Anyone use SPOT gps? Is it worth it?

[ClayJ]

I've been considering buying a SPOT gps to carry with me when I go wheeling and when I go on motorcycle rides. There is a $50 rebate going on so now seems to be a good time to get a Spot II.

[Entourage]

What is a Spot GPS?

[Jesus_man]

It's a GPS locating device.
http://www.findmespot.com/en/index.php?cid=101

It'd be one thing if you were skiing or snow-machining in the back country or hiking the wilderness where you are not likely to see anyone else. But I don't know that it'd be worth it for excursions on well used off-roads or paved roads. I actually don't know the cost, but it just seems your money could be better spent elsewhere. Maybe you do that stuff Clay??

Just saw it's $99 for a basic 1yr service plan plus the cost of the unit. Put that money in your glove box and offer parts of it to people who help you, if you even need it.

J.D.

[socofn]

It is worth every penny if your are going to be out by yourself or in a small group in the back country or your spouse wants to track your movements. I have participated in several searches of folks who have activated their SPOT unit and it is really close. Good luck with your decision. JP

[Justin]

Vragor, where can I find the rebate? I'd really like to get one of these since I may go out alone with my 4 year old son to do some camping and wouldn't mind the backup if something happens. Also do a decent amount of hiking alone. Looks like a good solution to a broken ankle or something like that.

[Viperwolf1]

It is worth every penny if... your spouse wants to track your movements.

That doesn't sound like money well spent to me.

[Justin]

....or your spouse wants to track your movements.

Sounds good to me. I'm married to a worrier. Being able to see where we are in the back country will mean fewer "yes, honey, we're fine" phone calls.

[hockeydad4-22]

With 2 teenage sons who are starting to adventure into the woods alone and whith friends - I am considering it myself. One of Daniels friends family has one and because they do - and they are taking it with them, it makes allowing a group of teenage boys to go camping next week by themselfs a lot easier.

I will let you know how it works, we are supposed to be recieving emails from the service while they are gone.

[ClayJ]

Here's the rebate - http://www.findmespot.com/rebate50/docs ... _FIXED.pdf

It's just off the main home page for spot. I'm still seriously considering buying one.

[akaFrankCastle]

I'd buy one if I were doing enough off roading/lone excursions. In a solo environment, it could be a lifesaver. For organized trail runs, you're not going to get your message to first responders faster than with one of these. Cell coverage is pretty much finite. Satellite coverage less so.

Just make sure that if you do buy one of these, you keep it someone easily accessible for an emergency (read: on your body, in a pocket, etc.). Does you know good if you are pinned in your truck or thrown from your bike and the thing is stored in a glovebox or saddlebag.

[ClayJ]

Finally bought a SPOT.

The $50 rebate continues, plus a $25 sports authority coupon meant I got my spot for $75.

I'm riding a 1985 Honda Magna VF700 down to Phoenix and felt I'd like a little more communication with my family in case I need a tow.

I'll have a continuous track going if you want to see where I am for the next couple of days.

http://share.findmespot.com/shared/face ... yJGhHAs14V

[Jesus_man]

What are you doing halfway to pueblo?? LOL!

Want me to forward the link to that really big guy you owe money to?? "it's curtains Tony, curtains"

J.D.

[Dukietown]

They are great if they're used for their intended purpose. The SPOT Connect has gotten really good reviews and allows you to send text messages from your smart phone via the satellite link which lets you give more detailed info on what's going on. Just remember to never ever use the 911 button unless it's absotlutely needed. I've read quite a few stories of people calling in a SAR team for stuff you wouldn't believe. Also, technology is no substitue for skill, training and experience. Having a SPOT doesn't mean you should attempt something more difficult than you would without one. *stepping off the soap box now*

[Viperwolf1]

Having a SPOT doesn't mean you should attempt something more difficult than you would without one.

So kayaking across the pacific ocean is still a bad idea?

[Jesus_man]

So kayaking across the pacific ocean is still a bad idea?

Just make sure the device is in a ziploc bag. Oh and pack a lunch...

[hockeydad4-22]

So kayaking across the pacific ocean is still a bad idea?

Just make sure the device is in a ziploc bag. Oh and pack a lunch...

And some ing water...

[Justin]

Having a SPOT doesn't mean you should attempt something more difficult than you would without one.

So kayaking across the pacific ocean is still a bad idea?

Crazy people actually do it. There have been several crossings from the mainland to Hawaii, often using large parafoil kites to help out.

[Dukietown]

Having a SPOT doesn't mean you should attempt something more difficult than you would without one.

So kayaking across the pacific ocean is still a bad idea?

Nah that's fine. Coast guard needs more to do anyways

[Viperwolf1]

Looks like Clay checked into a holiday inn for the night. Bet he's in the pool by now. It's hot out there.

[ClayJ]

Looks like Clay checked into a holiday inn for the night. Bet he's in the pool by now. It's hot out there.

Region inn

It's hot and humid here. Lots of rain today. I rode lots of wet roads but only got sprinkled on

[hockeydad4-22]

Should have had you swing by my grandparents and wish them a happy anniversary today. They live in Farmington and today is their 67th.

Have fun, safe travels