Let’s Dive into Ram Mounts 6″ Flexarm With Suction Cup
The Ram Mounts 6″ Flexarm With Suction Cup – it’s a name that might not immediately ignite the imagination, but trust me, in the world of tactical gear and outdoor adventures, reliable mounting solutions are absolutely critical. Manufactured by Ram Mounts, this unassuming piece of kit promises to securely hold your devices in place, whether you’re navigating rugged terrain in your vehicle, documenting a challenging hike, or plotting your next fishing spot on a rocky coastline. This isn’t just another gadget; it’s about creating a stable and accessible platform for your tools, allowing you to focus on the task at hand without worrying about your gear shifting or falling.
I’ve spent years wrestling with flimsy mounts that vibrate, detach, and generally make life more difficult, so my quest for a reliable suction cup mounting system was born out of sheer necessity. Frustration with unreliable GPS mounts bouncing around my dashboard during off-road expeditions fueled my need for a robust, secure solution. I wanted something that could withstand the rigors of outdoor use, offering peace of mind knowing my devices would stay exactly where I needed them, when I needed them.
My initial impression of the Ram Mounts 6″ Flexarm With Suction Cup was positive; the components felt solid and well-made right out of the box. The suction cup was notably hefty, and the flex arm seemed sturdy enough to handle the weight of a small tablet or GPS unit.
Compared to cheaper suction cup mounts I’ve used in the past, the Ram Mounts offering immediately felt like a step up in quality and design. Alternatives often rely on flimsy plastic and weak suction, whereas the Ram Mounts system uses a robust locking mechanism. I chose the Ram Mounts due to its reputation for durability and the flexible arm, providing greater adjustability than static mounts I considered.
My first impression? Relief. It looked like I finally found something built to last.
Real-World Testing: Putting Ram Mounts 6″ Flexarm With Suction Cup to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test run with the Ram Mounts 6″ Flexarm With Suction Cup was during a backcountry navigation exercise in the California Mojave Desert. I mounted my Garmin GPS unit to the windshield of my Jeep, using the mount to keep it secure and visible while navigating unmarked trails. The dry desert conditions were a good first test, with constant sun exposure and the potential for rapid temperature changes inside the cab.
The Ram Mounts system performed admirably. Even on bumpy, uneven dirt roads, the suction cup held firm, and the flex arm allowed me to easily adjust the GPS for optimal viewing. There was a bit of initial fiddling to get the suction cup properly seated, but once locked down, it stayed put.
No major issues arose during the initial use, although I did notice that the flex arm had a slight tendency to vibrate at higher speeds, especially on rough terrain.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, including numerous off-road trips and even a few days spent kayak fishing, the Ram Mounts 6″ Flexarm With Suction Cup has proven to be a reliable piece of gear. The suction cup continues to provide a strong, secure hold, even on textured surfaces when utilizing the adhesive disk, and the flex arm, while exhibiting some vibration, hasn’t shown any signs of weakening. Regular cleaning of the suction cup with a damp cloth helps maintain its grip.
There is some minor cosmetic wear on the high-strength composite material, but nothing that affects functionality. Comparing it to cheaper mounts I’ve used in the past, the Ram Mounts system is in a completely different league in terms of longevity and performance. It simply outperforms the flimsy mounts that I’ve previously struggled with.
Breaking Down the Features of Ram Mounts 6″ Flexarm With Suction Cup
Specifications
The Ram Mounts 6″ Flexarm With Suction Cup, model RAP-105-6D224, is designed for robust and versatile device mounting. It features a 3.25″ suction cup locking base for secure attachment to smooth, non-porous surfaces. The 6″ flex arm offers adjustability, and the diamond base end is compatible with most Ram Mounts cradles.
Material: High Strength Composite contributes to the mount’s overall durability. The suction cup base is designed for use on glass or non-porous plastic, and the diamond base adapter allows for attachment to a wide variety of devices.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of the Ram Mounts 6″ Flexarm With Suction Cup is to provide a secure and adjustable platform for mounting devices. It excels in this regard, offering a strong hold and a versatile arm for positioning devices as needed. The suction cup’s locking mechanism provides a solid connection that resists vibrations and dislodgement.
A strength is its ability to hold even heavier devices securely, while the flex arm’s adjustability is unparalleled. One area that could use improvement is reducing the vibration in the arm itself, especially when driving on rough roads. Overall, it meets and exceeds expectations for a product in this category.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Ram Mounts 6″ Flexarm With Suction Cup is functional and straightforward. It emphasizes durability and ease of use. The high-strength composite material is robust and lightweight.
The locking suction cup is intuitive to operate, although it can require a bit of effort to achieve a secure seal. The flex arm is easily adjusted, providing a wide range of positioning options.
Durability & Maintenance
The Ram Mounts 6″ Flexarm With Suction Cup is built to last. The high-strength composite material is resistant to wear and tear, and the suction cup is designed to maintain its grip over time with proper care. Regular cleaning of the suction cup with a damp cloth is the main maintenance task required.
The design appears robust, and with reasonable care, it should provide years of reliable service. Repairing the unit would likely involve replacing individual components, such as the suction cup or flex arm, if needed.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Ram Mounts 6″ Flexarm With Suction Cup comes with the basic components needed for mounting: the suction cup base, flex arm, and diamond base adapter. The real strength of the Ram Mounts system lies in its modularity and compatibility with a wide range of accessories. You can easily attach different cradles to hold smartphones, tablets, GPS units, and other devices.
The diamond base adapter uses a standard hole pattern, making it compatible with many third-party accessories. This allows for significant customization to suit individual needs and preferences.
Pros and Cons of Ram Mounts 6″ Flexarm With Suction Cup
Pros
- Strong and Reliable Suction Cup: Provides a secure hold on smooth surfaces, even under demanding conditions. This is essential for keeping your devices stable and accessible.
- Highly Adjustable Flex Arm: Offers versatile positioning options to ensure optimal viewing angles. This makes it easier to see your device while driving or working.
- Durable Construction: Made from high-strength composite materials for long-lasting performance. This ensures the mount can withstand the rigors of outdoor use.
- Modular Design: Compatible with a wide range of Ram Mounts cradles and accessories. This allows you to customize the mount to fit your specific devices and needs.
- Easy to Install and Use: The locking suction cup is simple to operate, providing a quick and secure attachment. This saves you time and effort when setting up your gear.
Cons
- Vibration in Flex Arm: The flex arm can exhibit some vibration, especially on rough terrain. This can be distracting and make it harder to view your device.
- Requires Smooth Surface: The suction cup needs a smooth, non-porous surface to function properly. This limits its versatility in certain situations.
Who Should Buy Ram Mounts 6″ Flexarm With Suction Cup?
The Ram Mounts 6″ Flexarm With Suction Cup is perfect for Overlanders needing secure tablet mounting, pro anglers looking for a GPS mount for their boat, or even delivery drivers relying on their phone for directions. Anyone needing a reliable, adjustable, and durable mounting solution for devices in vehicles or other settings will benefit. It is also useful for photographers who want to mount a small monitor on a camera rig.
Those who should skip this product are users needing to mount devices on highly textured or porous surfaces without the use of an adhesive disk. Those needing a completely vibration-free solution might also want to explore alternative mounting options.
A must-have accessory is a compatible Ram Mounts cradle for your specific device. Purchasing an adhesive disk will also expand mounting options.
Conclusion on Ram Mounts 6″ Flexarm With Suction Cup
The Ram Mounts 6″ Flexarm With Suction Cup is a well-designed and durable mounting solution that offers excellent value for its price of $30.99. Its strong suction cup, adjustable flex arm, and modular design make it a versatile tool for a wide range of applications.
While the flex arm does exhibit some vibration and the suction cup requires a smooth surface, these drawbacks are minor compared to the overall benefits it provides.
I would absolutely recommend the Ram Mounts 6″ Flexarm With Suction Cup to anyone in need of a reliable and adjustable mounting system. Its rugged construction, ease of use, and compatibility with a wide range of accessories make it a worthwhile investment. Upgrade your mounting game and ditch the flimsy alternatives – the Ram Mounts 6″ Flexarm With Suction Cup is a serious piece of kit that delivers on its promises.