Motorcyclists have to overcome many challenges when using traditional methods for direction. These options are not always clear and can be confusing. Technology has certainly improved over the years, and many GPS navigators have been developed. Careful navigation can minimize your chances of getting derailed or lost. The best motorcycle GPS should be reliable like Garmin Zumo All Terrain with an accurate GPS receiver, clear maps and intelligent features that help you ride.
Best Motorcycle GPS – Shortlisted
Garmin Zūmo XT
Garmin zūmo XT has a wide range of features, including an impressive 5.5-inch display and turn-by-turn directions. Effective for all terrains with a fun performance on curvy and hilly roads. It’s water-resistant and weatherproof. Includes Bluetooth, wifi, world mapping, live traffic updates, route tracking, recording and everything you need.
Buy on AmazonGarmin Zūmo 396 LMT-S
A highly-rugged and glove-friendly device – the right navigator for adventure tours on twisty roads. The 4.3-inch bright display ensures reading in sunlight. Pairable to smartphones, offering group rides. Resistant to harsh weather, UVs, and fuel vapors. Live traffic updates, routing and mapping facility as well.
Buy on AmazonTomtom Rider 550
ipx7-certified, rugged and waterproof, 4.3-inch display device offers plenty more advanced features, such as a built-in FM Transmitter antenna and a touch screen design, safety camera alerts, Bluetooth, wifi, Siri, and Google connectivity. Designed explicitly for hilly terrains means smooth to use on other roads. Comes with a specific mounting system.
Buy on AmazonTop Alternatives and Other Units
There are many types of motorcycle GPS units available in the market these days, and they all have their own unique features. However, the real question is, what makes them different? What do you need to look for when buying one so you can be assured that it will meet your needs?
Considering the issues, we have a list of some of the best motorcycle GPS units, alternatives to each other. If you fail to find one for any reason, the other is good enough to meet your demand.
Best Overall – Garmin zūmo XT or Garmin Zumo 396
Runner Up – TomTom Rider 550 or Bmw Motorrad Street
Premium Choice – BMW Motorrad VI or Garmin Zumo 595 LM
Best Portable/Handheld – Garmin InReach Mini or Garmin etrex 35
Best for Moto & Hiking – Garmin Montana 610 or Garmin eTrex 22x
Best GPS Carrying Case – Garmin Universal
Best Mount for Motorcycle GPS – ChargerCity or Techmount Universal
Best Budget for Accurate Motorcycle GPS
Under $300: If you’re looking for a device below this tag, you will find some units with fewer features and functions as better brands and may be challenging to program.
Above $300: If you’re looking to shell out more money, you should consider upgrading to a next-generation GPS device packed with better features. These models have better maps, making it easier to travel without using extra software.
Guide to Buy a Quality GPS Navigator
There are a few things that you should consider before you even go to purchase your GPS navigator.
- First of all, you need to take into consideration whether or not this is a device that you just want for fun and leisure or you’ll use it for business purposes. If the latter is true, then you will need to invest more money in getting one.
- You must also think about where it’s going to be used. Is it only going to be used within the city, or will you use it on long drives, especially when traveling out of the city?
- Another fact when purchasing a portable GPS navigator is the screen size. This will determine the overall quality of your purchase and whether it can actually be used in any necessary situation or not. Pick the screen size that feels right for your situation and needs.
- Lastly, it’s essential to consider the price of the GPS device. You don’t want to get a sub-par unit that doesn’t work for any significant amount of time for an extremely high price.
Consider these issues before making any purchase because it will definitely matter at the end of the day.
GPS Navigation System – Best Brands
With the development speed of technology and science in modern life, many GPS brands appear every year. However, choosing a suitable one may become an arduous task if you don’t know which one to go for. Here are some of the best GPS navigator brands:
- Garmin
- TomTom
- BMW
- Magellan
- Trail Tech Voyager
- Maps.Me
- Google Maps
Garmin vs TomTom
Garmin is one of the most popular GPS navigators in the market today. It comes with different screen sizes and full HD resolution for clear viewing even on sunny days. The information is easily seen from far; thus, this makes it better than some other choices if you are driving alone while using it. In addition, it has so many smart features while having the largest share of production and sales of GPS devices worldwide.
TomTom has always enjoyed a good reputation for easy-to-use GPS navigation systems. You can simply enter your journey from A to B at the most basic level, and it gives turn-by-turn instructions. It’s crammed with features that will appeal to experienced motorists and first-time users of road navigation.
However, we put Garmin one step ahead of TomTom in any case for the variation and broader application it brings.
Dedicated GPS Device vs Smartphone Navigation
It is apparent that smartphones have revolutionized the world of GPS navigation. In fact, many people who once owned dedicated GPS devices now rely solely on their smartphones for directions.
If you need more advanced features than what a smartphone can offer, it’s good to consider buying dedicated GPS devices. Today, various dedicated GPS devices utilize GPS satellites to provide reliable turn-by-turn guidance and mapping features.
GPS Navigator – Charging Time, Power Backup, Battery Life
Charging time for a GPS navigator is the most important factor that any user should consider before purchasing one. Generally, it takes 3-4 hours to recharge from 0% to 100%.
On average, if you are using your GPS device with just the base map loaded, it will last between 12 and 20 hours.
With great power comes a greater need to carry extra batteries. For those who love the convenience that GPS systems provide, a backup power lithium-ion battery pack is essential.
GPS Navigator vs. GPS Tracker
Many GPS navigators have a built-in tracking feature that tells you where you are at all times. Some systems include the ability to share your location with others on the internet for safety or security reasons.
GPS Trackers are strictly for monitoring objects remotely, such as children or vehicles. They may not even have a screen if they are intended for use solely for tracking purposes. The original purpose of a GPS tracker was to track the location of vehicles and make sure they were being used responsibly. Their uses are now broadening rapidly as technology advances.
Motorcycle GPS System Maintenance – Tips
Like any other product of their kind, Motorcycle GPS systems require special care and maintenance to keep them performing at optimal levels. A poorly maintained device is a nuisance as it takes longer to set up, functions without optimal efficiency and finally breaks down completely after a couple of months of use.
- Keep your Motorcycle GPS away from direct sunlight.
- Be careful not to drop it
- Don’t let water splash on it even if you have a waterproof motorcycle GPS
- Understand how your device works
- Clean it well.
Taking good care of your motorcycle GPS unit reduces your costs for repairs and replacements.
Summing Up
A motorcycle GPS is a must-have for all bikers, especially if they love long-tour. With the narrowed-down options available in the market, you can find one that suits you best.
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