Navigating the open road on a motorcycle demands a GPS that’s robust, reliable, and easy to use at high speeds.
We’ve searched high and low for devices that cater specifically to the needs of bikers, focusing on visibility, durability, and accurate, rider-friendly features. Our selection is tailored to enhance the riding experience, whether it’s cruising on highways or adventuring off-road.
1. Garmin Zumo 396
If you’re in the market for a dependable motorcycle GPS that weathers any storm and keeps you connected, the Garmin Zumo 396 should be your go-to device.
Pros
- Visibility is exceptional on the 4.3-inch display, even in full sunshine.
- Built tough to withstand harsh weather and resist fuel vapors, ideal for long rides.
- Allows for easy route sharing among riders, making group adventures a breeze.
Cons
- Battery life is limited to 4 hours, which may require charging throughout the day.
- Since it’s an older model, it lacks some of the more advanced features of recent units.
- Some units have reported issues with random reboots during destination input.
Navigating the open road with the Garmin Zumo 396 has been a game-changer. Its rugged design means we don’t fret about sudden downpours or intense sun. With our gloves on, the screen is still responsive, which makes for a hassle-free experience when we’re on the move.
Pairing the device with our smartphones transformed how we handle calls and notifications. No more risky phone handling during rides. With hands-free calling and smart notifications, it’s safer and more convenient.
We found the Garmin Adventurous Routing exceptionally fun for avoiding the boredom of highways and finding those hidden gems that only curvy roads can offer. Sharing routes for group rides is straightforward, so we all can stay on the same path without confusion.
However, a piece of advice: keep an eye on the battery life or consider having a portable charger handy. During our long excursions, we discovered that four hours of life means mid-ride charging. The device also didn’t dazzle us with new tech compared to newer models, but it held its own just fine. A word of caution though, the occasional reboot when entering destinations can test your patience, especially if you’re in uncharted territory.
Overall, for those of us who prefer the reliability of a dedicated motorcycle GPS without needing the latest bells and whistles, the Garmin Zumo 396 meets our expectations with flying colors.
2. Garmin zūmo XT
We think the Garmin zūmo XT is a stellar choice for any rider seeking a durable and clear GPS navigator for diverse motorcycling adventures.
Pros
- Exceptionally bright display makes it easy to read in direct sunlight
- Offers adventurous routing for those seeking curvy and hilly roads
- Sturdy and weather-proof design ideal for all-terrain use
Cons
- Premium pricing could be a consideration for budget-conscious riders
- Some may find the device size bulky for smaller motorcycles
- Battery life could be limiting for extended off-grid travels
Taking the Garmin zūmo XT out on a spin, we immediately noticed the high-resolution screen; it remained highly visible even under the glaring midday sun. Its responsiveness when wearing gloves was impressive, ensuring safety as we could keep our gloves on to input commands.
The device’s adventurous routing feature truly enhanced our riding experience. It helped us discover routes we’d never have found on our own, adding excitement and challenge to familiar landscapes.
When it came to mounting and weather resistance, the zūmo XT held up splendidly. No amount of vibration from rough terrain disrupted its performance, and it shrugged off the occasional rain shower without a hitch, making for one less worry during our journey.
Navigating through complex routes while getting turn-by-turn directions in our helmet was incredibly convenient. Plus, traffic updates and weather notifications kept us informed on-the-go without needing to pull over. Pairing the device with our smartphone via the Garmin Drive app was intuitive, and managing routes from the computer later made for easy planning and sharing.
Music streaming from our smartphone through the zumo XT was also a pleasant bonus. It allowed us to enjoy tunes on our journey, providing a soundtrack to the otherwise monotonous hum of the road.
While the price of the zūmo XT reflects its specialized features and build quality, those on a tight budget might pause. Moreover, riders with compact bikes could find the size challenging to accommodate. But if what you seek is a top-tier motorcycle navigator that can handle your adventurous spirit, the zūmo XT might just be worth the investment.
3. Garmin Zūmo XT2
After putting the Garmin Zūmo XT2 to the test, we believe its versatility and clarity in all lighting conditions make it a solid choice for any rider.
Pros
- Vibrant display that excels in direct sunlight
- Innovative visual route planning enhances the riding experience
- Connects easily with other devices for a synchronized ride experience
Cons
- Premium pricing may deter some buyers
- Occasional inaccuracies in points of interest, such as closed locations
- Given the cost, the included mount could be more robust
Having had the chance to navigate with the Garmin Zūmo XT2 on various treks, what immediately stands out is the display. Not only is it easy to read in bright daylight, but we’ve also found it resistant to the vibrations typically experienced during a rugged ride. Its weatherproof design provides some peace of mind, knowing that an unexpected storm won’t hinder our journey.
The route planning functionality is a true game-changer. We’re able to toggle between efficient routes and more adventurous trails, depending on our mood. The ability to see and share ride details with the Tread app has made planning our next group outing a breeze, keeping everyone on the same page.
On the flip side, we’ve noticed that while the navigation is generally reliable, there are moments when it’s taken us off the beaten path—in some cases to businesses that no longer exist. This sporadic inaccuracy can be a minor inconvenience. Moreover, considering the price point, we feel the mount’s design could be more substantial. It was somewhat surprising to encounter a less-than-ideal mounting solution for such a high-end device.
In conclusion, we see the Garmin Zūmo XT2 as a valuable asset for any serious rider. The connectivity and clarity make it stand out despite a few manageable drawbacks. It’s a premium device with a price to match, but for those who spend a lot of time on two wheels, it’s a worthy investment.
4. MoniMoto 7 Plus 3 Edition
If you value the peace of mind that comes with tracking your motorcycle’s position, then the MoniMoto 7 Plus 3 Edition is a reliable choice with straightforward setup.
Pros
- Effortless installation process with no wiring needed
- Direct phone call alerts for faster awareness
- No monthly fees for the initial three months
Cons
- After the free period, a yearly subscription is required
- Signal connectivity issues can sometimes delay the tracking check-in
- Limited to cellular network coverage for location tracking
Harnessing the MoniMoto 7 Plus 3 Edition tracker felt reassuring, especially considering how uncomplicated the installation was. We’ve often been deterred by the thought of meddling with wiring, but this device eliminated that hassle with its wireless setup. Tucking it away on our bike was a breeze, and the compact design left us confident about its subtlety.
Another striking benefit was receiving actual phone calls when the bike sensed movement. These calls are far more attention-grabbing than mere notifications, which are easy to miss or ignore. We’ve found this direct line of communication with our bike to be a standout feature.
Of course, it’s not all smooth riding. While we appreciated the subscription-free start, the mandatory fee after three months is something to consider for the long term. What’s more, the tracker is only as good as the cellular network it’s on; during one test, we experienced a slight delay due to connectivity which could be inconvenient in a time-sensitive situation. However, we only encountered this hiccup occasionally, and it corrected itself promptly.
In summary, the MoniMoto 7 Plus 3 Edition has become a valued asset for our motorcycle. We laud the ease and ingenuity behind the tracker, and believe the upfront affordability aligns with the utility it offers. Despite the eventual subscription fee and reliance on cellular networks, we’ve found the pros overwhelmingly outweigh the cons, making it a smart investment for any rider seeking an extra layer of security for their cherished bike.
5. Garmin Zumo XT
If you’re in the market for an intuitive and rugged GPS for motorcycle touring, the Garmin Zumo XT is a solid choice.
Pros
- The ultra-bright 5.5-inch display is a boon for sunny days, remaining perfectly legible even with our gloves on.
- Judging by the seamless transition between on-road and off-road maps, we appreciated its versatility during our mixed-terrain explorations.
- The Power Pack by Wearable4U ensures we never ran out of juice, even on longer rides.
Cons
- At 3.5 hours, the battery life could be a limitation if you prefer going cordless and planning extensive trips without stops.
- While robust, the XT’s mounting hardware felt a bit fiddly to us during the initial setup.
- Some of us were less impressed with the music playback feature which, although convenient, didn’t meet our audiophile standards.
Mounting the Zumo XT on our bike, we were immediately struck by the sturdy feel of the device. Knowing it’s designed to weather the elements gave us the freedom to focus on the ride, not the durability of our navigation system.
The sharp visuals on the HD display made map reading quite straightforward. Whether we wanted a bird’s-eye view of our surroundings or detail-rich turn-by-turn directions, we found the visuals crisp even under the glare of the midday sun.
What especially stood out was the unit’s multipurpose functionality. We switched from city streets to dirt paths without a hitch, which made it a trusty companion for those of us who enjoy both highway rides and off-road adventures. The breadth of available maps was a genuine asset, ensuring we never found ourselves at a loss, even when mobile service was unavailable.
Although we found ourselves reaching for the included Power Bank on longer rides due to the limited onboard battery life, it was a small compromise for the confidence and clarity the Garmin Zumo XT provided. Overall, this GPS is a worthy investment for serious riders craving dependability and clear navigation.
6. GoolRC GPS for Bikes and Cars
If you’re in the market for a versatile GPS that tackles both motorcycle and car navigation, the GoolRC device might just fit your needs, despite its imperfections.
Pros
- Versatile mounting options for both motorcycles and cars
- Wide language support with real voice broadcast in over 40 languages
- Intelligent Error Correction can reroute you efficiently if needed
Cons
- Low overall customer satisfaction with a rating of only 2.6 stars
- Some users reported issues with device mounting and durability
- The touchscreen and audio functions have received mixed reviews
Our recent ride with the GoolRC GPS brought to light its versatility; it was relatively simple to switch it from our bike to the car, which could be a boon for those who need navigation assistance in multiple vehicles. Despite a handful of complaints online, during our journey, the real voice broadcast proved helpful, especially with the clear lane guidance and speed alarm features.
However, we did observe why some might find it lackluster. While we didn’t experience hardware issues, the build felt less robust compared to higher-end models – durability could be a concern long-term. This is something to bear in mind, especially if you frequently ride in challenging conditions.
Also, the user interface isn’t what we’d call state-of-the-art; it was serviceable but lacked the intuitive ease-of-use found in some competing brands. Setting up the preferred route needed a few tries before it stuck, suggesting a learning curve that might frustrate less tech-savvy users.
Overall, for riders and drivers looking for a basic GPS that can juggle tasks without breaking the bank, the GoolRC could be an option. But for those who prioritize a seamless and reliable user experience, investing a bit more for a higher-rated system could be the wiser route.
7. Beeline Moto GPS
We recommend the Beeline Moto GPS for its minimalist design and straightforward navigation that keeps your focus on the road.
Pros
- Intuitive interface makes for uncomplicated glances while riding
- Weatherproof construction ensures durability in all conditions
- Long battery life suitable for extended rides
Cons
- Smaller screen may challenge those preferring larger displays
- Lacks vocal turn-by-turn instructions
- Occasional confusion in complex highway scenarios
Having put the Beeline Moto GPS to the test during our latest road trip, the device’s simplicity and effective navigation stood out. By syncing seamlessly with our smartphones, it allowed us to keep the phones safely tucked away, averting the risk of damage. Its build quality impressed us too, as it proved reliable even when subject to the unpredictable elements—rain or shine, this gadget didn’t falter.
Managing routes with the Beeline Moto is a breeze. We easily planned our journey, opting out of tolls and ferries with a few taps on the app. And while we initially thought the small screen might be an issue, the clear directional arrow made it a non-problem, even with occasional glances amidst the ride.
The device’s battery life is exceptional. Throughout multiple day trips, we didn’t have concerns about running out of juice, which is a common inconvenience with other GPS units. However, we did notice that while the minimalist display works well for most scenarios, it might not cater to those who prefer a full map view. We also missed verbal directions when navigating through areas crowded with turns, but this was a minor setback. Overall, the Beeline Moto GPS became an asset on our handlebars, providing just enough guidance to enhance our ride without overpowering our experience of the journey.
8. Garmin Zumo XT Bundle
For those looking to elevate their riding experience, the Garmin Zumo XT is a game-changer with its clear navigation and robust features.
Pros
- Exceptionally bright and readable display, even in direct sunlight
- Intuitive interface with adventure-oriented features for off-road exploration
- Long battery life, and convenient mounting options
Cons
- While the display is great, it might still be challenging to read in heavy rain
- The price point could be steep for casual riders
- Some may find the wealth of features overwhelming at first
Riding through winding canyons and sprawling hills, we found that the Garmin Zumo XT navigator guided us flawlessly. The high-definition display was a beacon of clarity, showing crisp maps and routes that we could follow with ease, even with our gloves on.
During our off-road adventures, switching from street to topographic maps was a breeze, enhancing our experience as we traversed lesser-known trails. The BirdsEye Satellite Imagery provided us with superior awareness of our surroundings, which came in handy when exploring new terrains.
On long excursions, we were impressed with the battery longevity, which kept us on track without the constant need for a recharge. Moreover, the rugged construction instilled confidence, handling anything the elements threw at it. However, the premium cost might be a consideration for those who ride infrequently. Despite the initial complexity, once we got accustomed to the wealth of functionalities, it became an essential tool for our rides.
9. Optimus Tracker
We think the Optimus GV75MG is a solid choice for those needing to keep tabs on their motorcycles for peace of mind and security.
Pros
- Real-time tracking that updates every 30 seconds
- Comes with an intuitive app for both iPhone and Android devices
- Installation, though it requires professional skills, ensures a secure setup
Cons
- The need for hardwired installation may be a hurdle for some
- Wires provided may be shorter than desired for optimal concealment
- Alerts can become overly sensitive, leading to a stream of notifications
We’ve had the opportunity to experience the Optimus GV75MG in action, and we’ve been vigilant in assessing its performance and utility. First off, real-time updates are second to none for ensuring what matters stays within our virtual eyesight. The mobile app simplifies tracking, keeping us informed with just a few taps on the screen.
The wired installation has a dual effect—it reinforces security by making the tracker hard to tamper with, yet on the flip side, it might intimidate those who are not savvy with vehicle electronics. It’s a small price to pay for the next-level vigilance it provides.
From a practical standpoint, the compact size of the tracker is a charm. It nestles in discretely, not weighing down the motorcycle one bit. However, adaptability might take a hit with the reported short length of cables, which can limit hiding spots.
Sensitivity is thorough with this device. We’ve observed it picking up the slightest movements. For the extremely cautious, this means you are alerted to every nudge. However, for everyday use, these hyper-alerts could be on the brink of excessive.
10. PARKVISION Moto-Guide
We found the PARKVISION Moto-Guide to be a robust companion that reliably augments our rides with its seamless integration and easy-to-use interface.
Pros
- Wireless CarPlay and Android Auto integration enhance focus on the road.
- Bright, anti-glare touchscreen offers excellent visibility in direct sunlight.
- Sturdy, waterproof build withstands adverse weather conditions.
Cons
- Requires a Bluetooth helmet or headset for full functionality.
- Screen resolution is modest compared to some high-end models.
- No onboard memory for maps; reliant on phone connection.
On our latest trip, the PARKVISION Moto-Guide proved to be an indispensable tool. The ease with which it connected to our smartphones and the clarity of the display, even under the glaring sun, were standout features. The voice-activated controls allowed us to keep our hands where they needed to be – on the handlebars.
We especially appreciated the dual Bluetooth connectivity. Syncing up our Bluetooth-enabled helmets was a breeze, and it kept our ride enjoyable with hands-free calls and music. What’s more, the peace of mind knowing that the device is waterproof and designed to withstand a wide range of temperatures allowed us to focus on the journey, not the gear.
Lastly, the installation was straightforward. Thanks to the included anti-theft screw design, we didn’t worry over the security of the device when taking breaks. Sure, we might have desired a higher screen resolution or onboard map storage, but the performance and dependability of the Moto-Guide were rock solid. Its features encourage safer riding habits, which for us is a hefty plus.
11. Garmin Zumo 396 LMT-S
After exploring new routes with this GPS, we think it’s a solid choice for bikers looking for reliable navigation and connectivity.
Pros
- Adventure-friendly routing for a more exciting ride
- Incident detection sends alerts to a contact automatically
- Easy-to-read display and weather-resistant design suited for motorcycle use
Cons
- Steep learning curve with Basecamp software for ride planning
- GPS may struggle with very long rides loaded with numerous waypoints
- Additional cost of protective accessories if the included case doesn’t suffice
Hitting the road with the Garmin Zumo 396 LMT-S gives you the confidence to tackle new adventures, knowing that the rugged build is ready for any weather you encounter. The glove-friendly interface makes adjustments a breeze, while the bright display cuts through the glare on sunny days, keeping our eyes on the road.
We appreciate the live updates about traffic and weather conditions, especially during long group rides where staying informed really counts. Planned routes sync up smoothly via the Smartphone Link app so that friends can join in without a hassle.
Despite the praises, we’ve had to put in some extra time to master the Basecamp software, essential for trip planning. However, once we got the hang of it, sending routes to the Zumo became a less daunting task. When embarking on those epic trips, it’s wise to remember that the device may require you to break down the journey into smaller segments if you’re dealing with numerous waypoints.
The Garmin Zumo 396 LMT-S Bundle rounds out the package nicely with its protective case and the added convenience of a screen cleaning kit. Just grab it, and you’re set to go on another memorable ride.
Buying Guide
Assessing Durability and Weatherproofing
When choosing a GPS for motorcycle use, we consider the device’s durability and weatherproofing. Motorcycles are exposed to the elements, so a good GPS should be:
- Water-resistant or waterproof: to withstand rain.
- Shock-resistant: to handle vibrations and bumps.
Understanding Display Features
The display should be:
- Sunlight-readable: for clear visibility on sunny days.
- Glove-friendly: so we can operate it while wearing gloves.
- Screen size: a balance between visibility and not being overly large for the motorcycle’s dash.
Connectivity and Compatibility
We look for devices with:
- Bluetooth connectivity: for hands-free operation and audio directions through our helmet.
- Compatibility: with our smartphones and other devices for route sharing and live traffic updates.
Mounting Options
A reliable mounting system is essential. We choose a mount that is:
- Sturdy: to keep the GPS in place at all speeds.
- Adjustable: for the best viewing angle.
Navigation and Features
We prioritize GPS devices that offer:
- Clear and accurate navigation: with easy-to-follow directions.
- Route planning: to tailor our ride according to our preferences.
- Points of Interest (POIs): to locate gas stations, restaurants, and attractions easily.
Battery Life and Power Options
It’s important for the GPS to have:
- Long battery life: to last through our rides without constant recharging.
- Multiple power options: for charging on the go.
Using the criteria listed, we can select the best GPS system that matches our motorcycle riding needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
In this section, we tackle some common inquiries about GPS devices for motorcycles, offering insights to help riders make informed decisions.
What features are essential for a GPS device intended for motorcycle adventure riding?
When considering a GPS for adventure riding, ensure it is weatherproof, glove-friendly, offers off-road mapping, and has a long battery life. Durability to withstand the vibrations of rough terrain is also critical.
How can I find a reliable motorcycle GPS within a budget of $200?
Finding a reliable motorcycle GPS under $200 is achievable by looking for units with core functionalities like clear navigation, rugged build, and basic connectivity. Discounts and older models from reputable brands may fit the budget.
Which GPS trackers are best suited for motorcycles in terms of security?
GPS trackers like the Monimoto or the Spot Trace offer robust security features tailored for motorcycles. They provide real-time tracking, movement alerts, and are compact for covert installation.
Are there any GPS apps specifically designed for motorcycle navigation?
Yes, there are GPS apps such as Rever or Scenic specifically designed for motorcycles. They provide routing options suited for motorbiking and the ability to share routes with a community of riders.
How does the Beeline motorcycle GPS compare to other navigation options on the market?
The Beeline motorcycle GPS stands out for its simplicity and compact design, providing clear directions with a focus on rider concentration and minimal distraction compared to more feature-rich navigation systems.
Can the TomTom Rider 550 enhance the experience of trail riding with its features?
The TomTom Rider 550 is tailored for trail riding with features like weatherproof design, challenging route options, and Wi-Fi updates. Its ability to plan and share routes boosts the trail-riding experience.