Does anyone have an opinion on whether I need to invest in a GPS unit or just mount my cell phone and use WAZE for long trips?
Does anyone have an opinion on whether I need to invest in a GPS unit or just mount my cell phone and use WAZE for long trips?
For occasional trips I would simply use the phone an save cash. If you plan on a lot of trips to unfamiliar areas, a dedicated GPS would be worthwhile.
I reused an older GPS to fit the bike with a mount to see if it was any better than my phone. It wasn't.
If you have a low limit on your phone data plan, then the GPS would be a better choice.
Actually the amount of data a smartphone mapping app uses is relatively low and the GPS "data" is free. I wouldn't think it's a issue unless you have a REALLY low data limit plan on your phone.
IMO, the main difference is map availability. If your using a smartphone and your far from cell towers and off network you cannot download map data where the GPS has ALL the map data (from the latest update) on the device all the time. You can re-route with a dedicated GPS if you need to detour or you get lost AND your off network with your phone.
2016 F6B Standard Matte Silver. Freedom Combat Slip-Ons, BaggerShield 11" - 19" Sport Shield, Kuryakyn Ergo II Highway Pegs, Ultimate King Seat w/Driver Backrest, Pathfinder Running/Turnsignal/Driving Lights, Beeline Moto Navigation, INNOVV K2 Camera, DHS Racing Shifter Linkage Upgrade, Show Chrome Handlebar Risers and Luggage Rack.
Voiced directions from someone, a hand drawn map from someone, a purchased paper map, a cell phone, an older plain GPS, a newer motorcycle GPS. Each one will get you to a location and each one is better, does more and cost more. Choose your level you need. I build routes for several days in advance often and a Zumo is a requirement for me.
Some map apps let you download entire state maps to a phone's storage so complete maps are always displayed even if there is no coverage at all. I don't use Waze but it may do that.
Personally I like having a dedicated GPS. They work with gloves and you can leave them mounted on the bike most of the time.
With a dedicated GPS you should update the maps every now and then. My 5 year old Garmin took me through a lousy part of Memphis last month because the original maps didn't show either I-22 or I-240.
Last edited by F6Dave; 10-16-2019 at 10:13 AM.
For what it's worth, Google Maps can pre-download the area you'll be in while on wifi, so even when away from cell towers it'll work seamlessly. You can do it manually, but also if your login notices that you have reservations (hotel, flight, etc), it'll actually RECOMMEND downloading the area map for where you are headed proactively.
I do have an old Garmin in the saddlebag of my Wing, and the Garmin Motorrad Navigator that came on my BMW R1200GSA, but on both I use the phone as a GPS near 100% of the time. Did a ~1000 mile trip last week and never missed a beat even with no signal for extended periods. YMMV.
Yes, the smartphone apps like Google Maps are getting better at downloading data ahead of time but, if you need to detour, you may not get the smaller road detail you'd already have with a dedicated GPS device.
Personally I'm using Google Maps on my Android and find it works well enough. I also use a Beeline which is a round 1.5" diameter route indicator device that mounts to your dash or handle bars. It Bluetooths to my phone which is safety tucked away in the left storage bin. The screen works GREAT in full sun and gives just enough info at safe quick glance to navigate your per-set route.
2016 F6B Standard Matte Silver. Freedom Combat Slip-Ons, BaggerShield 11" - 19" Sport Shield, Kuryakyn Ergo II Highway Pegs, Ultimate King Seat w/Driver Backrest, Pathfinder Running/Turnsignal/Driving Lights, Beeline Moto Navigation, INNOVV K2 Camera, DHS Racing Shifter Linkage Upgrade, Show Chrome Handlebar Risers and Luggage Rack.
For years, I've used a RAM mount system to use an automotive GPS unit. I recently started using the Beeline product; comparing its "following the arrow" method of guidance to the map guidance method of a traditional GPS unit. Unfortunately, the weather has turned here in the PNW.. so not too many chances to field test it fully. Will update the Forum at some point in the future....
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