Real-time tire pressure monitoring sensor
In the world of cycling, every detail counts. You're not just pedaling; you're navigating a delicate balance between speed, control, and the unpredictable whims of the terrain beneath you. Yet, how often do we really think about the air in our tires beyond a cursory squeeze before a ride?
Enter the Outrider—a small, unassuming device that could change how you connect with your bike. It's a tire pressure sensor that fits inside your tubeless tires, sending real-time pressure readings straight to your Garmin device. No more guesswork, no more mid-ride mishaps from pressure that's too high or too low.
Installation is straightforward. The sensor is a flexible strip that wraps around your valve stem, sitting snugly between the rim and the tire. As long as your rim has an internal width of at least 19 mm—which most do—you're set. Weighing in at just 3.5 grams, it won't throw off your wheel's balance or performance.
What sets the Outrider apart is its precision. It offers accuracy within ±0.7% up to 39 psi and ±1.4% up to 85 psi, with 0.1 psi precision. That's more than enough to fine-tune your ride to perfection. The device also allows you to set pressure alerts, so if you hit a rogue nail or sharp rock, you'll know before things get dicey.
Battery life is impressively long—about two years on a single CR1225 lithium coin cell. In an age where everything needs a daily charge, it's refreshing to have one less gadget demanding your attention.
The Outrider isn't trying to reinvent the wheel; it's enhancing it. Compatible with tire inserts and designed to withstand sealant and the rough conditions inside a tire, it's built for real-world riding. Currently, it syncs with Garmin devices via ANT+, but there's talk of expanding compatibility down the line.
Now, let's address the price. At $39 for a pair on Kickstarter, it's a tempting offer. The expected retail price of $79 might make you think twice, but consider what you're getting—a tool that could save your rims, prevent accidents, and optimize your ride in ways you didn't know you needed.
So who is this for? It's for the rider who understands that control isn't just about skill; it's about information. It's for those who want to squeeze every bit of performance out of their bike, whether they're tackling rugged mountain trails or cruising along gravel paths. In a sport where your tires are your only contact with the ground, knowing exactly what's happening beneath you isn't just beneficial—it's essential.
Pros:
- Real-Time Pressure Monitoring
Provides precise, real-time pressure readings directly to your Garmin device, helping you optimize performance and safety on the fly. - High Accuracy
Boasts ±0.7% accuracy for pressures up to 39 psi and ±1.4% for pressures up to 85 psi, ensuring precise adjustments with 0.1 psi precision. - Set Alerts for Safety
Allows users to set custom pressure alerts, notifying you of punctures or dangerous pressure drops in real time. - Lightweight and Balanced
Weighing just 3.5 grams, it doesn’t require a counterweight, so it won't affect wheel performance or balance. - Long Battery Life
The CR1225 battery lasts approximately two years, reducing the hassle of frequent replacements or recharging. - Durable and Sealant-Resistant Design
Protected by epoxy coating, the sensor is impervious to tire sealant and built to handle the vibration and shock inside the tire. - Simple Installation
Works with standard tubeless valve stems and fits securely between the rim and tire, with no need for special tools. - Compatibility with Tire Inserts
The low-profile design works seamlessly with popular tire inserts for mountain biking, adding versatility. - Affordable Kickstarter Pricing
Early backers can get a set of two sensors for just $39, offering good value compared to the projected retail price.
Cons:
- Limited Compatibility
Currently, it's only compatible with Garmin devices. Wider compatibility is promised but not yet available. - Pressure Limitations
Not suitable for pressures above 85 psi, which may limit its use for some road cyclists. - Rim Width Requirement
Requires a minimum internal rim width of 19 mm, which could exclude older or narrower rims. - Dependent on External Device
You’ll need a Garmin device to utilize its full potential, which adds to the overall cost if you don’t already own one. - Retail Price Could Be High
The planned retail price of $79 might deter some users, especially when compared to other cycling gadgets. - No Rechargeable Battery Option
Though the battery life is long, users will eventually need to replace the CR1225 coin cell, which might be inconvenient for some. - Early Adoption Risks
As a Kickstarter project, there's always the potential for delays or changes in the final product.
