Onboard Extras: Alongside being markedly more hardwearing and easier to see and use, one of the best selling-points of modern moto GPS systems is the plethora of supplementary features baked into the navigation device. Both types have their own respective strengths and weaknesses, though hardwired is typically considered superior for off-road and off-grid riding applications as where battery-powered devices tend to be more conducive to road touring. Some GPS systems come with onboard batteries that afford a given lifespan, while other systems feature power sources that are hardwired to a bike’s battery. Power Source: This is an area that’s far too often overlooked for how important it truly is. Supplementary Connectivity: In addition to displaying maps and directions via connection to satellites (or pre-downloaded maps), some of the more expensive motorcycle GPS offerings are also able to link to a bike’s vehicle sensors in order to relay real-time engine temperature, (GPS-tracked) speed (or distance), battery voltage, tire pressure, and engine RPM. These items will also affect a system’s ability to relay 3D, photo satellite, or topographical maps.
Pretty much every system will feature a GPS sensor, but the more high-end, advanced models are also bestowed with GLONASS and Galileo sensors for mapping, as well as digital compasses and barometric altimeters for detecting altitude, pressure, and other relevant metrics. Sensors: A GPS system’s ability to perform tracking duties ultimately boils down to the device’s onboard hardware and sensors. Often carrying mil-spec certification, many of today’s systems can also operate in extreme temperatures. Designed to be exposed to the elements, motorcycle GPS navigators typically boast incredibly rugged construction with robust ratings for impact, dirt and dust resistance, and weatherproofing.
Below, we’ll touch on some of the more pivotal elements to consider when shopping for a motorcycle GPS navigator.ĭurability: One of the biggest factors separating purpose-built moto GPS systems from handlebar-mounted smartphones is the former’s immense level of durability. That said, there are some finer points that separate the different available moto GPS offerings. Pretty much every contemporary motorcycle-specific GPS system operates in the same basic manner and serves the same primary function. What Traits To Consider When Buying A Moto GPS System So, with this in mind, we’ve thoroughly scoured the segment, poring over every product release over the last few years to bring you this definitive guide to today’s best motorcycle GPS navigators. The rapid speed at which this industry moves, however, can muddy the waters and make it difficult for the average rider to distinguish the latest, most cutting-edge systems, from yesterday’s old news.
Since the debut of the first motorcycle-specific GPS unit-Garmin’s zūmo 500 Series in October of 2006-the motorcycle GPS segment has been rapidly evolving, with each year seeing manufacturers bestow their respective offerings with more and more features, smart-tech, and functionality. With limited storage and cargo space, two-wheeled exploration has traditionally meant having to forgo many of the amenities and creature comforts of automotive travel, though GPS systems no longer fall into this category, as the space has been treated to a steadily-growing number of mobile satellite-based guidance systems that have been purpose-engineered for motorcycle travel.
Whether exploring the open road or the backcountry, riding a motorcycle offers one of the most thrilling and rewarding means of touring or transportation.