Electronics, Lighting, & Gadgets - Bicygnals turning signals

Curious new gadget, though i have doubts as to its usefulness. still worth a look i think.

http://blog.scifi.com/tech/archives/2007/11/02/bicygnal_signal.html

I went to see these in my local shop but what put me off was a couple of things. The unit is quite big which means that I'd have to carry them around rather than leave them on the bike at work.

It's quite a heavy unit too once you've added batteries and because i'd be using it on a folding bike, it really would be a clip on and clip off for every ride. In the end I just figured arm signals would continue to do.

David.

Not to poop on the idea, but hand signals have always worked better for me on my motorcycle than electric signals. I even had one lady YELL at me for not using my electric signals one day (5pm?). Thing is, I was using them. She just couldn't (wouldn't?) see them.

Night would probably be different, just saying :)

I love the design but I too agree it is a bit large. Granted larger gives the driver the preception (sp?) that you're a larger bike on the road but at the cost of clunkieness.

I like it if it was smaller a bit. Perhaps have the rear unit split into two units with a attachment for those with racks and also have a bar for those without racks so you can mount the whole unit as one. If you're having a hard time picturing what I'm trying to say about the back signals what I mean is |_ _| to make the unit more configurable.

I wonder how much they want for the unit. I see all the suppliers as UK shops. Oh wait. my bad.. the original link said ~$80ish. So I'm guessing that's like $160 CDN then with the exchange rate.

Much too expensive and Fredish. There will be batteries in each of the three units. Who said wireless is always best? If you really want something similar at a much lower price. Go here.
http://cgi.ebay.com/Bicycle-Turn-Signal-Directional-Brake-Light-NEW-L98_W0QQitemZ140173814302QQihZ004QQcategoryZ420QqtcZphotoQQcmdZViewItem
http://i19.ebayimg.com/05/i/000/a7/2c/2948_1.JPG

You can DIY your own by cutting blank circuit board material and using a Dremel Moto-Tool to cut isolating traces for the center taillight and outer turn signal 1206 SMD style LED's.
http://www.pilom.com/BicycleElectronics/PCBstripWithLEDs.JPG
A simple 555 circuit will make the amber turn signal LED's flash. This link will show you how.
http://ourworld.compuserve.com/homepages/Bill_Bowden/555.htm
http://ourworld.compuserve.com/homepages/Bill_Bowden/555leds.gif