GPS built for two (wheels): GPS for motorcycles

Bonnie Cha Bonnie Cha, Senior Associate Editor April 6, 2009

In a world where the roadways are largely dominated by cars, sometimes we forget about our two-wheeled friends: motorcycles. And just like drivers, bikers need help with directions, too. Yet, there aren't a ton of GPS devices out there that are built just for motorcycles. In fact, there are only two motorcycle-specific units: the Garmin Zumo 550 and the TomTom Rider. Fortunately, they're both decent systems so you're not left driving in circles. They offer all the navigation basics, including text- and voice-guided turn-by-turn directions, automatic route recalculation, and points of interest, as well as integrated Bluetooth so you can make hands-free calls with your Bluetooth-enabled cell phone. So which is better? Well, CNET's resident photo wizard, Morty Okin, took them both out for a test-drive on his trusty 1998 Honda Magna VF750, so check out his reviews to see how they fared.

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Price
As shown: $599.95
$600.83
CNET editors' rating
Average user rating
Review date September 29, 2006 February 21, 2007
The Bottom Line Despite some performance glitches, the TomTom Rider is a solid navigation system for motorcyclists, with good Bluetooth integration, but we recommend swapping out the included Bluetooth headset for a higher-quality one. Despite some very slight performance glitches, the Garmin Zumo 550 is a fantastic navigation system for motorcyclists (and cars), with good Bluetooth integration.
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Features
DestinationMotorcycle
Motorcycle
Included GPS accessoriesHeadset
SD Card
Bike mount
Power cable
Car power adapter
Vehicle mount
Bike mount
AC power adapter
USB cable
Carrying case
Audible assistanceNavigation instructions
Street name announcement
Warnings
Navigation instructions
WaterproofYes
Yes
Weight10.9 oz
10.6 oz
GPS receiver20 channel
Info unavailable
GPS PC connectionUSB
USB
Design featuresRugged case
Rugged case
System features2D / 3D map perspective
Preinstalled POIs
XM weather support
2D / 3D map perspective
XM Satellite Radio support
Hands-free calling via Bluetooth
Preinstalled POIs
Custom POIs
Included GPS softwareInfo unavailableMapSource City Navigator NT
AntennaInfo unavailableBuilt-in
ColorInfo unavailableBlack
Body materialInfo unavailablePlastic
Navigation waypointsInfo unavailable500
Services featuresInfo unavailableSpeed
Time/date
Distance
SBAS systemInfo unavailableWAAS
Full specifications Full specifications Full specifications
Buying choices

Pricing not available