GPS Devices

[eshokes]

Hello,

Was thinking about getting a motorcycle specific gps device that I can attach to my handle bars. Looks like I may be spending from 500-1000 for the device so with that it mind thought it may be a good idea to see what others are using and get a little assistance first before spending a fairly large amount of money on it.

Thanks in advance,

Eric :coffee:

[huschle29]

I don't have a motorcycle specific GPS, I just use a handheld portable GPS. I figured out a way to attach to my handlebars so i can view it while riding.

[jblipe]

i'll be taking that plunge myself this winter. from all i've read, the consensus is either the garmin zumo 450 or 550. check em out.:)

[Shutterbug]

I use a Mio C310X, $179 on Ebay. I bought a cell phone bracket for the handlebar and attached velcro to the bracket and rear of the GPS for my VTX. Works like a champ! I don't really think there is a need to spend $500 or more on a GPS. The newer model, Mio C220 is $199 at Best Buy and Circuit City. Check www.mio-tech.com (http://www.mio-tech.com)

[Big-X]

Zumo 550 is great.

http://www.vtxcafe.com/showthread.php?t=6750&highlight=zumo

[epiphysis]

here's the thing......I have the Garmin Zumo 550....it is motorcycle specific and can be used in your car...comes with separate holders for mc and car....I understand spending less for a GPS...they pretty much have the same software......however...this one is mc specific so it can withstand the rigors of vibration, wetness, etc...so if you think about it....if you get another one to save some $$ and it goes bad in a year ..what have you saved??the only down side is that it is supposed to be bluetooth compatable and most have problems with bluetooth...other than that it works flawlessly.....so I would shop around and see what is out there......

[Shutterbug]

Good point.

[epiphysis]

thank you, Shutterbug!!!!:cheers:

[eshokes]

Thanks Bix-X for posting the link to the other thread, a lot of good reading.

I'm also leaning very heavy now towards the Zumo 450, appears simple enough to use even while riding and rugged enough to withstand the vibrations and elements.

The 550 has some nice features but at my experience level don't think the additional distractions would be a good idea for me. Just concentrating on the road and everything around is enough as I learn to crawl.

Maybe in a couple years I could step up to the 550 once I've learned to walk and then after I've learned to run down the highway I will put my old 450 on ebay for someone looking for a good deal and step up a notch.

Until then, thanks for all the help.

Safe Travels and Happy Trails

[DillDawg]

If you want to get your feet wet on a bike GPS...try the garmin 2610. It was the choice of bikes for a long while, now on closeout / refurb for around $230.
Not as cool as the zumo series, but its waterproof...handles abuse of a bike just fine...check them out on Amazon.com. Add a 2gb flash card and load the entire US in detail. I really like mine. Once the Zumo is no longer the hot ticket and the price comes down, I may get that and give the 2610 to the wife.

[hawkdriver1965]

Garmin Zumo 550...that's All You Need.

[Big-X]

The 550 cost $150 more roughly.

Personally the car mount alone is worth the $150, it rocks. If I'm not mistaken the 450 does not include the car mount, our trip to Washington the Zumo was awesome to have and I loved the car mount and the bluetooth....I would highly suggest paying the extra.

[hawkdriver1965]

+100, Big X. It is so good you will get spoiled. I have the GXM 30 XM antenna for sattelite radio and a 2 GB SD card filled with my favorite MP3's, so I never run out of music in the car OR on the bike. It is a wonderful piece of gear.

[Longboater]

Zumo 550 is a great way to go and allows for future growth do to its capabilities. We have over 3000 bike and over 4000 of car miles using it. Great way to find new routes too. Rode the bike through a section of Michigan over the Blue Water Bridge and down the Ontario side of the St. Clair River and the 550 pointed out all the roads to within 10 - 16 ft. (Realy cool seeing the 1000 ft. ore boats up close).

[hawkdriver1965]

I was recently looking for a car dealership driving around in my car. I typed the dealership name in the Zumo 550, and it was in the database--took me right to the front door. Wonderful.