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In 2015, two friends got lost while riding their bicycles to lunch. Their frustrations with smartphone navigation resulted in a smart compass project called Beeline that far exceeded its crowdfunding goals — founders Tom Putnam and Mark Jenner weren’t the only riders who wanted an alternative to cell phones on handlebars.
Today, Beeline produces navigation systems for bicycles and motorcycles. Triumph saw potential in their idea and collaborated with Beeline to produce a Triumph-branded version that can be added to any motorcycle. We’ll get into the details of the Triumph Beeline unit shortly; it’s exactly the same as Beeline’s premium Moto Metal model aside from some Triumph branding and an extra year of warranty.
The biggest takeaway of this release is Triumph’s excitement around this accessory in our present era of fancy built-in nav systems and space-age displays. Too many modern motorcycles have user-hostile interfaces that distract from the ride despite their beautiful screens with expensive onboard electronics. The Triumph/Beeline collab joins Royal Enfield’s new Tripper navigation system in a hybrid solution that keeps navigation simple and affordable. Your smartphone rides along in your pocket after entering your destination through the app.
How the Beeline navigation system works
Beeline mounts to your motorcycle with an elastic strap or a sticky mount for universal fitment. Large buttons on the sides of the unit sidestep the touchscreen issue for gloved riders. (Has anyone found a pair of motorcycle gloves that reliably work with phone screens?)
After pairing the Beeline to your smartphone, you can enter your destination with two main navigational modes. First is a standard turn-by-turn arrangement that follows your predetermined route. This is probably what you’ve used in the past with other systems and apps.
Beeline’s signature Compass mode is the second, and more adventuresome, option. A pointer arrow on the Beeline’s backlit screen always orients towards your destination. This “all roads lead home” arrangement leaves you free to explore any road that points in the right direction. The smart compass pointer simply re-orients as you go.
The unit itself is IP67-rated and encased in a neat metal case that Triumph compared to a hefty watch. Battery life is 30 hours per charge. The Beeline also features a speedometer, trip computer, and route tracking/sharing. Routes can be imported from some sources.
The Triumph Beeline will retail for $279, with availability starting today at Triumph dealerships.
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