Solar Charging Systems

[OakLeaf]

Looks like the next generation of solar charging systems will be here soon - at least some devices in time for your tour.

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/01/31/bu...novel.html?hpw

[oz rider]

Good info alimey. Does anyone know if the powermonkey eXplorer will charge a Garmin Edge 500? The website only seems to mention things like the 305 and forerunner, and I'm not sure if the 500 has the same USB and voltage.

[bikerHen]

OK, I'll keep notes and take pictures. But we don't leave until August 26. Our mini trip over the fourth was a good warm up. I think I'm ready. Just have to spend a little more quality time on pannier organization and packing. We're riding just over 500 miles and giving ourselves two weeks to really enjoy the journey. Well that and extra time to get over a couple of BIG mountain passes. bikerHen

[shootingstar]

At a smaller, lower level, on alternative sources of energy: I had the opportunity to have bike front light and back light self-powering, self-lighting from merely cycling along. It was an option for my folding Dahon bike model.

There must be a term for this.

Anyway, I decided not to have it. If you can believe it, it was weight. I wanted the experience of having the lightest bike for the lst time in my life...before throwing on the panniers for self-loaded touring trips.

Yes, I'm a duh.

[jolie]

Solar Charging Systems sounds great. But I'v never use it before and wanna have a try about it

[jezbael]

I know this thread is a couple of years old, but I've had it bookmarked for when I was ready to seriously start shopping. Since electronics so quickly change, I'm wondering what folks are using these days for solar charging. We have an iphone, ipad, and camera batteries that will need charging over a month long ride. We'll be staying half the time camping, and half the time in motels. So, we need the options of solar as well as plug in.

[bikerHen]

I FINALLY got to try out the solar charging system my DH but together for me. Three of us ladies did a 2 1/2 day bike tour over the weekend. The weather was kind of marginial, but a good trial for the solar panel because we did have more clouds than beating sun.

Here's what my DH put together: He purchased a charging unit through Amazon, called "myPower All" from a company called Tekkeon. He got a Brunton solar charging panel at REI. The charging unit came with a bunch of different charging tips but all I need is the mini USB. The unit can be charged up with a regular wall plug or the solar panel.

I rigged the panel across the top of my back panniers. The first night out I recharged two Garmins and my cell phone. The next night, one Garmin.

I'm very happy with the set up and I think it will work fine for my upcoming trip. Two weeks camping in the Canadian Rockies. I should have taken a picture of the set-up, but I never think of that when I'm in the moment. If anyone wants more information, I'm sure my DH could tell you all you need to know. bikerHen

[divingbiker]

I want to hear every detail about your Canadian Rockies trip.

[Tri Girl]

I want to hear every detail about your Canadian Rockies trip.

me too!!!!!