What would it take to convince you?

[djfalkenstein]

Folks, I am in late-stage negotiations with a major manufacturer of communication systems for motorcycles, ATV, and the like to become a representative in the US. At the moment this manufacturer has no US representation (other than a dealer or two). This manufacturer does have a very good reputation for their products.

Before I pull the trigger on a deal, I would like to query the troops.

I need your advice.

Why would you, or would you not, buy a communication system or add-on this year? This includes Bluetooth.
What would be your priorities in the decision? For example; if the equipment is on-par, is a personal relationship the tipping point for a sale?
What would be the perfect product with respect to this post?
As always, you input is greatly appreciated.

[andy]

The 'perfect' system for me would be one that

a) Works
b) Offers Bluetooth connection to the various components like phone, helmet
c) offers wired connections
d) offers adjustable volume per channel
e) offers a solar rechargeable bluetooth helmet setup. (there is absolutely no reason why we cannot charge the helmet portions off solar)

[DaveDragon]

Yeah, what Andy said!

[AliMar]

f) is completely modular, easily expanded.

I always thought that a great unit would be one that has a "mother ship" module or "the brain" that would only have an expansion bus port. Expansion units would be single or dual port wired or wireless modules that plug into the expansion bus. Each module extends the bus to a point, perhaps 4 modules. Then we would be able to go wired/wireless in any configuration we wanted.

The brain $250.
Single expansion $79 (wired or BT)
Dual port expansion $129 (wired or BT)
FRS unit $159
etc...

And what Andy said. Solar powered helmet (could it included a cooling fan?)

[djfalkenstein]

AliMar,

Funny you should say that....

[STARFIGHTER]

Autocom wireless with quality speakers

[hschisler]

Appropriate technology or shielding from electrical interference should be there, especially at the highest level of quality.
Smallest possible size, resulting in more applications and leaving more room for other farkles.
Apologies if this is painfully obvious.

[kmurphy165]

I'm right on the cusp of pulling the trigger on an Autocom system. If your manufacturer can truly do as well as Autocom for less, than I'm definitely interested. Do you have a firm timeline for availability? 1 thing that would influence me would be an interface to tie into the LT rear speaker plugs like the Behr (sic?) but without the exorbitant cost of the Behr.

Evaluatin' Karl

[djfalkenstein]

Please keep in mind that I have not fully evaluated the offering myself. I have seen it here and on Web Bike World.

I am not trying to be cute; I know you can guess this manufacturer (read my past postings). I just don't think it is appropriate to disclose too much information without being authorized to do so.

I understand that this system is better than, or as good as, any system out. It is modular; meaning you could add Bluetooth to a VOICE II, or augment a AutoCom.

I am negotiating this deal. If you are convinced that an existing system suits you then go for it. I am not trying to sell anyone (yet). I am doing a cost/benefit analysis.

I would, of course, officially sponsor this site when the ink dries.

[AliMar]

AliMar,

Funny you should say that....
What's that? The part about the cooling fan? :histerica