The 6 Best Motorcycle GPS in 2024 – By Experts

Nothing beats the feeling of riding on your motorcycle and enjoying the wind as it hits your body. 

However, without a GPS, you may find yourself stuck in long, boring roads. You could also lose your way if you’re unfamiliar with the routes that lead to your destination. You can get a GPS similar to those used in cars, but using it on a motorcycle can be quite challenging. Luckily, there are GPS devices that are designed for use on motorcycles.

To make things easier for you, I’ve shortlisted some of the best motorcycle GPS devices you can find on the market today.

Comparison Table:

Preview	Model	Features	Price
Best Mid Range Pick	Garmin Zumo 396 LMT-S	Display: 4.3” 400 x 240p Connectivity: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB Glove-Friendly: Yes	View On Amazon
Best Value Pick	TomTom Rider 550	Display: 4.3” 480 x 272p Connectivity: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB Glove-Friendly: Yes	View On Amazon
Best Compact Pick	Garmin GPSMAP 64st	Display: 2.6” 160 x 240p Connectivity: Bluetooth, ANT+, USB Glove-Friendly: Yes	View On Amazon
Best Multipurpose Pick	TomTom Via 1525SE	Display: 5” 480 x 272p Connectivity: USB Glove-Friendly: No	View On Amazon
Best Premium Pick	Garmin Zumo XT	Display: 5.5” 1280 x 720p Connectivity: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB Glove-Friendly: Yes	View On Amazon
Best for Groups	Trail Tech Voyager Pro 922-125	Display: 5” 400 x 240p Connectivity: Bluetooth, USB Glove-Friendly: Yes	View On Amazon

6 Best Motorcycle GPS in 2024

Now, let’s explore each GPS device in detail and see which of them is worth your hard-earned money.

1. Garmin Zumo 396 LMT-S – Best Mid Range Pick

The next motorcycle GPS is the Garmin Zumo 396 LMT-S, one of Garmin’s midrange GPS devices that packs an impressive set of features at a decent price tag.

One of the things that make the Garmin Zumo 396 LMT-S stand out from the crowd is that it gives you live traffic updates, allowing you to find the shortest routes and reach your destination faster. It also gives you weather information in real-time.

Furthermore, this GPS tracker is equipped with a 4.3-inch 400 x 240p touchscreen display that’s responsive to gloves and easy to read even in direct sunlight. The rugged design protects the Zumo 396 LMT-S from fuel vapors, harsh weather conditions, and UV rays.

If you want to get a little adventurous, set the device to direct you to twisty roads instead of boring highways for extra fun. You can also use the Smartphone Link app to send and receive GPX files and share the adventure with your fellow riders by following the same route together.

The LiveTrack feature also allows you to share your live location with your friends and let them join the fun remotely.

Additionally, the Zumo 396 LMT-S can give you a heads up if you approach a speed camera or a sharp curve. Not to mention, it can also detect hilly roads and redirect the rider when approaching a highway. 

The built-in Bluetooth connectivity makes it easy for you to make hands-free calls and control your smartphone’s music right on the Zumo’s screen. The Garmin Zumo 396 LMT-S also has built-in Wi-Fi, allowing you to update the software and maps without having to connect it to a computer.

Bottom Line

With great build quality, rider alerts, and live traffic and weather updates, it’s hard not to recommend the Garmin Zumo 396 LMT-S GPS for motorcyclists.

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2. TomTom Rider 550 – Best Value Pick

TomTom is known for creating some of the best GPS devices for motorcycles, and the Rider 550 is no exception. And what’s more, it offers value for each penny you pay! 

For starters, this GPS device is utterly uncompromising as it’s equipped with a powerful quad-core processor for fast processing speeds, smooth navigation, and quick start-up time.

As for the display, the 550 features a 4.3-inch capacitive touchscreen panel that’s glove-friendly and easy to read on sunny days. There are low and high-sensitivity glove modes that you can adjust depending on the kit you’re wearing. The display is quite responsive, even when wet.

Additionally, the TomTom Rider 550 features an IPx7-certified, weather-proof design that allows you to use it in all weather conditions. You also get lifetime updates to maps of North America, live traffic, and speed cameras. Updating your device is pretty easy, thanks to the built-in Wi-Fi support.

The TomTom 550 can create tailored routes, especially for you. You can choose from 3 levels of hilliness and windiness: low, mid, and high. If you’re feeling adventurous, set everything on high for the ultimate excitement and thrill. You can easily share your planned route with your friends and fellow riders to let them know about your adventure.

Furthermore, the TomTom Rider 550 is compatible with Google Now and Siri voice assistants, allowing you to make calls, send messages, and access music without having to use your hands.

Last but not least, the TomTom Rider 550 comes with all the accessories you need to install and use your GPS immediately, including a bike dock, a ram mount, a battery cable, and a USB Cable.

Bottom Line

TomTom has gone the extra mile with the Rider 550 when it comes to ruggedness, usability, and software enhancements. As a motorcyclist, you’ll love everything about this versatile GPS device.

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3. Garmin GPSMAP 64st – Best Compact Pick

The Garmin GPSMAP 64st is designed for motorcyclists who want a compact, handheld GPS device. 

It features a 2.6″ display, which is a bit small, especially when you need to check the directions when moving at high speeds, but it’s a trade-off you have to make if you want a compact device. It makes up for the small display by having a mobile phone form factor that’s relatively easy to use when on foot.

Nevertheless, the screen is still quite readable, even in direct sunlight. Not to mention, the directions are spoken, so you won’t likely need to look at the display that often anyway. It’s also worth noting that the 64st is IPx7 rated, giving it a high resistance to shocks and water damage.

The Garmin GPSMAP 64st relies on classic hardware keys instead of a touchscreen display for controls, which can either be a good or bad thing, depending on your preference. In my opinion, touch controls on such a small display wouldn’t have made much sense, anyway.

Moreover, the gadget is equipped with an 8-megapixel camera that allows you to take stunning geotagged photos, a feature that’s rare to find on a GPS device.

When it comes to powering up the GPSMAP 64st, you have two options. You can either use replaceable standard AA batteries or get the optional rechargeable battery pack that can be charged while inside the device. 

Moreover, this Garmin GPS is equipped with a barometric altimeter, in addition to a compass. These tools can be quite handy when you go on hiking and hunting trips.

Furthermore, the Garmin GPSMAP 64st supports both GPS and GLONASS, ensuring accurate location tracking. You can easily upload your location and routing data to Garmin Connect wirelessly, allowing you to view it on your smartphone effortlessly. You can even share your live location with your friends and include them in your adventures.

Bottom Line

While it has a tiny display, the Garmin GPSMAP is an excellent choice for those who want a GPS device that’s great for both on-foot and motorcycle use.

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4. TomTom Via 1525SE – Best Multipurpose Pick

The TomTom Via 1525SE promises to deliver excellent performance and accurate directions at a reasonable price, and it lives up to that promise.

To begin with, it features a 5-inch 480 x 272p display with excellent sunlight readability. However, using it with thick gloves can be a bit tricky, so make sure that your motorcycle gloves aren’t too thick. 

Furthermore, the TomTom Via 1525SE makes it easy for you to stick to your route thanks to the spoken, turn by turn directions. This means that you don’t even need to look at the display and distract yourself while on your bike. 

Moreover, the TomTom Via provides you with live traffic updates, allowing you to avoid congestions as much as possible. Additionally, the Advanced Lane Guidance enables the TomTom Via to automatically select the best lane for you when approaching a turn or an intersection.

Unfortunately, the tracker doesn’t have Wi-Fi connectivity, which means you need to connect your GPS to a PC to update your maps to the latest version. The good news is that you get lifetime maps updates, including things like speed limits and road changes. Also, it comes with a USB cable and a car charger.

Finally, keep in mind that this GPS device is a multipurpose one, and it’s not made exclusively for motorcycles, which means that you’ll need to buy a motorcycle mount separately.

Bottom Line

Despite lacking built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, the TomTom Via 1525SE is still a very capable GPS for motorcyclists. I’m impressed with this tracker’s spoken directions accuracy and the live traffic updates.

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5. Garmin Zumo XT – Best Premium Pick

The Garmin Zumo XT is a high-end GPS unit that delivers an exceptional set of routing features and an extra sharp display, making for a top-notch premium pick. 

At 5.5 inches, the Zumo XT has one of the largest displays you can find on a motorcycle GPS, being very bright and featuring an HD 1280 x 720p display that offers a high level of detail in portrait and landscape modes.

Additionally, it features an IPX7-certified rugged build that can withstand the harshest environmental conditions, and it’s resistant to rain. Not to mention, you can easily use it with your gloves on.

Connectivity-wise, you can effortlessly connect your helmet or headset to the Zumo XT using Bluetooth and hear the spoken, turn-by-turn directions clearly.

As for battery life, the XT’s battery can last anywhere from 3.5 hours to up to 7 hours, depending on the brightness settings. You can just hardwire the device to your bike, but it’s good to have a rechargeable battery considering that you may need to use it on foot occasionally.

Additionally, the Garmin Zumo XT allows you to download BirdsEye Satellite Imagery directly via Wi-Fi, a feature that I really love. It makes it easier for you to identify hills, valleys, and intersections.

Another feature that’s worth mentioning is that the Zumo XT not only has data for on-road maps but also for off-road maps. So, if you’re feeling a little wilder, go off-road and let the Zumo XT guide you. Switching between on-road maps, off-road maps, and Birdseye Satellite Imagery is pretty simple and easy. Just press the quick toggle to switch between the three.

Bottom Line

With one of the largest displays in the industry, Birdseye Satellite Imagery, off-road maps, and spoken directions, the Garmin Zumo XT has everything a motorcyclist can dream of.

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6. Trail Tech Voyager Pro 922-125 – Best for Groups

The Trail Tech Voyager Pro 922-125 places a high emphasis on group adventures with Buddy Tracking, a feature that allows you to see the current location of up to 20 fellow riders right on the screen. 

Moreover, it has a 4-inch touchscreen display with anti-glare that provides excellent sunlight legibility, water resistance, and dust resistance. It also has four hardware keys that can be quite useful at times. 

One of the features that make the Voyager Pro an excellent choice for motorcyclists is the topographical maps that make it easier for adventurous motorcyclists to set hilly and twisty routes for their trips. The Voyager Pro can measure multiple important metrics and show them on display for the user, including speed, temperature, distance, elevation, and voltage.

As for connectivity, built-in Bluetooth technology enables you to make hands-free calls and control music. 

Bottom Line

If you have a large group of motorcycle fellows, you can all get the Trail Tech Voyager Pro 922-125 and enjoy the ride together.

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Things to Consider Before Buying a Motorcycle GPS

Before picking a motorcycle GPS, there are several factors you need to keep in mind to make sure that it’ll satisfy your needs.

Display

Riding during the daytime means that your GPS device’s display must be easily readable even when exposed to direct sunlight. A diagonal screen between 4-5 inches should be good enough for most users. 

The sweet spot for most GPS devices is around 4.3 inches. Moreover, make sure that the display is large enough because you don’t want to look at the screen for a long time to get directions as this can be dangerous.

Usability

Being able to use the GPS device with your gloves is an essential feature that bikers must look for when choosing a GPS. Unlike automobile drivers, motorcyclists have to wear their gloves most of the time, making it impractical and risky for them to take off their gloves and use the GPS while on the road. 

GPS devices made for motorcycle riders are equipped with a touchscreen display specially designed to be responsive when the user is wearing gloves. Another concern for motorcyclists is that they may drive in the rain at times, exposing their GPS to the risk of water damage. Luckily, there are many waterproof GPS devices out there.

Voice controls would further be a big plus for motorcyclists since they’d want to keep their eyes on the road as much as possible. Having to use the device by hand can be quite risky and inconvenient. It’s also essential that you pick a GPS device with spoken navigation, so you don’t even have to look at the display that much.

Routing

Car routes are rarely the best routes for motorcyclists. Most motorcyclists like to ride on fun roads that have lots of turns and variable slopes. These roads usually have fewer cars on them, which not only adds to the fun but also provides more safety for motorcyclists.

GPS trackers that are designed for motorcyclists usually limit highways and direct the rider to more adventurous routes. Some GPS devices can also detect hilly roads using topographical maps. 

Frequently Asked Questions:

How Do I Install a GPS Tracker on My Motorcycle?

Installing a GPS device on a motorcycle is a bit complicated compared to installing it in a car. It requires special hardware for mounting. To install it, follow these steps:

1. Pick a spot on your handlebars that you think is suitable for installing your GPS unit. Make sure it’s easy to reach without blocking your vision.
2. Unscrew the mount and adjust it according to your handlebar’s diameter by using an Allen Key. Make sure it’s tightly secured to the handlebar to prevent it from falling off when riding your bike in strong winds.
3. Attach the holder to the mount using a screwdriver and let it house the GPS tracker.
4. Use the battery cable to connect your GPS to a 12-volt power supply on your bike.

Is a Motorcycle GPS Worth It?

A GPS unit can be a great addition to your motorcycle. Here are some of the reasons that could make you consider getting a motorcycle GPS:

• You hate boring roads. Most motorcyclists prefer motorcycles over cars because they’re simply much more fun to ride. However, riding a motorcycle on highways or busy roads removes much of the fun. Many motorcycle GPS devices make it easier for you to find the most fun and adventurous motorcycle routes. 
• You frequently travel to far destinations. Traveling for long distances on a motorcycle without a GPS can be troublesome, and you might even get lost.
• You want to keep track of your achievements. A GPS allows you to save the route of your most exciting trips for your lifetime and even share them with your friends.

Final Thoughts

There’s no straightforward winner on our list. It all depends on why and how you’re going to use your GPS. 

If you’re a person who pays great attention to details and wants a premium GPS tracker, go for the Garmin Zumo XT. It sports a large 5.5-inch display and a rugged design, with off-road topography maps and Birdseye Satellite Imagery.

If you want a compact GPS that’s suitable for use on foot for a prolonged period, get the Garmin GPSMAP 64st. It fits in the hands quite nicely, and it uses hardware controls.

Finally, those on a tight budget should consider getting the Garmin Nuvi 57LM. It features a glove-friendly touchscreen display, spoken turn by turn navigation, and lane assist, which is quite an optimal mix.