Not our hand we hasten to add

GPS devices are proving to be all the rage right now, with technology allowing them to become both smaller and increasingly accurate. The latest to join the current crop of such gadgets is the Mambo II.

The Mambo II is slightly different from other GPS devices currently proving popular with MTBers. The device combines all the functions of a GPS device with those of a standard mobile phone. Meaning you can call and SMS people while navigating around the countryside.

Developed by Falcom Wireless Solutions, a German wireless communications technology company, the Mambo II uses the very latest Telit GE864 GSM/GPRS module for a compact (97 x 48 x 23mm) unit. The 20 channel low-power GPS receiver is good for up to 16 hours of continous GPS data tracking, or 30 hours while on standby.

And to ensure it’s tailored for cyclists (and any other sports like running etc), the Mambo II can be used to enhance your training by monitoring and recording your training data, with speed and distance covered. A full-colour screen and easy navigation make it a doddle to use.

For communication with other devices (blood pressure and cardiac frequency monitors, it says here…) the Mambo II has Bluetooth. A USB lead allows uploading to your computer. Should you drop it in a puddle, it’s waterproof, and it’s available in four colours; black, blue, red or silver.

The Mambo II costs in the region of £135 (€200). Visit www.falcom.de for more info.