radar detector

[bigdaub]

hello folks,
i was playing poker with my buddies the other night and the topic of radar detectors came up.  we concluded that there is not a radar detector out there designed specifically for motorcycles.  are we right on this one?  has anyone seen a radar detector made specifically for motorcycles, and if so, where can i get one?  not that i'm riding faster than the speed limit or anything...

[pizzleboy]

there isn't one specifically designed for bikes, but some come with pocket adapters.

Others can be installed directly to the frame.

[Kerry]

I realize that you're probably looking for a certain style/format for the radar detector itself, so this probably doesn't apply.

But still, you don't want to miss miket's old thread good use for stock mirrors.

[powrful1]

I have seen radar detectors that are designed for motorcycles....can't remember where....but hell you could simply take a cagger and make it into a motorcycle with a little wire, a switch, inline fuse, and something to mount the damn thing to.

[bigdaub]

thanx for the link kerry.

would you guys get a radar detector if it's made specifically for motorcycles?  ie. mounts inconspicuously onto your bike, big lights so you can see instead of those tiny little lights, and big buttons so you can use them with your gloves on, etc?  i think i should look into making this stuff if no one makes it out there.

[JohNLA]

I like it
[grumbling,  :x stupid, $220 ticket]

[Kerry]

I like it

Hey John - are you talking about the stock mirror idea?
'Cause you already GAVE it 4 thumbs up in the original thread!  (Yours is the 2nd post.)

Sorry - just ribbin' ya.

[JohNLA]

No, an indiscrete hidden detector with a big light like a gear indicater.

[miket]

In general, you can use any radar detector for car. You just need a bracket to mount it and a source for power. Just keep in mind that none of them is designed to be waterproof. Almost everyone I usually ride with has one. I wonder why...  

Usually, the Valentine 1 and the passport 8500 are considered the best of the park as far as detection and features are concerned. The passport 8500 comes with a headphone jack, but it's hard to hear it at speed. For the Valentine 1 (more $$$), you can buy a remote (or stealth) module and a headphone module.
Escort sells also the Solo2 which runs on both batteries and power. It is less powerful, but allows you to avoid a power line. Which means you can put it in you pocket without risking to rip off the cable the first time you forget about it.
There is another company that sells a stealth models whose parts can be installed separately. I just can't remember the name right now. I saw it installed on a BMW, basically you couldn't tell that it was there. Again, I am not sure it would be water proof, it may not be appropriate on a bike without a large protective fairing. It is fairly expensive too, iirc.

For remote visual detection, you can buy a H.A.R.D., which is way overpriced, imho. I know someone who ripped open the cable of a passport 8500 and installed the led inside his helmet.

The source of power can either be taken from the headlight (there are two wires hanging there just for that), or the battery. Using a quick-disconnect connector like SAE (aka trailer connector), or BMW type is the best option. Aerostich sells many different kinds, or you can rig up one like Kerry did.

Saeng sells radar detector mounts. They are nice, but costly and put the radar in clear view. The mirror, as you know already, works well but looks ghetto. There is a cheaper alternative that I mentioned in the other thread. Check the catalog of Chaparral. Or you can get creative and make your own braket for dirty cheap with matherial form Home depot.
You can also put it in your tank bag or pocket, but it won't pick up lasers.  Not that it matters much, once it picks up a laser beam, it means that you are busted anyway. The main risk is that you will rip off the power cable if you forget it's there.


-Mike (7 insurance points and counting)