Watchman User Manual

Table of Contents

  1. Introduction
  2. Device Installation
  3. Getting Started with the App
  4. Home Screen
  5. Device Settings
  6. App Settings
  7. Firmware Updates
  8. Hardware Specifications
  9. Frequently Asked Questions

Introduction

BikeSafe Watchman is a hardware device and a mobile app pair for Android and iOS that makes motorcycle alarm system managed via Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE). The app provides real-time monitoring, control, and configuration of your motorcycle's advanced security system.

App Features

  • 🔗 Bluetooth Connection - Connect to your BikeSafe device wirelessly via BLE 4.2 (up to 100m range)
  • 📍 Proximity Detection - Smart sensing to know when you're near or far from your bike
  • 🔐 Remote Control - Arm/disarm, lock/unlock, and configure settings remotely via the app
  • ⚙️ Device Configuration - Customize sensitivity, timers, alert modes, and security settings
  • 📡 Firmware Updates - Over-the-air updates with secure Ed25519 cryptographic signatures
  • 🔋 Background Operation (Android) - Stay connected even when the app is closed
  • 🔔 Real-time Notifications - Instant alerts for security events and system status

Device Capabilities

🔒 Advanced Security System

  • Intelligent Motion Detection - High-precision 3-axis accelerometer with adjustable sensitivity (30-400 milli-g)
  • Bike Fall Detection - Automatically detects when your bike falls (>55° tilt) and alerts you
  • Progressive Alert System - Smart escalation from warning chirps to full alarm based on threat level
  • Multiple Security Modes - Auto, Armed, and Disarmed modes for different situations
  • Anti-Theft Alarm - Powerful horn or siren with indicator/light alerts and dynamic patterns

🔋 Intelligent Power Management

  • Battery Monitoring - Real-time voltage and percentage tracking of your bike's battery
  • Deep Sleep Mode - Extends battery life with configurable sleep
  • Motion Wake-up - Instantly wakes from sleep when motion is detected
  • Low-Power Design - Optimized for months of battery life on a single charge

🎯 Smart Features

  • Auto-Lock Protection - Automatically secures your bike after inactivity (configurable 1-3600 seconds)
  • Presence Detection - Smart sensing to avoid false alarms when you're nearby
  • Ride Detection - Recognizes when your bike is being used vs. tampered with
  • Vehicle Integration - Detects nearby vehicle turn signals for situational awareness
  • Configurable Behavior - Customize every aspect of the system to your needs

🚨 Comprehensive Alert System

  • Dual Alert Modes - Standard (alternating horn/lights) or continuous siren mode
  • Multi-Stage Warnings - Progressive escalation from subtle warnings to full alarm
  • Visual Alerts - Bright LED brake light and turn signal integration
  • Audible Warnings - Powerful horn with adjustable patterns
  • Indicator Integration - Synchronized blinking with vehicle turn signals

🛡️ Enterprise-Grade Security

  • Secure Pairing - 6-digit passkey authentication with MITM protection
  • Secure Boot v2 - Hardware-level bootloader protection with RSA-3072 encryption
  • Flash Encryption - Military-grade flash memory encryption
  • Anti-Rollback Protection - Prevents downgrade attacks with firmware version tracking
  • Dual-Slot OTA - Seamless updates with automatic fallback protection

Device Installation

What You'll Need

Tools:

  • Wire cutters/strippers
  • Pliers
  • Electrical tape or heat shrink tubing
  • 1.5mm hex key (for opening device enclosure if needed)
  • Multimeter (optional for testing connections)

Included Components:

  • BikeSafe Watchman main control unit
  • Quick-connect tap connectors (non-intrusive installation)
  • Cable ties for secure mounting
  • 12V LED test light with wires (for wire detection)
  • User manual or QR code

Before You Begin

⚠️ Safety First:

  • You can install with battery connected
  • Ensure your motorcycle has a 12V electrical system (it may still work with 6V systems but not tested)
  • Work in a well-lit, dry area
  • Read all instructions before starting

📱 Preparation:

  • Install the app first - Download BikeSafe Watchman app before starting installation
  • Keep phone handy - You'll need it for pairing and testing after installation
  • Charge your phone - Ensure adequate battery for testing phase

Compatibility Check:

BikeSafe Watchman is designed for motorcycles with standard 12V electrical systems. It connects to:

  • Battery power (direct connection)
  • Horn circuit
  • Turn signal/indicator circuits
  • Tail light circuit

Wiring Overview

BikeSafe Watchman uses color-coded wires for easy identification:

Wire Color Function Connection Point
Red (hot) +12V Power Direct to battery positive terminal (connect last)
Black (ground) Ground Battery negative terminal or chassis ground
Blue (blow horn) Horn Control Horn positive wire OR dedicated 12V siren
Yellow (×2) (indicator) Turn Signals Left and right indicator/turn signal wires
Green (light) Tail Light Brake/tail light positive wire

💡 Installation Order: Connect ground first then all other wires (Blue, Yellow, Green), then connect Red wire to +12V last.

Using the LED Test Light

The included 12V LED test light helps you identify live wires without guesswork:

How to Use:

  1. Connect Black lead to ground (battery negative or chassis)
  2. Touch Red lead to suspected wire
  3. LED lights up = Wire is +12V (correct wire)
  4. No light = Wrong wire or ground

Finding Wires:

  • Horn wire: LED lights when horn button pressed
  • Turn signals: LED lights when left/right indicator activated
  • Tail light: LED lights when brake applied or running lights on

This saves time and prevents connecting to wrong wires.

Installation Steps

Step 1: Choose Mounting Location

  • Recommended: Securely under the motorcycle seat
  • Requirements:
    • Away from excessive heat (exhaust, engine)
    • Protected from direct water exposure
    • Firm mounting surface that won't vibrate excessively
    • Mount as parallel (marking on top) to ground as possible for accurate tilt detection

Step 2: Ground Connection

  1. Connect Black Wire First - Connect to battery negative (−) terminal or chassis ground
    • Ensure solid metal-to-metal contact for ground connection
    • Use ring terminal or secure connector
  2. Test Ground - Use LED test light to verify ground connection is solid

💡 Tip: Always connect ground first for safety.

Step 3: Horn Connection

⚠️Important Note⚠️: Use only the Blue wire for horn/siren connection. Do not connect other wires to horn circuit. As blue wire is specifically designed with protection for inductive loads and its the only wire to trigger the horn or siren function.

Option A: Connect to Existing Horn (Default)

  1. Locate Horn Wire - Find the positive wire going to your motorcycle's horn
    • Use LED test light: Touch to wire, press horn button, LED should light up
    • Typically found near the horn or in the main wiring harness
  2. Use Quick Connector - Insert the Blue wire using the provided tap connector
    • No wire cutting required with tap connectors
    • Alternatively, splice into the horn wire directly
  3. Verify Connection - Horn should function normally after connection

Option B: Connect Dedicated 12V Siren

  1. Mount Siren - Install dedicated 12V siren in secure, weather-protected location
  2. Connect Blue Wire - Connect directly to siren positive terminal
  3. Connect Siren Ground - Connect siren ground to battery negative or chassis ground
  4. Configure in App - Toggle siren mode in Device Settings to use dedicated siren

💡 Tip: You can switch between horn and siren modes in the app's Device Settings. Dedicated sirens are typically louder and more attention-grabbing than stock horns.

Step 4: Turn Signal Connection

  1. Identify Indicator Wires - Locate left and right turn signal wires
    • Usually found near the tail section or under the seat
    • Each wire carries +12V when that indicator is active
  2. Connect Yellow Wires - Attach each Yellow wire to one turn signal wire
    • Left indicator → First Yellow wire
    • Right indicator → Second Yellow wire
    • Use tap connectors for non-intrusive installation
  3. Test Signals - Verify turn signals still function normally

💡 Tip: The device can detect turn signals from nearby vehicles to provide situational awareness.

Step 5: Tail Light Connection

⚠️Important Note⚠️: Some bikes turn on the fuel pump or other systems when the tail light circuit is connected. Ensure your motorcycle's electrical system can handle this connection without issues. You can leave the Green wire unconnected if unsure. This does not affect any of the functionality.

  1. Locate Tail Light Wire - Find the brake/tail light positive wire
    • This wire is typically high (+12V) when brake or running lights are on
  2. Connect Green Wire - Attach to tail light wire using tap connector
  3. Verify Function - Tail light should operate normally

⚠️ Important: Watchman integrates with your existing brake light system without cutting wires. The Green wire monitors the light status for visual alert coordination.

Step 6: Secure Wiring and Mount Device

  1. Route Wires Neatly - Keep wires away from moving parts, exhaust, and sharp edges
  2. Use Cable Ties - Secure the device and wiring harness using included ties
  3. Final Check:
    • All connections secure and insulated (except Red power wire)
    • No wires pinched or under tension
    • Device firmly mounted with arrow pointing forward
    • Adequate wire slack for vibration absorption

Step 7: Connect Power (Final Step)

⚠️ Connect Red Wire Last:

  1. Final Verification - Double-check all other connections (Black, Blue, Yellow, Green)
  2. Connect Red Wire - Connect to battery positive (+) terminal
    • Use appropriate fuse (recommended: 3-5A) inline for protection
    • Use ring terminal or secure connector
  3. Power-On Self Test:
    • Device should perform a brief self-test immediately
    • Brake light may illuminate momentarily
    • Horn may chirp briefly

💡 Why connect power last? This prevents accidental shorts or incorrect connections while other wires are being installed.

Step 8: App Pairing and Testing

Pair with App:

  1. Open App - Launch BikeSafe Watchman on your phone (should already be installed)
  2. Scan for Device - Tap "Connect" button
  3. Enter Passkey - Enter the 6-digit pairing code when prompted
  4. Connection Complete - You should see "Connected" status

Functional Testing:

  1. Alarm Test:

    • In the app, tap "Lock" to activate motion detection
    • Gently shake the bike
    • Expected behavior:
      • First movement: Warning lights (short alert)
      • Continued movement for a few seconds: Full alarm sounds (horn/siren activates)
    • Tap "Unlock" to stop alarm or it will stop automatically after a few seconds

  2. Turn Signal Test:

    • Activate left/right turn signals
    • Verify indicators function normally
    • Confirm no interference with signals

  3. Brake Light Test:

    • Apply brake and verify brake light functions normally
    • Check for proper integration with visual alerts

  4. Proximity Test:

    • Walk away from bike (20+ meters)
    • App should show "Far" status
    • Walk back to bike
    • App should show "Near" status

✅ Testing Complete: If all tests pass, installation is successful!

Mounting Orientation

Correct Orientation:

  • Arrow on case points toward front of motorcycle
  • Device mounted level (parallel to ground)
  • Firmly secured to prevent unnecessary vibration

Important: Incorrect mounting orientation may affect motion detection accuracy and bike fall detection.

Installation Tips

✅ Best Practices:

  • Use the provided quick-connect tap connectors for easy, non-intrusive installation
  • Test each wire connection with a multimeter before final assembly
  • Leave adequate wire slack to prevent tension during suspension movement
  • Protect connections with heat shrink tubing for long-term reliability
  • Take photos during installation for future reference

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid:

  • Connecting power to switched ignition instead of battery
  • Mounting device in high-heat areas (near exhaust)
  • Overtightening cable ties (can crack enclosure)
  • Pinching wires between body panels
  • Mounting device upside-down or at extreme angles

Professional Installation

While BikeSafe Watchman is designed for DIY installation using quick-connect tap connectors, we recommend professional installation by a qualified motorcycle technician for:

  • Permanent, long-term installations
  • Soldered connections for maximum reliability
  • Complex wiring harnesses
  • Integration with existing alarm systems
  • Warranty-sensitive motorcycles

Post-Installation

After successful hardware installation:

  1. Download the App - Install BikeSafe Watchman from App Store or Google Play
  2. Pair Device - Follow the "Getting Started with the App" section below
  3. Configure Settings - Customize sensitivity, timers, and alert preferences
  4. Test All Functions - Verify motion detection, alerts, and proximity sensing

Getting Started with the App

First-Time Setup

  1. Open the App - Launch BikeSafe Watchman on your phone
  2. Grant Permissions - Allow Bluetooth and location permissions when prompted
    • Why location? Android requires location permission for Bluetooth scanning (system requirement)
  3. Pair Your Device - The app will scan for nearby BikeSafe devices
  4. Enter Passkey - When prompted, enter the 6-digit passkey (default: shown on device or in manual)
  5. Connection Complete - Your device is now paired and ready to use

Understanding Permissions

The app requires certain permissions to function:

  • Bluetooth - Required to communicate with your BikeSafe device
  • Location (Android) - Required by Android for Bluetooth scanning (your location is never tracked or shared)
  • Notifications - Optional, for background alerts

You can review and manage permissions in App Settings → Permissions.

Home Screen

The Home Screen is your command center for monitoring and controlling your BikeSafe device.

Status Indicators

Four status chips show your device's current state:

  1. Connection Status (top-left)

    • Connected - Active Bluetooth connection
    • Connecting - Attempting to connect
    • Scanning - Searching for device
    • Disconnected - No connection

  2. Proximity (top-right)

    • Near - Within close range of your bike
    • Far - Outside close range
    • — - Not connected or unknown

  3. Mode (bottom-left)

    • Auto - Automatically arms when you leave, disarms when you return
    • Armed - Manually armed (alarm active)
    • Disarmed - Manually disarmed (alarm inactive)

  4. Lock Status (bottom-right)

    • Locked - Motion detection active (will alarm on movement)
    • Unlocked - Motion detection inactive (won't alarm)
    • — - Not connected or unknown

Control Buttons

  • Main Button (Center)

    • When Disconnected: Press Connect to start scanning
    • When Scanning: Press Stop to cancel scanning
    • When Connected:
      • Press Lock to activate motion detection (will alarm on movement)
      • Press Unlock to deactivate motion detection (won't alarm)
      • Press Auto to enable automatic arming mode

  • Sleep Button (bottom-left) - Put device into low-power sleep mode (disconnects)

Visual Display

The motorcycle icon in the center pulses when connected and changes appearance based on device state:

  • Pulsing - Connected and active
  • Red flashing - Alarm triggered
  • Locked icon - Motion detection active (will alarm on movement)

Device Settings

Access Device Settings by tapping the gear icon in the top-right.

Device Information

  • Device Name - The Bluetooth name of your BikeSafe device (customizable)
  • Device ID - Unique identifier (masked for security, tap to reveal)
  • Firmware Version - Current installed firmware version
  • Battery Level - Current main bike battery percentage and voltage (monitored in real-time)
    • 💡 Note: Low battery notifications will be added in a future update
  • Boot Slot - Active firmware partition (for dual-boot updates)

Security & Mode

  • Current Mode - Shows Armed/Disarmed/Auto status
  • Mode Controls - Quick buttons to:
    • Auto - Enable automatic mode (arms when you leave, disarms when you return)
    • Arm - Persistently arm the device
    • Disarm - Persistently disarm the device

Motion & Sensitivity

  • Sensitivity - Adjust how sensitive the motion sensor is (30mg - 400mg)
    • Lower values = More sensitive (triggers easily)
    • Higher values = Less sensitive (requires more movement)

Timers

  • Auto-Lock After - Time in minutes before automatically activating motion detection in Auto mode
  • Sleep After - Idle time in minutes before device enters sleep mode

Advanced Settings

Security

  • Passkey - Change the 6-digit Bluetooth pairing code (100000-999999)

    • ⚠️ Important: After changing passkey, you must:
      1. Reboot the device
      2. Forget the device in your phone's Bluetooth settings
      3. Re-pair with the new passkey

  • Bike Down Threshold - Time in seconds before triggering "bike fallen" alert (0-600 seconds)

Alert Configuration

  • Siren Mode

    • Standard - Dynamically controlled horn and light flashes
    • Siren - Continuous siren sound and light flashes

  • Boot Slot Selection - Choose which firmware partition to boot from (Slot 1 or Slot 2)

    • Used for firmware updates and rollback
    • ⚠️ Requires device reboot after change

Device Actions

  • Reset Device - Factory reset (clears all settings and bonds, requires re-pairing)
  • Unpair Device - Remove device from app and clear Bluetooth pairing

Saving Settings

After making changes:

  1. Review your changes at the bottom of the screen
  2. Press Save to write settings to device
  3. If prompted, press Reboot Now to apply changes that require restart
  4. Settings are automatically persisted and restored after firmware updates

App Settings

Access App Settings by tapping the gear icon in the top-right, then selecting the App tab.

Near/Far Detection

  • RSSI Threshold - Adjust the signal strength threshold for Near/Far detection
    • Higher values (closer to 0) = Must be closer to be "Near"
    • Lower values (more negative) = Considered "Near" from farther away
    • Typical range: -70 to -40
    • Current RSSI shown live when connected

Blinker/Indicator Sound Alert

  • Blinker Delay - Time delay (0-10 seconds) before playing sound alert when device blinkers activate
    • 0 seconds - Sound disabled
    • 1-10 seconds - Delay before playing alert sound
    • Use case: Never forget to turn off your indicators after a turn
    • Perfect for: Helmet Bluetooth headsets - hear indicator clicks while riding
    • Benefits:
      • Reminder to cancel indicators after turning
      • Audible feedback even if you can't see dashboard
      • Works with any Bluetooth audio device connected to your phone

💡 Tip: This feature is especially useful with helmet communication systems. The indicator sound will play through your headset, reminding you to cancel the turn signal after completing your turn.

Background Operation

  • Run in Background - Keep device connected when app is closed or in background
    • When enabled: App automatically reconnects if device comes in range while app is closed
    • When disabled: Connection lost when app is closed
    • Uses minimal battery (~0.1-0.5% per hour)

Permissions

  • Permissions Status - View and manage app permissions
    • Granted - All required permissions enabled
    • Partial - Some permissions missing
    • None - No permissions granted
    • Tap Permissions button to adjust in system settings

Firmware Updates

Keep your BikeSafe device up-to-date with the latest features and improvements.

Accessing Firmware Updates

  1. Go to Settings (gear icon)
  2. Scroll down in Device tab
  3. Tap Firmware button

Update Channels

Choose your update channel based on your preference for stability vs. latest features:

  • Stable - Fully tested releases (recommended)
  • Beta - Pre-release features with testing
  • Alpha - Experimental features (development builds only)

Checking for Updates

  1. Select your preferred update channel
  2. Press Re-check to check for available updates
  3. Status will show:
    • Up-to-date - No updates available
    • Update available - New firmware ready to download

Downloading Firmware

  1. When update is available, press Download
  2. Wait for download to complete (progress shown)
  3. File is automatically verified for security

Installing Firmware

  1. After download completes, press Flash
  2. Update is installed to inactive firmware slot
  3. Progress shown in real-time:
    • Downloading - Fetching firmware file
    • Validating File - Verifying digital signature
    • Flashing - Writing to device (do not disconnect)
  4. Device automatically reboots with new firmware

Local Firmware Files

Previously downloaded firmware files are saved and can be installed later:

  • View list of local firmware in the Local Firmware section
  • Press Flash on any saved firmware to install
  • Press Delete (trash icon) to remove from device

Smart Version Control

The app prevents accidental downgrades:

  • ✅ Allowed: Upgrading to newer version
  • ✅ Allowed: Installing Stable version (even if current Beta/Alpha is higher)
  • ❌ Blocked: Downgrading within same channel (Stable→older Stable, Beta→older Beta)
  • ❌ Blocked: Installing version/channel not recommended for your device

Disabled flash buttons show reason (e.g., "Already installed" or "Downgrade not allowed")

Important Notes

  • 🔋 Screen stays awake during firmware updates
  • ⚠️ Do not disconnect during flashing
  • 🔄 Automatic reboot after successful update
  • 💾 Settings preserved across firmware updates
  • ✅ Success notification shown when complete (auto-returns to Home Screen)
  • 🔒 Cryptographic verification ensures firmware authenticity

Hardware Specifications

Processor & Memory

  • Microcontroller - ESP32-C3 RISC-V single-core processor
  • Flash Memory - 4MB for firmware and configuration storage
  • Operating Frequency - Up to 160 MHz
  • Wireless - Integrated BLE 4.2 with up to 100m range

Sensors & I/O

  • Motion Sensor - LIS3DH 3-axis accelerometer with I2C interface
  • Sensitivity Range - 30-400 milli-g adjustable detection threshold
  • Tilt Detection - Automatic bike fall detection (>55° angle)

Power & Battery

  • Battery Monitoring - Real-time voltage and percentage tracking
  • Deep Sleep Mode - Ultra-low power consumption during sleep < 0.1mA
  • Motion Wake-up - Instant activation on movement detection
  • Battery Life - Months of operation without charge (usage dependent)

Physical Design

  • Form Factor - Compact, discreet design
  • Installation - Non-intrusive mounting that doesn't interfere with bike operation

Security Features

  • Secure Pairing - 6-digit passkey authentication with MITM protection
  • Encryption - Encrypted BLE communication and cryptographically signed firmware updates
  • Secure Boot v2 - RSA-3072 hardware-level bootloader protection
  • Dual-Slot OTA - Safe firmware updates with automatic rollback

Frequently Asked Questions

Connection & Pairing

Q: Why does the app need location permission? Android requires location permission for Bluetooth Low Energy scanning. This is an Android system requirement—the app does not track or store your location. BikeSafe Watchman only uses Bluetooth to communicate with your device.

Q: The app won't connect to my device. What should I do? Try these steps:

  1. Make sure Bluetooth is enabled on your phone
  2. Ensure device is powered on and nearby
  3. Check that location permission is granted (Android)
  4. Try closing and reopening the app
  5. Go to phone's Bluetooth settings, forget "BikeSafe" device, and re-pair
  6. If issues persist, try "Unpair Device" in app settings and re-pair

Q: What is the default passkey? The default 6-digit passkey is shown on your device or in the device manual. Contact support if you've lost this information.

Q: I changed my passkey and now I can't connect! After changing passkey:

  1. Go to phone's Bluetooth settings
  2. Find "BikeSafe" or your device name
  3. Tap "Forget" or "Unpair"
  4. Return to app and tap "Connect"
  5. Enter new passkey when prompted

Q: Can I connect multiple phones to one device? Yes, but only one phone can be connected at a time. Each phone must complete pairing separately with the passkey.

Background Operation

Q: Why doesn't background operation work on my Android phone? Background operation requires:

  • Android 8.0 (API 26) or higher
  • "Run in Background" enabled in App Settings
  • Bluetooth and location permissions granted
  • Battery optimization disabled for BikeSafe Watchman (check phone settings)

Some phone manufacturers (Samsung, Huawei, Xiaomi) have aggressive battery optimization. You may need to add BikeSafe Watchman to battery optimization exceptions.

Q: Does background operation drain my battery? Background scanning uses minimal battery (~0.1-0.5% per hour) thanks to efficient OS-managed scanning. If you experience unusual drain, try disabling "Run in Background" and report the issue.

Q: Why doesn't background operation work on iOS? Background Bluetooth reconnection is currently Android-only. iOS has strict limitations on background Bluetooth operations. We're exploring iOS-compatible solutions for future releases.

Q: Will I receive notifications when the device reconnects in the background? Yes, when "Run in Background" is enabled, you'll receive a notification when the device is found and reconnected while the app is closed.

Proximity Detection

Q: What does "Near" and "Far" mean? The app uses Bluetooth signal strength (RSSI) to estimate distance:

  • Near - You're within close range (RSSI above threshold)
  • Far - You're outside close range (RSSI below threshold)

This is approximate—walls, obstacles, and interference affect accuracy.

Q: Can I adjust the Near/Far threshold? Yes! In App Settings:

  1. Go to App Settings tab
  2. Tap Adjust under "Near/Far Threshold"
  3. Use the current live RSSI reading to choose your preferred threshold
  4. Tap Save

Q: Why does proximity jump between Near and Far sometimes? Bluetooth signal strength varies naturally due to:

  • Obstacles and walls
  • Radio interference
  • Device orientation
  • Environmental factors

Try adjusting your RSSI threshold for more stable readings.

Device Control

Q: What's the difference between Lock and Armed?

  • Lock - Motion detection activated (bike will alarm if moved)
  • Armed - Security mode where motion triggers alarm

In practice, Lock and Armed work together - when Locked, the device monitors for motion and triggers the alarm when Armed.

Q: What is Auto mode?

Auto mode uses proximity detection to automatically:

  • Arm the alarm when you walk away (go "Far")
  • Disarm the alarm when you return (come "Near")

This provides hands-free security—no need to manually arm/disarm.

Q: How does Auto-Lock work?

In Auto mode, motion detection automatically activates after the "Auto-Lock After" timer expires. This means the device will start monitoring for movement and trigger the alarm if the bike is disturbed when you're away.

Q: Why would I use manual Armed/Disarmed instead of Auto?

Manual modes are useful when:

  • You want to stay nearby without triggering auto-arm
  • You're working on the bike but want to keep alarm off
  • Your bike is travelling without you
  • You prefer explicit control over automatic behavior

Q: What happens when I press Sleep?

Sleep mode puts the device into ultra-low power mode:

  • Bluetooth connection is closed
  • Device stops monitoring motion
  • Battery life extended significantly
  • Device wakes on physical button press or motion (depending on configuration)

Use Sleep when parking long-term or to maximize battery life.

Device Settings

Q: What sensitivity level should I use? Recommended starting point:

  • Urban/High traffic area: 200mg (Medium-Low) - reduces false alarms from passing traffic
  • Quiet area: 100mg (Medium-High) - better detection
  • High security need: 75mg (High) - maximum sensitivity

Experiment to find the right balance between security and false alarms.

Q: Why does the device need to reboot after I change settings? Some settings (passkey, boot slot) require a firmware restart to take effect. The app will prompt you when a reboot is needed—you can choose to reboot immediately or later.

Q: Will firmware updates erase my settings? No! The app automatically preserves your device settings and re-applies them after firmware updates and even after switching boot slots. Your configuration is safe.

Q: What does "Boot Slot" mean? Your device has two firmware slots (partitions):

  • Slot 1 - Primary firmware partition
  • Slot 2 - Secondary firmware partition

This dual-boot design allows safe firmware updates—the new firmware installs to the inactive slot. If something goes wrong, you can switch back to the working slot.

Q: How do I roll back to previous firmware? If your device has firmware in both slots:

  1. Go to Device Settings
  2. Under "Advanced," change "Boot Slot" to the other slot
  3. Press "Save"
  4. Press "Reboot Now"

The device will boot into the other firmware version.

Firmware Updates

Q: Should I use Stable, Beta, or Alpha channel?

  • Stable - Recommended for most users. Fully tested, reliable releases.
  • Beta - For users who want early access to new features and don't mind occasional bugs.
  • Alpha - For developers and testers only. Experimental and may be unstable.

Q: Do I need to be connected to update firmware? You need connection during installation (flashing), but you can download firmware files while disconnected. Downloaded files are saved locally for installation later.

Q: What if firmware update fails? If flashing fails:

  1. Device remains on current (working) firmware
  2. You can retry the update
  3. If device won't boot, switch boot slots in Device Settings to use previous firmware

Q: Can I downgrade firmware? Yes, but with restrictions:

  • ✅ You can always install Stable channel firmware (even if your current Beta/Alpha is higher version)
  • ❌ You cannot downgrade within same channel (e.g., Stable 2.0 → Stable 1.5)

This prevents accidental downgrades while allowing return to stable releases.

Q: How long does a firmware update take?

  • Download: 10-60 seconds (depends on internet speed)
  • Validation: 2-5 seconds
  • Flashing: 30-90 seconds

Total: ~1-3 minutes. Keep your phone nearby and don't close the app during flashing.

Q: What does the signature verification error mean? Firmware files are cryptographically signed for security. Verification errors mean:

  • File was corrupted during download
  • File was tampered with
  • Network error occurred

Solution: Press "Re-download" to fetch a fresh copy. If error persists, contact support.

Troubleshooting

Q: The device won't respond to commands.

Try these steps:

  1. Check connection status (should show "Connected")
  2. Press "Sleep" then reconnect
  3. In Device Settings, press "Reboot Device"
  4. Check device battery level
  5. If unresponsive, power cycle the device hardware

Q: I get false alarms too easily.

Reduce sensitivity:

  1. Go to Device Settings
  2. Increase "Sensitivity" value (e.g., from 75mg to 150mg)
  3. Press "Save"

Higher sensitivity values require more motion to trigger.

Q: The device randomly disconnects.

Possible causes:

  • Weak Bluetooth signal (move phone closer)
  • Radio interference
  • Low device battery
  • Phone Bluetooth issues (toggle Bluetooth off/on)

If using "Run in Background" (Android), the device should automatically reconnect.

Q: Near/Far detection is inaccurate.

  1. Go to App Settings
  2. While standing at your preferred "Near" distance, note the live RSSI value
  3. Press "Adjust" under Near/Far Threshold
  4. Set threshold slightly below your observed RSSI
  5. Test and fine-tune

Remember: RSSI is affected by environment and obstacles.

Data & Privacy

Q: Does the app track my location?

No. The app never accesses, stores, or transmits your GPS location. Location permission is only used for Bluetooth scanning (older Android version requirement).

Q: What data does the app collect?

The app stores locally on your device:

  • Device pairing information (MAC address, encrypted passkey)
  • User preferences (RSSI threshold, update channel, etc.)
  • Downloaded firmware files
  • Device configuration settings

No data is transmitted to external servers except:

  • Firmware update checks (to manufacturer server)
  • Update telemetry (anonymous device model, firmware version, success/failure status)

Q: Can I use the app offline?

Yes! All device control and monitoring works offline via Bluetooth. Internet is only required for:

  • Checking for firmware updates
  • Downloading new firmware

Q: Is my device secure?

Yes:

  • Bluetooth pairing requires 6-digit passkey authentication
  • All firmware updates are cryptographically signed (Ed25519)
  • Encrypted Bluetooth communication
  • No remote access or cloud control

Q: What happens to my data if I unpair?

When you unpair a device:

  • Device-specific settings are erased from app
  • Bluetooth pairing is removed
  • Downloaded firmware files remain (can be deleted manually)
  • App preferences (RSSI threshold, etc.) are preserved

Hardware Installation

Q: My device doesn't power on after installation. What should I check?

Verify these connections:

  1. Red wire connected to battery positive (+) terminal
  2. Black wire connected to battery negative (−) or solid chassis ground
  3. Battery has sufficient voltage (>11V for 12V systems)
  4. Inline fuse not blown (if installed)
  5. Connections are tight and making good contact

Q: The horn doesn't work after installation.

Check:

  • Blue wire properly connected to horn positive wire
  • Horn fuse not blown in motorcycle fuse box
  • Test horn directly by temporarily connecting horn positive to battery positive
  • Verify horn was functional before installation

Q: Turn signals don't flash or work intermittently.

Possible causes:

  • Yellow wires not properly connected to turn signal wires
  • Tap connectors not fully seated
  • Connected to wrong wires (verify signal wires are +12V when active)
  • Check turn signal fuse in motorcycle

Q: Brake light doesn't work after installation.

Troubleshooting steps:

  1. Verify Green wire connected to correct tail light wire
  2. Test tail light directly - should be +12V when brake applied
  3. Check brake light fuse
  4. Ensure tap connector making good contact
  5. Verify brake light bulb not burned out

Q: Self-test doesn't run on power-up.

The device performs a brief self-test when first powered. If this doesn't occur:

  • Check power connections (Red/Black wires)
  • Verify battery voltage is adequate
  • Ensure device is not in deep sleep mode
  • Try disconnecting and reconnecting battery

Q: Can I connect Watchman to switched ignition instead of battery?

No. Watchman must be connected directly to the battery to:

  • Monitor bike when ignition is off
  • Provide 24/7 security coverage
  • Wake from motion when parked
  • Maintain background connectivity with app

Connecting to switched power will prevent proper security monitoring.

Support

Q: I found a bug or have a feature request. How do I report it?

Contact support through:

Please Include:

  • Device model and firmware version
  • App version
  • Phone model and OS version
  • Description of issue with steps to reproduce

Q: How do I check my app version?

App version is shown in your phone's app manager/settings. Settings → Apps → BikeSafe Watchman.

Glossary

  • RSSI - Received Signal Strength Indicator. Bluetooth signal strength in dBm (e.g., -60 dBm). Values closer to 0 = stronger signal.
  • OTA - Over-The-Air. Method of wirelessly updating firmware.
  • TLV - Tag-Length-Value. Binary protocol used for device communication.
  • Boot Slot - Firmware partition on device (Slot 1 or Slot 2).
  • Passkey - 6-digit PIN code for Bluetooth pairing authentication.
  • BLE - Bluetooth Low Energy. Power-efficient Bluetooth standard.
  • Proximity - Estimated distance based on Bluetooth signal strength.
  • Auto Mode - Automatic arm/disarm based on proximity.
  • Sensitivity - Motion detection threshold in milligravity (mg).

Quick Reference

Common Tasks

Task Steps
Connect to device Home Screen → Tap "Connect"
Activate motion detection Home Screen → Tap "Lock" (when connected)
Enable Auto mode Home Screen → Tap "Auto"
Change sensitivity Settings → Device → Sensitivity → Adjust → Save
Check for updates Settings → Device → Firmware → Re-check
Install firmware Settings → Device → Firmware → Download → Flash
Enable background Settings → App → Toggle "Run in background"
Adjust Near/Far Settings → App → Adjust (near RSSI Threshold)
Change passkey Settings → Device → Passkey → Enter new → Save → Reboot
Factory reset Settings → Device → Reset Device → Confirm

Status Chip Color Guide

The app uses Material Design 3 color containers that adapt to your theme (light/dark mode):

Container Color Connection Proximity Mode Lock
Secondary (Teal) Connected Near Disarmed Unlocked
Tertiary (Purple) Scanning - Auto -
Tertiary (Purple) Connecting - - -
Error (Red) Disconnected Far Armed Locked
Surface Variant - Unknown Unknown Unknown

Maintenance and Care

Regular Inspections

  • Monthly: Check all wire connections for looseness or corrosion
  • After Washing: Avoid direct high-pressure water spray on or near device enclosure
  • Seasonal: Inspect mounting cable ties and replace if showing wear

Long-Term Storage

If storing motorcycle for extended periods:

  1. Put device in Sleep Mode via the App to minimize battery drain (this should happen automatically after the configured sleep period)
  2. Device will have a negligible amount of effect on your battery and would last for months in this mode if there is no other parasitic discharge.
  3. It is always recommend to use a trickle charger for winter storage.

Professional Servicing

While tap connectors allow easy DIY installation, consider professional service for:

  • Converting to permanent soldered connections
  • Complex electrical troubleshooting
  • Integration with other security systems
  • Warranty-sensitive installations

Disclaimer

BikeSafe Watchman is intended as an auxiliary security enhancement device for motorcycles equipped with a 12V electrical system. It should not be solely relied upon as the primary means of protecting your motorcycle from theft. Proper installation, as outlined in this manual, is essential for the device's effective operation.

Installation Responsibility: Users are responsible for correct installation following this manual. Improper installation, incorrect wiring, or modifications performed by unauthorized persons may damage your motorcycle's electrical system or the device itself. Hematite Engineering Ltd does not accept liability for:

  • Improper installation or incorrect usage
  • Modifications by unauthorized persons
  • Damage to motorcycle electrical systems
  • Consequential damages resulting from device malfunction

Security Limitations: While BikeSafe Watchman is designed to enhance motorcycle security through motion detection, proximity sensing, and visual/audible alerts, it cannot guarantee prevention of theft or tampering. Users must:

  • Exercise caution and maintain vigilance
  • Use additional security measures (locks, chains, secure parking)
  • Comply with all applicable local laws and regulations
  • Follow safe riding practices

Firmware Updates: Over-the-air firmware updates are provided to enhance features and security. Users should:

  • Ensure stable Bluetooth connection during updates
  • Not interrupt update process
  • Note that firmware updates assume all risks associated with modifications

Electrical Safety: This device is designed for 12V motorcycle electrical systems only. Do not:

  • Install on vehicles with voltages other than 12V
  • Modify wiring beyond manufacturer specifications
  • Expose to water during and after installation
  • Install near excessive heat sources

Compliance: BikeSafe Watchman is designed to comply with applicable safety and electromagnetic compatibility regulations. Users are responsible for ensuring their usage complies with local laws and regulations regarding:

  • Vehicle modifications
  • Audible warning devices
  • Visual alert systems
  • Wireless communication devices

Always ride responsibly and stay safe.

Version: 1.0 Last Updated: October 2025