Why Use a Quad Lock or Any Cell Phone Mount?
If you use your cell phone for navigation or music streaming, it’s helpful to be able to glance at it while riding (only when it’s safe to do so, of course!) It’s also nice to have it easily accessible when you want to snap a quick picture or two at scenic stops.
The original Quad Lock mounting system keeps your phone secured with just a quarter turn and press. The newer Mag system uses strong magnets to keep the phone in place. It’s simple and effective. This is why the company has grown so quickly since its Kickstarter campaign in 2011. Quad Lock is leading the way in phone mounts not only for motorcyclists, but for car drivers, bicyclists, golfers, boaters, pilots, and other outdoor recreations.
Vibration Protection
There are many cell phone mount options available, so what makes Quad Lock different? I finally ditched my old phone mount a few years ago when iPhone users began reporting issues with the phone’s camera not being able to focus after being mounted to motorcycles. Apple warns about not mounting your iPhone to motorcycle handlebars or chassis due to the engine’s high-amplitude vibrations degrading the closed-loop autofocus and optical image stabilization features. This applies to any cell phone with this technology. Quad Lock is the only company that I know of that guarantees 90% of that high frequency vibration is dampened with its product.
Mounting Options
Quad Lock offers a plethora of options for you, depending on your phone and where you want to mount it. For motorcycles, you can choose a handlebar mount, mirror mount, fork stem mount, handlebar clamp mount, or brake/clutch mount.
You must select a case or adapter for your own phone case with the female side of the locking mechanism that attaches to the mount. There are also accessories to help you get the perfect placement, such as extension arms and knuckle adapters.
Charge Your Phone While Riding
I often ride with my phone charger connected to a USB port, but the vibration can also damage the charging port of your phone. A better option is to install Quad Lock’s wireless charging head ($75). The name is deceiving because it’s not truly wireless…the head itself is wired to the motorcycle. But the phone itself is free from plugs while charging.
The charging head is completely waterproof and dustproof. It comes with an LED light that lets you know if it’s on as well as the level of charge on the phone.
Installing the Quad Lock System
To install the mount, figure out where you want to put it first by retrofitting it. Make sure it’s not going to hit anything when you turn the handlebars. Select a place that will allow you good visibility and easy reach. If you are running a power cord, this needs consideration, too.
I decide to mount the Quad Lock on the Indian Pursuit’s right side handlebar near the brake master cylinder, because the charging cord can reach a USB outlet in the bike’s fairing pocket from there.
Make sure to check clearance and cord slack by turning the handlebars fully back and forth with your phone attached. If anything touches or if the cord pulls, reposition the mount and cord before fully tightening all the hardware and zip ties.
It Really Works!
I know it can be stressful to think about your beloved phone coming loose and disappearing on a ride. But having used the Quad Lock in various forms on a number of motorcycles for years, I have never seen one dislodge. Coupled with the vibration dampener, rest assured your phone will be secure and safe.
WRN’s Erin Sills also swears by Quad Lock’s vibration dampener’s capability for extreme off-roading, as she switched to it after experiencing the iPhone camera problem first hand on a lively off-road tour through Baja.
For more information, visit QuadLockCases.com.