SideLights, the Swiss startup founded by Arthur Claessens, is innovating in cyclist safety with a handlebar-integrated lighting system that offers 360° visibility and turn signals. The final design has just been unveiled, with pre-sales scheduled for late October 2024 and a market launch in April 2025.

A project born from a family passion for cycling

Arthur Claessens, a passionate BMX rider 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 even won the bronze medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics—Arthur has made cyclist safety his priority. Today, the startup is supported by School of Engineering and Management Vaud (HEIG-VD) and various national innovation programs, including Innosuisse, and is in the "Patent Pending" phase.

SideLights: total visibility for increased safety

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

  • Bike width visibility: Thanks to dual lights, the width of the bike is clearly perceived by motorists, increasing the distance cars give when passing.
  • Integrated turn signals: Particularly safe at intersections and roundabouts, the turn signals improve communication between cyclists and drivers.
  • Powerful dual front beam: Inspired by car lights, SideLights is equipped with two front headlights, ensuring better visibility both for seeing and being seen, especially in poorly lit areas.

An innovation designed for commuter cyclists

With over 5,000 cyclist accidents reported annually in Switzerland, it is estimated that half of accidents could be avoided with an extra second of visibility in poor lighting conditions. SideLights is specifically designed to meet the needs of urban and commuter cyclists who face daily safety challenges. Easy to install and compatible with most bikes, the system requires no complex tools. "As a regular cyclist, I wanted a product that was easy to use, effective, and above all, safe for daily commutes," explains Arthur Claessens. Firmly attached to both ends of the handlebars, the system is difficult to steal once in place. Additionally, the batteries are interchangeable and can be easily removed for charging, while leaving the device attached to the handlebars for optimal security. SideLights also offers an optional kit with ergonomic grips and a mirror specially designed for a perfect fit.
The goal was also to create a lighting system with an elegant design capable of making every bike unique. Mission accomplished: the new design, unveiled in mid-September on social media, stands out for its originality. This result is the fruit of a collaboration with Martin Stricker, an experienced bike designer and former elite alpine skier.

A highly anticipated launch

SideLights pre-sales will begin at the end of October 2024 on Kickstarter, a crowdfunding platform. This will allow the young startup to invest in its first large-scale production. The official market launch of the product is scheduled for April 2025, a crucial milestone for the young startup, which aims to expand 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," emphasizes Arthur.
Thanks to the support of HEIG-VD and its industrial automation institute, led by Maurizio Tognolini, SideLights benefits from an ideal framework for research and development of its innovation. Its partners, including the Gebert Rüf Foundation, the Foundation for Technological Innovation, and Venture Kick, have enabled them to raise 300,000 CHF entirely dedicated to development.
Finally, Zoé Claessens, bronze medalist at the Paris Olympics and Arthur’s sister, becomes SideLights’ ambassador. According to Arthur, "Zoé is the perfect ambassador, bringing visibility and credibility to SideLights, as both a professional and commuter cyclist herself."

For more information

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

Images available here.