When you’re riding a motorcycle, every detail counts. Safety isn’t just about wearing the right gear; it’s about visibility, control, and preparedness for the unexpected, especially when the weather turns against you. Rain can turn a simple ride into a risky endeavor, reducing visibility and increasing the chance of an accident. Enter BIKERGUARD, arguably the world’s first visor wiper made specifically for motorcycle helmets. This innovative product aims to change the game for bikers, offering them a clearer view in the rain and a safer ride overall.
The genesis of BIKERGUARD
BIKERGUARD, formerly known as WiPEY, was born out of necessity. The founders, Andrej and Peter, both engineers and avid bikers, frequently found themselves caught in the rain during their rides. They realized that the existing solutions—finger wipers and visor coatings—were inadequate, especially for longer trips. The idea of a mini wiper for motorcycle helmet visors was a novel concept, driven by a simple question: if cars have wipers, why shouldn’t motorcycles?
The journey from concept to product was anything but smooth. The duo faced skepticism from peers and industry insiders alike. Creating a wiper that was compact, effective, and aesthetically pleasing seemed like an impossible task. However, their persistence paid off. After testing dozens of motors and refining their designs, they developed a prototype that not only worked but also looked good on a helmet. Their invention garnered interest and support from fellow bikers and professionals, which gave them the confidence to push forward.
BIKERGUARD: Key features and benefits
Clear vision in the rain
The primary function of BIKERGUARD is to provide a clear line of sight during rainy conditions. Whether you’re navigating through heavy traffic or cruising at high speeds, BIKERGUARD ensures that your visibility remains unimpaired. This is especially important in situations where even a split-second of reduced visibility can lead to dangerous outcomes.
Remote-controlled convenience
One of the standout features of BIKERGUARD is its wireless remote control, which is easily attachable to any motorcycle handlebar. This allows riders to activate the wiper without taking their hands off the handlebars, enhancing both safety and convenience. The remote offers two modes: an automatic mode with three different intervals and a manual mode where one press results in one swipe. This flexibility ensures that riders can adjust the wiper’s operation according to the intensity of the rain and their specific needs.
Rugged and reliable design
BIKERGUARD is built to last. It features a brushless servo motor, which is both small and powerful. Manufactured in Japan, this industrial-grade motor is designed to withstand the rigors of everyday use. Additionally, the device is equipped with a safety overload clutch that protects the internal components from damage in case the wiper blade becomes blocked. This attention to detail ensures that BIKERGUARD remains functional even in challenging conditions.
Easy attachment and secure mounting
Attaching BIKERGUARD to your helmet takes just a second, but once it’s in place, you can trust that it will stay secure even at high speeds. The special safety mount mechanism guarantees that the device won’t detach during your ride, giving you peace of mind.
Waterproof and durable
The manufacturers mention that, unlike many knockoffs on the market, BIKERGUARD is fully waterproof, with an IPX-6 rating. Both the wiper and the remote control have been rigorously tested to ensure they can handle wet conditions without any issues. This durability is crucial for a product designed to be used in the rain.
Long battery life and easy charging
BIKERGUARD is powered by a 1400mAh rechargeable battery, which provides between 5 to 15 hours of continuous operation. Charging is straightforward, thanks to the included magnetic USB cable that can be used with any USB charger. This means you can easily charge the device overnight or between rides, ensuring it’s always ready when you need it.
Comprehensive warranty
Understanding that bikers need reliable gear, BIKERGUARD comes with a 3-year warranty on both the main unit and the remote control. This warranty reflects the company’s confidence in the product’s build quality and durability.
Real-world testing and applications
BIKERGUARD isn’t just a concept; it has been tested extensively in real-world conditions. Samples were sent to the Aprilia racing team in Italy, where initial feedback was overwhelmingly positive. The Hungarian, Slovenian, and German police forces are currently evaluating BIKERGUARD for potential use in their motorcycle fleets, highlighting the product’s appeal to professional riders who require reliable equipment.
Moreover, BIKERGUARD has become a sponsor for various motorcycle teams, further embedding itself in the biking community. This real-world testing and endorsement add credibility to the product’s claims of enhancing safety and comfort during rainy rides.
Overcoming challenges and looking ahead
The journey to creating BIKERGUARD was not without its challenges. From initial skepticism to manufacturing hurdles, the team faced numerous obstacles along the way. The COVID-19 pandemic further complicated matters, delaying production and fulfillment of early orders. However, these setbacks didn’t deter the team. Instead, they saw them as opportunities to refine the product and improve its design.
In 2022, BIKERGUARD received a significant boost when it partnered with the Boscarol group, a company known for its innovation in alternative propulsion. This partnership brought new resources and expertise to the table, allowing BIKERGUARD to evolve into a premium product with several key improvements, including a redesigned motor, enhanced battery life, and a more user-friendly charging system.
The new and improved BIKERGUARD is now available for purchase, with the company planning to expand its market reach beyond the United States. The product is priced at €319 (approx. US$349), a reduction from its original price of €399, making it a more accessible option for bikers who want to enhance their safety and riding experience.
Anecdotes from the road
As a motorcyclist who frequently travels through unpredictable weather conditions, I can personally attest to the challenges of riding in the rain. One particularly memorable ride took place on a winding mountain road, where a sudden downpour turned the journey into a white-knuckle experience. Despite my best efforts to wipe my visor with my glove, visibility was severely compromised, and I found myself slowing down to a crawl just to stay on the road. The introduction of a product like BIKERGUARD would have made all the difference, allowing me to maintain a clear view and focus on the road ahead rather than struggling with impaired vision.
Another rider I spoke with shared a similar story. He was caught in a storm during a long-distance ride and found that his usual methods of keeping his visor clear—using a glove with a built-in wiper and applying anti-fog sprays—were ineffective in the heavy rain. The frustration of constantly having to wipe his visor detracted from the enjoyment of the ride and made the journey more exhausting. BIKERGUARD, with its hands-free operation, could have transformed that experience into a much safer and more enjoyable ride.
Conclusion
BIKERGUARD is a practical addition to motorcycle safety equipment, tackling the issue of reduced visibility in the rain. The mini electric wiper improves both safety and comfort for riders. With its solid design, durability, and ease of use, it could become a useful tool for many motorcyclists, helping to make rainy rides safer and more manageable.
Source: BIKERGUARD
