Thork Racing’s DMD-T865 rally ready tablet combines the best bits of a satnav and smart device

Electrical devices have become the go-to for getting around – although the consensus remains split between standalone sat-nav units and smart devices like phones and tablets.  

Related: The best motorcycle sat navs and other navigation options as tested by MCN

Portuguese firm, Thork Racing recognised inherent weaknesses in both systems however, and set about creating a range of software and hardware that could offer the best of both worlds, and more.  

“Our aim was, and still is, to create an ecosystem of information where everything you need is contained in one device and app,” said João Pereira, Thork Racing Project Manager.  

“A lot of people switched to using phones and tablets a few years back, so initially we started by creating software for these devices.  

“We had a lot of interest in our software at first, but immediately had the issue that there was no real hardware being made for navigation. You could adapt a rugged tablet – make a holder for it and power it by USB, but there were no dedicated devices.”

Recognising a gap in the market – especially among the adventure and off-road communities – Thork developed their eight-inch DMD-T865 tablet (£648 or £780 for the higher spec X version) and DMD-T665 smartphone (£522).   

Multiple functions

“Our device is just like your phone, you can use a sim card and access the internet, install anything you want, and use it away from the bike – but it is built specifically for navigation. That means you get great detail and GPS accuracy down to less than one metre.  

“We have global mapping and the ability to control and monitor several vehicle functions within the system – that includes an ODB dongle which you can connect to the ECU to display live data.“

Our next product is TPMS [Tyre Pressure Monitoring System] dust caps,” Pereira continued.  

Rally ready 

For both devices, Thork have implemented a robust charging system, using a secure AMPS charging unit built into a lockable holding plate – similar to that used on a traditional satnav. Users can choose to secure the charging bracket via a quick-release pin system, or screw-in connectors for maximum stability in the rough stuff.   

There’s also a USB-C charge port for home charging and data transfer – although over-the-air updates keep devices fully up to date.  

“Most rugged tablets still only use a USB-C charger and the vibrations, dust and water you get riding a motorcycle kills the charging ports.  

“Our devices are shockproof and submergible – you can even put them underwater while charging” added Pereira.  

Inbuilt protection 

Not only can Thork’s DMD devices help you get around, but they can call for help. Built-in accelerometers detect heavy impacts and trigger an SOS function. This can be configured to automatically alert two contacts. If the contacts are also using DMD2 software, they will be presented with a rescue dialogue and your position. 

Screen brightness is also among the best in the business. Thork’s top spec DMD-T865X has a screen brightness of over 1000 nits which is 400 more than the Samsung Active Tab 5 offers.  

To get around the battery overheating issue which many devices suffer with in hot climates, Thork have developed an automatic battery cut-off, allowing the unit to run directly from its external power supply whilst the battery cools. 

As well as being touchscreen compatible, all three devices in the range can be operated via wired handlebar remote controls, meaning there’s no need to establish a Bluetooth connection – just plug and play. 

These devices can also be accessorised to meet user needs. That mean their units can be built out in a modular fashion using screw on parts.  

“This expansion hardware can be anything,” said Pereira. “It could be a radio, it could be a GPS antenna extension, it could be a temperature reading module.” 

Power supply is taken directly from the motorcycle’s battery via a waterproof harness. This negates the need to splice into the wiring loom for a live feed, which can potentially cause wiring damage in the long run. It can also detect bike shutdown and power the unit down accordingly too.  

DMD devices come pre-installed with lifetime access to the DMD2 app, letting users enjoy the full suite of premium features available including worldwide mapping. Whilst the device can connect to the internet either through wi-fi or mobile data, the majority of functionality with the DMD2 navigation system requires no data connection. 

For more information head to thorkracing.com now.