Best Off Road Motorcycle GPS Devices

As an off-road motorcycle enthusiast, venturing into unknown terrains and exploring new trails comes with its fair share of challenges. That’s where a reliable off-road motorcycle GPS can be a game-changer.

When it comes to off-road riding, navigation becomes a crucial aspect of the journey. Unlike conventional road riding, off-road trails are often unmarked, remote, and challenging to navigate.

This is where a dedicated off-road motorcycle GPS (Global Positioning System) comes into play. It provides riders with accurate positioning, trail mapping, and navigation assistance, ensuring a safer and more enjoyable riding experience.

Using a GPS device while riding off-road offers several advantages. Firstly, it helps riders stay on track, preventing them from getting lost in unfamiliar terrains.

With precise positioning information, riders can confidently explore new trails without worrying about finding their way back. Moreover, off-road GPS devices often come with preloaded trail maps and waypoints, allowing riders to discover new routes and plan their adventures more efficiently.

Of course, off-road riding poses unique challenges to GPS devices. Harsh environmental conditions, such as dirt, mud, water, and vibrations, demand rugged and durable GPS units that can withstand the rigors of off-road riding. Additionally, these devices must have strong GPS signal reception capabilities even in remote areas with limited satellite coverage.

Garmin Zumo XT

In this post, we will delve into the essential factors to consider when choosing an off-road motorcycle GPS. I will discuss durability, GPS signal strength, battery life, mapping features, user interface, and connectivity options to help you choose a GPS device.

So, let’s dive in and explore the world of off-road motorcycle GPS devices, unlocking new possibilities and ensuring you never lose your way on your thrilling adventures.

Factors to Consider When Choosing an Off-Road Motorcycle GPS

To help you make an informed decision, let’s explore the key factors to consider when choosing a GPS device for off-road motorcycling.

  • Durability and ruggedness: Off-road riding exposes GPS devices to extreme conditions, including vibrations, dust, water splashes, and rough handling. Look for a GPS unit specifically designed for off-road use, with a robust and durable construction that can withstand these challenges.
  • GPS signal strength and accuracy: Off-road trails often take you to remote areas with limited satellite coverage. A reliable GPS device should have excellent signal reception, ensuring accurate positioning even in challenging terrains.
  • Battery life and power options: Long rides require a GPS device with a sufficient battery life to last throughout your journey. Look for devices with extended battery life or options to connect to a power source, such as a motorcycle’s battery, to ensure uninterrupted navigation.
  • Mapping and navigation features: Off-road motorcycle GPS units should provide detailed trail maps, including topographic information and waypoints specific to off-road riding. Look for devices that offer off-road-specific mapping features, such as trail routing and the ability to download and import custom routes.
  • User interface and ease of use: Operating a GPS device while riding requires a user-friendly interface that is easy to navigate. Consider devices with large buttons, intuitive menus, and touchscreen functionality that can be operated with gloves on.
  • Additional features and connectivity options: Some GPS devices offer extra features like Bluetooth connectivity for pairing with other devices or the ability to receive real-time weather updates. Consider your specific needs and preferences to determine which additional features are important to you.

Remember to prioritize durability, signal strength, battery life, mapping features, user interface, and any additional features that enhance your off-road riding experience.

With the right GPS device on your handlebars, you can confidently conquer new trails and explore uncharted terrains.

Best Off Road Motorcycle GPS Devices

I have personally tested and evaluated dozens of GPS devices that are highly recommended for off-road motorcycling. Here is a detailed review of the top 5 devices.

  1. Garmin Montana 700i

The Garmin Montana 700i is a rugged and versatile GPS device designed specifically for off-road adventures.

Garmin Montana 700i for motorcycle Best off road motorcycle GPS

It boasts a 5-inch glove-friendly touchscreen display that provides excellent visibility even in bright sunlight. Here are its key features and specifications:

  • Durability: The Montana 700i is built to withstand harsh conditions with an IPX7 water-resistant rating and a durable, shockproof exterior. The Garmin Montana 700i  is thus a waterproof GPS for motorcycles. It can handle the vibrations and impacts commonly encountered during off-road riding.
  • GPS Performance: With high-sensitivity GPS and GLONASS satellite reception, the Montana 700i delivers fast and accurate positioning. It maintains a reliable signal even in challenging environments, ensuring you stay on track.
  • Mapping and Navigation: The device comes preloaded with TOPO maps, and it supports additional map downloads for more detailed off-road navigation. It features multi-GNSS support, allowing you to access GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo systems simultaneously.
  • Battery Life: The Montana 700i boasts an impressive battery life of up to 18 hours. Additionally, it offers the option to use AA batteries or a rechargeable lithium-ion battery pack, providing flexibility for extended rides.

Pros

  • Robust and durable construction
  • Accurate and reliable GPS performance
  • Wide selection of maps and navigation features
  • Long battery life for extended rides
  • Supports both AA batteries and rechargeable battery pack

Cons

  • Relatively large and bulky design
  • Expensive compared to some other options
  • Touchscreen sensitivity may decrease when used with gloves
  1. Magellan TRX7 CS

The Magellan TRX7 CS is a feature-packed GPS device tailored for off-road enthusiasts.

Magellan TRX7 CS

It combines robust functionality with a user-friendly interface, making it an excellent choice for riders seeking an intuitive navigation experience. Let’s look into its key features and specifications:

  • Durability: The TRX7 CS is built to endure rugged off-road conditions. It is IP67 dustproof and waterproof, protecting it from dirt, mud, and water splashes. Its sturdy construction ensures it can withstand the bumps and vibrations of off-road riding.
  • GPS Performance: The device utilizes a high-sensitivity GPS receiver to provide precise positioning and accurate trail tracking. It quickly locks onto satellite signals, even in remote areas, ensuring you have reliable navigation information at all times.
  • Mapping and Navigation: The TRX7 CS comes preloaded with an extensive library of detailed off-road maps, including 3D topographic views and trail data. It also features intuitive trail navigation with turn-by-turn directions and the ability to record and share tracks.
  • Battery Life: With a powerful rechargeable lithium-ion battery, the TRX7 CS offers up to 8 hours of continuous use. It also includes a 12V power adapter to connect directly to your motorcycle’s battery, providing a reliable power source for extended journeys.

Pros

  • Rugged and waterproof design
  • Accurate and fast GPS performance
  • Extensive library of off-road maps
  • Intuitive trail navigation with turn-by-turn directions
  • 12V power adapter for continuous power supply

Cons

  • Relatively shorter battery life compared to some competitors
  • Screen visibility can be challenging under bright sunlight
  • Limited connectivity options (no Bluetooth or Wi-Fi)
  1. Garmin Zumo XT

The Garmin Zumo XT is a popular choice among motorcyclists for its combination of durability, advanced features, and user-friendly interface.

Garmin Zumo XT GPS device

It is designed to handle the challenges of off-road riding while providing comprehensive navigation capabilities. Here are the key features and specifications of Garmin Zumo XT Motorcycle GPS:

  • Durability: The Zumo XT features a rugged design with an IPX7 water-resistant rating. It can withstand dust, vibrations, and exposure to water, ensuring reliable performance in off-road conditions.
  • GPS Performance: With high-sensitivity GPS and GLONASS receivers, the Zumo XT offers fast and accurate positioning. It maintains a strong satellite connection, even in dense tree cover or canyons, allowing you to navigate confidently.

 

  • Mapping and Navigation: The device comes preloaded with Garmin’s detailed off-road maps, which include topographic information and thousands of points of interest (POIs). It features a glove-friendly 5.5-inch touchscreen display for easy navigation.
  • Battery Life: The Zumo XT provides a respectable battery life of up to 6 hours, which is extendable with Garmin’s optional Motorcycle Power Cable. It also supports wireless charging, allowing you to power up the device conveniently.

Pros

  • Durable and water-resistant construction
  • Accurate and reliable GPS performance
  • Detailed off-road maps with POIs
  • Large and glove-friendly touchscreen display
  • Wireless charging capability

Cons

  • Relatively shorter battery life compared to some alternatives
  • No integrated music player like some other Garmin models
  • Limited internal storage for map data
  1. Trail Tech Voyager Pro

The Trail Tech Voyager Pro is a versatile and robust GPS device specifically designed for off-road adventures.

Trail Tech Voyager Pro

It offers a range of features tailored to meet the needs of motorcycle riders in challenging terrains. Let us analyze its main features and specifications:

  • Durability: The Voyager Pro is built to withstand the demands of off-road riding. It features a rugged housing that is dustproof, weather-resistant, and capable of handling vibrations and impacts.
  • GPS Performance: The device utilizes a high-sensitivity GPS receiver with GLONASS support, ensuring accurate and reliable positioning in various environments. It maintains a strong satellite connection, even in areas with limited coverage.
  • Mapping and Navigation: The Voyager Pro comes with a comprehensive map database and trail tracking functionality. It features a 4-inch color touchscreen display that is glove-friendly, allowing easy navigation and tracking while riding.

Trail Tech Voyager Pro

  • Battery Life: Equipped with a robust lithium-ion battery, the Voyager Pro offers an impressive battery life of up to 30 hours. It also supports external power sources for extended riding periods.

Pros

  • Sturdy and weather-resistant construction
  • Accurate and reliable GPS performance
  • Comprehensive map database with trail tracking
  • Glove-friendly color touchscreen display
  • Long battery life for extended rides

Cons

  • Limited connectivity options (no Bluetooth or Wi-Fi)
  • User interface could be more intuitive
  • The screen may be slightly less bright in direct sunlight
  1. TomTom Rider 550

The TomTom Rider 550 is a feature-rich GPS device that caters to the needs of motorcyclists, including off-road enthusiasts.

TomTom Rider 550

With its user-friendly interface and extensive mapping options, it provides a reliable and convenient navigation experience. The TomTom Rider 550 is a cheap motorcycle GPS. Let’s explore its key features and specifications:

  • Durability: The Rider 550 is designed to withstand the rigors of motorcycle riding. It features a weatherproof and ruggedized build that protects it from dust, water, and shocks, ensuring durability on off-road trails.
  • GPS Performance: The device utilizes high-sensitivity GPS and GLONASS receivers for accurate and quick positioning. It maintains a solid satellite connection, even in areas with challenging reception, providing reliable navigation.
  • Mapping and Navigation: The Rider 550 offers detailed maps with lifetime free updates. It includes winding and hilly road routes, allowing you to discover exciting off-road trails. The device also provides real-time traffic and speed camera alerts for added safety.

 

  • Battery Life: The Rider 550 provides approximately 6 hours of battery life, which is extendable using an optional charging dock or motorcycle power cable. It also supports fast charging for quick top-ups.

Pros

  • Weatherproof and ruggedized design
  • Accurate and fast GPS performance
  • Lifetime map updates with winding road routes
  • Real-time traffic and speed camera alerts
  • Optional fast charging and power accessories

Cons

  • Relatively shorter battery life compared to some alternatives
  • Limited internal storage capacity for maps
  • Some users may find the mount slightly less secure

These five GPS devices stand out as top choices for off-road motorcycle navigation. The Garmin Montana 700i offers ruggedness, accuracy, and an extensive feature set. The Magellan TRX7 CS excels in intuitive navigation and a user-friendly interface.

The Garmin Zumo XT combines durability, advanced features, and a large touchscreen display. Consider your specific needs and preferences to choose the device that best aligns with your off-road riding requirements.

The Trail Tech Voyager Pro impresses with its durability, accuracy, and extensive feature set. The TomTom Rider 550 provides a user-friendly interface, detailed maps, and real-time alerts for a seamless navigation experience.

Remember, each device has its strengths and weaknesses, so carefully evaluate the features that matter most to you. Ultimately, investing in a high-quality off-road motorcycle GPS device will enhance your riding experience by providing accurate navigation, allowing you to explore new trails with confidence.

TomTom Rider 550 on motorcycle

 

Consider your specific needs, including durability, GPS performance, mapping options, and battery life, to determine which device aligns best with your off-road riding requirements.

Each GPS device brings unique strengths to the table, so choose the one that suits your preferences and ensures a smooth navigation experience on your off-road adventures.

Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Off-Road Motorcycle GPS

As an off-road motorcycle enthusiast, having a reliable GPS device is essential for a successful and enjoyable riding experience. To ensure you get the most out of your off-road motorcycle GPS, here are some valuable tips:

  • Mounting and securing the GPS device: Proper mounting and securing of your GPS device is crucial to ensure it stays in place during off-road riding. Use a sturdy mount that is specifically designed for your GPS model and securely attach it to your motorcycle’s handlebars or another convenient location. Double-check the tightness of the mount before each ride to prevent it from coming loose.
  • Understanding and customizing the settings: Take the time to familiarize yourself with your GPS device’s settings and customization options. Adjust the screen brightness, map orientation, and units of measurement according to your preferences. Additionally, explore advanced settings like track recording, waypoint management, and map overlays to optimize your navigation experience.
  • Regular software updates and maintenance: Stay up to date with the latest software updates for your GPS device. These updates often include bug fixes, performance improvements, and new features. Additionally, keep your device clean and free from dirt, dust, and moisture by regularly wiping it down and storing it in a protective case when not in use.
  • Carry backup power options: To avoid running out of battery during long rides, it’s wise to carry backup power options. Consider carrying spare batteries, a portable power bank, or a charging cable that connects to your motorcycle’s battery. This ensures you have a reliable power source to keep your GPS device charged and functional.
  • Plan and download maps in advance: Before heading out on a new off-road adventure, plan your route and download the necessary maps onto your GPS device. This ensures you have access to accurate trail information even in areas with no cellular network coverage. Take advantage of online platforms or dedicated mapping software to plan and save your routes beforehand.

By following these tips, you can maximize the functionality and effectiveness of your off-road motorcycle GPS. It will provide you with reliable navigation, accurate positioning, and peace of mind as you tackle new trails and explore the great outdoors.

Closing Remarks

A reliable off-road motorcycle GPS device is an indispensable tool for riders seeking adventure and exploration in unfamiliar terrains.

By considering factors such as durability, GPS signal strength, battery life, mapping features, user interface, and additional connectivity options, you can select the best GPS device that aligns with your off-road riding needs.

Throughout this post, I reviewed five top picks for off-road motorcycle GPS devices, including the Garmin Montana 700i, Magellan TRX7 CS, Garmin Zumo XT, Trail Tech Voyager Pro, and TomTom Rider 550. Each device offers unique features and advantages, catering to different preferences and requirements.

When using your off-road motorcycle GPS, remember to mount and secure it properly, customize the settings to your liking, and stay up to date with software updates and maintenance.

Carrying backup power options and planning your routes in advance will ensure a seamless navigation experience during your off-road adventures.

Ultimately, investing in a high-quality off-road motorcycle GPS device will improve your riding experience, providing accurate navigation, and allowing you to explore new trails with confidence.

Whether you choose the ruggedness of the Garmin Montana 700i, the user-friendly interface of the Magellan TRX7 CS, or the versatility of the Garmin Zumo XT, the right GPS device will become your trusted companion on thrilling off-road journeys.

So, gear up, choose your GPS device wisely, and embark on unforgettable off-road adventures, knowing that you have a reliable navigation tool by your side to guide you through every twist, turn, and trail.