Motorbike sat navs and apps put to the test – navigation devices for motorcyclists

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Motorbike sat navs and apps put to the test - navigation devices for motorcyclists
Photo: Lohse

Motorbike sat navs and apps put to the test - navigation devices for motorcyclists

Motorbike sat navs and apps put to the test - navigation devices for motorcyclists

Motorbike sat navs and apps put to the test - navigation devices for motorcyclists

Motorbike sat navs and apps put to the test - navigation devices for motorcyclists

15th pictures

Motorbike sat navs and apps put to the test - navigation devices for motorcyclists
Garmin

1/15
Garmin Zumo 390 LM, 449 euros – purchase tip in MOTORRAD 18/2015: Except for the poor navigation result on the tricky test track, the pleasantly compact and very user-friendly Garmin Zumo 390 garnered a lot of popularity – great planning software, robust hardware, fair price.

Motorbike sat navs and apps put to the test - navigation devices for motorcyclists
TomTom

2/15
TomTom Rider 400 (Premium Pack), 449.95 euros, test winner in MOTORRAD 18/2015: Best navigation performance, therefore test victory. The TomTom Rider 400 also pleases with top equipment (Premium Pack), brilliant touchscreen and contemporary menu navigation like a smartphone. Works great on the motorcycle.

Motorbike sat navs and apps put to the test - navigation devices for motorcyclists
Go rider

3/15
Go Rider Excalibur XL: from 249.99 euros. A lot of display for a lot
little money, so the Excalibur XL can really draw attention to itself. Above all, the king-size navigation system undercuts many remaining stock offers from discontinued models. However, the feeling for handling has to be pleasing. So don’t buy blindly.

Motorbike sat navs and apps put to the test - navigation devices for motorcyclists
Blaupunkt

4/15
Blaupunkt Moto Pilot 43, 249 euros: The price is hot. Especially because the Blaupunkt Moto Pilot 43 also includes a lifelong map update. In previous models, the controls and that
Handling with the bracket takes getting used to. It is best to test a demonstrator once.

Motorbike sat navs and apps put to the test - navigation devices for motorcyclists
BMW

5/15
BMW Navigator VI, from 795 euros: Anyone who plans to have a navigation system in their new BMW can order it straight from the factory. The Navigator VI is slightly more expensive than the comparable Garmin device, but it is wired to suit the motorcycle.

Motorbike sat navs and apps put to the test - navigation devices for motorcyclists
BMW

6/15
BMW Connectivity, from 590 euros: Anyone who plans to have a navigation system in their new BMW can order it straight from the factory. For real navigation freaks, however, the connectivity extra has not yet offered enough functionality.

Motorbike sat navs and apps put to the test - navigation devices for motorcyclists
Garmin

7/15
Garmin Zumo 595 LM, 749.99 euros: The price is really, really steep, but with the Zumo 595 LM there is a presentation in Cinemascope. Anyone who has once grown fond of it will not want to be without it again.

Motorbike sat navs and apps put to the test - navigation devices for motorcyclists
Garmin

8/15
Garmin Zumo 345 LM, 499.99 euros: If you don’t need the giant display of the 595, you don’t have to compromise on the pure function of the Garmin Zumos 300 series and can save a lot.

Motorbike sat navs and apps put to the test - navigation devices for motorcyclists
TomTom

9/15
TomTom Rider 450, from 399 euros: If you can do without a car holder and bag, the already well-equipped standard version of the 450 is the best solution.

Motorbike sat navs and apps put to the test - navigation devices for motorcyclists
TomTom

10/15
TomTom Vio, 169 euros: If you only want to use your navigation system in the urban jungle, a well-screwed Vio is enough – even on a motorcycle.

Motorbike sat navs and apps put to the test - navigation devices for motorcyclists
Calimoto

11/15
Calimoto tour app: basic version free of charge, maps for a federal state included, additional maps 17.99 euros / country; 49.99 euros / region, 69.99 euros for all countries and without time restrictions.

Motorbike sat navs and apps put to the test - navigation devices for motorcyclists
Motocompano

12/15
Tour app Motocompano: basic version free, full version 8.99 euros, offline maps from 1.09 euros.

Motorbike sat navs and apps put to the test - navigation devices for motorcyclists
Navigon

13/15
Navicon Cruiser, from 3.99 euros / month, 19.99 euros / year, complete Europe version 59.99 euros.

Motorbike sat navs and apps put to the test - navigation devices for motorcyclists
Lohse

14/15
Currently particularly cheap: the Pearl Navgear motorcycle navigation system with extensive additional equipment.

Motorbike sat navs and apps put to the test - navigation devices for motorcyclists
Lohse

15/15
It wasn’t easy: Despite good test results, the Becker Mamba.4 + could not prevail.

counselor

technology & future

Motorbike sat navs and apps put to the test – navigation devices for motorcyclists

Motorcycle sat navs are getting better and better. Apps for navigating a motorcycle are also becoming increasingly popular. We have looked around and show the best navigation devices for motorcyclists.

Jorg Lohse, Thorsten Dentges

08/17/2017

In this article:

  • Go Rider Excalibur XL (GPS)
  • Blaupunkt Moto Pilot 43 (GPS)
  • BMW Navigator VI / Connectivity (Navi)
  • Garmin Zumo 345/595 LM (Navi)
  • TomTom Rider 450 (GPS)
  • TomTom Vio (sat nav)
  • Calimoto (smartphone app)
  • Motocompano (smartphone app)
  • Navigon Cruiser (smartphone app)
  • Smartphone apps for motorcycle tours
  • Motorcycle sat navs as remaining stock
  • 2015 motorcycle sat navs tested
  • Becker mamba. 4+
  • Garmin Zumo 390 LM
  • Garmin Zumo 590 LM
  • TomTom Rider 400
  • NavGear Tourmate N4
  • This is how MOTORRAD tests
  • Final scoring

&# 127942; We particularly liked these motorcycle sat navs:

  • The Garmin Zumo 595* comes with presentation in Cinemascope. Anyone who has once grown fond of it will not want to be without it again.

  • Garmin Zumo 345*, the cheaper version of the Zumo comes with a slimmed-down display, but with a full range of functions (in the linked shop there is now only the successor model of the Zumo 345).

  • Worn in the test in 2015 and now still one of the best in the race with the model number 500: The TomTom Rider*!

This market overview of motorcycle navigation systems and tour apps begins with a confession: To plan beautiful tours for our test and photo drives, we still use paper maps – preferably the orange regional series from Michelin on a scale of 1: 200,000. However, digital navigation is unbeatable if you want to find a gas station quickly or if you want to get to the booked accommodation at the end of a day’s stage. The real motorcycle navigation systems have blossomed over the years and have largely solved their initial problems. The leading manufacturers are now devoting the necessary attention to the requirement of stable mounting on the motorcycle.

The problem of weather protection can be regarded as settled with a clear conscience: A motorcycle sat nav simply has to meet the IPX7 electronics standard: Protection against temporary submersion, so that you can complete hours of rain. The battery life is still relatively manageable at around five hours. Therefore, simply connect the navigation system to the on-board network and set off carefree. Even with digital maps, you hardly have to worry anymore. A lifelong update function (related to the device!) Is usually included in the purchase price. The focus at the moment is on the desire for curves and mountain routes. It should now be possible to find them automatically when planning tours. Every manufacturer now includes such a feature in their navigation system.

Go Rider Excalibur XL (GPS)

A new name among e-scouts? Not quite. The Dutch company has been in business for a number of years with a 4.3-inch motorcycle sat nav and wants to take off in this country with a committed German sales partner. That can get interesting. In any case, the key data for the new Go Rider Excalibur XL reads very tasty. A device in the five-inch class is available for an attractive price of 249.95 euros, so you can challenge the really big ones (Garmin Zumo 596, BMW Navigator VI).


Motorbike sat navs and apps put to the test - navigation devices for motorcyclists


Go rider

Go Rider Excalibur XL.

Despite the tightly calculated price, not only is the lifelong map update for Europe, which has now become common practice, included, but maps can also be downloaded free of charge for use all over the world. Go Rider also optionally offers a tire sensor kit for coupling (99.95 euros). The other features follow the standard requirements for motorcycle navigation systems: waterproof housing according to IPX7 standard, bracket with on-board power supply, Bluetooth connection (headset optionally available).

Purchase information: www.acewell.de

MOTORCYCLE tip: A lot of display for very little money, so the Go Rider Excalibur XL can really draw attention to itself. Above all, the king-size navigation system undercuts many remaining stock offers from discontinued models. However, the feeling for handling has to be pleasing. So don’t buy blindly.

Blaupunkt Moto Pilot 43 (GPS)

The name has a reputation, but the motorcycle navigation system Blaupunkt Moto Pilot 43 (249 euros) historically has little to do with the devices we played around with buttons in Papa’s Ascona or Grandpa’s Passat. After the Blaupunkt insolvency in 2016, the brand name is now used as a license. The navigation system was developed by Baros, who had already sold a motorcycle device under the name A-rival years earlier. The current Moto Pilot 43 has now matured on the basis. The display plays in the common 4.3-inch league, but can only be used in landscape mode.


Motorbike sat navs and apps put to the test - navigation devices for motorcyclists


Blaupunkt

Blaupunkt Moto Pilot 43.

When it comes to maps (43 countries in Europe plus Russia), they rely on TomTom data, and special planning software can also be used to set special preferences for the Blaupunkt Moto Pilot 43 when it comes to curves and mountains. All around, the Moto Pilot also offers the typical equipment such as reality view and lane assistant and, especially for motorcycle use, the voice announcement for helmet headsets via Bluetooth or the handlebar bracket with twelve-volt power supply.

Purchase information: www.blaupunkt.com

MOTORCYCLE tip: The price is hot. Especially because the Blaupunkt Moto Pilot 43 also includes a lifelong map update. In previous models, the operation and handling of the bracket took some getting used to. It is best to test a demonstrator once.

From a technical point of view, the well-known BMW navigators are Garmin devices that have been fine-tuned for the Bayern bikes. The advantage of this direct networking: vehicle data such as B. Tire pressure and tank data are fed directly into the device and then appear as a large warning on the display or offer the right solution – such as B. the nearest gas station in the area. Current top product: the BMW Navigator VI (from 795 euros), which is largely compatible with the Garmin Zumo 595 LM is identical.


Motorbike sat navs and apps put to the test - navigation devices for motorcyclists


BMW

BMW Navigator VI / Connectivity.

BMW Connectivity: On the other hand, the new equipment will go in a completely different direction from model year 2018 “Connectivity”, where a multifunctional instrument can be ordered as extra equipment – initially with the R 1200 GS and Adventure, other models are to follow. Using the Connected App, the familiar navigation functions including tracking of the traveled route or POI routing can then be used on the 6.5-inch display, but this is still only shown as arrows.

Purchase information: www.bmw-motorrad.de

MOTORCYCLE tip: Anyone who plans to have a navigation system in their new BMW can order it straight from the factory. The BMW Navigator VI is slightly more expensive than the comparable Garmin device, but it is wired to suit the motorcycle. For real navigation freaks, the connectivity extra has not yet offered enough functionality

Garmin Zumo 345/595 LM (Navi)

The pioneers of GPS navigation (founded in 1989 in Kansas / USA, 11,000 employees) adapted their robust outdoor and marine devices to motorcycle use at an early stage. The current two-wheeler range includes the Garmin Zumo 345 LM (499.99 euros) and Garmin Zumo 395 LM (599.95 euros, including car holder) with the now common 4.3-inch-
Display also in XXL format: the Garmin Zumo 595 LM (749.99 euros) with a lush five-inch screen – that’s widescreen navigation in panorama mode. Usually, the upper class manufacturers have meanwhile switched to the fact that a lifelong map update is included in the purchase price. Depending on the Zumo, this includes the regions of Central or All of Europe


Motorbike sat navs and apps put to the test - navigation devices for motorcyclists


Garmin

Garmin Zumo 345/595 LM.

In addition, Garmin is also trying to follow the new trend in connectivity. Which means that the navigation systems can usually be connected to a smartphone, an action cam or even a tire pressure control system. In addition, music streaming via MP3 player (with the Garmin Zumo 595 LM even via Spotify) is possible, but weather and traffic information can also be displayed. So the bottom line is nice extra gadgets. Above all, however, it is important that the actual function is correct. In this regard, the devices of the 300 and 500 generation have so far been very convincing in our tests: robust ram-mount handlebar bracket, stable and weatherproof housing, high display quality, user-friendly surfaces. With the planning tool “Tour routing” Specifications such as mountainous or winding routes can be incorporated into individual travel planning.

Purchase information: www.garmin.de

MOTORCYCLE tip: The price is really, really steep, but the Garmin Zumo 595 LM can be viewed in Cinemascope. Anyone who has once grown to love it will not want to be without it again. If you don’t need that: You don’t have to compromise on the pure function of the 300s.

TomTom Rider 450 (GPS)

With the newly developed Rider 400, the top dog from the Netherlands (founded in 1991, 4,700 employees worldwide) won the test in the last MOTORRAD comparison test in 2015. Especially in device design TomTom made a decisive step forward with the sophisticated swivel mount. The navigation system can be used in portrait or landscape format with a single movement. The current year has now been further refined on this basis. Basically, all navigation systems in the 400 series are based on a common device platform, differences arise primarily from the installation of various functions. The highlight is the fully equipped Rider 450, on which maps from all over the world can be installed for life (based on the device!).


Motorbike sat navs and apps put to the test - navigation devices for motorcyclists


TomTom

TomTom Rider 450.

If you want, you can embark on a journey on 150 pre-installed routes and drive to special motorcycle POIs (meeting points, museums, biker hotels). If you want to plan your tour yourself, you can define preferences such as particularly winding or mountainous routes. The traffic function allows traffic information to be taken into account in real time, and radar warnings can also be displayed if desired. The standard version of the 450 costs 399 euros, the Premium Pack among other things. with extra car holder 499 euros. The entry-level models Rider 42 and 420 are available from 349 and 399 euros, respectively.

The Vio scooter navigation system (169 euros) takes you to your destination much more cheaply. A TomTom smartphone app is used to navigate, and the route is then displayed on the weatherproof Vio display via Bluetooth. In principle, the only thing missing is a more robust bracket to make the compact device suitable for motorcycle use.


Motorbike sat navs and apps put to the test - navigation devices for motorcyclists


TomTom

TomTom Vio.

Purchase information: www.tomtom.com

MOTORCYCLE tip: If you can do without a car holder and bag, the already well-equipped standard version of the TomTom Rider 400 is ideal. If you only want to use the navigation system in the urban jungle, a well-screwed TomTom Vio is sufficient – even on the motorcycle.

Calimoto (smartphone app)

Fresh from the pipeline of the enthusiastic MOTORRAD reader Sebastian Dambeck, his motorcycle navigator Calimoto is now available for download – so far, however, only for Android smartphones, but a version for iPhones will also be published shortly. The tour app is available as a free version including a federal state of your choice, for larger tours the corresponding map material must be booked and costs: 17.99 euros per country, 49.99 euros per region (e.g. Alpine region), 69.99 Euro Europe / all countries – all but without time restrictions.


Motorbike sat navs and apps put to the test - navigation devices for motorcyclists


Calimoto

Calimoto.

To plan delightful motorcycle tours, the Calimoto app also uses a special curve algorithm, and interesting routes are also stored separately. In addition to the app, the routes can also be planned in advance in a free web portal. The sharing principle also applies here: motorcyclists recommend motorcyclists the most beautiful routes. For subsequent navigation via the app, in addition to the route view, a voice announcement can also be used, so that the smartphone can also be stowed in the jacket pocket in a weatherproof manner.

Purchase information: www.calimoto.eu

Motocompano (smartphone app)

Where can motorcyclists find the most beautiful routes and how can they best be planned? With this assignment, the Stuttgart start-up Geomeister set to work to develop a route planner for smartphones. The Motocompano app is still quite fresh and is now available for download for iOS and Android smartphones in the online stores. As a basic package free of charge, with special tour functions, the app costs 8.99 euros. About preferences like “good road surface”, “beautiful landscape” or “low traffic density” the required key data are defined using the controller in order to calculate a route from A to B or a round trip.


Motorbike sat navs and apps put to the test - navigation devices for motorcyclists


Motocompano

Motocompano.

The app also relies on interactivity: if other users have rated a route with a high fun factor, Motocompano can incorporate this into the planning. The home button takes you straight back to your garage by the fastest route possible. If you don’t want to strain your data volume unnecessarily, you can also use in-app purchases to download an offline map of the desired region (from 1.09 euros). Voice instructions are being planned, but should also be available as an update soon. Via a corresponding web portal, you can network in the community on your PC or tablet, share photos of great routes and finally tackle route planning.

Purchase information: www.motocompano.com

Equipment under the brand name Navigon has been known for a long time, after all, the Wurzburg company has been kneeling in street navigation since 1991. Navigon is now part of Garmin, which is already well positioned for mobile devices for motorcycles. The approach of using your own wealth of knowledge to develop an app solution for smartphone-savvy motorcyclists is now interesting. Voilà, here is the software application called Navigon Cruiser, which is available as a subscription model (3.99 euros / month, 19.99 euros / year) and as a complete European version (59.99 euros) for iOS or Android Cell phones there.


Motorbike sat navs and apps put to the test - navigation devices for motorcyclists


Navigon

Navigon Cruiser.

As simply as possible, users can use two sliders to calculate the curvature and radius or length of the desired tour. If you come across a spot on the way that you don’t want to forget, you can mark the place with a wow button. An interesting feature for long-distance travelers: Thanks to the flexible subscription model of Navigon Cruiser, the map of the desired region (e.g. North America, Australia or New Zealand) can easily be booked for the required period. If you don’t want to risk mounting your smartphone on the handlebar, you can have the route announcements played on a suitable helmet headset via Bluetooth or cable.

Purchase information: cruiser.navigon.com

Smartphone apps for motorcycle tours

How long will motorcycle navigation devices be an issue? App solutions for smartphones are booming! The smartphone itself is not really suitable for motorcycles, but there are plenty of software solutions for touring and tracking. And if you don’t want to invest several hundred euros in an extra box, the free basic or trial version of a motorcycle touring app may be sufficient. Just try it!


Motorbike sat navs and apps put to the test - navigation devices for motorcyclists


Touratech

This Touratech solution is designed to protect the smartphone from wind and weather.

The app navigation is still extremely young and extremely dynamic. It is good that with all providers – unlike when buying a new device – you don’t have to take any financial risk and can try it out in peace with free trial or basic versions. And that’s exactly what you should do! It is important that the apps rely on good voice output. Because the real problem is the solid placement of the smartphone on the motorcycle – and no app solves that!

Difficult readability of reflective displays is just as much an issue as inadequate weather protection or device-killing vibrations – that was a real issue in the early days of classic navigation systems. The apps in which motorcyclists network with one another and reveal their cornering highlights are particularly interesting.

Not all providers who are promisingly steered into the motorcycle navigation were able to stay on course successfully. Mostly it was because you didn’t really understand the needs of the target group. Building e-scouts for bikes is very special. Even well-known manufacturers fail. So the Becker Mamba.4 + could not prevail, although the navigation system showed consistently good results in the last comparison test in 2015. But at 479 euros, the Mamba moved in the environment of the well-established competition (Garmin, TomTom) – it will be difficult to win customers.


Motorbike sat navs and apps put to the test - navigation devices for motorcyclists


jkuenstle.de, manufacturer

In some cases, older devices are still ideally suited for motorcycle navigation.

Remaining stocks are currently offered via online shops from around 300 euros. The digital mail order company Pearl has relied on low prices for its own brand Navgear from the start, the Tourmate N4 (in the MOTORRAD test “satisfying”) was once available for a slim 270 euros. In the meantime, the sender is advertising the device with extensive additional equipment (software, various brackets) from 179.90 euros (Germany coverage, with Europe map set 219.90 euros). Price foxes could now get one or the other bargain, but should keep in mind that the development is now on hold. Software or map updates are then no longer a matter of course, which can ultimately limit the benefits considerably.

Below are the two motorcycle navigation tests carried out a few years ago for all bargain hunters who want to fall back on an older model.

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Motorbike sat navs and apps put to the test - navigation devices for motorcyclists

Lohse


Motorbike sat navs and apps put to the test - navigation devices for motorcyclists


Motorbike sat navs and apps put to the test - navigation devices for motorcyclists


Motorbike sat navs and apps put to the test - navigation devices for motorcyclists


Motorbike sat navs and apps put to the test - navigation devices for motorcyclists
24 pictures

Images: motorcycle sat navs and apps in the test

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Motorbike sat navs and apps put to the test - navigation devices for motorcyclists

Lohse

Motorbike sat navs and apps put to the test - navigation devices for motorcyclists

Dentges

Motorbike sat navs and apps put to the test - navigation devices for motorcyclists

Dentges

Motorbike sat navs and apps put to the test - navigation devices for motorcyclists

Dentges

Motorbike sat navs and apps put to the test - navigation devices for motorcyclists

Dentges

Motorbike sat navs and apps put to the test - navigation devices for motorcyclists

Dentges

Motorbike sat navs and apps put to the test - navigation devices for motorcyclists

Dentges

Motorbike sat navs and apps put to the test - navigation devices for motorcyclists

Dentges

Motorbike sat navs and apps put to the test - navigation devices for motorcyclists

Dentges

Motorbike sat navs and apps put to the test - navigation devices for motorcyclists

Dentges

Motorbike sat navs and apps put to the test - navigation devices for motorcyclists

Dentges

Motorbike sat navs and apps put to the test - navigation devices for motorcyclists

MOTORCYCLE

Motorbike sat navs and apps put to the test - navigation devices for motorcyclists

mps photo studio

Motorbike sat navs and apps put to the test - navigation devices for motorcyclists

mps photo studio

Motorbike sat navs and apps put to the test - navigation devices for motorcyclists

mps photo studio

Motorbike sat navs and apps put to the test - navigation devices for motorcyclists

mps photo studio

Motorbike sat navs and apps put to the test - navigation devices for motorcyclists

mps photo studio

Motorbike sat navs and apps put to the test - navigation devices for motorcyclists

mps photo studio

Motorbike sat navs and apps put to the test - navigation devices for motorcyclists

mps photo studio

Motorbike sat navs and apps put to the test - navigation devices for motorcyclists

mps photo studio

Motorbike sat navs and apps put to the test - navigation devices for motorcyclists

mps photo studio

Motorbike sat navs and apps put to the test - navigation devices for motorcyclists

mps photo studio

Motorbike sat navs and apps put to the test - navigation devices for motorcyclists

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Motorbike sat navs and apps put to the test - navigation devices for motorcyclists

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In a strange-sounding place, there would be a rustic beer garden in a rural atmosphere. Excursion tip. “The navigation system will find it”, it was said. Well, let’s try. Would also fit well into the planned test round for the five motorcycle sat navs from 2015 that were tested here. So enter destination and … nothing. Said locality does not know any of the devices. Fortunately, the tipster had mentioned the neighboring town before, so we’ll try it. There the name is visible as a district on the map in the navigation system, but not recognizable for the address search.

So far so bad. But let’s go there. But first it goes through dense city traffic. For the test, we chose a few mean intersections in Stuttgart with many lanes, roundabout passages, tunnels, stupidly located turns and residential areas with one-way labyrinths. Nice to see how clever or stupid the electronic tour guides installed on the handlebars are. A navigation system determines an arrival incorrectly because the destination address is only a few meters away as the crow flies. But a private garden gate blocks the free footpath, and the system only recognizes the necessary slalom through the residential area when you continue driving. Another sat nav wants to guide us against the wall on the left in the middle of the tunnel. Huh, what’s the point, Lady-Di mode?

But enough blasphemy, to be fair you have to say that all five candidates from Becker, Garmin, TomTom and NavGear did very well in the relentless MOTORRAD navitest with deliberately set traps and difficult tasks for the navigation systems.

Becker mamba. 4+

Providers: Becker, phone 0 63 31/2 23 75 01, www.mybecker.com

Price: 479 euros (for equipment “plus”)

Furnishing: 4.3″-TFT touchscreen, exchangeable lithium-ion battery (runtime according to manufacturer: n / a, capacity: 1150 mAh), RAM handlebar mounts, motorcycle mount, suction cup car mount, USB cable, on-board power supply, quick guide, 12/24 V Charger, protective bag, integr. speaker


Motorbike sat navs and apps put to the test - navigation devices for motorcyclists


mps photo studio

Becker mamba. 4+.

Maps: Maps of 47 European countries (based on: Nokia here; unlimited possibility of free map updates), pre-installed motorcycle tours, Marco Polo travel guides, ADAC camping and parking space guides.

Functionality: Very simple and intuitive operation, comfortable zooming in the map view, address entry very easy thanks to large buttons and excellent responsiveness. The device is ready for use quickly and quickly finds the satellites.

Navigation practice: The big drawback is the battery life. In the MOTORRAD test, the device got out after about 100 minutes, worst value in comparison. In the city test round, however, it scored well: nimble calculation, clear announcements, precise and with a very useful lane assistant and a clear view of the intersection. Track recording and skipping of waypoints are also possible. Chapeau! In addition, good division of map view and information areas. However, navigating through a tunnel and a rural (tricky) destination address overwhelmed the device.

Route planning: Tour planning on the PC via the free online service Motoplaner. The device is stored there as a menu item for the GPS export. Helpful: altitude profile for the planned tour. (Actually) good: multi-stage algorithm for calculating winding routes. In the test practice, however, the suggested route largely coincided with the unattractive route on expressways.

Motorcycle suitability: The bulky device holder with fiddly knurled screw for securing looks a bit old-fashioned, but also valuable and fulfills its purpose. Glove operation: impeccable

Conclusion: The youngest motorcycle sat nav in the test works great and is well equipped. But the Becker mamba.4 + is not a price hit and struggles against established competitors who are equally good at navigating. Nevertheless: the equivalent value fits.

MOTORRAD verdict: Good

Garmin Zumo 390 LM

Providers: Garmin, phone 0 89/8 58 36 48 80, www.garmin.de

Price: 449 euros

Furnishing: 4.3″-TFT touchscreen, built-in lithium-ion battery (running time according to manufacturer: 7 hours, capacity: n / a), RAM handlebar mounts, motorcycle mount, suction cup car mount, USB cable, on-board power supply, quick guide, 12 V Charger, connectivity with Garmin VIRB action cam and tire pressure gauges (available separately), integr. speaker


Motorbike sat navs and apps put to the test - navigation devices for motorcyclists


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Garmin Zumo 390 LM.

Maps: Maps of 41 European countries with full coverage and four countries with partial coverage (based on Nokia here; unlimited possibility of free map updates).

Functionality: Entering destination addresses is a bit cumbersome in comparison, because you have to click through divided groups of letters. Otherwise intuitive menu navigation and quick auto-completion for entries. Good display responsiveness. Track recording possible, individual waypoints can usefully be skipped.

Navigation practice: The lane assistant provides the best service when traffic routing in conurbations is difficult with clear arrow displays, and a split screen view provides an additional overview. Very well thought out! At an urban destination, the navigation system stumbled when the tester deliberately drove wrong. The route was completely lost in a tunnel. The Garmin Zumo 390 LM also blundered roughly with the routing to the rural destination address and wanted to guide you through a blocked farm road, although the driver had already taken the right (and legal) route. Weak.

Route planning: The function “Winding roads” led at least in the test to a passable result and spat a nice one “detour” off – off the fast main route. The planning software “Basecamp” enables a well-mannered tour preparation.

Motorcycle suitability: Stable brackets, a discreet connection to the on-board power supply and an overall compact device, fits wonderfully into the motorcycle cockpit! Inputs are not a major problem even with thick gloves.

Conclusion: Except for the poor navigation result on the tricky test track, the pleasantly compact and very user-friendly Garmin Zumo 390 LM garnered a lot of sympathy points – great planning software, robust hardware, fair price.

MOTORRAD verdict: Good

Garmin Zumo 590 LM

Providers: Garmin, phone 0 89/8 58 36 48 80, www.garmin.de

Price: 649 euros

Furnishing: 5″-TFT touchscreen, exchangeable lithium-ion battery (runtime according to manufacturer: 4 hours, capacity: n / a), RAM handlebar mounts, motorcycle mount, suction cup car mount, USB cable, on-board power supply, quick guide, 12 V Charger, integrated MP3 player, connectivity with Garmin VIRB action cam and tire pressure gauges (sold separately)


Motorbike sat navs and apps put to the test - navigation devices for motorcyclists


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Garmin Zumo 590 LM.

Maps: Maps of 45 European countries, four of which are only partially covered (basis: Nokia here; unlimited possibility of free map updates), free smartphone link app, traffic warning service, weather radar

Functionality: The initialization of the device until the satellites were found sometimes took a long time in the test (over a minute). Entering the destination address via divided groups of letters is generously designed from the control surfaces, but cumbersome scrolling is annoying. Easy to use display, overall menu structure easy to understand, portrait format possible. Track recording possible.

Navigation practice: guides you safely and clearly even through the most difficult traffic routes with several lanes, map view large enough so that very anticipatory driving is possible. Finds the best route to the test destination addresses in the city quickly and precisely, even in spite of a spontaneous diversion through a tunnel. But fails with the routing to the remote small town address in the country. The measured battery runtime was just over three hours, but after 90 minutes the device indicated that the battery was weak. Irritating.

Route planning: Planning with the Basecamp software offers many good options after getting used to it; importing routes and creating a tour on the PC work very well in comparison. Worked well on test drive: “Winding roads” and the suggestions for round trips.

Motorcycle suitability: Glove operation on the large display is flawless, the brackets are solid, but the thick cable harness is difficult to accommodate on some machines.

Conclusion: Bold equipped with numerous functions and the largest display in comparison. In addition, first-class workmanship and rock-solid. The expensive Garmin Zumo 590 LM is a top device, but it made a few mistakes in navigation practice.

MOTORRAD verdict: Good

TomTom Rider 400

Providers: TomTom, phone 00 31/20/7 57 50 00 (The Netherlands), www.tomtom.com

Price: 499.95 euros (Premium Pack)

Furnishing: capacitive 4.3″-TFT touchscreen, built-in lithium-ion battery (runtime according to manufacturer: 6 hours, capacity: 3220 mAh), RAM handlebar mounts, swivel motorcycle mount, suction cup car mount, charging cable, anti-theft protection, protective cover, USB cable, on-board power connection , Quick guide, 12 V charger, integr. speaker


Motorbike sat navs and apps put to the test - navigation devices for motorcyclists


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TomTom Rider 400.

Maps: TomTom map material for 45 European countries (unlimited possibility of free map update), TomTom traffic warning service, TomTom radar detector

Functionality: The touchscreen reacts immediately to contact, images can be easily enlarged with two fingers. Intuitive menu navigation, individual menu items can be controlled by swiping like a smartphone user interface. Track recording possible.

Navigation practice: In the city center absolutely precise and exact navigation, clearly visible route guidance by lane assistant, also at tricky intersections foolproof guidance and very understandable map display. Except for a target address on the MOTORRAD test round, the task was done with flying colors. The TomTom Rider 400 will quickly find a suitable alternative route even if you consciously take the wrong turn into a tunnel. The battery lasted over five hours in the test.

Route planning: When planning on the PC with the “Tire Pro”-Software beginners have to dig into the matter. The function “Plan an exciting tour” On the way he only proved to be a good tour guide to a limited extent. On the test lap, the TomTom Rider 400 offered a less exciting alternative to the fastest route, peppered with through-town traffic. The more mountainous, the better the multi-level function responds and finds beautiful routes. Good: round trip function

Motorcycle suitability: The swivel joint holder and the high-contrast display are completely convincing. Some buttons are difficult to operate with thick gloves.

Conclusion: Best navigation performance, therefore test victory. The TomTom Rider 400 also pleases with top equipment (Premium Pack), brilliant touchscreen and contemporary menu navigation like a smartphone. Works great on the motorcycle.

MOTORRAD verdict: Good

Providers: Pearl, phone 0 76 31/36 03 50, www.pearl.de

Price: 269.90 euros

Furnishing: 4.3″-TFT touchscreen, built-in lithium-ion battery (runtime according to manufacturer: n / a, capacity: 1500 mAh), handlebar and motorcycle mount (with sun visor), suction cup car mount, USB cable, on-board power connection, 12/24 -V charger, integrated MP3 player, tweezers (for SD memory card), integr. speaker


Motorbike sat navs and apps put to the test - navigation devices for motorcyclists


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NavGear Tourmate N4.

Maps: Maps for 47 European countries (based on Nokia here; two free annual map updates within the first two years), access to the software “POI base” with over 1500 motorcycle-specific POIs (e.g. biker meetings, shops) and many routes.

Functionality: The responsiveness of the display is mediocre, destination entries take a long time and are cumbersome. The initialization time of the device is OK.

Navigation practice: The battery life in the test was almost six hours, but after 2.5 hours the device invariably switched to a power-saving mode with low screen brightness, which made it more or less unusable. When navigating the city with many turns in quick succession, the system reacted rather sluggishly, but found the addresses entered and was not upset by the tunnel diversion in the test. Good. However, it failed at the rural goal.

Route planning: Attractive motorcycle routes can be imported as a file and can then be easily called up in the device. In contrast to the other devices in the test, there is no special algorithm that recommends winding and / or mountainous stretches on the road. Third-party software (e.g. Motoplaner) must be used for planning on the PC.

Motorcycle suitability: Unstable, wobbly brackets, soft plastic material, screw for ball head must be closed and opened with a lot of force so that everything is firmly in place. Some small buttons can hardly be activated with gloves. The device could not be paired with a Bluetooth headset in the test. Hard to read in sunlight.

Conclusion: In this strong test field, the NavGear Tourmate N4 can only hold its own with the cheapest price. It navigates properly, and there are nice features for tour planning. But malfunctions and cheap appearance are annoying. Second division only.

MOTORRAD verdict: satisfying

This is how MOTORRAD tests

For buyers and users of the devices, the practical value of motorcycle navigation on the go is particularly important. But we also have other test criteria.

Navigation practice: A defined test lap is entered as a route. How precisely and quickly does the system navigate? Also relevant: the battery life.

Motorcycle suitability: Clarity of the display (even in strong sunlight), operation with gloves, handling of the brackets, voice transmission while driving. How does the navigation system behave on the motorcycle??

Functionality: Can the navigation system find a satellite connection quickly? It is also good when menu navigation, destination entry and ease of use are convenient for the user. How extensive is the map material?

Route planning: Route import, rescheduling on tour and special routing functions (looking for winding routes, etc.) for motorcyclists are relevant for the rating. 

Equipment / processing: What does the scope of delivery include? How clean are the device and the mounts?

Final scoring


Motorbike sat navs and apps put to the test - navigation devices for motorcyclists


MOTORCYCLE

Final scoring.

It takes a lot of time, patience and usually a call to the service hotline until the devices run to the fullest satisfaction in practice. Hardware and software have to be constantly updated and often do not harmonize well with each other. Given the sometimes high purchase prices, it is difficult to even use one system “very good” to ennoble. The quality of the NavGear Tourmate N4 is somewhat inferior, but all devices and brackets are robust and durable. They are good for motorcycling. But when it comes to the core topic of navigation: far from perfection. The TomTom Rider 400 does it best.

* These links lead to providers from whom MOTORRAD receives a commission.

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