Installing a Micro SD Card on a Garmin Zumo GPS

Most Garmin Zumo GPS devices allow expansion of memory by installing a micro SD card.  That’s different from most automotive GPS devices that do not have this capability.  We’re going to look at how to install a micro SD card and talk about the different types of cards available.   You can use these cards to hold additional maps or simply expand the storage for other purposes. All Garmin Zumo units require a micro SD card to be at least 4 GB in size.  However the maximum varies by unit.  Specifically, the Garmin Zumo 595LM and 395LM top out at 64 GB. … Read more

How to Protect an Empty Motorcycle GPS Cradle

After coming in from a ride, everyone is faced with the question of what should they leave attached to the bike.  I suppose if the motorcycle is stored in a locked garage, the answer to that question is probably to leave everything as is.  However, if your motorcycle is stored outdoors, the answer might not be that simple.  This article is for those that bring their device indoors but leave the motorcycle GPS cradle on the bike. If you’re thinking about leaving the GPS attached outdoors, think again.  These are expensive devices and easy to steal.  Don’t leave it to … Read more

Garmin Tire Pressure Monitor Sensor (TPMS) Overview

TPMS is an acronym for the Tire Pressure Monitor Sensor from Garmin.  This is a nice feature offered by Garmin as an optional accessory to many of the latest Zumo motorcycle GPS models.  We’re going to discuss what it does and how it integrates into a Garmin Zumo motorcycle GPS. How TPMS Works The Tire Pressure Monitor Sensor is a smart valve cap.  There are integrated sensors and a battery.  The sensors not only check the tire pressure but even detects motion.  The motion sensor helps to preserve battery life.  When you turn off your Garmin Zumo, the TPMS enters … Read more

How to Deter Theft of a Motorcycle GPS

Leaving an expensive motorcycle GPS device on your handlebar can be risky.  Many motorcycle GPS devices are easy to lift off the bike.  It’s often a simple matter of lifting a latch and slipping the GPS off the holder.  We are going to discuss methods for deterring theft of a motorcycle GPS. The first and most obvious way to prevent theft of a motorcycle GPS is to take it with you when leaving your bike.  As already stated, most are very easy to install and remove.  Often a matter of lifting up a latch, a Garmin Zumo or TomTom Rider … Read more

Garmin Zumo Versus Google Maps

Google Maps has been around for awhile.  So has a Garmin Zumo.  The question is which is better.  We are going to compare a Garmin Zumo versus Google Maps. If you aren’t familiar with Google Maps, a screenshot accompanies this article.  Google Maps is a smartphone app available free of charge.  The endeavor first started in 2004, was purchased by Google and turned into a web app.  Today it’s been transformed into a navigation app with a few unique features such as satellite imagery.  Google Maps is one of the most popular navigation apps around. The Garmin Zumo has been available for … Read more

Garmin Zumo Versus Waze on a Motorcycle

When it comes to navigation apps, Waze reigns as the best available.  Waze was purchased by Google a few years ago and has developed into what’s likely the most widely used navigation app available.  I personally use it a lot in a car but what about a motorcycle?  Is a standalone GPS better?  Let’s compare a Garmin Zumo versus Waze on a smartphone. If you aren’t familiar with Waze, a screenshot accompanies this article.  Waze is a smartphone app available free of charge.  It’s not a typical GPS app.  Real time traffic flows and user generated alerts are embedded in … Read more