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Photo by Daniel Rintz, Himba children, Namibia

The only impossible journey
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Photo by Daniel Rintz,
Himba children, Namibia



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  #1  
Old 12 Aug 2010
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Where do you put your SPOT (in tracking mode)

Well I thought I'd take my new spot for a test run in the mountains today, it didn't seem to do too well in tracking mode with only one tracking message received so I figure that I need to relocate it on my bike, previously it was located on the tank, next to the fuel cap so I guess I'm leaning over it which can't be any good.

I don't really want it behind me in case someone steals it from me at the lights or something and I don't always carry gear either, that really leaves me to put it on either the handlebars or backpack strap....

Just wondering if anyone has any creative ideas for a good place where it doesn't annoy you yet still gets a good signal? I think it would be better if it was a vertical device as opposed to horizontal, better for motorcyclists anyway.
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Old 12 Aug 2010
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Still waiting for my SPOT to arrive, so can't help you out with personal experience of placement.

However, from freinds that already have them, I have been told, that directly on the tank is not good, because there is too much metal absorbing the signal.

Also, you need to keep it away from other GPS or RF transmitting devices.

A bloke I know keeps it under the seat on his 1400GTR, and reckons it works fine from there.

Keep us updated, I'll be really interested to here of your experiences, particularly once my unit arrives.
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Old 12 Aug 2010
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Metal surfaces can affect a SPOT unit's performance. Plastic, cloth, and paper do not seem to interfere with signal reception. I hide my unit inside the top access pocket/flap of my rack bag's fabric lid. See pic: LINKY. It's out of the way back there, and outta sight too, with 100% signal success.

Cheers

Keith

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Old 12 Aug 2010
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Thanks guys, my tank is all metal so that's probably what is causing it. Will update this when I've figured something out!
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Old 12 Aug 2010
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Well this is what I have decided on for now, will see how it goes. Using 3M Dual Locks as they are really durable, I doubt it will come off even if I knock it but if it does then I have the elastic there as a backup.



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Old 12 Aug 2010
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I got a Ram mount for mine and have it on the handlebars

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