Garmin Zumo

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

How to Select the Best Motorcycle GPS

Not all motorcycle GPS devices are the same.  In fact, not all GPS devices are made for use on a motorcycle.  We look at the most important features to help you decide which is the best motorcycle GPS for you. There are a lot of different features on a GPS.  Some are absolutely required while others are unneeded and simply add to the price unnecessarily.  You would be surprised, at times, how little you get for an additional $400.  Having a list of the important features to you can result a fairly significant cost savings and better ownership experience. So let’s … Read more

Bluetooth Headsets for a Garmin Zumo GPS

Not all motorcycle GPS devices support Bluetooth headsets.  If a motorcycle rider has any hope of hearing GPS directions, a Bluetooth headset or enabled helmet is necessary.  While I suppose you can wire the audio output into an external speaker, I just can’t see how the directions can be heard when riding on a highway.  It’s safer and makes sense to use a Bluetooth headset. Fortunately, all Garmin Zumo motorcycle GPS units made over the past several years support directions and calls through Bluetooth. Since Garmin is the largest GPS manufacturer, Bluetooth helmet and headset manufacturers try to ensure their … Read more

Garmin Zumo Versus TomTom Rider Motorcycle GPS Comparison

Garmin and TomTom are the most prominent GPS players.  It’s been that way for many years.  Garmin has a larger presence in the US and TomTom is larger in Europe.  However, both are worldwide brands with a good presence in North America, Europe and Australia.  What’s the difference?  We look at a Garmin Zumo versus TomTom Rider motorcycle GPS devices. Both companies have been making GPS devices for motorcycles for over ten years.  Plenty of time to get their acts straight.  For the most part, both have done a splendid job of giving riders what’s needed to see where you’re going. … Read more

Why is a Motorcycle GPS so Expensive?

Today, we answer the question of why is a motorcycle GPS so expensive. There are a lot of types of GPS devices.  Most common are the ones that are made for a car.  These models are well known and some examples include the Garmin Nuvi, Garmin Drive and TomTom Go series of GPS devices.  A car GPS has a few things in common.  Most notable is the maps and hardware are made for use within a vehicle.  The other notable commonality among GPS devices made for car use is the lower price. A motorcycle GPS is different from a car … Read more