Garmin rules. I use Garmin systemsin the airplane, I have a color StreetPilot in my truck but I don't believe they have a place on a motorcycle. Way too much heads-down time and distraction.I travel with papermaps. Eyes on the road and on traffic only - not on a navigation screen.

 

For those with radios there isn't any need to take your eye's off the road. The Zumo has turn by turn voice prompts.

 

I'm having a Zümo 550, now I dare to take the small whinding roads everywhere in Europe without getting lost in the middle of nowhere. I compared the TomTom Rider and the Zümo 550 before purchase and my descision finally landed on the Zümo because its ability to save the routes. I took a trip for a 5 days some months ago and the total trace took only 20% of the memory so I think it will be able to trace a full vacation trip fo at least two weeks without anu problems. Another thing is the bundeled software that I can use on my computer to make route planning and save POI's that I find in tourist magazines and stuff.

 

I run the Garmin 2610 Street Pilot (discontinued). IMO, with proper trip planning and route/destination pre-entered, the GPS makes the ride more enjoyable and worry free. Using the ear piece or external speaker for voice prompts makes the need to monitor the GPS screen a complete non-issue. If you decide to change your route along the way, a stop to change the GPS route takes no more time than it takes to stop and get out a map. Especially, if you are lost and don't have a clue where you are on that paper map.

Properly used, the GPS requires no move visual attention than does the occasional scanning of your idiot lights, speedo, & tach.

The GPS has allowed me to find and explore many new (in the middle of nowhere) roads I would have otherwise not taken.



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meh,


I just jump on the bike and aim the way i want to go. ride till i get tired, and see how far from my destination i am