Motorcycle GPS Navigators

Never before have there been so many gadgets and devices that make your life as a motorcycle rider so much easier and the rides more enjoyable. You can easily listen to music, make and receive phone calls, and communicate to your fellow riders on the go, without ever being distracted from the road. Your smartphone keeps you connected and entertained, but using it as a navigation device during the ride is hardly the best option. Your phone is not protected from the elements, its display does not counter sun glare, and it's impossible to operate by gloved hands. These are just a few reasons why you need a dedicated motorcycle GPS navigator.

Purpose-built motorcycle GPS devices are tough and durable enough to withstand anything the open road can throw at them. They are weatherproof (IPX7) so they can endure the rain and snow. The screens of these units are brighter and sharper than those of smartphones and car GPS, and they have anti-glare properties making them easy to read in direct sunlight. The touchscreens are glove-friendly, and many navigator models have big buttons and easy-to-use toggles. And these days, motorcycle trackers can do much more than guide you in the right direction.

Modern motorcycle-specific navigators have Bluetooth functionality so you can sync your device to your smartphone and headset. Hands-free calls? Check. Streaming music? Enjoy. Smart notifications? Present. You can stay aware of the traffic situation (incidents, jams, etc.) and weather forecast. Many nav models, such as those by Garmin, can alert you of changing speed limits, school zones, sharp turns, local helmet laws, and speed cameras. You can customize the route to your preferences and program the unit to find twisty, hilly roads for you. Being able to see the nearby gas stations, diners, rest areas, and places of interest, and repair services is another big benefit.

With a motorcycle GPS device, you can get a whole lot of information while being focused on the road, without the need to pull over and get off the road every time. Many navigators have a digital fuel gauge that calculates the distance between refills and alerts you if you risk running out of gas anytime soon. Navigator manufacturers produce TPM sensors that deliver data wirelessly to the compatible GPS device so you can stay informed about tire pressure in real time.

If you ride a dirt bike, you'd benefit from the other kind of motorcycle GPS: the one designed specifically for off-roading. Trail Tech is a company that made a name for itself by manufacturing dedicated off-road GPS navigators for motorcycle and powersports use. The Voyager device has been the preferred choice of off-road riders for many years. It doubles as an off-road navigator and digital gauge that shows the speed, distance, engine temperature, altitude, and other parameters. The Voyager Pro is its advanced version with a color screen and more features, including the innovative Buddy Tracking that connects to other riders in your group and shows their location on the screen.