When it comes to a motorcycle GPS there are two major players and TomTom is one of them. The TomTom Rider 400 is their most recent update to their successful Rider lineup. While TomTom might be a bigger name in Europe than the United States, they have sold GPS devices in the US for over a decade. Typically lower priced than a Garmin with features that are on par with the latest from their main competitor.
So let’s take a look at the TomTom Rider 400.
Hardware
The TomTom Rider 400 has a 4.3 inch screen with 480 x 272 resolution. I’m still on the fence with a 4.3 display for a motorcycle GPS. I think it needs to be 5 inches for better site and easier interaction but I think that’s just a personal taste as they do sell a lot of these.
Like most motorcycle GPS units, the TomTom Rider 400 is weatherproof. This GPS is rated at IPX7 which means it withstands incidental exposure to water of up to 1 meter for up to 30 minutes. Good for light to moderate rain. Not for attaching to a side of a submarine.
While the TomTom Rider 400 is glove friendly in terms on hardware, the limited size of the GPS makes it difficult to use with gloves. Setting it up prior to the ride with non-gloved hands is going to work best.
These are devices made to use on a GPS. They are ruggedly constructed to endure the extreme vibrations of a motorcycle. This is part of the reason why you are paying a premium for a motorcycle GPS.
Nice battery life on the TomTom Rider 400. The manufacturer claims six hours. That’s among the tops in terms of battery life among motorcycle GPS devices.
Software
TomTom has gone quite sometime between motorcycle GPS model updates so not surprisingly, there are a lot of new software features that were introduced.
Somewhat similar to Garmin Adventurous Riding, the TomTom Rider 400 allows you to program hilly or winding roads.
Like almost all motorcycle GPS devices made over the past few years, the TomTom Rider 400 includes Bluetooth integration so that you can hear the directions through a Bluetooth enabled helmet or speaker.
Bluetooth is an integral feature if you have any hope of hearing GPS commands. Bluetooth enabled directions are delivered to your headset or helmet. The GPS will also connect to your phone to enable hands-free calling. You can also share your route with other TomTom Rider 400 device owners. A nice feature if riding as a group, but everyone needs to have the same model GPS.
Both portrait and landscape modes are supported. Although most will use the device in landscape mode, it’s nice to know that portrait can be engaged. I suppose it depends upon the mounting landscape on a handlebar. Those with reduced room to mount a GPS might want to take advantage of the portrait mode.
A lifetime traffic and speed camera subscription is included with a TomTom Rider 400. Speed cameras aren’t found too often in the United States, but if in Europe, this is a handy feature.
Fun and Different
The TomTom Rider 400 is integrated with desktop, tablet and phone tools. You can review real-time traffic information, pre-plan your route then send all the information to the TomTom Rider 400.
Mounts
A heavy duty metal mount is included with the TomTom Rider 400. This will bolt to the back of the Rider’s cradle. The mount can be used on a handlebar or clutch so it’s good for most motorcycles.
Summary
The TomTom Rider 400 is a practical and relatively affordable motorcycle GPS. It’s worth consideration if looking for a dedicated GPS for a motorcycle. It’s simple to use and read, and should hold up well to the daily rigors of motorcycle use.
Specifications Summary:
| Glove Friendly | Display | Battery Life | Bluetooth | Smartphone Support | MP3 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Yes | 4.3" | Up to 6 Hours | Yes | Yes | No |
Manufacturer Link: TomTom
I’m Mike, the author of all of the articles on this site. MotorcycleGPSHub is written from many years of experience outfitting motorcycles with GPS devices and mounting configurations. I’ve had a chance to use not just the old school Garmin Zumo, but more contemporary GPS apps like Waze and Google Maps. To each their own. There’s a good market for a traditional motorcycle GPS as well as those that want to keep it basic with a smartphone app.
