BikeLogger Hardware Device
Why not just use a smartphone?
Short answer: For the same reason smartphones are not yet used as block boxes in airplanes. They are not reliable enough yet.
Long answer: The MyAdventure team designed a custom tracking device called BikeLogger in order to provide a 100% adventure-proof tracker for motorcycle trips in the toughest possible conditions. When bikers ride on a long trip they progressively become worn down in terms of physical and mental fitness. Usually by the end of the first week everyone gets out of his comfort zone and gradually resorts to doing only what is important for his/her survival and good mood. Being adventure riders ourselves we understand this very well so we produced a device that functions completely autonomously and can withstand harsh environments without any compromise in its functionality.
Side-by-side comparison
| Feature | Smartphone | BikeLogger |
|---|---|---|
| GPS | 1 - 5 Hz | 10 Hz |
| Active GPS antenna | No | Yes 1 |
| Motion sensors |
Yes low precision
|
Yes high precision
|
| Waterproof | No 2 | Yes |
| Dustproof | No 2 | Yes |
| Shatterproof | No 2 | Yes |
| Power supply | Battery 3 | Motorcycle electric system 4 |
| Always-on | No 5 | Yes |
| Autonomous tracking | No 6 | Yes 7 |
Notes:
- Provides much better and faster signal, a lot less dependent on weather conditions.
- Except for specific smartphone models.
- Rider must take care to keep it charged.
- BikeLogger is connected to the motorcycle electric system and is always active when bike is powered on, no need for any manual operations.
- Rider must take care to have his phone powered on, app started, GPS enabled, battery charged and ensure good visibility to the sky.
- Rider must have started a trip to have the smartphone tracking enabled.
- BikeLogger is always recording and could record for up to 2 years before having the data transferred.
Which way to choose?
It really depends on your needs and plans. MyAdventure recommends using a smartphone only for short trips and for testing the system. For serious adventure trips we recommend using our BikeLogger device.