Technology Ebbs and Flows—A Letter From Florian
Not that many years ago, every time I ventured out on a motorcycle tour for the magazine, I brought along a dizzying array of tech. Most importantly (at the time), my Garmin had the planned route, and if something came up along the way, it didn’t take me long to find an alternate route. But the navigation device didn’t always play nice.
I also mounted a radar detector. You know, just in case.
A SPOT tracker not only recorded my path in case the Garmin failed, but it also served as an ICE safety measure.
Then there was the GoPro in all its round, bubble-like glory recording hours of POV footage that was never used. I’m pretty sure I had a wireless heated gear controller zip-tied somewhere in the cockpit too.
The Bluetooth communicator was clipped to my helmet, although I never connected it to my Garmin. Just thinking back on those days and listing every gadget stresses me out. I developed tech burnout very quickly.
When the smartphone replaced so many other devices (which it will continue to do), I couldn’t have been happier. Instead of a ridiculous amount of devices on my handlebar, I only had to worry about my phone.
Granted, I’m back on the GoPro train, but now you can at least see polished videos on our YouTube channel. For many years, I almost free soloed trips with just my phone, until the pesky vibration destroyed my camera. Now, I’m more selective when I mount my phone for navigation purposes.
More recently, a small handful of companies have come out with a new idea: take a quality tablet that can withstand the environment, build a custom dashboard app, and add OBD2 connectivity. You can replace your OEM screen with a fully customizable computer that serves you maps and routes, music, motorcycle diagnostics, and more.
Having seen them in the flesh, I’m in awe of this new development. Will we see riders flock to mount tablets on their motorcycles? If so, will OEMs spend less money on stock displays?
We will continue to report on these types of products, and you can read about the Carpe Iter Pad in our latest review.
We recently published our 2024 Tour Operators Guide, highlighting several great tour providers across the U.S. and beyond. Additionally, we are highlighting great motorcycling destinations every week on our website.
With so many great riding locations to choose from, it’s always prudent to start a list and whittle it down as you explore our country and beyond. Hear your exhaust echo off Texas canyon walls or plunge off your bike into Idaho hot springs (after properly dismounting, of course). You could also venture to Italy or South America for a more exotic riding experience.
Whether I’ll end up with a tablet on my Yamaha Ténéré 700 remains to be seen, but one thing is certain. I don’t miss hearing, “You’ve arrived at your destination,” five seconds after leaving the hotel parking lot.
Looking at you, Garmin.
Safe travels,
Florian
Editor-in-Chief