Ever been lost on a winding road, unsure if you’re heading towards adventure or just a dead end? For motorcycle riders, that feeling can be more than just an inconvenience; it can be a real worry. Choosing the right GPS device for your bike isn’t as simple as picking one up for your car. You need something tough, easy to see in bright sun, and that can handle bumps and weather.
The sheer number of GPS units out there can make your head spin. Do you need a fancy screen or just basic directions? What about mounting it securely so it doesn’t fly off on a bumpy ride? These are real problems many riders face. But don’t worry, this post is here to help you cut through the confusion.
By the time you finish reading, you’ll understand what makes a good motorcycle GPS. We’ll break down the important features, explain what to look for, and help you find a device that will be your trusty co-pilot on every journey. Let’s get started on finding the perfect GPS for your next ride.
Top Gps For Motorcycle Recommendations
- Seamless Wireless CarPlay Experience: Stay fully connected with wireless CarPlay, enabling hands-free navigation, calls, music, and voice commands—perfect for urban riders and touring enthusiasts
- Android Auto for Every Adventure: Streamlined Android Auto for motorcycle support offers real-time GPS, voice-activated control, Bluetooth sync, music streaming, and app access for safer rides
- 5-Inch IPS Display Built for Riding: Crisp 5-inch IPS touchscreen with 854x480 resolution, anti-glare view, sunlight readability, glove-friendly operation, and night mode display designed for bikers
- Bluetooth Stereo with Immersive Audio: Enjoy premium motorcycle stereo system with Bluetooth headset pairing, hands-free calls, stable signal, surround sound, and ride-safe voice clarity
- Waterproof and Weatherproof Ruggedness: IP-rated rugged housing ensures rainproof durability, dust resistance, mud protection, secure mount stability, and reliable function in all conditions
- Seamless Wireless CarPlay Experience: Stay fully connected with wireless CarPlay, enabling hands-free navigation, calls, music, and voice commands—perfect for urban riders and touring enthusiasts
- Android Auto for Every Adventure: Streamlined Android Auto for motorcycle support offers real-time GPS, voice-activated control, Bluetooth sync, music streaming, and app access for safer rides
- 6.25-Inch IPS Display Built for Riding: Crisp 6.25-inch IPS touchscreen with 1024*600 resolution, anti-glare view, sunlight readability, glove-friendly operation, and night mode display designed for bikers
- Bluetooth Stereo with Immersive Audio: Enjoy premium motorcycle stereo system with Bluetooth headset pairing, hands-free calls, stable signal, surround sound, and ride-safe voice clarity
- IP68 Waterproof and Weatherproof Ruggedness: IP-rated rugged housing ensures rainproof durability, dust resistance, mud protection, secure mount stability, and reliable function in all conditions
- Compact 4.7” high-definition display; built for riding the open road or track with an IP67 rating to withstand handlebar vibration, harsh weather and rough road conditions
- Preloaded with detailed street maps and high-definition topographic maps; easily download high-resolution satellite imagery directly to the device
- See how far you’ve leaned over in each turn with the live lean angle gauge; view your ride summary in the Tread smartphone app to see all your data — such as G-force, max speed, acceleration, deceleration and more
- Make a custom route on the device with the visual route planner or in the Tread smartphone app
- Ride the more curvy, scenic, thrilling roads with the Garmin Adventurous Routing setting; find the best-rated routes from other riders with the great rides database via the Tread smartphone app; see popular roads for riding on the map with popular moto paths
- Large 6" high-definition display; built for riding the open road or track with an IP67 rating to withstand handlebar vibration, harsh weather and rough road conditions
- Preloaded with detailed street maps and high-definition topographic maps; easily download high-resolution satellite imagery directly to the device
- See how far you’ve leaned over in each turn with the live lean angle gauge; view your ride summary in the Tread smartphone app to see all your data — such as G-force, max speed, acceleration, deceleration and more
- Make a custom route on the device with the visual route planner or in the Tread smartphone app
- Ride the more curvy, scenic, thrilling roads with the Garmin Adventurous Routing setting; find the best-rated routes from other riders with the great rides database via the Tread smartphone app; see popular roads for riding on the map with popular moto paths
- Seamless Wireless CarPlay Experience: Stay fully connected with wireless CarPlay, enabling hands-free navigation, calls, music, and voice commands—perfect for urban riders and touring enthusiasts
- Android Auto for Every Adventure: Streamlined Android Auto for motorcycle support offers real-time GPS, voice-activated control, Bluetooth sync, music streaming, and app access for safer rides
- 7-Inch IPS Display Built for Riding: Crisp 7-inch IPS touchscreen with 1024*600 resolution, anti-glare view, sunlight readability, glove-friendly operation, and night mode display designed for bikers
- Bluetooth Stereo with Immersive Audio: Enjoy premium motorcycle stereo system with Bluetooth headset pairing, hands-free calls, stable signal, surround sound, and ride-safe voice clarity
- IP68 Waterproof and Weatherproof Ruggedness: IP-rated rugged housing ensures rainproof durability, dust resistance, mud protection, secure mount stability, and reliable function in all conditions
- Seamless Wireless CarPlay & Android Auto Integration &SD 64GB: Wirelessly connect your smartphone to the 7" motorcycle touchscreen and access maps, calls, music, and more using Siri or Google Assistant. Enjoy distraction-free riding with hands-free navigation, messaging, and voice control
- Advanced Motorcycle GPS Navigation System with Dual 2K Dash Cam: Equipped with dual 1080P cameras and a built-in motorcycle GPS navigation system, this unit captures every road moment and ensures you stay on the right route with precise real-time positioning
- Motorcycle Screen with Safety Features: With the tire pressure monitoring, this motorcycle screen helps you ride safer and smarter
- Apple CarPlay & Bluetooth Audio for Motorcycle Riders: Enjoy seamless music and Apple CarPlay for motorcycle functions using Bluetooth audio and helmet headset connections. Stay connected and entertained on every trip
- Hands-Free Riding with Smart Voice Commands: Control your ride like never before with intelligent voice interaction. Whether you're navigating a new route, making a quick call, or switching playlists, just speak — no buttons, no distractions. Compatible with Siri and Google Assistant, this feature keeps your focus on the road while bringing seamless control to your fingertips… or rather, your voice.
- SIMPLE SETUP - Wireless and rechargeable Monimoto 9 US version GPS tracker for vehicles gives you freedom to decide where to hide your tracker. Wired trackers drain your bike's battery and are simple to spot and disable.
- REAL-TIME CALL ALERTS - The moment suspicious movement is detected, anti-theft GPS tracker calls your mobile device, so you can respond quicker than relying on SMS or app notifications.
- WORLDWIDE TRACKING - Featuring a built-in international e-SIM, the Monimoto 9 US version tracker delivers global GPS location tracking for cars, motorcycles, boats and ATVs. Enjoy a complimentary 2-month trial, followed by an annual data fee of $49.
- DEDICATED IN-APP SUPPORT – Enjoy seamless access to friendly, knowledgeable support through our app, ensuring you get the most out of your anti-theft GPS tracking device.
- DURABLE IP68 DESIGN – Engineered for harsh conditions, Monimoto 9 US version is FCC certified and includes a USB-C rechargeable battery and full water and dust resistance for reliable tracking on motorcycles, ATVs, caravans, and boat engines.
- Larger and brighter 6” sunlight-readable display, built to withstand weather and handlebar vibrations with IPX7 design
- Customize your journey with the new visual route planner, and choose between efficient routing or more thrilling adventures
- See popular moto paths and use satellite imagery to discover new places to ride
- Start a group ride to see positions of other riders on the zūmo XT2 display; requires pairing with the Tread smartphone app
- Review and share ride details, including your speed, elevation, acceleration, deceleration and more; requires pairing with the Tread smartphone app
Your Essential Guide to Motorcycle GPS Devices
Riding your motorcycle feels best when you know where you’re going. A GPS device helps you explore new roads and always find your way back. This guide helps you pick the best GPS for your motorcycle adventures.
1. Key Features to Look For
When you shop for a motorcycle GPS, look for these important things:
- Screen Brightness: You need to see the screen even in bright sunlight. A bright screen makes a big difference.
- Waterproofing: Motorcycles ride in all kinds of weather. Your GPS must be waterproof to survive rain.
- Durability: Roads can be bumpy. The GPS should be tough and handle vibrations from your bike.
- Battery Life: Long rides need a GPS that lasts. Check how many hours the battery works on one charge.
- Screen Size: A bigger screen is easier to see. But it should also fit well on your handlebars.
- User-Friendly Interface: You want a GPS that’s easy to use. Buttons and menus should be simple to understand.
- Navigation Features: Look for features like turn-by-turn directions, route planning, and traffic updates.
2. Important Materials
The materials of your GPS matter for its strength and how well it works.
- Screen: Most screens are made of tough glass or strong plastic. Gorilla Glass is a good sign of a durable screen.
- Body: The outer shell protects the GPS. Look for strong plastics that can handle bumps and weather. Some have rubber coatings for extra grip and protection.
- Mount: The mount holds the GPS on your bike. It should be made of strong metal or tough plastic so it doesn’t break.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Some things make a GPS better, while others make it worse.
What Makes a GPS Better:
- High Resolution Screen: A clear, sharp screen shows maps better.
- Accurate GPS Signal: A good GPS receiver finds your location quickly and precisely.
- Regular Map Updates: Roads change. Free and easy map updates keep your navigation current.
- Good Speaker Volume: Clear voice directions help you keep your eyes on the road.
- Bluetooth Connectivity: This lets you connect to your helmet for audio directions.
What Makes a GPS Worse:
- Dim Screen: You can’t see it in the sun.
- Poor Battery: The GPS dies on long trips.
- Flimsy Mount: The GPS falls off your bike.
- Outdated Maps: You get lost because the maps are wrong.
- Difficult Controls: You struggle to use it while riding.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
How you use the GPS is as important as its features.
Easy to Use:
A good motorcycle GPS is simple to operate. You can set your destination quickly. The directions are clear and easy to follow. You don’t have to stop often to figure things out.
Great for Many Riders:
- Commuters: They use GPS to avoid traffic and find the fastest routes to work.
- Touring Riders: They plan long trips and explore new places without fear of getting lost.
- Adventure Riders: They need a tough GPS that works off-road and in bad weather.
- New Riders: GPS gives them confidence to explore new areas.
A motorcycle GPS makes every ride better. It keeps you on track and lets you focus on the joy of riding.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are the main key features to look for in a motorcycle GPS?
A: The main key features include screen brightness for visibility, waterproofing to handle rain, durability for bumpy rides, good battery life for long trips, a suitable screen size, and an easy-to-use interface with clear navigation features.
Q: Are motorcycle GPS devices waterproof?
A: Yes, most good motorcycle GPS devices are designed to be waterproof. This is important because you will ride in different weather conditions, including rain.
Q: How important is screen brightness?
A: Screen brightness is very important. You need to be able to see your GPS screen clearly even when the sun is shining brightly.
Q: What kind of materials are typically used for motorcycle GPS devices?
A: The screens are usually made of tough glass or strong plastic. The body is often made of durable plastic, sometimes with rubber for extra protection. The mounts are usually metal or very strong plastic.
Q: Will a motorcycle GPS work if it gets wet?
A: A good motorcycle GPS should be waterproof, so it will continue to work even if it gets wet from rain or splashes.
Q: How long should the battery life of a motorcycle GPS be?
A: For long rides, you want a GPS with a battery that can last many hours on a single charge, ideally enough for a full day of riding.
Q: Can I use my motorcycle GPS for more than just getting directions?
A: Yes, many GPS devices offer extra features like route planning, saving favorite locations, and sometimes even Bluetooth to connect to your phone or helmet.
Q: Is it hard to use a motorcycle GPS while riding?
A: A good motorcycle GPS has a user-friendly interface, making it easy to operate even with gloves on. Clear voice prompts also help you stay focused on the road.
Q: Do I need to update the maps on my GPS?
A: Yes, it’s important to update the maps regularly. Roads change, and updated maps ensure your navigation is accurate and you don’t get lost.
Q: What are the benefits of using a GPS on a motorcycle?
A: Using a GPS on a motorcycle helps you explore new places confidently, avoid getting lost, find the quickest routes, and stay informed about traffic. It makes riding more enjoyable and stress-free.