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Draft:Beeline Navigation

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Beeline (navigation technology)

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

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

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

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

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

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

  • 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

  • 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

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

  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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