Whenever we visit places we haven’t been to before, we need a good navigation tool to travel in the right direction without asking for help. In such cases, we realize that good GPS navigation would be a big help. But, instead, we rely too much on our smartphone to navigate. However, a smartphone is not an ideal choice when you travel quite frequently on your motorcycle. So, you need the best motorcycle GPS to navigate easily.
With a good GPS navigation system, we can enjoy the ride and easily travel to new places. Fortunately, there are many Motorcycle GPS navigators that are available on the market that will do the navigation work easily. But, the fact is, the best motorcycle GPS navigators are not cheap. On the contrary, you can face a costly experience if you are in need of a GPS navigation system, but it doesn’t fall within your price range. In such a situation, you should know that a motorcycle GPS is not limited to use only for motorcycle navigation, but it can also be used in your car. This is one of the many benefits of motorcycle GPS in terms of convenience and functionality, which is totally worth adding to your budget.
So, if you are planning to buy a new motorcycle GPS, then I would like to say that you have come to the right place, and your timing couldn’t be better! Because, I have decided to write a detailed review of the Best Motorcycle GPS Navigators the money can buy. In this article, I am going to show you the perfect GPS navigation system for commuting, adventure touring and off-road riding.
Read Also: Top 10 Best Motorcycle Bluetooth Headsets of 2024
List of the Top 6 Best Motorcycle GPS Navigators
Best Motorcycle GPS Navigator Reviews
There is no doubt that a high-quality GPS system is a relatively expensive piece of motorcycle equipment. You cannot just go and order the first product available for sale. You will have to do a proper research to find out which one of these units is the ideal option for you. That’s why I am writing this article about the Top 6 Motorcycle GPS navigation systems. I will try my best to give you the most complete information about these electronic devices. On top of that, I will also tell you the reason why you should use a motorcycle GPS system, and go through some of the features you should be looking for before making a purchase.
Garmin Zumo XT Motorcycle GPS Review
Whether we talk about motorcycle GPS navigators or just GPS navigation in general, there is one brand that outshines all others. Garmin is a well known name in the industry and most of their products are indeed better than competition. Yes, they might be on the pricier side, but in my opinion, they are absolutely worth it. In addition to GPS, this Swiss company is mostly famous for their smart watches.
Design & Build Quality
The Garmin Zumo XT is one of the few GPS navigation systems that are designed specifically for motorcycles. It features a rugged design and IPX7 rating, which makes it a perfect option for riding in tough terrains and extreme weather conditions. It can withstand high humidity, hot/freezing temperatures and handlebar vibrations, so you can take it to the mountains, desert, or even rainforest.
Mounting & Charging
This is a big deal when you are looking for a good motorcycle GPS. Fortunately, the Garmin Zumo XT can be simply mounted to your motorcycle using the included handlebar mount. In terms of battery life, the device will remain charged for about 3-6 hours, depending on the brightness setting. Obviously, you can hard-wire the GPS directly to your motorcycle battery and never worry about charging the unit again.
Display & Resolution
The Garmin Zumo XT is equipped with a 5.5-inch glove-friendly display, so you will be able to easily operate the unit even with your motorcycle gloves on. Thanks to the HD resolution and ultra-bright LCD panel, the picture quality is excellent and all details are visible even in direct sunlight. The display can be used in both landscape and portrait mode, and it offers very good viewing angles.
Navigation & Ease of Use
Overall, I would say that the Garmin Zumo XT is an extremely sophisticated motorcycle GPS navigation system. It has some innovative features such as the BirdsEye Satellite Imagery, which will let you download up-to-date high-resolution satellite images without any subscription fee. Apart from this, it also comes with preinstalled off-road topographic maps, so you can use this system for trails. Unfortunately, the software is a little too complicated and it may be time-consuming to plan a long route with a lot of additional stops.
Garmin Zumo XT Motorcycle GPS
️Pros: Rugged Design, Ultra-Bright Display, HD Resolution, On-Road & Off-Road Maps, Motorcycle Mount Included
Cons: A Little Too Complicated
Garmin InReach Mini Satellite Communicator Review
You might be wondering, why there is a satellite communicator on the list of the best motorcycle GPS navigators. That’s because the Garmin InReach Mini is not just an ordinary communicator, but it can also work as a GPS tracker. You will be able to send or receive text messages, track your journey, and trigger an SOS alert. This will be handy if you often ride in off-road terrain, where there is no cellphone coverage, only the satellite network. Besides the InReach Mini, there is also a bigger version available called Explorer+.
Design & Build Quality
The Garmin InReach Mini features a lightweight, compact design and you will be able to take it with you no matter where you go. It will easily fit into any pocket, or you can simply attach it to an accessory loop. The Garmin InReach Mini is both water-resistant and impact-resistant. Thanks to its rugged finish, the unit is extremely durable and the grip is also excellent.
Mounting & Charging
The Garmin InReach Mini comes with a rechargeable Lithium battery that offers up to 50 hours of battery life at the default 10-minute tracking mode. The Explorer+ version will give you a whopping 100 hours of battery life. You can recharge it by using a micro-USB cable or an optional in-vehicle 12-V charger. The device can be attached to handlebars or backpacks using the spine mount adapter. Other than that, there is also a large carabiner clip included in the box.
Display & Resolution
The InReach Mini version is equipped with a small 0.9″ x 0.9″ monochrome display, while the Explorer+ version comes with a reasonably sized 1.4″ x 1.9″ color display. They both have a basic low-resolution screen that doesn’t offer very high pixel density. However, it is more than enough for their application.
Navigation & Ease of Use
As I mentioned earlier, the main purpose of the Garmin InReach Mini satellite communicator is texting and emergency use. But, apart from that, you can also track your journey and share it with others. On top of that, you will be able to connect the device to your smartphone and use it for GPS navigation. Additionally, there is also an optional Weather forecast service available. The Explorer+ can be used as a motorcycle GPS navigator, as it features some on-board mapping functionality. The gadget is very easy to use and the activation is simple.
Garmin InReach Mini Satellite Communicator
️Pros: Compact & Lightweight Design, Rugged Finish, Long Battery Life, SOS Alerts, GPS Tracking, SMS
Cons: Requires Subscription
Garmin Zumo 396 LMT-S Motorcycle GPS Review
Another GPS on our list is the Garmin Zumo LMT-S. This motorcycle GPS navigation system is suitable for all types of riding styles. You can use it for both commuting and adventure touring, it’s up to you. The navigator is great for twisty roads and you will be able to share your journey with friends. Compared to the Zumo XT, the 396 LMT-S is slightly cheaper. However, it comes with a smaller screen and there is not as many features.
Design & Build Quality
As all other Garmin GPS navigation systems, the Zumo 396 LMT-S offers a very good build quality and the finish is top-notch. But, you will have to pay for it! For a price of around $350, you will get a good-looking GPS navigator with a minimalist design and weather-resistant body. Thanks to its IPX7 rating, it can withstand heavy rain. On top of that, it is also resistant to UV rays, fuel vapors and other elements.
Mounting & Charging
Mounting is easy. You can simply attach the unit to the handlebars using the included motorcycle mount. The Zumo 396 LMT-S navigator is designed to be hard-wired directly to the motorcycle battery through the provided cable. Although there is a mini-USB port on the back of the unit, you won’t be able to use it for charging on the go, as the mounting cradle completely blocks the USB port. This is a very bad design choice and probably the biggest downside of this device.
Display & Resolution
The screen of the Garmin Zumo 396 LMT-S is scratch-resistant and glove-friendly. This means you don’t have to worry about taking your motorcycle gloves off every time you want to use the device. And the gloves won’t scratch the screen, which is another big plus! It is an ultra-bright 4.3-inch display that doesn’t have the HD resolution of the Zumo XT’s display, but it is still pretty good in my opinion. Unfortunately, you can only use the device in horizontal position.
Navigation & Ease of Use
When I compare the Zumo 396 LMT-S to the Zumo XT, it is a much simpler motorcycle navigation system. It only comes with preloaded street maps and there are no topographic off-road maps on the device. Also, with the Zumo 396 LMT-S, you won’t be able to enjoy the BirdsEye Satellite Imagery function, which can be quite handy. However, you will still get free weather forecast and live traffic information, frequent Wi-Fi map updates, and a reliable customer service that Garmin is famous for.
Garmin Zumo 396 LMT-S Motorcycle GPS
️Pros: Rugged Design, Weather-Resistant, Ultra-Bright Display, Motorcycle Mount Included
Cons: No USB Cable Charging
TomTom Rider 550 Motorcycle GPS Review
If I can think of one brand that can compete with Garmin, it would definitely be TomTom. It is a company based in Netherlands and their main specialization is automobile GPS navigation systems. The Rider 550 is their most popular motorcycle GPS navigator and it is in the same price category as most other devices on this list (~$400). I am now going to tell you why it think this product might be on par with the Garmin devices.
Design & Build Quality
As most other motorcycle navigation systems, the Rider 550 has a rugged design, which makes it durable to dropping or impacts. But, instead of having boxy shape and sharp edges, it features a more rounded body. This might not look that cool, but it is certainly more practical. It makes the unit more robust and prone to damage. On top of that, it is IPX7-certified, so you will be able to use it in rainy weather. Overall, the TomTom Rider 550 is a high-quality GPS device that is clearly built to last.
Mounting & Charging
If you like the TomTom Rider 550 so far, but have been worrying about the mounting system, then I have some good news for you. The device comes with a specialized RAM mount included in the box. This is the best-rated motorcycle handlebar mount that you can also use for mounting your smartphone. The mechanism is super-sturdy and it handles vibrations really well. The TomTom Rider 550 is equipped with a rechargeable Lithium battery and it can last up to 6-8 hours on one charge.
Display & Resolution
The 4.3″ smart screen of the TomTom Rider 550 GPS navigator is glove-friendly and it is easily readable in direct sunlight. You will be able to switch between landscape and portrait mode. The sensitivity is great, even in wet conditions, so there is no need to take the gloves off your hands to be able to use the device. Another neat feature is the light and heavy glove mode, which you can use the change the sensitivity depending on the type of motorcycle gloves you are currently wearing. Unfortunately, there is no HD resolution, but the picture quality is sharp enough in my opinion.
Navigation & Ease of Use
With the TomTom Rider 550, you will be able to search, create and share motorcycle routes. It will give you real-time traffic information, speed camera alerts and some tips on windy and hilly roads, so you can avoid traffic jams and boring highways. It will be a perfect motorcycle navigator for you, if you like some adrenaline and don’t mind taking the longer route. You can use the TomTom MyDrive app to plan and edit your rides, select waypoints, pick a level of difficulty, and share it with your GPS device using Bluetooth or WiFi connection.
TomTom Rider 550 Motorcycle GPS
️Pros: Rugged Design, Weather-Resistant, Smart Screen, Thrill Planning, RAM Mount Included
Cons: A Little Too Complicated
Garmin Montana 750i GPS Handheld Review
The Garmin Montana 750i is not a motorcycle specific GPS navigator and it is best suited for hiking. However, you can buy an optional mount and attach it to the handlebars of your motorcycle. It is part of the 7xx series of Garmin Montana devices and there are two other models available (700 and 700i). The Montana 750i is the most advanced model from the series, but it is also the most expensive one.
Design & Build Quality
The Garmin Montana 750i reminds me some kind of a rugged smartphone designed for outdoor activities. It is roughly twice the size of the previous 600 model, which means it is a better device for motorcycle riding. What makes it really special compared to all other GPS devices on our list is its heavy-duty, military-grade construction. Not only can it withstand heavy rain and humidity, but you will also be able to use it in harsh conditions and extreme temperatures. In other words, the unit is literally indestructible.
Mounting & Charging
Unfortunately, there is no motorcycle mounting kit included in the box and you will have to spend an additional $100 for the cradle and mounting hardware. You will then be able to easily attach the cradle to the handlebars using a regular AMPS arm with a ball socket. For charging, you can use the included USB cable, or connect it directly from the mounting cradle to your motorcycle battery.
Display & Resolution
The display size has been increased by cca 50%. With the Garmin Montana 7xx series devices, you will get a 5-inch touchscreen display that you can use with your gloves on. It has a sufficient resolution for the size of the screen and you will be able to easily type on it thanks to the full QWERTY keyboard. On top of that, the Garmin Montana 750i is equipped with an 8-megapixel camera, which will let you take pictures or record videos on the go and see them directly on the display.
Navigation & Ease of Use
The navigation software of the Garmin Montana 750i offers plenty of useful features. Some of them are free, while others will cost you some additional money. It comes with preloaded street and topographic maps, so you will be able to use it for your off-road adventures. In addition, it also features the InReach Weather and interactive SOS technology, which is a paid subscription service that utilizes the global Iridium satellite network. And finally, there is also the BirdsEye Satellite Imagery available for free with this device.
Garmin Montana 750i Motorcycle GPS
️Pros: Military-Grade Construction, Weather-Resistant, 8-Megapixel Camera, On-Road & Off-Road Maps, InReach Technology
Cons: Mount Not Included
Types of Motorcycle GPS Navigators
There are various types of motorcycle GPS navigators that are suitable for different riding styles and terrain conditions. Basically, these units can be sorted into three different categories: Adventure GPS, Off-Road GPS and On-Road GPS, each having a specific design, features, pros and cons.
Best Adventure Motorcycle GPS
Adventure riding has been on the rise in recent years, especially in 2024. There are now many motorcyclists looking for a reliable GPS navigation system for their ADV motorcycle. If you own a large adventure bike such as the BMW R 1250 GS or Honda Africa Twin, you probably take it to places where a regular navigation system would fail. Most of the conventional GPS navigators offer on-road maps only and they are not suitable for off-road trails. That’s why it is important for every adventure rider to have a specialized GPS navigation system designed for all types of roads and terrains.
The absolute best motorcycle GPS for adventure riding is the Garmin Zumo XT. It comes with both on-road and off-road maps preinstalled, so you can easily use it in any terrain. On top of that, the system also features an ultra bright display and rugged design, which is a must for riding in extreme conditions.
Best Off-Road Motorcycle GPS
If you own a dirt bike and prefer riding in off-road conditions, you probably don’t care about on-road maps that much. In this scenario, the best option for you would be an off-road GPS navigation system designed specifically for trail riding.
In my opinion, the most suitable motorcycle GPS for riding in off-road conditions is the Trail Tech Voyager Pro. It offers all the great features that every dirt bike rider is looking for such as an anti-glare display and topographic maps. On top of that, you will also be able to see other riders on the trail thanks to the Buddy tracking feature.
Best On-Road Motorcycle GPS
Some of us are only looking for a basic functionality and don’t need the extra topographic maps or Buddy tracking. For most motorcyclists, a regular GPS device with on-road/street maps will be more than enough. These devices are slightly cheaper, so you can save a few bucks if you don’t need those features.
The ideal motorcycle GPS navigation system for on-road use is the Garmin Zumo 396 LMT-S. It is a great all-around navigator that still comes with a rugged, weather-resistant construction, but is a much more simplistic device compared the Zumo XT.
Things to Consider When Buying a Motorcycle GPS
This is a no-brainer but there are a few things you must consider before choosing any motorcycle GPS. After all, you will be spending your hard-earned money on a separate navigation unit. So, if you have been lost so far and unable to decide which one of these gadgets will be the best choice for your bike and riding style, don’t worry. I will now discuss some of the most important features and factors you should be looking for when buying a motorcycle GPS navigation system in 2024.
Trusted Brand Name
It may seem odd, but when it comes to motorcycle GPS units and navigation systems, it would be wise to trust the popular big brands, mainly because the devices that are manufactured by trusted popular brands are tested to different standards. These devices can be used in the harsh conditions of trail riding and multi-sports, and come with waterproofing and many other features.
GPS Geographic Location
It is important to ensure that the GPS unit you are thinking about choosing has the complete geographic location of where you live and travel frequently. If your current location is the US, you don’t want to buy a Europe-only navigation system, and vice versa.
Display Size & Resolution
Now that you have decided on the brand and geographic location, it is time to check the screen size. Because, if it is difficult to use or see those maps while motorcycling, then you may find yourself in a difficult situation to navigate to new places.
Charging & Battery Life
Make sure to choose the motorcycle GPS unit that has a good battery life and lasts longer, so you don’t need to worry about charging your battery in the middle of your trip. Also, it is always better to use a navigation system that can be hardwired directly to your motorcycle battery.
Additional Features
This is not a biggie, but there are some features that you definitely want with your motorcycle GPS unit and they are worth paying a few extra bucks. For example,
- Bluetooth Compatibility
- Camera
- Voice Recognition & Command
- Speaks street names
- Lifetime Map Updates
- Real-time Traffic Feature
Motorcycle GPS Navigators FAQ
Do you still have some questions about motorcycle GPS navigation systems, or you simply cannot decide whether you should buy one or not? Then I will answer these questions to make this topic absolutely clear for you. Hopefully, you will be able to make a final decision and pull the trigger after reading these FAQs.
What is a GPS Navigation System?
A GPS navigation system is an electronic device that connects to the global satellite network to provide users positioning functions and navigation. It will show your current location on the map and navigate you to your destination. On top of that, it can also have some additional features such as SMS Communication and Route Planning. This type of device can be useful if you travel a lot on your motorcycle and don’t want to carry a regular map with you.
How to Install a GPS on a Motorcycle?
A GPS system can be installed to all types of motorcycles using handlebar mounts. These accessories are usually included with each GPS device and they are relatively easy to install. After installing a GPS navigation system to your bike, you can hard-wire it to your motorcycle battery and enjoy a hassle-free riding experience without the need for charging the device.
Why Are Motorcycle GPS So Expensive?
A motorcycle GPS navigation system is superior to other forms of GPS navigation such as car navigation and smartphone apps. Unfortunately, it comes at a higher price and these units can be extremely expensive. Let’s take a look at some of the main reasons why motorcycle GPS systems will cost you so much money:
- Build Quality – Motorcycle GPS navigation systems are super-durable and they are built to last. Unlike smartphones, motorcycle GPS are designed for extended use in rough conditions and they can withstand extreme temperatures as well. On top of that, they are weatherproof, so you will be able to use them in rain, snow, desert and tropical climates.
- Glove Friendliness – Displays of motorcycle GPS navigators are glove friendly. This means that you will have zero issues while operating these devices with your motorcycle gloves on. In addition, their system UI is specifically designed for motorcycle gloves, so the buttons have a larger shape and they are much easier to reach than buttons on a smartphone.
- Exclusive Features – Another great thing about motorcycle GPS navigation systems are their exclusive features that you won’t find in regular GPS navigators. They can offer some useful route planning functions such as motorcycle touring trips, thrill roads and route sharing. Other than that, some of the motorcycle GPS can also feature off-road maps and they can be used for trails and off-road racing competitions.
Conclusion
Well, the bottom line is if you go on long trips and need a good GPS unit to ensure the correct navigation, then stop using your smartphone as a navigation system and purchase a motorcycle GPS unit that will provide the right directions and allow you to enjoy the adventure of going to new places. And when it comes to choosing the right GPS system, then always go for the trusted company and brand, such as TomTom and Garmin. Because, when you choose the right brand, the other things that you have considered will fall in line automatically.
Leave a Reply