Tech Gear & Recharging Devices

[alexjangard]

Hey guys! So I'm a rookie when it comes to bikepacking, and wanting to get into it further. I have a particular set of questions about tech gadgets that you've all used or still use on your trips. I would like to bring my GoPro and cell phone and really not much more than that. But I've just been doing some thinking and I don't know what the best way to recharge my devices would be. I know there are a wide range of solar panels, energy sticks or blocks that I can pre-charge before a trip but I wanted to ask first what has worked for all of you!

If you could let me know pros/cons about each from your experience, and where you think they could be better so that I can look for those certain features in different products?
Thanks!
Alex

[bmike-vt]

I've got a dyno hub setup and have only tested this setup on long day rides, but I have no reason to believe it won't work multi-day.

I can run my lights, or it will run or charge the GoPro and Garmin eTrex directly through a USBwerk.

It will also charge an iPhone directly - but I've found it spotty - so instead of charging directly I've been using a Limefuel battery. Charge it up, then top off the iPhone or GoPro. The Limefuel also supports 'pass through' charging - meaning I can have one end plugged into the device, and one into the USBwerk, and still pull power through to the device. I haven't done any testing of how that works in reality...

[alexjangard]

Sounds like a dynopack would be sweet! Does it restrict your speed, pedalability or hold you back at all since that things is essentially a turbine, correct?

I also checked out the USB werk, have you had any problems with that device?

[bmike-vt]

No issue with the dyno or the USBwerk. I hold myself back more than my bike or my gear does...

I looked at this device to plug into the dyno as well: http://www.sinewavecycles.com/collections/frontpage/products/sinewave-revolution

[offroute]

The best method to recharge might depend somewhat on your projected touring m.o. and the route(s).

I had great performance from an inexpensive phone charger. 30 bucks, small and light, and provides 2+ iPhone charges. I read about a divide rider (here, I think) who used a couple of them with success. My charging needs were limited to a phone, and it does take a few hours to recharge the charger using a regular 120v outlet (like you'll find along the walls of many restaurants, laundromats and some RV park tent campsites).

http://www.monoprice.com/Product?c_id=108&cp_id=10831&cs_id=1083110&p_id=9283&seq=1&format=2