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This is scary. I just bought a Starmate 4 for the scoot.
Were they replaced underwarranty?
ORIGINAL: chris02324
I had the Sirius "starmate 4" on my bike. I ended up burning out two docking stations due to vibrations. I think my next move will be to install the "INV II" model, it is a direct mount system, so it shouldn't burn out.It's not much to look at but as long as it works thats fine by me. I used one of these to connct my Sirius set to my radio (http://www.circuitcity.com/ssm/SIRIU...oductDetail.do). Very easy to install.I hardwired the sat radio to thecig lighter.
The first one was covered, the second one wasn't. I'm going to the INV II because it is a direct mount system; no docking station. OriginallyI wanted to share the radio between my car and my bike via the two docking stations, but I have since changed my mind.I can't be bothered to black tie my radio every time I want to go for a ride.
I use the Sportster 4 with the motorcycle mounting kit nedster links to. I've never had a problem with vibration causing problems. Keep the lock on the back locked while riding and remove radio when stopped. The kit comes with the power supply so you don't tie up the cig lighter. I also used the FM adapter that plugs to the radio to eliminate the plug into the aux port. I can still plug my mp3 player in without having to unplug the radio.
I tried using the Sportster 4 in my truck with just the FM modulator and had problems because of the crowded air waves in Houston. Even with the FM adapter, I had to find a compatible frequency. Recommendations for these are available at the Sirius site.
Vibration is probably more of an issue for me due to the poor road conditions up here in the Northeast. Pot holes and patchwork every where due to loads of salt and heaving during winter months. I also used the Sirius MC mount kit, works great minus the docking station. FYI I also had my receiver in the locked position.
I love Sirius, but if they don't come out with a system to integrate into the HK stereo, I might just pull the trigger on the HD XM unit. Having the handlebar controls run all of the satellite functions is worth a lot to me.
Purchased a Sirius SV1 (looks like a radar detector) from Radio Shack for $19.00 a couple years ago. Can use in any vehicle along with my 02 Ultra.
Antenna mounts to windshield trim molding, power plugs into cig. lighter and 1/8" to 1/8" patch cord connects from the SV1 audio out to the aux. jack on radio front. No need for FM wirless.
The only problem is you cannot change stations until you stop (doesn't bother me as I leave it on Classic Rock).
The SV1 and left over wiring fits in one of the fairing pouches (no mount required). Easy to move from Truck to Motorcycle and back. Also use I Pod Nano the same way. Check E bay for Sirius SV1.
Yes, I know I have this unit for sale right now but thought I'd provide some input anyways. LOL
I used a portable unt from XM....a MyFi. Using a car cradle I adapted to a RAM mount worked great, and worked great for two main reasons. First, it's a battery operated unit so I never had to deal with isolating a power source. To combat the use of the battery (it was good for several hours of play time) I purchased a couple more off eBay. I'd put the unit in the cradle on a mounta buddy fabbed up for me that would also hold the antenna. That way, when I got off the bike, I could just dismount the unit itself, leaving the mount in place for easy re-installation when I was ready to roll.
Second, I thought the sound coming off the headset plug was far and away much "cleaner" than using the same cable from the rear of the car cradle. The sound was great coming through a set of decent headsets (Sony) that I installed inside my Sy-Max. It is a great unit and while battery power has its drawbacks, the non-issue with the hum I was getting through the cig lighter was worth it to me. It looked pretty clean as an install on the bike with only the double male plug dangling, and once you had the volume turned up to about 3/4 or so on the unit itself, you could adjust to your comfort via the handlebar controls. Another reason for the double male plug is that I was never impressed with the FM modulator, even in the truck. Very versatile, but not the quality sound I'd like. Just my opinion.
Like I said, I have this setup for sale in the classifieds, but it is a great setup. I've always had an issue paying the subscription fees and decided to go with a new iPod so I can have more control over whatI listen to when I ride.
I am curently using a Stiletto 10 with a car kit. I have about 10,000 miles with it on and have never had any problems. I took the car kit and removed the bolt that goes to the glue pad. I then took a screw out of my clutch lever and got a longer one. I then screwed the mount to my clutch lever bracket and ran the wires down the handle bars and to the needed spots. I can remove the radio when I am parked and have never had a problem with the way it is set up. It also puts the radio right at hand level for changing channels.
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