Best in Show: Our Favorite Tech Gear From CES 2023 – GearJunkie
The world’s largest technology conference hosted more than 100,000 attendees at the Las Vegas Convention Center, where the latest gadgets, gizmos, and tech toys were on display.
GearJunkie was on hand to take in all of the action, which included hundreds of announcements from some of the biggest names in tech. I spent 3 days walking the aisles of the convention center to find the best gadgets for our outdoor pursuits and adventures.
While everyone else was getting excited over 8K TVs, next-generation electric vehicles, and the Metaverse, these are the products that caught my attention.
GearJunkie Best in Show: CES 2023
Bosch Antilock Brakes for E-Bikes
When Bosch introduced its original antilock braking system for e-bikes a few years back, it was a revelation for the industry. Adding ABS to a bike improved handling and control, keeping riders safer.
But as a first-generation product, that initial version came with a few limitations that prevented widespread adoption. To address that, the company returned to the drawing board to build an even better and safer model.
At CES, Bosch showed off its next-gen ABS, which is far more sophisticated and versatile than the original. This iteration comes with sensors embedded in the hydraulic brakes that measure the velocity at which the bike is traveling, applying only the force that is necessary to stop at a safe distance.
This keeps the front wheel from locking up at high speeds, reducing skidding, and preventing riders from getting catapulted over the handlebars.
The new system includes preset modes for riding on roads, gravel, and trails, along with settings designed for use on a cargo bike. It can even show the estimated stopping distance on the e-bike’s display, helping keep riders aware of the current conditions at all times.
Bosch estimates its new ABS components could prevent up to 29% of accidents involving e-bikes yearly, improving safety for riders and pedestrians.
EcoFlow Glacier Portable Refrigerator
Portable refrigerators for use while camping aren’t new, but the EcoFlow Glacier has a few tricks up its sleeve that help it stand out from the competition.
While most other models require an external power source to keep them running, the Glacier comes with a rechargeable battery pack that can keep it chilled for up to 24 hours. The high-tech cooler can also be remotely controlled using a smartphone app and includes interior lighting and a USB-C port that is powerful enough to recharge a laptop.
But the Glacier’s standout feature might be its industry-first onboard ice maker. Users can simply pour a bottle of water into a special chamber located on top of the unit, and it automatically begins making ice for their favorite beverages. That’s sure to make this smart cooler a popular option for RVers, car campers, and tailgaters.
The EcoFlow Glacier will begin shipping in the spring of 2023. A price has yet to be announced.
TrueKinetix TrueBike and TrueTrainer
While stationary bikes have certainly come a long way in recent years, they remain a poor substitute for riding outdoors. But a Dutch company called TrueKinetix wants to change that with the TrueBike and TrueTrainer.
Both models use an electric motor and robotics to recreate the outdoor riding experience, accurately simulating the changing forces riders feel when accelerating, decelerating, and going up and down hills.
The TrueBike and TrueTrainer can virtually mimic more than 400 virtual gear sets and are fully customizable for up to five individual riders. The system is compatible with popular cycling apps such as Zwift and Rouvy, and tracks 30-plus performance metrics.
The high-tech workout devices are even eco-friendly, using the energy generated by the cyclist to power its drive system and digital display.
The TrueKinetix TrueBike and TrueTrainer are already a hit in the Netherlands and will come stateside this summer. The full-size model is priced at $3,800, while the trainer sells for $1,500.
Dusk Sport Smart Sunglasses
It’s hard to innovate in the sunglasses space these days, but somehow a company called Dusk has done just that.
Its Dusk Sport model offers a sleek, somewhat retro, wraparound design that should be popular with cyclists, mountain bikers, and runners. But what sets these shades apart from the competition is their electrochromatic lenses, which can adjust the level of tint as needed.
A built-in ambient light sensor can darken or lighten the lenses automatically, or users can do so themselves using integrated buttons. This eliminates the need for multiple pairs of sunglasses or swappable lenses on long training days and allows the glasses to change the level of protection based on changing conditions.
But that’s just the start of what makes these smart sunglasses unique. They can also connect to a smartphone app, allowing users to make minute adjustments to the lenses or create their own preset tint levels.
That same app allows Dusk Sport owners to create training groups, allowing them to chat via built-in microphones and speakers. They can even listen to shared music, podcasts, and audiobooks while on a run or ride.
The Dusk Sport sunglasses are available for preorder now and will start shipping this summer at a price of $399. The company says that the first-generation models are not prescription-compatible, but it expects to offer Rx versions later this year.
Land Energy District Electric Motorcycle
Electric motorcycles were common at CES, but Land Energy’s District model stood out from the crowd. Powered by a single 5.5kWh battery or two 1.8kWh power cells, the e-moto has a maximum speed of 70 mph and a range of up to 120 miles.
Those batteries also happen to be removable, allowing riders to swap out a depleted power cell for a fully charged one as needed. This approach gives the District a level of future-proofing, giving it the ability to use future battery technology without having to replace the entire bike.
But that’s just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the technology on display in this motorcycle. For instance, it can receive over-the-air updates to adjust settings and boost performance and efficiency.
One recent update gave owners the option to set a geo-lock for security purposes, shutting down its motor should thieves attempt to move it from a specific location. The batteries also have built-in USB and AC ports for charging devices and powering tools at a job site.
The District features four riding modes, which help to make it a more versatile and approachable vehicle. Those modes include riding it as a Class 2 e-bike with a maximum speed of 27 mph or an e-moped that tops out at 37 mph. A third option turns the bike into a full-fledged e-motorcycle that travels up to 70 mph, while the performance mode increases torque and power for use off-road.
Land Energy is taking orders for the District on its website now. Pricing starts at $8,000.
Tech Gear From CES 2023: Conclusion
These are the best products we saw at CES this year that are either available now or coming soon. But after spending 3 days in the Las Vegas Convention Center, it is clear that the convergence of tech and the outdoors is only beginning.
There are plenty of other gadgets and devices on the horizon designed to make our adventures safer and more rewarding.
