melensdad
Well-Known Member
Been thinking about her peace of mind and seriously considering getting a PLB or a Satellite Communicator but wondering if they are actually practical for motorcycle use in case of an emergency.
In ALL cases the unit needs to be stuck to your BODY and not to your BIKE because if you are injured and separated from your bike (say it skidded down a slope and you are broken at the top of the slope) so I'm ONLY looking at units small enough to strap to your arm, stuff in your pocket, etc. Some SatNavigation units (Garmin Montana) offer rescue functions but if the unit is mounted to your bike it may be out of reach if you are injured.
GARMIN makes a few communicators, but the InReach Mini is probably the macdaddy of all with its tiny size. It is both a stand alone unit and it also will connect to a smartphone for some added functionality. The TINY screen can actually give you directions, allow you to read simple text messages, etc. InReach Mini lets you send an emergency signal for rescue if you crash or are injured. But also allows you to use your Smartphone to send text messages via satellite to your home, friends, etc. Also allows you to "drop breadcrumbs" on a map so your friends can follow your journey. About 2" by 3.5" and 5 ounces. About $350 + monthly subscription fees. Rechargable battery lasts about 100 hours.
Among other companies, ARC makes the ResQLink rescue beacons, they do 1 thing and only 1 thing. Send a help signal that brings in help. The beacon connects directly with a rescue center, which coordinates with authorities in your immediate location. Couple of models, but roughly $315, no added fees. Battery lasts for 5 years then needs to be replaced by the factory.
There are other brands of beacons, there are other brands and types of satellite communicators. Most of the small/light satellite communicators have a simple RESCUE button that allows you to call for help without the use of a cell phone. But most also connect to your cell phone and give you added functionality.
RESCUE BEACON:
1 time purchase price and it does 1 thing, brings help. Good for 5 years before battery needs replacement.
SATELLITE COMMUNICATOR:
Monthly subscription ($150 to $600 per year depending on chosen plan) + purchase price. They do several things, if you need any of those things.
Anyone use any of these things? Given that cellphone coverage is pretty easy to find in most areas of North America is there really much need for a Satellite Communicator as an emergency device for moto travel?
In ALL cases the unit needs to be stuck to your BODY and not to your BIKE because if you are injured and separated from your bike (say it skidded down a slope and you are broken at the top of the slope) so I'm ONLY looking at units small enough to strap to your arm, stuff in your pocket, etc. Some SatNavigation units (Garmin Montana) offer rescue functions but if the unit is mounted to your bike it may be out of reach if you are injured.
GARMIN makes a few communicators, but the InReach Mini is probably the macdaddy of all with its tiny size. It is both a stand alone unit and it also will connect to a smartphone for some added functionality. The TINY screen can actually give you directions, allow you to read simple text messages, etc. InReach Mini lets you send an emergency signal for rescue if you crash or are injured. But also allows you to use your Smartphone to send text messages via satellite to your home, friends, etc. Also allows you to "drop breadcrumbs" on a map so your friends can follow your journey. About 2" by 3.5" and 5 ounces. About $350 + monthly subscription fees. Rechargable battery lasts about 100 hours.
Among other companies, ARC makes the ResQLink rescue beacons, they do 1 thing and only 1 thing. Send a help signal that brings in help. The beacon connects directly with a rescue center, which coordinates with authorities in your immediate location. Couple of models, but roughly $315, no added fees. Battery lasts for 5 years then needs to be replaced by the factory.
There are other brands of beacons, there are other brands and types of satellite communicators. Most of the small/light satellite communicators have a simple RESCUE button that allows you to call for help without the use of a cell phone. But most also connect to your cell phone and give you added functionality.
RESCUE BEACON:
1 time purchase price and it does 1 thing, brings help. Good for 5 years before battery needs replacement.
SATELLITE COMMUNICATOR:
Monthly subscription ($150 to $600 per year depending on chosen plan) + purchase price. They do several things, if you need any of those things.
Anyone use any of these things? Given that cellphone coverage is pretty easy to find in most areas of North America is there really much need for a Satellite Communicator as an emergency device for moto travel?