The way tracking works with a Garmin, you (or somebody you love) get a link that goes to a page showing where you are on a map. You can send it to your wife, to your kids if you have any, to your neighbors, etc. It's just a web link. The way the app is set up is a little funny, it will email that link to a list of people for you, and it can tweet it or post it on facebook. But once you start, there's no way to actually get the link. Pro tip: I always include myself on the list of emails. Mostly ignore them. If I ever need to, I can forward that email to somebody. Good habit to be in.

Sat devices can be great, but they're really overkill for bikes. In my opinion. I have a PLB and Beth makes me take it on backpacking and climbing trips, but I don't think I've carried it on a bike ride. Here's my thinking: access to that sat network is expensive. The chances of really needing it on a bike ride are much lower than on a 4 day solo trip through the wilderness. There are a lot of areas without cell coverage around here because of the Cascades, and a lot of rides I do go in and out, so I leave my plans with Beth, and tell her when to expect me home. If I don't at least call or text her by that time, she'll call for help and know where to send them.

With that said, if you decide to get one, Delorme's InReach might be the way to go. You get two-way communication (so your wife can confirm that she got your messages) and you can record a bread-crumb trail through the satellite network. That means if a car or gator gets you, and you don't see it coming, the bread-crumbs will lead them to your body. Which at least gives your wife closure. Sorry to be morbid, that's an important consideration for a lot of hikers and climbers who buy them, so it's worth pointing out.