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  • Comment: In accordance with the Wikimedia Foundation's Terms of Use, I disclose that I have been paid by my employer for my contributions to this article. Charliehenderson2012 (talk) 15:54, 28 July 2025 (UTC)

Beeline (navigation technology)

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Beeline is a UK-based technology company that designs navigation devices for bicycles and motorbikes. Founded in 2015 by Mark Jenner and Tom Putnam, Beeline develops rider-first GPS tools focused on simplicity, clarity, and exploration. The company is headquartered in London, England.[1]

Overview

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Beeline’s navigation devices are purpose-built for two-wheeled travel. They favor glanceable guidance and minimal interfaces, offering either turn-by-turn maps or a compass-style arrow that directs the rider “as the crow flies.”[2][3]

The devices pair via smartphone, but the Beeline unit shows only essential info—speed, next turn, trip progress—so riders can keep their eyes forward.[4]

History

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Co-founders Mark Jenner and Tom Putnam, both former management consultants, launched Beeline after Jenner got lost on a cycle ride in London and sought simpler, safer navigation options.[5] Their 2015 Kickstarter funded the first device, resonating with urban riders seeking less intrusive tech.

Products and Features

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Beeline produces devices for both cyclists (Velo series) and motorcyclists (Moto and Moto II). Core attributes include:

  • Choice of compass or turn-by-turn guidance
  • Bluetooth connection to a paired app
  • Lightweight, weatherproof construction
  • Extended battery life
  • Clean, minimalist mounting (handlebar or stem)
  • Community-sourced route refinement[6]

Beeline’s routing engine continuously improves using rider feedback and mapping data.[7]

Beeline App

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The Beeline App (iOS and Android) is a free companion for all devices and works standalone. It enables route planning, GPX/Komoot import, style selection (fast/quiet/balanced), navigation mode toggle, and ride logging.

Beeline Plus

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This optional subscription (≈£3.99/month) adds:

  • Offline maps and live 3D navigation
  • Audio navigation (phone only)
  • Loop-route generation
  • Gradient and elevation data
  • Mid-ride rerouting and editing
  • Speed camera alerts (Moto only)[8]
  • Ride history, stats, Komoot/Strava sync[9]

Device-Specific Integration

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  • Velo 2: shows speed, ETA, climb profiles, and supports loop routing with Plus
  • Moto/Moto II: includes trip timer, elevation data, speed‑limit alerts (Plus), and radar camera notifications

Founders

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  • Mark Jenner leads sales, marketing, and customer service, focusing on rider engagement, branding, and growth.
  • Tom Putnam is responsible for all technology and product development, overseeing device engineering and software innovation.

Reception

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Beeline has been featured widely in cycling and motorcycle media for its user-centric simplicity:

Wired (2015): “BeeLine … designed for urban cyclists who prefer simplicity and freedom over detailed, turn‑by‑turn directions.”[3] TechCrunch (2017): “fuzzy navigation” concept that points directionally without rigid routing.[1] Cycle World (2020): “clear and accurate … incredibly easy to use … under $200.”[10] Bennetts BikeSocial & MCN (2025 Moto II): rated Moto II 4/5, praising its compact simplicity, rugged design, and long battery life.[11][12] Cycling UK (2025 Velo 2): praised for ease of setup, intuitive interface, and affordability.[13] Cycling Weekly (2025): “compact… essential features like time, speed, distance… simple arrow icons.”[7] LondonCyclist (2017): noted the app’s exploratory freedom and intuitive UI. More candid and personal but useful context.[14] ItsBetterOnTheRoad (2025 Bangkok Moto II review): “turned out to be exactly what I needed”—ideal for disorienting city streets.[15]

References

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  1. ^ a b Coldewey, Devin (18 September 2017). "Beeline's simple navigation device keeps cyclists headed in the right direction". TechCrunch. Retrieved 2025-07-28.
  2. ^ "Route mode vs Compass mode". Beeline Support. Retrieved 2025-07-28.
  3. ^ a b Vincent, James (27 October 2015). "This Compass Is Made for Geographically Challenged Cyclists". Wired. Retrieved 2025-07-28.
  4. ^ "Beeline Moto review: Features and mapping included". Evening Standard. 21 April 2022. Retrieved 2025-07-28.
  5. ^ "Cyclists: you'll never get lost again with this new compass-style device". Evening Standard. 26 November 2015. Retrieved 2025-07-28.
  6. ^ "Beeline revolutionises navigation again with major feature update". Outdoor Insight. 25 July 2025. Retrieved 2025-07-28.
  7. ^ a b "Beeline Velo 2 navigation device review". Cycling Weekly. 23 July 2025. Retrieved 2025-07-28.
  8. ^ "Viewing Speed Camera Alerts". Beeline Help Center. Retrieved 2025-07-28.
  9. ^ "What is Beeline Plus?". Beeline Support. Retrieved 2025-07-28.
  10. ^ "Beeline Navigation Review". Cycle World. 28 June 2020. Retrieved 2025-07-28.
  11. ^ Milbank, John (29 May 2025). "Beeline Moto II review: a supremely compact navigation device". Bennetts BikeSocial. Retrieved 2025-07-28.
  12. ^ "Beeline Moto II Motorcycle Navigation Device Review". MCN. May 2025. Retrieved 2025-07-28.
  13. ^ "Review: Beeline Velo 2". Cycling UK. July 2025. Retrieved 2025-07-28.
  14. ^ "Beeline Review – Cycling directions with a difference". LondonCyclist. 30 October 2017. Retrieved 2025-07-28.
  15. ^ "Beeline Moto II Review: After Months of Use in Bangkok". ItsBetterOnTheRoad. Retrieved 2025-07-28.
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