Safety is paramount when mountain biking in the wilds. The old adage about informing someone of your planned destination and likely route should you run into unexpected trouble is worth adhering to. But there might be a time when that simply isn’t enough.
SPOT is a satellite personal tracker that can automatically send text messages of your position to anyone following via Google Maps, where the waypoints will be plotted. If things all start going a bit wrong, there’s a “Help” button that requests assistance from said friends and family. It can get hold of them either by SMS or email, with the latter including links to Google Maps. And if your situation gets really serious, the “911” button will send your current location to the emergency services.
For 2010 the SPOT Satellite GPS Messenger has been made 30% smaller and lighter so it’ll take even less space in your hydration pack, and also offers advanced capabilities over its predesuccessor.
“Since market introduction, the award-winning original SPOT has initiated more than 500 rescues and sent millions of peace-of-mind and track-me messages around the world. We have listened to our customers’ suggestions and are proud to introduce the second-generation SPOT Satellite GPS MessengerTM with its additional features and rich functionality,” says Gavan Murphy, European Marketing Manager, Globalstar Europe Satellite Services Ltd. “Today’s announcement further demonstrates our continued commitment to enhance our product lines and develop European market distribution.”
So as well as a more compact design, the latest SPOT has an enhanced satellite antenna for improved performance under trees, with an advanced GPS performance chipset speeding things up. There’s a dedicated GPS tracking button, a ‘message sending’ indicator light, a pre-programmable custom message button, illuminated buttons, protective covers over the SOS and help buttons, and a choice of orange of silver.
“The active outdoor enthusiast such as hikers, sailors, pilots, kayakers, mountain bikers, remote workers and travelers will continue to enjoy the new SPOT Satellite GPS Messenger for its ruggedness, while its smaller compact size and weight is ideal for portable use,” continues Murphy. “The smaller size and ease-of-use will appeal to our broader consumer markets including the active family or anyone who spends time in areas with unreliable mobile phone coverage.”
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