In the world of motorcycling, the open road calls to those seeking adventure and freedom. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or just embarking on your journey, having the right tools at your disposal can make all the difference in ensuring a safe and enjoyable ride. One such essential tool is a GPS (Global Positioning System) specifically designed for motorcycles. These specialized devices offer far more than basic navigation. They provide a wealth of features tailored to the needs of bikers, from real-time route guidance to weather updates and even safety alerts.
In this blog, we’ll explore the world of motorcycle GPS units, highlighting the benefits they bring to your riding experience. We will guide you through the selection process to find the perfect companion for your two-wheeled adventures. Whether you’re planning an epic cross-country road trip or want to explore new local routes, a motorcycle GPS is your key to unlocking a world of riding possibilities.
What will you see here?
Garmin Zumo XT
The Garmin Zumo XT, an all-terrain motorcycle GPS navigation system, is a rugged and reliable companion for outdoor enthusiasts. It features a 5.5-inch ultra-bright touchscreen display that can be mounted in landscape or portrait view, making it glove-friendly and easy to use even in challenging conditions. With IPX7 weather resistance, it can withstand rough terrain and is rain-resistant. This GPS system comes with a range of preloaded maps, including North American street maps, topographic maps for North and Central America, and access to global BirdsEye Satellite Imagery. It also offers a unique set of features such as TripAdvisor traveler ratings, a HISTORY database of notable sites, iOverlander points of interest, and more. Additionally, it can stream music from your smartphone or play MP3 files stored on the device. The package includes a Wearable4U Power Bank, and car and wall chargers, ensuring your device stays charged during your adventures.
With a 3.5-hour battery life, voice command support, and the ability to record your routes for future reference, the Garmin Zumo XT is a versatile and durable choice for motorcyclists and outdoor enthusiasts, providing essential navigation and entertainment features for their journeys. Whether riding on or off-road, this GPS system offers a comprehensive solution to keep you on track and connected during your travels.
- Rugged and weather-resistant design.
- Versatile mapping options for different terrains.
- Entertainment features for music streaming.
- Route recording capability.
- Access to TripAdvisor traveler ratings.
- It comes with a Wearable 4U Power Pack for charging.
- Limited 3.5-hour battery life.
- Relatively heavy at 3.23 pounds.
- Higher price point.
- Unclear if it provides real-time traffic data.
- Voice command is limited to touchscreen control.
Garmin Zumo 396 LMT-S
The Garmin Zumo 396 LMT-S is a robust motorcycle GPS designed for riders who crave adventure. With a 4.3-inch glove-friendly display, this unit is not only resistant to fuel vapors, UV rays, and harsh weather but also offers sunlight readability. It's a versatile companion for bikers, providing access to live services for traffic and weather via the Smartphone Link app when paired with a compatible smartphone. Additionally, it offers hands-free calling and smart notifications, enhancing rider safety and convenience. Garmin's Adventurous Routing feature finds curvy or hilly roads, avoiding major highways and ensuring an exciting journey.
In the box, you'll find the Zumo 396, a motorcycle mount and hardware, a preloaded City Navigator for North America, a motorcycle power cable, a USB cable, and a quick start manual. With a battery life of 4 hours, this GPS device is well-suited for extended rides, offering essential navigation features tailored to the needs of motorcycle enthusiasts.
- Built tough for withstanding harsh weather.
- A 4.3-inch display that remains readable even in bright sunlight.
- Access to live traffic and weather updates for real-time information.
- Supports hands-free calling, enhancing rider safety.
- It offers adventurous routing, helping you discover scenic and thrilling roads.
- Comes with lifetime maps and traffic updates, ensuring your data is always up-to-date.
- Limited 4-hour battery life, which may require more frequent recharging.
- The 4.3-inch screen might be considered small by some users.
- The internal storage capacity isn't specified, potentially limiting data storage.
- The extent of Wi-Fi features and capabilities is not detailed.
GoolRC GPS for motorcycle
The GoolRC 2-in-1 Motorcycle/Car Navigation GPS system is a versatile and feature-rich navigation solution designed for both motorcycles and cars. With a generous 7-inch touchscreen display, it provides clear and detailed visuals for an enhanced navigation experience. Notably, this GPS device offers real-time voice navigation in over 40 languages, ensuring that users can receive directions and safety alerts in their preferred language. It also supports postcode and address searches, making it easy to find specific destinations. The system features intelligent error correction, automatically generating new routes if the initial one is incorrect, ensuring faster and more accurate navigation. Additionally, it includes a built-in Hi-Fi speaker with FM transmission capability, allowing navigation voice and music to be broadcast through the car's speaker system, with adjustable volume settings. The GoolRC GPS unit is a comprehensive and user-friendly choice for those seeking reliable navigation in North America and other regions.
In summary, the GoolRC 2-in-1 GPS Navigation system offers a sizable 7-inch display, real-time voice navigation in multiple languages, and intelligent error correction. Its versatility for use in both motorcycles and cars, along with features like postcode search and FM transmission, makes it a practical choice for those seeking a dependable navigation solution.
- Versatile for use in both motorcycles and cars.
- Generous 7-inch touchscreen display for clear visuals.
- Multilingual voice guidance in over 40 languages.
- Intelligent error correction for accurate navigation.
- Postcode and address search for easy destination finding.
- FM transmission for clear audio through the car's speaker system.
- Limited map coverage may not be suitable for all regions.
- USB connectivity may not be as convenient as wireless options.
- Relatively heavy at 2.42 pounds, potentially affecting portability.
Garmin Zumo XT2
The Garmin Zūmo XT2 is a feature-packed motorcycle navigator designed to elevate your riding experience. It boasts a generous 6-inch sunlight-readable display that can withstand both weather and the vibrations of handlebar-mounted use, thanks to its IPX7 design. One of the standout features is the new visual route planner, which allows riders to customize their journeys by choosing between efficient routing and more thrilling adventures. The device also offers access to popular motorcycle paths and uses satellite imagery to help riders discover new and exciting places to explore.
Moreover, the Zūmo XT2 enhances group riding experiences by allowing riders to see the positions of their fellow riders on its display when paired with the Tread smartphone app. It enables riders to review and share ride details, including speed, elevation, acceleration, and deceleration, adding a social aspect to your adventures. With hands-free navigation prompts, music control, and call capabilities when paired with a compatible headset or helmet, the Zūmo XT2 provides a comprehensive and connected riding experience. Additionally, it's compatible with accessories like the inReach Mini 2 satellite communicator, inReach Messenger, BC 50 wireless backup camera, and Garmin PowerSwitch digital switch box, enhancing its versatility for a range of riding scenarios.
- Large, sunlight-readable 6-inch display.
- Rugged, weather-resistant design.
- Visual route planner for customized journeys.
- Group riding features for rider communication.
- Shareable ride statistics.
- Hands-free navigation, music, and calls.
- High price point.
- Some features are reliant on the Tread smartphone app.
- Additional accessory costs may apply.
Carpuride W502
The Carpuride W502 is an amazing motorcycle GPS system that offers seamless integration with your smartphone through Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. This 5-inch touchscreen device provides easy access to essential phone features like calls, navigation, and music playback, ensuring you stay focused on the road. With dual Bluetooth connectivity, you can make and receive calls wirelessly and enjoy your favorite music without removing your helmet, enhancing your riding experience. The stunning 5-inch HD display with 800x480 resolution delivers clear and vibrant visuals, even under direct sunlight. This GPS system is waterproof and designed to withstand various weather conditions, with an IPX7 rating and a thief-proof detachable bracket. Installation is hassle-free, and Carpuride offers a 12-month warranty and technical support for your peace of mind.
The Carpuride W502 motorcycle GPS system is a reliable and feature-rich navigation solution designed specifically for motorcycle and car use. Its integration with smartphone apps through CarPlay and Android Auto ensures that you can stay connected and access important functions, all while keeping your hands on the handlebar. The dual Bluetooth capability allows for hands-free communication and music streaming, adding convenience to your rides. The 5-inch HD display provides a vibrant and clear viewing experience, even in challenging lighting conditions. Its waterproof and anti-theft design makes it suitable for all-weather riding, and the hassle-free installation process ensures a secure setup. Carpuride backs this product with a 12-month warranty and quick technical support to address any questions or concerns, making it a trustworthy choice for motorcycle navigation.
- Seamless smartphone integration via CarPlay and Android Auto
- Dual Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calls and music
- High-definition 5-inch IPS display with vibrant colors
- Waterproof and durable design for all-weather use
- Hassle-free installation with stable setup options
- Backed by a 12-month warranty and responsive technical support
- Screen size might be considered small by some users
- Relatively higher price point
- Designed primarily for motorcycles
- The learning curve for those new to advanced GPS systems
Garmin inReach Mini 2
The Garmin inReach Mini 2 is a compact and lightweight satellite communicator designed for outdoor enthusiasts, hikers, and adventurers. It offers two-way messaging and interactive SOS capabilities on a global scale, providing a crucial lifeline in remote locations. Users can share their location with loved ones using the MapShare page or by embedding coordinates in messages, ensuring they stay connected even in the wilderness. The device features a digital compass for accurate heading information, even when stationary. It's also compatible with the Garmin Explore app and website, allowing for trip planning and topographical mapping, with the ability to create waypoints, courses, activities, and collections that can be synced to the device. Additionally, it can pair with other Garmin devices for messaging and SOS functionality, making it a valuable tool for safety and communication during outdoor adventures.
With an impressive battery life of up to 14 days in 10-minute tracking mode, this satellite communicator is a reliable companion for extended trips. Its lightweight and compact design, combined with robust communication features, makes it an essential tool for those who explore the great outdoors, providing peace of mind and connectivity in remote areas where traditional cell signals may not reach.
- Compact and lightweight for easy portability.
- Global two-way messaging and SOS capability.
- Shareable location for enhanced safety.
- Built-in digital compass for accurate navigation.
- Compatibility with Garmin Explore app.
- Impressive 14-day battery life in tracking mode.
- Requires an active satellite subscription.
- A small 1.27-inch screen may limit readability.
- Basic display resolution.
Do motorcycle GPS units require a data connection to work?
Motorcycle GPS units often don’t need a constant data connection to function effectively. These devices typically come equipped with preloaded maps, allowing them to work independently by relying on GPS signals. This independence means using them in areas with limited or no cellular reception. This makes them especially suitable for adventurous or off-road rides.
However, it’s worth noting that some motorcycle GPS units offer additional features. Those features include real-time traffic and weather updates, which could require an active data connection. The specific requirements and features can vary from one GPS model to another. So, it’s a good practice to review the device’s specifications and capabilities before purchasing.
What’s the battery life of a typical motorcycle GPS unit?
The battery life of a typical motorcycle GPS unit can vary depending on the specific model and usage. However, most motorcycle GPS units are designed to last several hours on a single charge. The exact duration may range from around 4 to 8 hours of continuous use, but this can differ based on factors such as screen brightness, active features, and how intensively you use the device.
Many riders hardwire their motorcycle GPS units to the bike’s electrical system to ensure continuous power while riding. This approach eliminates concerns about battery life, as the GPS remains powered throughout the journey. Ultimately, the battery life of a motorcycle GPS unit is an important consideration, and it’s recommended to review the manufacturer’s specifications for the specific model you’re interested in to determine its battery performance and whether it aligns with your riding needs.
Conclusion
In the world of motorcycling, the call of the open road and the thrill of adventure beckon to riders of all kinds. Whether you’re a seasoned biker with countless miles or a newbie just beginning your two-wheeled journey, having the right tools at your disposal can transform your ride into an unforgettable experience. Among these essential tools, a motorcycle-specific GPS stands out as a true game-changer. These specialized devices offer far more than mere navigation; they are companions on your journey, providing real-time route guidance, weather updates, and safety alerts tailored to the unique needs of bikers. In this exploration of motorcycle GPS units, we’ve uncovered the wealth of benefits they bring to your rides, from cross-country odysseys to exploring local roads less traveled. These devices are the key to unlocking a world of possibilities and ensuring your journeys are safe and memorable.
The reviewed GPS units, from the rugged and weatherproof Garmin Zumo XT to the versatile and multilingual GoolRC GPS, offer a diverse range of features to cater to the distinct needs of motorcyclists. From the open road to the off-road adventures, these devices are designed to enhance your experience, guiding you to your destinations while keeping you connected, entertained, and informed. As you embark on your rides, whether solo or with a group of fellow enthusiasts, the right GPS unit becomes an indispensable companion, enriching your journeys and providing peace of mind. So, whether you’re chasing horizons across continents or simply enjoying a weekend escape, consider how a motorcycle GPS can elevate your ride and be the trusted partner on your road to adventure.
