What happens if you're on a solo ride in the middle of nowhere and you crash? A new Kickstarter project, Ridersmate is one answer. With built-in GPS and GPRS mobile phone connectivity it automatically sends an alert if you crash so help can get to you ASAP.

Designer David Coleman says the first 60 minutes after a crash are vital; if you don't get help in that period the consequences can be serious.

His answer is Ridersmate, a device that attaches to your bike, with a detachable tether that clips to your clothing. If you fall and become separated from your bike, the tether detaching triggers a text message to be sent to a designated number.

If you've just had a minor spill, or forgotten you were using the Ridersmate and walked away from your bike, rejoining the tether sends a message that it's a false alarm.

Here's a video to show how it works:

Coleman says that the advantage of Ridersmate over a system that uses the GPS in a mobile phone is battery life.

He said: "We wanted Ridersmate to have enough battery life for a full day’s riding, whilst still being lightweight and portable enough to take with you wherever you go, so we had to come up with a unique solution.

"Ridersmate … uses our unique location system, which has mapped out the positions and movements of all the world’s GPS satellites.

"Ridersmate always knows exactly where it is, without having to waste power finding the satellites. This enabled us to make Ridersmate small and lightweight enough to fit easily onto any cycle, motorbike or saddle, whilst still providing 8+ hours of battery life."

As well as sending automatic emergency message the Ridersmate has a manual SOS function, and can also send a non-emergency message.

It's USB-rechargeable, as you'd expect, and has ride-logging functions too.

Coleman is looking for £19,900 to manufacture the first Ridersmates, and so far has 10 backers. The main Kickstarter reward on offer is the unit itself. The RRP will be £249, but backers can get one for £199.

Find out more over on Kickstarter.