How To's Archives - MotorcycleGPSHub

Installation Basics for a Motorcycle GPS

So today we’re going to cover installation basics for a motorcycle GPS. This is a good article worth reading before and just after purchasing a motorcycle GPS. It’s going to be a lot easier to know where you’re going to put it, how you’re going to put it there, and the plan for power to the unit. Now let’s look at each topic in some depth. Location, Location, Location There are a several places popular with most motorcycle owners when it comes to their GPS. Look at your motorcycle and figure out where it’s going to be most accessible and … Read more

Using GPX Files with a Garmin Zumo

GPX, also known as a GPS Exchange Format File contains waypoints, tracks and routes that can be used on many GPS models. It’s a nice concept in that it’s intended to share mapping information between applications and devices. The GPX format was originally released in 2002 and is a standard for the exchange of GPS data. Not all GPS manufacturers support GPX files let alone a means to transfer it to their GPS models. Fortunately, most Garmin Zumo models support GPX files. This article will discuss what’s good about GPS, why you might want to use it and lastly, how … 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

How to Keep a Motorcycle GPS Dry

Clouds on the horizon. Generally speaking, electronics and water don’t play well together. Usually. We’re going to look at ways to keep a motorcycle GPS dry. We will also discuss if it’s even necessary. There are many different GPS models. Some are made for motorcycle use, others are made for use in a car. We discuss using a car GPS on a motorcycle in a previous article. Each type of GPS has different water resistant properties. Ingress Protection Ratings Weatherproof ratings are expressed in terms of IP rating. IP means Ingress Protection. You will see terms such as IP68 used. … Read more

Bluetooth Headsets for a TomTom Rider 400 GPS

Like any good motorcycle GPS, the TomTom Rider 400 supports integration of a Bluetooth headset. That’s a mighty important feature. If a motorcycle rider has any hope of hearing GPS directions, a Bluetooth headset or enabled helmet is necessary. Good Bluetooth headsets for a TomTom Rider 400 makes using your GPS safer and more enjoyable. Bluetooth support is a funny thing. Not all headset work with a given brand of GPS. Interestingly, the supported list of manufacturers that have been tested to work with a TomTom Rider is very similar to those that work on it’s main competitor, namely the … Read more

How to Use a Motorcycle GPS in a Car

Let’s face it. A motorcycle GPS is expensive. Especially for a device that will only be used part time. It’s time to go full time. At least in terms of driving. We’re going to show how to use a motorcycle GPS in a car. Garmin was the first to think about doing this. As part of the first generation was the Garmin Zumo 550. You could use this motorcycle GPS in a car right out of the box. The initial purchase included a special mount and DC power cable specifically for use in a car. In fact, that’s the Garmin … Read more