At Wild Roads Motorcycle Tours, adventure runs in our veins — but so does responsibility. We’re in the business of delivering unforgettable experiences, taking riders through the most awe-inspiring landscapes in Europe and beyond. But behind the scenes, we take safety just as seriously as scenery.
Whether you’re carving up a Pyrenean mountain pass or gliding along the cliffs of the Welsh coast, we want you to feel the freedom of the open road without the stress of “what if something goes wrong?” That’s why we go above and beyond to ensure every Wild Roads tour is not only thrilling, but also seriously safe.
Enter: the Garmin inReach® Mini 2 — Your Invisible Lifeline on the Road
One of the standout tools in our safety kit is the Garmin inReach® Mini 2, a palm-sized powerhouse of satellite communication and emergency response tech. This isn’t some optional gadget tucked away in the guide’s pannier. This is our go-to device for ensuring that if the worst should ever happen, help isn’t just on the way — it’s already being coordinated.
Why We Use It
Motorcycle touring can take us deep into remote areas — high-altitude switchbacks, quiet forest roads, and sparsely populated coastlines where mobile signal vanishes and the only thing on the horizon is more horizon.
In those moments, the inReach Mini 2 becomes a literal lifeline.
We carry one on every guided tour, and in the rare event of a medical emergency, crash, breakdown, or even if we just need to check in with ground support — we’ve got global, satellite-backed connectivity at our fingertips.
Key Safety Features of the inReach® Mini 2 (And Why They Matter on Tour)
Let’s break down why this little device is such a big deal — for us, and more importantly, for you.
🆘 Global SOS With 24/7 Monitoring
At the core of the inReach Mini 2 is its SOS function, which connects directly to Garmin Response, a 24/7 global monitoring center. One press of a button and a trained emergency response team is alerted.
From there, they assess the situation, contact local emergency services (including air ambulance or helicopter rescue if required), and keep open communication going with our team until the situation is resolved.
This isn’t automated nonsense. These are real people, coordinating real help, in real-time.Whether it’s a broken leg on a mountain pass, chest pain in a remote village, or a major mechanical incident miles from the nearest town, we’ve got backup — and it’s only one button away.
🛰️ 100% Satellite-Based Messaging — Even Off the Grid
The inReach Mini 2 doesn’t rely on mobile networks. It uses Iridium’s global satellite system, meaning it works absolutely anywhere on Earth with a clear view of the sky — from the Dolomites to the Dales, from the Pyrenees to Pembrokeshire.
That means if we’re out of range and need to contact local services, our emergency contacts, or anyone in the wider Wild Roads support network, we can send and receive two-way text messages from anywhere.
It also allows us to:
- Communicate discreetly in poor reception zones
- Update basecamp or family members if there’s a delay
- Let our tour support team know if there’s a detour or mechanical issue
📍 Real-Time Tracking and Location Sharing
We use the device’s real-time GPS tracking to keep tabs on our group and route — especially helpful in low-visibility situations or when split groups need to regroup.
If a rider gets separated or there’s an unexpected detour, we can pinpoint their location and respond quickly. Riders themselves can also share their location with loved ones back home, so they know you’re not only having a blast — but that you’re safe while doing it.
🔋 Long Battery Life for Long Hauls
The inReach Mini 2 is built for long days on the road. With up to 14 days of battery life in 10-minute tracking mode, we don’t have to worry about the device failing halfway through a remote leg of the tour. It keeps working as hard as we do.
🧭 Digital Compass and Navigation Backup
While our guides rely on GPS, paper backups, and extensive route knowledge, the inReach Mini 2 adds yet another layer of confidence with its digital compass and navigation functions.
In case of disorientation, low visibility, or emergency rerouting, the guide can use it to navigate accurately — even without a map or mobile signal.
Why This Matters for You — The Rider
Look, we know what it’s like. You’re here for adventure, not anxiety. You want to focus on the view, the ride, the twist of the throttle — not the what-ifs.
That’s exactly what this kind of safety protocol allows you to do.
It’s peace of mind baked into every mile.
When you ride with Wild Roads, you’re riding with a team that:
- Equips every group with high-level rescue and tracking technology
- Pre-plans emergency response protocols
- Trains all guides in emergency communication and first aid
- Has international medical support options on speed dial
What Happens in an Emergency?
- Immediate Triage: Our guide assesses the situation and provides first aid if needed.
2. Garmin SOS Activated: If the issue is severe, the SOS button is pressed, instantly alerting Garmin’s 24/7 emergency center.
3. Rescue Coordination Begins: Garmin contacts local emergency services — land, air, or sea — depending on the situation.
4. Constant Comms: Our guide maintains communication with Garmin Response while continuing care.
5. Support Notifies Loved Ones: We can also use the device to message next of kin if needed, keeping them updated.
6. Group Reorganisation: Our wider team kicks into gear, ensuring the rest of the group is looked after and the tour continues safely.
Not Just Technology — A Culture of Safety
Of course, the inReach Mini 2 is just one part of our overall approach.
Wild Roads tours are led by professional, experienced riders who know the roads, the risks, and how to react calmly under pressure. All guides are first-aid trained, carry comprehensive first-aid kits, and understand how to make decisions quickly, whether it’s about the weather, a road hazard, or a medical issue.
We also:
- Ride routes we’ve personally scouted and tested
- Limit group sizes for tighter safety management
- Conduct daily ride briefings to keep you informed
- Perform regular bike checks and maintenance
- Plan rest days and regular stops to avoid fatigue
Because Safety Shouldn’t Feel Like a Buzzkill
Because Safety Shouldn’t Feel Like a Buzzkill!
Now don’t get us wrong — we’re not trying to kill the vibe. You won’t find our guides giving health-and-safety lectures or wrapping you in cotton wool.
In fact, most of the time, you won’t even notice the layers of protection we’ve built into each tour.
But trust us — they’re there. Quietly working in the background so you can enjoy the ride, the scenery, the camaraderie… knowing that even in the most remote stretch of the ride, you’re covered.
Ready to Ride — With Confidence?
If you’ve ever been put off booking a motorcycle tour because of the “what ifs,” we hope this shows you we’ve already asked — and answered — those questions.
The Wild Roads team is committed to providing top-tier touring experiences, backed by real-world safety systems, rescue-ready technology, and a whole lot of experience on two wheels.
So if you’re dreaming about your next big ride… let us take care of the logistics, the planning — and yes, even the emergencies.
You just focus on the ride.
🚨 Ride Wild, Ride Safe. Ride with Wild Roads.
Want to know more about our safety protocols, or see the Garmin inReach® Mini 2 in action on tour? Get in touch or request a tour pack today.
Let’s make 2026 the year of epic rides and unforgettable roads.–
Wild Roads Motorcycle Tours
Less planning. More riding. Pure freedom.
