GPS Systems for Motorcycles
Exploring the Countryside

GPS systems for motorcycles are far more durable and waterproof than the automotive type, to protect them in all types of weather, riding conditions and spills. Most bike riders would love to take that fork in the road and explore new areas.

Garmin zumo 660 4.3-Inch Portable GPS Motorcycle Navigator

Garmin zumo 220 3.5-Inch Bluetooth Motorcycle GPS Navigator

Garmin zumo 665 Widescreen Motorcyle Navigator

If your ride turns into an adventure, you won't have to worry about remaining lost if you have a motorcycle GPS mount to keep your navigation unit near at hand. In fact, you won't have to worry about where to find the next gas station or a place to eat.

Several different companies make GPS systems for motorcycles. Two of the main ones are Garmin and TomTom. These two companies offer several different models. While each type of GPS system has benefits, each one also has faults you should weigh heavily before you purchase.

The most important is probably the ability to read the screen, so a bright screen is mandatory. Unless it's dark or overcast, the sun is always shining through the windows on a motorcycle.

If you can't read the screen because of the glare of the sun, you have two options. The first is to park the bike and cradle the devise so there's a shadow on the screen. The second is to make sure it has audio so you can hear the directions. Of course, you can go back to using your own instincts, but if you purchased a GPS system, you probably don't trust them either.

Garmin Zumo 550 3.5-Inch Portable GPS Navigator

Arkon GPS032 Handlebar Mount for 3.5 - 4.3-Inch GPS Devices

Garmin nüvi 500 3.5-Inch Portable GPS Navigator

Riding a bike means hearing the wind blowing on your helmet and the noise of the engine. That's part of the fun. However, if you're trying to hear the instructions for your GPS system, it's almost impossible. That's why having Bluetooth wireless technology is an important part of the package. Even if you can read the GPS screen, you also want to keep your eyes on the road as much as possible.

While several of the motorcycle units offer Bluetooth technology, the accuracy of the directions is also important. Does the GPS system just say, "turn" or does it make it more explicit by saying "turn immediately?" It might sound inconsequential, but on a long bike ride with confusing road signs and turns, you'll find the one that's the most explicit will help you get to your destination without any backtracking.

Check the motorcycle GPS mount. If you have to purchase one separately, it's an extra expense. Some come with sturdy mounts, while others come equipped with both an automotive mount and a motorcycle mount. Those with the dual mounts are the best buy.

Look for features on the GPS systems for motorcycles such as larger keyboards (Easier to use with gloves), the ability to remove and replace the lithium-ion battery (Even though you can recharge them, they don't last forever!) and accurate maps. Also, check out the extra features such as the ability to save trip paths.

Garmin nüvi 550 3.5-Inch Portable GPS Navigator

Garmin Nuvi Hardwire Cable (Mini-USB connector) for Garmin Nuvi

Garmin Motorcycle GPS Mount for zumo 450 and 550

After you search through all the information on GPS systems for motorcycles, You may find one that offers most of the features you want. If you find several, you need to make a list of the additional features and weigh them by usefulness. Don't forget to include price and the warranty on the unit.