just the beginning: our vision is to improve the safety and comfort of cyclists through a range of innovative products,” Arthur emphasizes.

Thanks to the support of HEIG-VD and its Institute of Industrial Automation, headed by Maurizio Tognolini, SideLights benefits from an ideal framework for the research and development of its innovation. Its partners, including the Gebert Rüf Foundation, the Foundation for Technological Innovation and Venture Kick, have raised CHF 300,000 , entirely intended for development.

Finally, Zoé Claessens , bronze medalist at the Paris Olympics and Arthur's sister, becomes the ambassador of SideLights. According to Arthur, "Zoé is the ideal ambassador, bringing visibility and notoriety to SideLights, as a professional cyclist and commuter herself."

For more information

Kickstarter campaign: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/sidelights/sidelights-first-360-and-double-beam-safety-bike-lights

SideLights website: www.sidelights.com
Industrial Automation Institute: https://heig-vd.ch/recherche/instituts/iai/#projets
Arthur Claessens, founder of SideLights
arthur@sidelights.com
+41787321072