GPS built for two (wheels): GPS for motorcycles
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.
| Product name | ||
|---|---|---|
| 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. |
| Similar Products | Compare more products | Compare more products |
| Features | ||
| Destination | Motorcycle | Motorcycle |
| Included GPS accessories | Headset SD Card Bike mount | Power cable Car power adapter Vehicle mount Bike mount AC power adapter USB cable Carrying case |
| Audible assistance | Navigation instructions | Street name announcement Warnings Navigation instructions |
| Waterproof | Yes | Yes |
| Weight | 10.9 oz | 10.6 oz |
| GPS receiver | 20 channel | Info unavailable |
| GPS PC connection | USB | USB |
| Design features | Rugged case | Rugged case |
| System features | 2D / 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 software | Info unavailable | MapSource City Navigator NT |
| Antenna | Info unavailable | Built-in |
| Color | Info unavailable | Black |
| Body material | Info unavailable | Plastic |
| Navigation waypoints | Info unavailable | 500 |
| Services features | Info unavailable | Speed Time/date Distance |
| SBAS system | Info unavailable | WAAS |
| Full specifications | Full specifications | Full specifications |
| Buying choices | Pricing not available | |
