From start-up to exit.

RISER | Brand Creation

KISKA brought RISER, a motorcycle navigation app start-up, from conception to acquisition by Cardo Systems. This is how we did it. And why having a strategic sparring partner is profitable.

SERVICES

Product Experience Design
Experience Design
Digital Product Design
Product Consulting

A powerful start-up partnership.

From a shared dream between RISER and KISKA, a rider-centric app was boosted.

Successfully funded.

We facilitated the Cardo x RISER acquisition and provided support at every step.

And taken to market.

In 2024, the next-gen 4.2 update went live with raving reviews.

Ideas power innovation.

But getting them off the ground is the real challenge. It takes grit, resources, and strategic alliances. But KISKA is in the ideal position to help turn bold ideas into triumphs. Our partnership with RISER, the ultimate navigator app for bikers, proves this journey of transformation – from concept to conquest.

Creating the next-gen solution for homework.

Riders want what riders want.

Back in 2016, the seeds of RISER were planted in a glaring gap in the navigation market. While existing solutions catered predominately for car drivers, the unique needs of motorcyclists remained unaddressed. Riders want to be connected to their mates, but what happens when they’re loyal to different brands with individual communication apps? They’re disconnected.

This is RISER.

In response, start-up RISER was born: a 3rd party app not only providing route guidance but curating journeys ideal for bikers. From curvy roads to hidden passes. From breath-taking views to thrilling straights. This proposal isn’t something we associate with any OEM – but we know users want to curate their rides and share experiences away from the vehicle ecosystem. They ride with friends, often on different bike brands from different model years. 3rd party apps are in the foreground building a strong community.

Collaborating. Empowering. Supporting.

KISKA became RISER’s sparring partner. Working with an extremely motivated and committed core team from the start-up, we took the idea and evolved it further into a digital product with ultra-desirable features. The RISER app is community-led, with riders contributing to global challenges, getaway recommendations, and road ratings. Beyond the UI / UX support, we helped guide the strategy, marketing, branding, and product positioning – creating a market-ready output with great potential.

Interested in our tech design capabilities? Discover more here.

But then RISER encountered a problem…

And it was a common problem. Securing long-term financial backing. Traditional motorcycle OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers) were hesitant to invest in a venture which would deviate from their established focus. But this wasn’t our intention anyway. Motorcycling is a mixed brand world – so a connectivity app should connect riders of all brands.

Our contributions.

For any fresh start-up, approaching potential investors is a daunting prospect. But throughout the process, we provided eye-level support to the RISER team. From product consulting to utilising our client network, from optimising pitch deck iterations to hosting experience days, our team was by RISER’s side throughout the journey. And with two visionary teams supporting the project, it was becoming more realised every single day.

An advantageous match…

Leveraging our extensive industry network, we hosted a meeting between RISER and Cardo, the leading authority in Bluetooth motorcycle communication devices. Recognising the connection between their respective expertise, we set the stage for a mutually beneficial acquisition. Following the acquisition, RISER and Cardo have transformed the platform with user-centric upgrades, including group functionality, advanced ride analytics, and improved performance and UI/UX design, delivering an elevated experience for all riders.

Learn how we prototype for peak user experience.

What’s next?

From funding to exit, KISKA was RISER’s constant companion. This partnership underscores the great potential of strategic, eye-level conversation and visionary leadership. We remain committed to nurturing ground-breaking ideas and guiding new players in a competitive industry. We’ve done it before. And we will do it again and again.

Want to get your start-up off the ground? Reach out.

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Sharp thinking. Bold execution. KISKA generates brand experiences with business value. From strategic consulting to hands-on execution of your vision. See the results for yourself.