GPS navigation suggestions

[ViperRon]

Hi fellow members expecially those that have used their GPS for the rides we go on. I have been scanning Ebay looking for a GPS but not ever using one before I'd apreciate any advice if you can't tell me what to buy or what not to. I prefer simple but a few options I believe would be handy. Having a view of intersections showing what lane to merge into and voice comand prompts expecially if all I need is a simple bluetooth ear and mic set or better yet just a speaker plug. Being able to download our course information would be good and updating maps in the USA is a must. Either hand held or bike mountable I'll figure it out. Tell me what you got or what you wish you had gotten.

I know there have been several threads in the past with bits and pieces but not much recent. Thanks in advance

PS Tom Tom is not on my prefered list

[IanDMacDonald]

I'm not a course plotter, but I use Google Maps on my phone, and voice guidance via earbuds.

[ViperRon]

I do agree that is a way to accomplish it but also I have been in the mountians and the GPS units work and phones do not. What has always worked in the past is printing maps but I am looking to change. Thanks for response Ian.

[Winterhawk]

Garmin Zumo 550 is the only way to go. Water proof, Satellite weather, XM Radio, Bluetooth to my cell phone and I have lifetime map updates.

[MaximPhil]

Hi Ron,
This site is great for doing comparisons and decent prices too.
http://www.gpscity.ca/ Note they are in Canada ( which works for me )
I highly recommend the RAM mounting system.
I use an automotive Garmin. Ziplock baggie or a condom makes it waterproof and harder to read
Lifetime maps is an essential feature. traffic I find useful.
Mine does lanes and talks. Bluetooth would be good so you can hear the instructions.

Motorcycle GPS such as the ZUMO model are great but many $100's more.
The ability to route plan and save your route is only available on the high priced models. It is a feature I lust after

GPS is a very useful tool. Most zoom in closer as you approach intersections you are to turn at. They do take a bit of interpreting at times.

Phil

[Winterhawk]

You can get good deals on the Garmin Zumo 450 and the Zumo 550 on eBay now that the 650's and the 6655's are out. Here is a pic of mine that I had installed on my other XS1100 that I sold a few weeks ago to Rusty in Topeka. Did he get an awesome buy at $1,800.00.



The old 1978 XS1100E from Wisconsin I built at Merriam several years back.
I gave it away at $1,800.00 but I couldn't get a title. Rusty can get one in Kansas by having the Topeka Police verify the VIN. Missouri wants a court order / Lawyer. I found the original owner in Wisconsin. Never could get him to get it for me.


Happy with my new rat bike that has a title and gets 40.6mpg. LOL