I was looking at this thread because I just purchased an Escort Passport x50 and I saw your picture and I just noticed.. I didn't know that middle compartment opened outwards! I'm shocked. I just found out something new on my 8.. I've had it for a year and I just found out.

I knew we had to have 2 of those power outlets.. Never did find the other until today. Haha.. Nice!

btw, I haven't used the radar detector yet, but will soon.. Just needed to get one after that $226 speeding ticket.

 

I think a good detector is worth it. Just remember a few things though...

1. Don't speed through small, rinky dink towns. That's just inviting trouble from the local cops who couldn't cut the training in bigger, better paying municipalities.

2. Pretend that you are out running radar....in other words, if you were a cop where would you look to catch speeders? You might be surprised how many times you do this and sure enough there is a patrol car parked on the shoulder.

3. Buy a neutral colored vehicle instead of a catchy bright red or yellow one. This should be obvious as to why.

 

The best radar detector costs nothing. Just stick to the speed limit...simple!

If you are worried you're too close to the limit, find a pacer car in front of you to soak up the radar, and when they get pulled over wave to them as you go by...!

 

^that doesn't work, the cop will either get the first speeding car or the last speeding car. better to be in the middle of a pack when speeding.

 

I just go 73 mph, and never get stopped.

 

Radar detectors will save you from what I call the "dumb tickets".
Example... I had just entered the tollroad, 70mph speed limit, and I get a couple of clicks of Ka. The reflex is to lift off the throttle, and as I round the turn, theres a state trooper on the shoulder. I look down and I'm doing 70mph on the button, so I must have been speeding a bit when I merged, maybe 10 over. The detector saves you that one time you aren't paying attention and you should have been. I can't stand the thought of getting a stupid ticket for 79mph in a 70mph zone.

If you are a habitual speeder, nothing will save you. You'll eventually get tagged by laser or instant on, and it's just a matter of time. The detector might extend your time between tickets, but it can't save you in every case, and don't fool yourself into thinking you're invincible.

You have to know how to use it... you have to understand its weaknesses... you have to know what the detector is telling you... you have to alter your driving patterns by it's feedback... you must pay attention.