Many motorcycle enthusiasts understand the importance of having a reliable GPS system while hitting the open road. In 2024, the market is filled with a variety of options, each boasting unique features and capabilities. From display size and resolution to durability and connectivity, choosing the best motorcycle GPS can be a daunting task. To help you navigate through this sea of choices, we have compiled a comprehensive guide to the top motorcycle GPS systems of 2024.
When it comes to selecting the best motorcycle GPS for your adventures, several key factors come into play. Display size and resolution play a crucial role in ensuring clear visibility of maps and directions while on the go. Durability is another essential aspect, as weather-resistant and long-lasting battery life are vital for those long rides. Additionally, routing features, display brightness, and connectivity options are all factors to consider when investing in a motorcycle GPS. In this guide, we will delve into these features and more to help you make an informed decision for your next ride.
Garmin Zumo XT: Best Motorcycle GPS for Adventurous Riders
Garmin Zumo XT 5.5" Motorcycle GPS with Texel 10,000mAh Battery 010-0229... -- $499.99(rockymountainatvmc.com)
Garmin Zumo XT, All-Terrain Motorcycle GPS Navigation Device, 5.5-inch ... -- $407.99(Amazon)
Garmin Zumo XT Motorcycle Navigator -- $399.99(Garmin - United States)
Garmin Zumo XT, All-Terrain Motorcycle GPS Navigation, 5.5-in Ultrabrigh... -- $399.99(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The Garmin Zumo XT stands out as a premier choice for motorcycle riders due to its large, 5.5-inch glove-friendly display that remains readable even in direct sunlight. It comes preloaded with maps and offers off-road tracking capabilities, making it versatile for both on-road and off-road adventures. Its rugged design ensures it can withstand the harsh conditions of motorcycle touring.
Who It's For
Ideal for motorcycle enthusiasts who frequently embark on long tours or off-road adventures and need a reliable, durable, and feature-rich GPS navigation device. It may not be the best fit for budget-conscious riders due to its higher price point.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Large, glove-friendly, and sunlight-readable 5.5-inch display | ❌ Higher price compared to some other options |
| ✅ Preloaded maps with off-road tracking capabilities | ❌ Additional cost for inReach satellite communicator |
| ✅ Rugged and weather-resistant design | ❌ May be overkill for casual riders |
TomTom Rider 550: Best GPS for Motorcyclists
Tomtom Rider 550 Motorcycle GPS Navigation Device 4.3 inch with -- $289.99(Amazon)
Rider 550 Motorcycle GPS Navigation Device, 4.3 Inch, with World Maps, M... -- $289.99(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The TomTom Rider 550 is a top choice for motorcyclists due to its specialized features like weatherproofing, Wi-Fi updates, and the ability to plan and share routes. Its smart screen adapts to different lighting conditions and glove use, making it highly practical for riders. Additionally, it offers world maps, traffic and speed cam updates, and compatibility with Siri and Google Now, ensuring a connected and smooth riding experience.
Who It's For
This GPS is best suited for motorcyclists who frequently embark on adventurous trips and need a reliable, weatherproof navigation device. It's ideal for those who value the convenience of Wi-Fi updates and the ability to plan and share routes. However, it may not be the best fit for users who prefer a more intuitive interface, as some find it less user-friendly compared to Garmin's offerings.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Weatherproof and durable design | ❌ Interface less intuitive than Garmin's |
| ✅ Wi-Fi updates without a computer | ❌ Relatively high price point |
| ✅ Smart screen adaptable to glove use | ❌ Limited battery life of up to 6 hours |
BMW Motorrad Navigator VI: Best GPS for BMW Motorcycles
BMW Motorrad Navigator VI GPS NAV 6 by Garmin -- $725(eBay - bmwmotoparts)
Why We Picked It
The BMW Motorrad Navigator VI, developed in collaboration with Garmin, is a top-tier GPS device specifically optimized for BMW motorcycles. It offers a large, clear screen and advanced route planning options, making it an excellent choice for serious riders who demand precision and reliability on the road.
Who It's For
This GPS is best suited for BMW motorcycle owners who want a device that seamlessly integrates with their bike's systems. However, it also works well with other motorcycles, making it a versatile option for any rider willing to invest in a high-quality navigation tool.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Large, clear screen | ❌ Quite expensive |
| ✅ Advanced route planning options | ❌ Primarily caters to BMW owners |
| ✅ Optimized for BMW motorcycles | ❌ Limited appeal for casual riders |
Garmin Zumo 396 LMT-S: Best Mid-Range Motorcycle GPS
Garmin - Zumo 396 LMT-S GPS with Built-In Bluetooth - Black -- $244.99(Amazon)
Garmin Zumo 396 Lmt-s, Motorcycle GPS with RAM-B-342U Fork Stem Bundle 0... -- $284.95(GPS City)
Garmin Zumo 396 Lmt-s, Motorcyle GPS with RAM-B-149Z-UN7U X-Grip Zinc U-... -- $319.95(GPS City)
GARMIN - Electronics Zumo 396 Lmt-s -- $360.29(Motocard.com)
Why We Picked It
The Garmin Zumo 396 LMT-S is a solid mid-range motorcycle GPS that offers a range of features designed to enhance your riding experience. With rider alerts, live traffic and weather updates, and the ability to share GPX files for group rides, it provides excellent connectivity and functionality. Its rugged, glove-friendly design and built-in Wi-Fi for easy updates make it a reliable companion for any motorcycle enthusiast.
Who It's For
This GPS is best suited for motorcycle riders who want a reliable and feature-rich navigation system without breaking the bank. It's ideal for those who enjoy group rides and need real-time updates on traffic and weather. However, if you prefer a larger screen, you might want to consider the Garmin Zumo XT model.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Rugged, glove-friendly, sunlight-readable 4.3” display | ❌ Smaller screen size compared to the XT model |
| ✅ Access to free Live Services for traffic and weather | ❌ Higher price point for bundles with additional accessories |
| ✅ Garmin Adventurous Routing for finding curvy or hilly roads | ❌ Limited to North America map updates |
Garmin Zumo 595LM: Best GPS for Motorcyclists
5 Inch GPS Sun Shade Visor For Garmin Zumo 396 595LM 395LM 345LM 590LM 6... -- $14.99(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The Garmin Zumo 595LM is a reliable and robust GPS device designed specifically for motorcyclists. Its 5-inch touchscreen is both sunlight-readable and glove-friendly, making it ideal for use in various weather conditions. Additionally, it offers music streaming and hands-free calling when paired with a smartphone, enhancing the overall riding experience.
Who It's For
The Garmin Zumo 595LM is best suited for motorcyclists who need a durable and easy-to-use GPS device. It's particularly beneficial for those who often ride in bright sunlight or need to operate the device while wearing gloves. However, it may not be the best choice for tech enthusiasts looking for the latest features and updates, as it is an older model.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Sunlight-readable and glove-friendly 5-inch touchscreen | ❌ Older model lacking newer features and updates |
| ✅ Music streaming and hands-free calling capabilities | ❌ May not be compatible with the latest software |
| ✅ Durable and reliable for various weather conditions | ❌ Potentially higher price for an older device |
TomTom Rider 50: Best Budget Motorcycle GPS
Tomtom Rider 50 Eu23 -- $246.01(Grooves.Land)
Why We Picked It
The TomTom Rider 50 is a budget-friendly motorcycle navigation device that offers essential features for riders without the premium price tag. It provides reliable navigation, safety alerts, and route customization, making it a practical choice for those who want a dependable GPS without breaking the bank.
Who It's For
The TomTom Rider 50 is ideal for motorcycle enthusiasts who need a reliable navigation system but are conscious of their budget. It's perfect for riders who prioritize core navigation features over high-end specifications and are looking for a cost-effective solution.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Affordable price point | ❌ Lower screen size |
| ✅ Essential navigation features | ❌ Lower resolution |
| ✅ Customizable routes | ❌ Lacks some premium features |
Magellan TRX7 CS: Best GPS Navigator for Off-Road Adventures
Magellan TN1840SGLUC TRX7 CS Pro Dual-Mount Trail & Street 7-Inch GPS Na... -- $515.99(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The Magellan TRX7 CS is a robust GPS navigator specifically designed for off-road enthusiasts. It combines rugged durability with advanced navigation features, including a built-in 8MP camera for capturing your adventures. With pre-loaded trails, 2D and 3D maps, and free map updates, it offers comprehensive off-road navigation. The device also supports street navigation, making it versatile for both trail and road use.
Who It's For
This device is ideal for adventure riders, off-road enthusiasts, and explorers who need a reliable GPS navigator with advanced off-road capabilities. It may not be the best choice for those who primarily need refined on-road navigation or a more polished user interface.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Rugged build with water resistance | ❌ Interface may not be as refined as Garmin or TomTom |
| ✅ 8MP camera with auto-recording and time-lapse modes | ❌ On-road navigation is not its primary focus |
| ✅ Pre-loaded trails and comprehensive off-road navigation | ❌ Relatively high price point |
Garmin Zumo 346 LMT-S: Best Compact Motorcycle GPS
Garmin Zumo 346 LMT-S -- $317.79(The Visor Shop)
Why We Picked It
The Garmin Zumo 346 LMT-S is a compact and reliable navigation device designed specifically for motorcyclists. It offers essential navigation features, including lifetime map updates and traffic alerts, in a smaller, more portable form factor. The device also supports smartphone connectivity, allowing riders to receive notifications and access real-time information without needing to pull out their phones.
Who It's For
This device is best suited for motorcyclists who prioritize a compact and easy-to-mount navigation system. It's ideal for those who want reliable navigation and connectivity features without the bulk of larger devices. However, it may not be the best choice for riders who have difficulty reading smaller screens, especially in challenging riding conditions.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Compact and easy to mount | ❌ Smaller screen may be harder to read |
| ✅ Lifetime map updates and traffic alerts | ❌ Limited screen size for detailed maps |
| ✅ Smartphone connectivity for real-time information | ❌ Potential difficulty in use on bumpy roads |
Trail Tech Voyager Pro: Best GPS for Off-Road Enthusiasts
Trail Tech Voyager Pro GPS Kit -- $347.95(Discount Moto Gear)
Why We Picked It
The Trail Tech Voyager Pro is a top choice for off-road enthusiasts due to its rugged design and specialized features like Buddy Tracking, which allows you to see the location of up to 20 members of your ride group if they also have the device. This makes it an invaluable tool for group rides in challenging terrains, ensuring safety and coordination.
Who It's For
This device is best suited for off-road riders, adventure motorcyclists, and ATV enthusiasts who frequently ride in groups and need reliable navigation and tracking in rugged environments. It may not be the best choice for those who primarily ride on streets or need a GPS for urban navigation.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Rugged design built for tough conditions | ❌ Specialized for off-road use |
| ✅ Buddy Tracking for group coordination | ❌ May not be ideal for street navigation |
| ✅ Comprehensive off-road navigation features | ❌ Higher price point at $347.95 |
Mio Cyclo 315 HC: Best Simple GPS for Motorcyclists
Synvy Privacy Screen Protector Film, compatible with MIO Cyclo 315 HC An... -- $14.99(Amazon)
3 Pack Anti Blue Light Screen Protector Film, Compatible with MIO Cyclo ... -- $12.98(Amazon)
3 Pack Screen Protector Film, compatible with MIO Cyclo 315 HC TPU Guard... -- $12.68(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The Mio Cyclo 315 HC is a versatile GPS device primarily designed for cyclists but also suitable for motorcyclists seeking a straightforward navigation tool. It offers essential features like turn-by-turn navigation and a unique 'Surprise Me' function for discovering new routes, making it a great option for those who enjoy exploring without the need for advanced motorcycle-specific features.
Who It's For
Ideal for motorcyclists who prefer a simple, no-frills GPS device and are open to using a product originally designed for cyclists. It's not the best fit for those who need robust, motorcycle-specific features or a highly durable unit designed to withstand the rigors of motorcycling.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Turn-by-turn navigation | ❌ Lacks motorcycle-specific features |
| ✅ 'Surprise Me' feature for new routes | ❌ Not as robust as dedicated motorcycle GPS units |
| ✅ User-friendly interface | ❌ Limited durability for harsh conditions |
Thanks for reading! If you have any more questions or need further assistance, feel free to reach out. Happy riding with your new motorcycle GPS!