Ever gotten lost on a scenic ride, wishing you had a trusty guide? You’re not alone! Many motorcycle riders love exploring new roads, but finding your way can be a challenge. That’s where a good GPS unit comes in. It’s like having a super-smart co-pilot right on your handlebars!
But choosing the perfect motorcycle GPS isn’t always easy. There are so many brands and features! Some are tough against rain and bumps, while others have amazing screens you can see even in bright sunlight. It can feel overwhelming trying to figure out which one fits your riding style and budget. You want something reliable that won’t let you down when you’re miles from home.
In this post, we’ll break down what makes a great motorcycle GPS. We’ll look at the important features to consider, like how easy they are to use with gloves on and how well they connect to your phone. By the end, you’ll feel much more confident picking the right GPS to make your next adventure smooth sailing – or smooth riding!
Our Top 5 Motorcycle Gps Units Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Motorcycle Gps Units Detailed Reviews
1. Garmin zūmo XT
Rating: 8.8/10
The Garmin zūmo XT is a tough GPS made for motorcycle rides. It has a big, bright screen that you can see even in sunlight. You can use it with gloves on, and it’s built to survive drops and rain. This GPS helps you find your way on roads and even off the beaten path.
What We Like:
- The 5.5-inch screen is super bright and easy to read.
- It’s tough and can handle rain and drops.
- You get clear spoken directions through your helmet or headset.
- It comes with maps for roads and off-road adventures, including public land and 4×4 roads.
- You can download satellite images without paying extra each year.
- The Adventurous Routing feature finds fun, twisty roads.
- You can easily save and share your rides.
- It connects to your phone for live traffic, weather, and calls.
- You can even play music from your phone or the device.
What Could Be Improved:
- The Garmin Explore app can sometimes be a little tricky to use.
- While it’s tough, some users might want even more ruggedness for extreme conditions.
The Garmin zūmo XT is a fantastic companion for any rider. It makes exploring new places fun and easy.
2. WonVon 5 Inch Motorcycle Carplay GPS Navigation System with Apple Carplay and Android Auto Portable Screen with Dual Bluetooth
Rating: 9.3/10
The WonVon 5 Inch Motorcycle GPS Navigation System brings smart technology right to your handlebars, making every ride safer and more enjoyable. It works with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, so you can use your phone’s apps, get directions, and listen to music hands-free. This portable screen is built tough for the road and easy to use, even with gloves on.
What We Like:
- It offers a seamless wireless connection for CarPlay and Android Auto, letting you use navigation, calls, and music easily.
- The 5-inch IPS display is bright and clear, even in sunlight, and it has a special night mode for riding after dark.
- Dual Bluetooth lets you connect your phone and a headset at the same time for clear calls and music.
- The system is waterproof and weatherproof, so it can handle rain and dust.
- Installation is designed to be easy for most riders to do themselves with the included kit.
- It supports many languages and works with most motorcycles.
- WonVon provides good after-sales support with a warranty and customer service.
What Could Be Improved:
- The system supports TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System), but you have to buy the TPMS sensors separately.
This WonVon navigation system is a fantastic upgrade for any motorcycle rider looking for modern convenience and safety. It’s built to last and packed with features for a better riding experience.
3. LAMTTO 7-Inch Wireless Motorcycle Carplay GPS Navigation System with Apple Carplay and Android Auto
Rating: 9.2/10
Upgrade your motorcycle rides with the LAMTTO 7-Inch Wireless Motorcycle Carplay GPS Navigation System. This portable screen brings the power of your smartphone directly to your handlebars, offering seamless integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for a smarter, safer journey.
What We Like:
- Wireless CarPlay and Android Auto connect your phone easily.
- Use Siri or Google Assistant for hands-free control of maps, music, and calls.
- IP67 waterproof design means you can ride in any weather.
- Anti-glare screen with a sun visor ensures clear visibility even in bright sunlight.
- Large 7-inch IPS touchscreen is easy to see and use, even with gloves.
- Bluetooth connectivity allows for hands-free calls, voice navigation, and music through your helmet or headphones.
What Could Be Improved:
- The dual Bluetooth feature is mentioned, but how it specifically benefits the rider could be clearer.
- While it supports both CarPlay and Android Auto, the initial setup process for some users might require a bit of learning.
The LAMTTO system makes your motorcycle smarter and your rides safer. It’s a fantastic way to stay connected and entertained without taking your focus off the road.
4. Garmin zumo 396 LMT-S
Rating: 9.4/10
The Garmin zumo 396 LMT-S is a tough GPS made just for motorcycles. It helps you find exciting, twisty roads. This GPS can handle bad weather and is easy to use even with gloves on. Its screen is bright and clear, even in the sun. You can also connect it to your phone for calls and messages.
What We Like:
- It finds fun, curvy roads, not just highways.
- The screen is bright and easy to see in sunlight.
- It’s built tough to resist fuel, UV rays, and bad weather.
- You can connect it to your smartphone for hands-free calls and notifications.
- You can share your ride plans with friends easily.
- It gives you live traffic and weather updates through your phone.
- The display is glove-friendly, making it simple to operate while riding.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 4.3-inch screen might seem a bit small for some riders.
- Reliance on a smartphone for live services means you need a good data connection.
- While rugged, some very extreme conditions might still pose a challenge.
Overall, the Garmin zumo 396 LMT-S is a fantastic companion for any motorcycle adventure. It makes finding exciting routes and staying connected on the road simple and safe.
5. Wireless Motorcycle Apple Carplay
Rating: 9.1/10
Get ready to upgrade your motorcycle rides with this amazing 7-inch portable GPS navigation system that brings the power of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto right to your handlebars. This device makes staying connected and navigating easy, keeping your focus on the road ahead.
What We Like:
- Connects wirelessly to your iPhone or Android phone for seamless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
- Use Siri or Google Assistant to control maps, music, and calls with your voice, keeping your hands free.
- Features a bright, 7-inch IPS touchscreen with anti-glare so you can see clearly even in bright sunlight.
- Built tough with IP69K waterproof and dustproof rating, it works perfectly in rain or shine, hot or cold weather.
- Bluetooth 5.2 provides a stable connection with no delays, and it automatically reconnects after the first setup.
- Easy to install on any motorcycle with the included bracket kit and all necessary tools.
What Could Be Improved:
- The instruction manual could be a bit clearer for some users during the initial setup.
- While the screen is responsive, very thick riding gloves might make touchscreen use a little tricky.
This navigation system is a fantastic addition for any rider looking for convenience and safety. It’s a smart way to stay connected and navigate your journeys with ease.
Your Essential Guide to Motorcycle GPS Units
Riding a motorcycle is an amazing experience. You want to focus on the road, the wind, and the scenery. You don’t want to get lost. A motorcycle GPS unit is your best friend on the open road. It helps you find your way, discover new places, and keep your adventure going. This guide will help you pick the perfect GPS for your motorcycle.
What to Look for in a Motorcycle GPS Unit
Key Features to Consider
- Screen Brightness and Visibility: You’ll be riding in bright sunlight. Your GPS screen needs to be easy to see. Look for units with high brightness settings and anti-glare coatings.
- Water and Dust Resistance: Motorcycles are exposed to the elements. Your GPS must be tough. Look for IP ratings (like IPX7) that mean it can handle rain and dust.
- Durability and Shock Resistance: Roads can be bumpy. Your GPS needs to withstand vibrations and shocks from the bike. Rugged construction is important.
- Battery Life: Long rides need a GPS that can keep up. Check the battery life. Some units can be powered directly from your motorcycle, which is great for long trips.
- Ease of Use: You need to be able to operate the GPS easily, even with gloves on. Simple menus and responsive touchscreens are key.
- Mapping and Navigation: Does it have detailed maps for your riding areas? Can it plan routes with scenic roads or avoid highways? Does it offer turn-by-turn voice guidance?
- Connectivity: Bluetooth is useful for connecting to headphones or a smartphone. Some GPS units can also connect to traffic updates or weather forecasts.
Important Materials
Most motorcycle GPS units are made with tough plastics that can handle outdoor conditions. The screens are often protected by scratch-resistant glass. Internal components are designed to withstand vibrations.
Factors that Improve or Reduce Quality
Quality Boosters:
- High-Resolution Screens: Clearer maps and text make navigation easier.
- Advanced GPS Chips: These provide faster and more accurate location tracking.
- Robust Mounting Systems: A secure mount keeps your GPS safe and stable.
- Regular Map Updates: Keeping your maps current ensures you have the latest road information.
Quality Reducers:
- Flimsy Construction: Units that feel cheap might not last.
- Poor Screen Visibility: If you can’t see the screen in sunlight, it’s useless.
- Slow Processing Speed: A laggy GPS can be frustrating.
- Limited Map Coverage: If the maps don’t cover where you ride, it’s not helpful.
User Experience and Use Cases
A good motorcycle GPS makes riding more enjoyable and less stressful. You can explore new routes with confidence. Planning trips becomes easier. You can find gas stations, restaurants, or points of interest along your route.
Some riders use GPS units for:
- Touring: Planning long journeys and discovering scenic byways.
- Commuting: Finding the quickest or most pleasant routes.
- Off-Road Riding: Some GPS units have specialized off-road maps.
- Group Rides: Sharing routes or meeting up with others.
The best GPS unit for you depends on your riding style and needs. Think about where you ride and what features are most important to you.
Frequently Asked Questions about Motorcycle GPS Units
Q1: What is the most important feature to look for?
A1: Screen brightness and visibility in sunlight are often the most critical features for motorcycle riders.
Q2: Do I need a GPS unit specifically for motorcycles?
A2: Yes, motorcycle-specific GPS units are built to be more durable, water-resistant, and easier to use with gloves than car GPS units.
Q3: Can I use my smartphone as a GPS?
A3: You can, but smartphone screens can be hard to see in sunlight, and they may not be as water-resistant or durable. Battery life can also be an issue.
Q4: How do I mount a GPS unit on my motorcycle?
A4: Most GPS units come with or have optional mounting kits that attach to your handlebars or mirrors.
Q5: Are motorcycle GPS units waterproof?
A5: Many are water-resistant, meaning they can handle rain. Check the IP rating to know how well they can withstand water and dust.
Q6: How often do I need to update the maps?
A6: It’s a good idea to update maps at least once a year, or whenever you plan a long trip to ensure you have the latest road information.
Q7: Can I import custom routes into a motorcycle GPS?
A7: Many GPS units allow you to import routes from other devices or websites, which is great for planning specific rides.
Q8: Do motorcycle GPS units have voice navigation?
A8: Yes, most modern motorcycle GPS units offer turn-by-turn voice guidance so you can keep your eyes on the road.
Q9: What is the difference between a dedicated GPS and a GPS app on my phone?
A9: Dedicated GPS units are usually more robust, have better outdoor screen visibility, and often have longer battery life or direct power options. GPS apps rely on your phone’s capabilities.
Q10: Can I connect my GPS to my motorcycle’s electrical system?
A10: Many motorcycle GPS units can be wired directly to your bike’s battery, allowing for continuous power during rides.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.