The Hornet Electronic Deer Avoidance System — Fall Edition 🍂
Well, I can tell you this much! Over my last 30,000 miles, including the Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge, I’ve encountered my fair share of deer than I care to count. Some crossing the road and others standing in ditches.
And let’s face it, fall in New England is prime time for deer activity. But here’s something interesting I’ve noticed while using the Hornet Electronic Deer Avoidance System.
On numerous occasions, I’ve watched deer stop in their tracks, look up as though something caught their attention, or simply turn around and head in the opposite direction.
Was it the Hornet? I can’t say with absolute certainty, but after thousands of miles and plenty of encounters, I’d certainly like to think it was doing its job! Maybe the high-frequency sound got their attention. Maybe Bambi finally remembered what happened to his mother. Either way, I’ll gladly take a deer heading back into the woods over one attempting to become a permanent addition to my bike!
🔧 Installation — Simple, Clean, and Practical
One thing I appreciate about the Hornet is how straightforward the installation is.
I decided to mount the unit low on my saddlebag crash bars, positioning it at the recommended angle to direct the sound toward the road surface, as intended by the manufacturer. The reasoning here there’s a lot of wire length with the unit; rather than adding another connection directly to my motorcycle’s battery, I utilized one of my two existing heated-gear power connections beneath the seat.
From there, I routed the on/off switch neatly up to my handlebars, giving me convenient access while riding. The result? A clean, functional installation with minimal additional wiring and no unnecessary clutter around the battery.
🏍️ My Real-World Impressions
For those who follow my adventures, you know I spend a good amount of time riding remote backroads, often during early mornings, evenings, and through areas where wildlife encounters are practically guaranteed.
The Hornet is designed to provide an additional warning to wildlife as a vehicle approaches. While scientific evidence hasn’t established that these devices reliably prevent deer collisions, my personal observations over the past 30,000 miles (and many other riders) have been encouraging.
I’ve witnessed deer react in ways that certainly caught my attention, and while I can’t attribute those reactions directly to the Hornet, I’m pleased with my experience so far. Of course, no electronic device replaces good judgment, proper speed, situational awareness, or keeping your eyes scanning. Especially when Bambi’s hormonal teenage cousins are running around the woods!
🍂 The MarkyMark Verdict
The Hornet has earned its place on my Road Glide. Do I believe it’s a magical force field? Absolutely not.
But based on what I’ve observed, I’m comfortable keeping it as one additional precaution alongside defensive riding and lighting. However, anything that might encourage Bambi to reconsider crossing in front of a nearly 900-pound motorcycle is welcome in my book.
As for Grandma?…….She might’ve gotten run over by a reindeer, but I’m hoping Rudolph’s cousins get the message before they meet my Harley! 😂🦌
Want one for your bike? Check out The Hornet XP3 online
Ride safe, ride hard, and keep those wheels rolling!
Miles with MarkyMark
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