Indicators for bicycles: Do you need them? We tried out the bike indicators from Busch&Müller
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Since indicators have been approved for use on bicycles, the manufacturer busch+müller has launched a universal system on the market with the TURNTEC T2. According to the manufacturer, the system fulfils the same requirements as motorbike indicators.
How to activate the Turntec T2 indicator
They are operated by pressing the ball of the thumb, which activates the indicator signal. The two indicators in aluminium housings are inserted into the handlebar ends - a design familiar from motorbikes, where they are known as "bull's eyes".
According to busch+müller, the TURNTEC T2 technology optimises the direction of action and lighting quality.
The system has a charge level monitor. Charging takes place via a USB-C socket on the left indicator unit directly on the bike.
For rear
While we have only fitted and tested the indicators for the handlebar ends, there is also a solution for the rear. The Turntec T4 system is aimed particularly at touring bikes and has two additional indicators at the rear. The RRP is 199.90 euros >> available here.
The assembly
Fitting is easy, requires no tools and takes five minutes. Remove the handlebar plugs, briefly check which indicator has to go to the right and which to the left. Feed the cable through the handlebars - the indicators are compatible with almost every handlebar - then screw in, align and you're done!
The Turntec 2 in city traffic: practical test
Tester Hans cycles through Munich's city traffic, where you often have to turn off. Ideal for trying out the bicycle indicators. This is his practical impression:
I quickly get used to it, as I know it from riding a motorbike. But there's no switch here - I have to apply pressure with the outside ball of my hand to activate the indicator. Although you can feel it being activated, I'm constantly looking to the right or left during the day to check whether it's flashing.
After actuation, the Turntec 2 flashes for about ten seconds - if there is oncoming traffic in the city, you may have to add more and flash again. However, the flashing cycle can also be configured differently or switched to continuous flashing by pressing and holding the button (max. 4 minutes).
At least in daylight, you can't see the flashing light out of the corner of your eye - you actively look to see whether it's flashing or not. First interim conclusion: That's it!
It's different in the dark. You don't have to look at the handlebar ends to check whether the indicator is still on. The indicators light up brightly and clearly - so I am much easier to recognise in traffic than with a normal hand signal. A real safety plus for me.
When cornering, I thought at the beginning that I would have to switch off one indicator first and then put the other one on - it got hectic. But that's not necessary at all. As soon as you activate the opposite indicator, the other one switches off automatically.
Short & sweet
| Price: 124,90 Euro >> available here |
| Material: Aluminium |
| Approval StVZO: Yes |
| Weight: 165 g |
| Splashproof and rainproof: Yes |
Our conclusion
In the dark or on dark winter days, the indicators offer a real safety advantage. During the day, the indicator is exotic, as road users are used to the classic hand signal.
I was unsure: Is it still flashing or not? An acoustic signal or a small light channel at the top of the indicator would be useful here.
The operation also requires a certain amount of familiarisation. As a motorcyclist, I would like to have a solution like on a motorbike - intuitive to operate and directly accessible. Instead, you have to aim with the heel of your hand and operate the indicators individually. - Hans-Peter Ettenberger, Workshop Manager
Laurin Lehner
Editor
