One benefit of having a dedicated GPS unit, or a second mobile/cell phone, is the safety aspect. Imagine if you come off your bike, you're injured, you can't move, you're alone, and no one knows you're there. The only way you can contact the emergency services is by using your mobile/cell phone, but it's on the bike and you can't reach it! A horrible situation to be in, but it could happen. Always have a mobile/cell phone on you when riding alone, so you can contact someone in an emergency, because one day you might need it, and it might just save your life.
Detecht - motorcycle travel software that records routes etc and also has crash detection so that if you crash your bike it will send a text to your emergency contact (or contacts, if you have a premium account). Unlike a couple of other "crash detection" apps, you _don't have to subscribe_ to use this feature. The phone needs to be securely on your person or on the motorbike, not rattling around in your pack or a glove compartment etc... to avoid false alarms.
I'm in Australia 🇦🇺 and really like you no B.S no nonsense personality you must obviously have. I respect your informed information, not going on about brands I really appreciate how you put your in front of the camera and be Pavlin. The person you are well done thanks for good videos from Jim onya mate 👍
" If you have nothing to do grab your favorite drink and stay with me !"......I don't know why this feels so relaxing and probably the best intro I've ever heard.
I tryed many options, at least i come to following set up: My old Smartphone HUAWEI mate 20 Pro with TomTom and Google Map only for navigation. The phone is waterproof and attached permanently on the Bike, it is also plugged all the time with it's own cable. So far no problems with vibrations. No Sim card inside, if needed, I use my normal smartphone as a Hotspot. I have a single cable going into my Tankbag charging my Powerbank during riding. So far, this setup works fine for me... one plus is the fact, that it connects easily to my Cardo-System by Bluetooth, i can hear the navigation-command as well Musik in my Helmet. Keep on your nice content and style of videos!
Hey Pavlin! Thanks a lot for this episode that will surely help "dinosaurs" like me out there! You've answered all my questions. Thanks again! Greetings from the Czech Republic! Tomas👍
@@tomaskral4685 great question Tomas. I have good memories of riding around your beautiful country in 1990. Had an amazing time and met some cool people (great beer and food too).
@@d.Cog420 Thanks d.CoG! I've always been the guy resisting progress. You know, when CDs came out I went like "screw that, I got my cassette tapes" . Then I got into CDs. Recently I wanted to buy a new car..."what, no CD player?!? You just lost a customer!"😁. Anyway, for the longest time my navigation was my mouth. I would stop and ask someone for directions( or consult a map). But my cousin (who's 20 years younger) suggested I use Waze about 2 years ago. I tried it, and it saved my ass many times. Still, there are many areas where I'm out of touch with modern times and the latest technology. That's why a video like this one is invaluable for me. I really got a lot from it. I'll be watching it many times over, of course ..
@@tomaskral4685 I used to love new tech, will never forget my first walkman but there are so many choices and options these days and I don't know how the kids don't live on the edge of an overload breakdown! I like the point you make about asking being a large part of navigation back then too and through that how you meet new people and even end up in bars with them or their house at times. I just did a big trip around my country with GPS, smartphone and a new bike that is so much more advanced now it is much less liable to break down. As a result we had a great time and got good photos but didn't talk to anyone. Almost seems a bit hollow by comparison.
After 25.000km with my 2020 AfricaTwin this year, for me the perfect combination is Android Auto / CarPlay of my AT combined with a cheap ruggedly ulefone armor cellphone. Never used my Garmin xt again since I started my journey. Usually use Google maps for tarmac and Locus for off-road. I just love this combo!
@@Supernova12034you don’t actually need to connect a headset on the AT with CarPlay/Android. Just hold the back button when the message comes up. It will just bypass the requirement for a headset and you can use CarPlay/Android.
Great video Palvin. I recently installed a Zumo XT on my T7. It’s nice not to have to use my phone and I don’t have to be concerned about weather or vibration.
For medium / long distance travels, my suggestion is to have both. They provide different information, and you always have a backup. It's even more important when you are crossing frontiers, if you are unable to connect to internet and you dont have the chance to download offline navigation. Also, the phone fails quite a lot, as you pointed out, when you are above 35ºc or in minus degrees, they tend to shut off, the ruggerized gps worth every penny on this matter. Also many people underestimate the gradual damage electronics takes with vibration. The problem with Garmin gps (i have a 4 years old zumo xt) is that you need to connect it to a PC for updates, or to manage tracks, and you need basecamp to do so (very very annoying, i dont know if this happen to tom tom users). If you dont have a backup, just dust off one of those old phones abandoned on your wardrove, and keep it as backup on your luggage. Very nice video ;)
I prefer using my phone for navigation, like you said - the possibilities are pretty much unlimited. OsMand is my favourite App for offroad and TET navigation. Google Maps is my favourite for simple and fast road navigation. But on longer trips I do always carry a good old papaer map and compass, just in case 😉
Yes,and also, what was,how was before smartphones and navy, i think for sure good to have 1 but i also like to stop,5min,helmet off,feel the place,drink water,look the map and ask the locals, takes a minute.but sur is nice to have a navi.offcourse
I use an old smartphone with the battery removed. A few wiring connections allowed me to connect it directly to my CBR 250R. If I want to access maps with the internet, I turn on the Wi-Fi and turn my current smartphone's hotspot on and usually download the maps. It's helped tremendously and because there's no battery, there's no overheating issues for the most part. Using this trick for the past 5 years with no issues.
The great thing about being old is I learned to navigate pre GPS or internet and computers, only paper maps, and strangely it has never been a major issue. 9 years ago when I went over to the UK and Romania I bought a hand held hiking GPS I carried in my pocket, it helped me navigate the cities but was basically there to let me know where I was rather than show me how to get somewhere, trying to get out of London was a nightmare but I did succeed.. Now I do the same thing with a phone and offline maps, it still only lets me know where I am and I guess the rest. If you traveled pre SatNav it is no different now, a SatNav or GPS is not essential, nor even a Smartphone, but they are convenient at times. Don’t want to sound like an old dinosaur but I did learn mathematics before calculators and writing before spell check, so navigating without a GPS is not that difficult. 😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂
Getting out of cities always seems harder than in. I also remember pre GPS, sitting with the map together with the gang in the evening deciding the route then writning notes to stick on the tank bag.
Hi Pavlin, my experience has been positive with my old galaxy s10e and a 20 euro qi wireless charge I bought on ebay. Waterproof, no wires, charger connected to the battery. I've travelled around west africa and europe with no issues whatsoever.
Hi Pavlin. Nothing to do with navigation but love the 'old school' glass jars with metal lids screwed to underside of workshop shelves for small parts storage. Respect from UK!
For proper off-roading I have been using Gaia GPS. It was primarily made for hiking and overlanding, however I've found it great for the motorbike. Works on all platforms and has a web interface as well - so you can make routes on your big home PC and they automatically sync to your mobile devices.
Hi Pavlin, for Garmin car GPS you need an OTG ( = on the go) usb cable or adapter. OTG is a specific usb cable connection. You can then connect to a normal usb power supply and it will be recognised as a power supply by the GPS. Works for me on two motorcycles.
I’ve used a TomTom car gps in a waterproof case for many years. It still works today and it has lifetime updates for worldmaps, it even has gpx and twisty routes. This year I started using an old Samsung s8, again with TomTom software for routing or Google maps when I’m looking for something specific like an ATM. I mounted it above the dash and charge it with a wireless charger, so no cable or connector issues. I keep my regular phone in the pocket of my motorcycle jacket. I like the phone solution more, because it is more versatile and compact.
Very comprehensive. For me I do my planning on maps, mark route, and transfer the route to a program I can save and store in my gps, backed up on my phone. But often I see something off route I want to follow, and then just follow my nose. Whatever works. Happy travels 👍 Good one 👍
That was really interesting. We use google maps for about everything, but we do not go that far (and we still have paper maps just in case). Regarding devices: an option to consider, if you do not need gigantic amounts of data or the latest games, may be a real "outdoor" phone, water and dustproof. We now bought one for our daughter (she is now also fully into motorcycle riding and her phone got rained on - did not survive - no IP rating or something like that.). So he chose a brick of a phone, which she uses only for navigation. She does not need any of those cases, and the battery has 13.800 mAh, which is more than enough for one weekend. It is rather heavy, but for short messages in WhatsApp (I still like to read from her when she reached a destination) or a quick call, it is okay. Mounted to the handlebar, it does not matter.
Great video, really useful. I personally use a second phone as the vibration of a motorcycle can kill your camera so my main phone stays safely in my pocket. I am loving the new studio too, the videos look great!
Great video, tried both phone and GPS consoles like android/iOS, consoles like garmin and Tomtom, the key is the accuracy of google/local map on the phone or the map/ver of the country where the consoles can be purchased All depends on where will you travel , let say China or Russia , the local app on phone is more accurate than the map of console like Garmin
Hi, I'm from Brasil, I have a Garmin Zumo 396 lm and don't need a 9v adaptor, just plug ir direct on batery (and in comes with a cabe for that); I have all map (here, EU and Rest of the world) free and I can update it wireless. If you don't like garmin maps (Powered by Here), have many GPS communities that you can download to your device any map you want. I used for a long time a cellphone as navagator, when a changed to a Zumo it was a life changer. No internet and all information on that, anywhere. Don't have to be a "xt", look for a 396, cheaper and does the same job. I like your vídeo, keep de good job. Big hug. ✌️🤘👊👍
Another option may be to use a tablet designed for harsh conditions. I've just bought a used Samsung Galaxy Tab Active3 8" tablet. I haven't tried it on the bike yet. But it is a rugged tablet designed for use in wet or dusty conditions (it works underwater), is allegedly resistant to vibrations, works with gloves on, can run any GPS software designed for Android (or Google Maps of course), has a memory card slot if needed, is bigger than any dedicated GPS and also a SIM card slot (for data). Because it's Android you can split the screen and run two different apps on each side if you want. I'll try it when I get another bike but in theory it should be good.
Best of all worlds. Paper maps for the big picture, I can spread it out and see a lot of area at once. Garmin Zumo XT mounted and smart phone with Google maps. You are correct about the spelling issues with Zumo but with the smart phone I can easily get the correct spelling to enter. In my opinion, the biggest problem with Google maps is the limited number of way points. I tend to get carried away some times. Set your motorcycle up to recharge your battery packs and you never have to worry about them. Of the three options, paper maps is still my favorite one. If something happens to one, they can be easily replaced. Safe travels!
Found your channel - Fantastic. Really good common sense advice that is sorely needed. ("There are old Motorcyclists; And there are bold Motorcyclists. But very few old, bold motorcyclists"). I find myself nodding along in agreement with your vids - and can personally attest to the fact that Car GPS's will fail after a few 000 KM's on a Bike (even when riding only on sealed roads). Took less than a few thousand km's to turn bar-mounted Navman to a brick.
I travelled the TET for four months and only used my phone (Samsung Galaxy S20) to navigate. It’s really versatile especially for off-road use. I used LocusMaps Pro, the best navigation app in my opinion. It costs about 10€ but it’s worth it’s money. Maps cost under a euro per country and you can download lots of different maps. I only used the ones from LocusMaps itself. They are extremely detailed. There are a lot of good videos about LoMaps on UA-cam. For roads or city’s I use Google Maps. The only downside to the phone is, it overheats quickly so it turns down the brightness of the screen so you can’t see very well. And the worst thing, if you ride off road it will destroy your camera if you have mechanical zoom or stabilisation. This is the main reason I’m switching to a real gps this year.
In terms destroing optical zoom/stabilisation - this is why I'm thinking of buying another smartphone like Cat S41/61 just for navigation purposes. Still cheaper and easier to use than gps-motorcycle-navigation and Cat is water&shock&dust proof.
I do not have any experience with GPS devices but on my travels I use my phone. Problems like the charging port issue that Pavlin described happen to me multiple times. Long rain will make the charging port wet and it will complain that there is water in the port. You can not charge it for a while after that. You need to get it dry. My next upgrade will be a mount with wireless charging and a second phone that just has maps. I will put the phone in a as waterproof cover as possible and hope it works out fine. I have had already a few close calls with battery almost dead on a trip in a place where I needed to find a specific camp grounds or fuel station in a new country I have never been to and its not a really good feeling :)
Thank you, another great presentation! Can I make few observations? 1. As I understand it, as GPS devices use signals from satellites, they almost never suffer loss of signal. Smartphones, on the other hand, are reliant on signals from nearby phone masts, which may be lost in rural or mountainous areas. 2. The "lightning" charging cables and sockets on iPhones are very sensitive to any moisture. Even with my iPhone in a waterproof case, connected to a 12V socket, in damp or wet conditions there is still a chance that I will get a message saying "Charging not possible due to liquid in lightning socket or cable". It can then take several hours to recover. 3. You didn’t mention the Beeline Moto system. It uses Google maps via your smartphone. But instead of a distracting satnav type screen, it consists of a small circular dial giving simple information about the next junction or deviation. It connects to your smartphone by Bluetooth, so no problems with cables and moisture. The Beeline device charges quickly and has more than enough power for a day’s riding. Route planning is done using the excellent Beeline app, usually in my case in the comfort of my room the night before! You can store your smartphone anywhere on your person or on your bike (maybe under your seat), or if you wish, you can mount it on your dash/handlebar, keep the screen off, and activate the app if you want more detailed route info via Google maps. Finally, it costs much less than a GPS satnav, will re-navigate if you go off the planned route, and has a "fun" option which finds good biking routes. Happy touring!
at the point 1---the smartphone are using the satellite gps signal....some of them are more accurate and performant than a motorcycle dedicated GPS....if you have the option to download the maps on the smartphone, the is not need to have any network connection, its just between satellite and the smartphone done ... as an example for Ip 13 has as Positioning: GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS, QZSS, on Samy Galaxy S21 Positioning GPS, GLONASS, BDS, GALILEO ..... 2 ---there is motorcycle smartphone holders with wireless charging, so no more cables.... 3---some are using the turn by turn voice of the smartphone gps if is connected to the helmet headset .... 🙂 👍
On the road I always have an old NOKIA 'burner phone' with me with the 2nd SIM card for emergencies. A SAMSUNG with only google MAPS is more than enough for navigation including the old overview maps of the area you are driving through, thanks again! Powerbank, waterproof, 60 temp, including jumper cables, 20000 Mpa.
very good info. i used an old car gps last sept traveling through Kansas. it was about 5.00 at a yd sale. it bit the dust the second day in the rain. my next one will be one for a motorcycle
Regarding power banks, i can highly recommend Telwin. It can not only charge devices and work as a flash light but also jump start a dead battery many times. I've even started a tracktor that had a dead battery with it.
Greetings Pavlin Finally a slight return to the old ways when you became popular and then a small period of stagnation or whatever. I hope for a complete return when we were waiting impatiently for a new video. This is just my opinion Greetings from Serbia😁
I use a mobile as a back up to a Garmin XT. The mobile screen is not easy to read in bright sunlight and even ramping up the brightness causes overheating issues.
I use Zumo XT with Garmin Drive app + Garmin Smart Link + my IPhone 12 for back up if I need. Now I purchase Samsung Galaxy Tab Active 3 (8 inches) with Ram Craddle 👍🏼
Tank you again for an nice video. One thing I learned is to change the language in Googlemaps when I travel in countries that spell their villages names differently than on the map I have. Even when the country uses a different alphabet, this can be a very good help to find the right way.
I had a Garmin Nuvi and here in New Zealand we have an Open GPS Map system that I was able to use to get up-to-date maps for free , but everything you say about using a car GPS on a motorcycle is true, so I've never used it on the bike. Also, as an older GPS, it can only detect one "constellation" of satellites, which makes it *_extremely_** slow* to determine where it is - I've managed to drive all the way out of town before it's worked out where I am and updated the map and location. For comparison, my cheap mobile phone detects GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO and BDS and gets a "fix" within a few seconds. I've used my phone in a waterproof case mounted on my bike and it's done wonders for navigating, though occasionally the sun is too bright to read the screen (need a better brighter phone). In addition to some really good GPS apps (with downloadable local maps) and Google Maps, it runs other travel apps, like DMD2 (Drivemode Dashboard).
Voile connectivity is great, but I live in Tennessee in the US and 70% of my time traveling there is no signal from any provider. I use my phone with maps downloaded and the route, a Garmin Montana with the routes and maps with a satellite subscription, and a Garmin XT. I keep them all going when touring away from home and can triangulate, but it’s a pain and requires some babysitting.
Hi Pavlin, thank you for the video. Actually the best and most cost efficient way is to use one of rugged mobiles for £100 - £200 dedicated for navigation. closer to £200 you cen get really good stuff with filtered screen, waterproof, powerful and wireless charged. Then you mount wireless charger behind holder and voila! This is what I have done. Works like a dream. I have multiple navigation systems on it plus WhatApp for receiving information. Dedicated, highly overpriced, single system, closed sat navs are the relicts of the past. Just my thoughts.
Thanks a lot for this video, I am starting my first motorbike trip at the end of September and i was very confused about buying or not a dedicated GPS. Great video
Hey, thanks for the video. I have long been solving what to navigate by, I wanted to be able to navigate online (with trafic info) by google maps so I need internet, to be able download offline maps (other than google), the device must be logically waterproof, it must have wireless charging (or rather not a standard connector for charging as the phone has) and the last requirement I had was the possibility of e-sim for use outside the EU when you can buy a SIM that works in more than 100 countries for cheap. In the end the cheapest device that fulfilled this was a smart phone (in my case I found a reasonably priced Motorola Edge 40) the price tag was about 300Eur
I think using an old iphone on a good quality holder which has paddings is a great solution with infinite possibilities. GPS devices can never even come close to competing with them.From the touch quality to the screens themselves. Plus amazon has millions of products designed for you to protect the phone from sunlight to weather.
Great content, you also need to be mindful of vibration killing the phone camera's image stabilization. It's worth investing in a mount that damps the vibration
I use my Garmin Navigator 5 on my BMW R1200 GS with the factory mount and have never had a problem. But in some ways I am still old school. I use a paper map and Goggle Maps to lay out my route and use a list of waypoints to plug into the GPS. I carry my smart phone in my jacket, so if I would have an accident the phone is where I can get to it for help. Plus I can charge the phone in my tank bag.
i think carplay or aindroid auto are the future so i am still surprised that there is still nothing on the aftermarked devices especially for motorcycles
Pavlin, excellent video with good or not so great things for every each device and you are correct, bottom of the line whatever fit you better that is the perfect option for you but I loved the way you present all the possibilities. Good Job !!
QuadLock sells wireless charging mounts that work pretty well. No need to connect the cable to your phone and even if the USB port gets humid you still charge
Hi Pavlin, thanks for the info, but Using a modern mobile phone wil not work for several reasons 1e Overheating (and they will especially in bright sunshine, in the south of Europe) 2e The camera (if you use models with mechanical lenses mechanism) will break. (And no mount will protect you for that) they not designed for the vibrations on a inline twin, and defiantly not for a one-cylinder Enduro machine. 3e the power connectors (USB-C, USB-2.0 (type-A), ore even lightning connector, which is the most robust option (because there is a little click mechanism build in) will not hold forever, and they definitely get moister and dust in it and the connection will get corrosion eventually (experience it myself on several occasions with different phones). 4e They also expensive … unless you use a cheap model … but they are mostly not rugged and not as waterproof as a the more expensive Samsungs or iPhones. I agree with you that the software is mostly better on IOS or Android, that’s a fact. So for me there is only one option for now, dedicated navigation system like Garmin Zumo-XT, or TomTom, or even better ones like the one you showed for ATV vehicles. It is more expensive but you get more for the money.
Hi Pavlin Previously I use the Navigator 5 on my beemer R1200GSA, but after sometime I started to put adaptor in the cradle to use phone. I just completed a 24 days solo tour on my tiny bike, on this trip I use an old iphone 7+ with usb plug in 100% of time rain or shine. After that trip I recently purchase a secondhand Kyocera Torque G4 which is water proof and a samsung A7 to upgrade my gps setup, the 7 inch samsung I will use as a big screen during dry weather, when it rain I will use the Kyocera phone. Android has a fantastic apps Drive Mode Dashboard 2 which make it very easy to organise your nav apps and most use apps. I installed in on both the android device. Do have a look at it.. 👍
I use the old smartphone for navigation each time I replace my daily driver. My preferred mapping is TomTom, as the maps are download, and use little memory, so it's convenient. TomTom enables complicated routes to be easy planned using as many waypoints as you need. Charging is via a wireless charger, so you can stick tape over the unused ports if you think there's a danger of wet or dust getting in. I may switch to Google Maps or Waze for local navigation as these provide a different sort of information.
Hi Pavlin, I always like to have two options and one will work at least. That's why I use one GPS device (TomTom) and one Mobile Phone based (e.g. BMW Connect). Both showed up to be not 100% reliable 🌻
All material is very good 👍 I think that there is also one big difference between phone and navi, the GPS signal is better in navi, phone, a specially when is bad weather, can loose the signal. But I agree with you Palvin, I'm using my old phone, Black View with big baterry, screen and contrast. A map I use is TomTom Go Navigation and I like it. The fact is that Google Maps is the best with names. When you write something not correctly it has always some right suggestions. 😁👍
Great video with sensible advise! I regularly save my older smartphone each time I upgrade and keep it only for navigation purposes. I also own a Garmin car GPS and I never pay for map updates. I legally download and install Open street maps for it. Finally I would greatly appreciate if you can review the BeeLine navigator, as I actually am on the fence on buying it. Greetings from southern Chile!
Why not using the Wireless chargers for connector issues? Here in Pakistan the heating issue is same as I faced, that the phones get very hot due to high temperatures.. during the day time charging, specially when the phones are charging with the 4G data is on, mostly that happened during 11am to 4pm. Overall its a great advice. 👍👍👍
After years of trial and error, I've settled on a second, cheap smartphone (no sim card) on my bike for music and gps - and keep my "good" smartphone in my pocket. I share the internet connection of the good phone, via bluetooth to the one on the bike. While I've never had it... I think new bikes with Android Auto / Apple Car play are TOTAL game-changers!
I like to use the garmin gpsmap series (I've used 60XC, 64S, 66S). easy to operate with gloves (good old buttons, no touch). I can take it off the bike and continue using it on walks. they do not depend on a permanent connection to the motorcycle, they work with standard or rechargeable AA batteries. a pair of AA batteries lasts a full day or more. can use OSM maps. resistant, no problems with vibrations, dust, heat or rain. cell phones are convenient, but they suffer from overheating in hot places like here in Brazil
I carry a GPS smartphone and paper maps. I find the paper maps difficult to use and I like to keep track my progress so I use the GPS. It's designed for a car but comes with a USB port worked great until that case he was talking about zipper broke didn't realize it in the GPS fell out it and was gone all part of the adventure.
I've used both. I use my iphone 8 and google maps. Reliable and up to date world wide. Leaving for Europe next month. The phone with a european sim card will take me where I want to go.
I used it for years but is awful. A lot of bugs, restarts all the time and if you change your device, you cannot reuse the activation code you paied for.
Thank you my trusted friend! I have just received my Tenere, partially based on your recommendations :) For navigation I went out and spent the big bucks for the garmin Montana 750i. Oja what money...
Hi, not using Wikiloc ? sometimes interesting when you want some "offroad" roads (or when you are in countries where even google map as problems) . Always nice to see your videos !
Pavlin, love the vids and real world experience! I've been using roadbook on a ruggerized phone (from amazon for under $200) that has 5000 MAHs, so I charge it at night w/o vibrations. carpe-navigation is on my wish list for the tenere 700, but for the dirt bike, ruggerized phone with roadbook.
@@domster200 how is it on the bike? Been thinking about one of these. I have a Garmin XT but the software is dinosaur to use, just don't want to break my iPhone and be stuck without communication
I am using a phone for maps. Using it for several years. Just changing the profile from car to motorcycle is easy. It's not a waterproof phone and is asking for an upgrade. Maybe I'll look at rugged phones. As for reliability, it has a strong gps signal, that's what matters for gps apps. And since it is an old phone, I have to plug it in the motorcycle.
I love my garmin zumo XT. But I use also my smartphone occasionally for navigation only with voice instructions over the helmet intercom. The smartphone remains in my pocket. So the display remains deactivated and the smartphone gets less hot and the battery does not empty so quickly. This works well for me.
Hi Pavin, I used a Garmin drive 52 with the European download when I went to Serbia last summer, it worked well on the Skoda rental car. I traveled 1200 kilometers with no issues
Repost from your latest video. Hi Pavlin, I see you mounting a smart phone as the nav unit. I just came back from a trip to Thailand, and upgrade my gps phone. Have a look at those Chinese made rugged phone with massive battery from Oukitel, BlackView or Ulefone. I just bought a cheap one from Oukitel the battery will last all day riding and the phone is rugged and waterproof.
I have tried dedicated GPS and phone. Be aware modern Samsungs will stop charging if it detects moisture in the charging port. Misty conditions stop it charging after an hour or so. Heavy rain almost immediately. Phone touch screens cannot cope with very heavy rain. So I've gone for a dedicated Android unit from Carpe Iter/Thork but it is really expensive. For me, a mid budget option is use Garmin Zumo and have the ability to mount your waterproof smart phone if you need to for Google maps.
Here in Alaska I use a Garmen Montana 700i, as I use it for hiking, jeeping, and moto. Plus it has satellite texting for emergency's, or giving friends info on your present location and health status without needing a cellular signal. It's Expensive, waterproof, expensive, shock resistant, expensive, and for satellite service... more expensive for active sub. But it's worth it when something bad happens, so I treat it like trip insurance.
Just changed from smartphone to dedicated navigation device after many years. Visibility one of the important things. I used before scenic, google maps.
How many cheap auto GPS's can you buy for the price of a zumo xt? I ride my bike about 40K miles a year in all kinds of weather conditions. I put a zip lock bag over it in the rain. Cheap and thin enough that the GPS works as if it wasn't iy wasn't in the bag. I also use a smartphone with a waterproof cover. GPS works all the time, Smartphone depends on having a cell signal.
I have 2 phones, older phone conected to a usb charger, and my regular phone with wireless charging, they're both water and dust resistent, the only problem i had was with my personal phone was exposed to the sun, and to hot and don't charge. But theres good rugged phones out there, with good battery life. One thing that i'm thinking it's a 7" rugged tablet, the bigger screen i think it's a must have, even if you want to make a ride with digital road book.
I use zumo xt and iPhone 13 mini with sp connect pro and anti vibration option! No problems on My t7 ( 7500km) handy to just twist of THE phone ,to take pictures ! And trust me off road safe!
very good info especially for me coming from usa to euro area. The sim card deal is useful. I read maps as an engineer and surveyor and traveler for 50 yrs now. however finding a cystoms office at border or a motel hostel in a crowded foreign town one needs all the help they can get. I only doeak some spanish and french basic english is my native. So dialec issues for me. A motorcycle gos is good exoensive yes bit is only device that wil last if taken good care of. google has best maos. a screen shot tajen dsy before is good as you can enlarge it. thanks again. you did a god job
I just use my Tomtom everytime (it's a bike gps and I use it in the car as well) even if I know the road because it gives me my real speed, my average speed when there are average speed cameras and when I'm on an unknown road I can know in advance how wide or tight the bends are so I'm always in the right gear. It updates whenever it finds a wifi so no computer needed. Before it I used my smartphone but I couldn't use it to find addresses in the rain and it overheated in the sun, so now I have it in my pocket, it's bluetooth connected with the gps and tells it about the traffic so the gps can find alternatives and tell me something like "queue ahead, turn right here to save 15 minutes"
Hi there! I have uppdated my garmin xt so now I see all gravelroads an tracks very good. I even see bareiers. Realy good. But as you say. It cost me abott 150 dollar. Thanks for good info 👌😊 To bad I cant post a picture of it.
I wish google maps would allow you to send a specific route to the phone instead of its preferred way (for example, some intersections or roads I drive around to avoid). Only way I found to do this is to add stops around the route, but hopefully they are close to the road so you dont have to stop.
When I travelled around South America I only used paper maps aided by a compass on the featureless salt flats in Bolivia. Absolutely no problem at all. If I was ever in doubt I asked the locals, who were always helpful. Perhaps I am showing my age!!!
Hy, Pavlin. I agree with you, after I experienced a lot of situations. What I wana ask you is to talk in a future video about insurance. What you use, what you can recomand us. Especially for us from eastern countries, no many companies want to assure us. Is a regular insurance enough for traveling in remotes places like Patagonia or Pamir? what is your experience with this? maybe have an German passport you have not met such situations. For me, being for Romania , was a challenge to find a proper ensure. Thank you in advance.
Those that use Apple products might note that in the US the new phones (iphone14) don’t use SIM cards. They use eSim. That’s a built in SIM card that your provider can use to sign you up. Since we travel to Mexico I have a SÌM card for that and when we travel to Europe we purchase SIM cards in airport or convenience store. Apple phones bought in Europe still use SIM cards though.
13:06 i know of a possible solution, there are magnetic phone cables, where the part that connect to the phone can easily be split bc it have a small magnet, so you never run the risk of damaging your phone usb port
I bought a cheap Chinese car GPS, a Chinese clone quad lock, a Chinese bluetooth audio adapter, and a cheap headset. A friend took a bike Garmin apart, the only difference was a rubber gasket around the case joint. I could buy 6 Chinese GPS's for the cost of one Zumo? Lol. The Benelli TRK's have a USB socket on the bike as standard, which works great. I printed my own sun shade. I get free global updates with the XGody.
Hi Pavlin, I recent traveled 5000 miles from the UK to Sozopol to Bulgaria on my R1250 GSA armed with both bmw connect cradle for my iPhone and the garmin nav 6. In my case both were useful and had serious flaws. Garmin nav is clunky, dated and incredibly hard to use as an easy navigation solution. Horrendously outdate dated to plan long trips and unreliable. My phone in the cradle had great nav options of course however was useless in the 35 degree sun from east Hungary to Sozopol as the screen simply blacked out. So in my opinion neither were suitable 😂. On another not don’t cargo-net plastic bottles of water on your pillion seat, it cost me £300 to replace the seat after the sun tried to set fire to it 😂. My trip can be seen on my channel
One benefit of having a dedicated GPS unit, or a second mobile/cell phone, is the safety aspect. Imagine if you come off your bike, you're injured, you can't move, you're alone, and no one knows you're there. The only way you can contact the emergency services is by using your mobile/cell phone, but it's on the bike and you can't reach it! A horrible situation to be in, but it could happen. Always have a mobile/cell phone on you when riding alone, so you can contact someone in an emergency, because one day you might need it, and it might just save your life.
True
Add cheapest watch that you can connect to your phone would also be an idea.
Get a 2nd phone. 😅
Detecht - motorcycle travel software that records routes etc and also has crash detection so that if you crash your bike it will send a text to your emergency contact (or contacts, if you have a premium account). Unlike a couple of other "crash detection" apps, you _don't have to subscribe_ to use this feature.
The phone needs to be securely on your person or on the motorbike, not rattling around in your pack or a glove compartment etc... to avoid false alarms.
I'm in Australia 🇦🇺 and really like you no B.S no nonsense personality you must obviously have. I respect your informed information, not going on about brands I really appreciate how you put your in front of the camera and be Pavlin. The person you are well done thanks for good videos from Jim onya mate 👍
Thanks, Jim!
" If you have nothing to do grab your favorite drink and stay with me !"......I don't know why this feels so relaxing and probably the best intro I've ever heard.
Glad you enjoy it!
I tryed many options, at least i come to following set up: My old Smartphone HUAWEI mate 20 Pro with TomTom and Google Map only for navigation. The phone is waterproof and attached permanently on the Bike, it is also plugged all the time with it's own cable. So far no problems with vibrations. No Sim card inside, if needed, I use my normal smartphone as a Hotspot. I have a single cable going into my Tankbag charging my Powerbank during riding. So far, this setup works fine for me... one plus is the fact, that it connects easily to my Cardo-System by Bluetooth, i can hear the navigation-command as well Musik in my Helmet.
Keep on your nice content and style of videos!
Thanks for sharing!
Mám to úplně stejné, nejlepší je starší mobilní telefon jen na navigaci a osobní mobilní telefon na komunikaci.
I remember the 80's... people used to point at a direction with their hand and say 'over there' 🤣
Hey Pavlin! Thanks a lot for this episode that will surely help "dinosaurs" like me out there! You've answered all my questions. Thanks again! Greetings from the Czech Republic! Tomas👍
Glad I could help, Tomas!
@@motorcycleadventures You sure did!
@@tomaskral4685 great question Tomas. I have good memories of riding around your beautiful country in 1990. Had an amazing time and met some cool people (great beer and food too).
@@d.Cog420 Thanks d.CoG! I've always been the guy resisting progress. You know, when CDs came out I went like "screw that, I got my cassette tapes" . Then I got into CDs. Recently I wanted to buy a new car..."what, no CD player?!? You just lost a customer!"😁. Anyway, for the longest time my navigation was my mouth. I would stop and ask someone for directions( or consult a map). But my cousin (who's 20 years younger) suggested I use Waze about 2 years ago. I tried it, and it saved my ass many times. Still, there are many areas where I'm out of touch with modern times and the latest technology. That's why a video like this one is invaluable for me. I really got a lot from it. I'll be watching it many times over, of course ..
@@tomaskral4685 I used to love new tech, will never forget my first walkman but there are so many choices and options these days and I don't know how the kids don't live on the edge of an overload breakdown! I like the point you make about asking being a large part of navigation back then too and through that how you meet new people and even end up in bars with them or their house at times. I just did a big trip around my country with GPS, smartphone and a new bike that is so much more advanced now it is much less liable to break down. As a result we had a great time and got good photos but didn't talk to anyone. Almost seems a bit hollow by comparison.
After 25.000km with my 2020 AfricaTwin this year, for me the perfect combination is Android Auto / CarPlay of my AT combined with a cheap ruggedly ulefone armor cellphone. Never used my Garmin xt again since I started my journey. Usually use Google maps for tarmac and Locus for off-road. I just love this combo!
Thanks for sharing!
I have 2022 africa twin adventure sports, the android auto never works, the bike never detects my cardo headset bluetooth...
@@Supernova12034 I’m sorry for you. But I cab switch from iPhone to Android phone back and forth and had never any issues. Have you updated your bike?
@@Supernova12034you don’t actually need to connect a headset on the AT with CarPlay/Android. Just hold the back button when the message comes up. It will just bypass the requirement for a headset and you can use CarPlay/Android.
Found paper maps easier only use GPS on phone to find address in towns Kiss Keep it simple stupid.😊
Great video Palvin. I recently installed a Zumo XT on my T7. It’s nice not to have to use my phone and I don’t have to be concerned about weather or vibration.
I am sure that it is a great device. Thanks for sharing!
Bought same Zumo XT amazing device
Or losing signal
For medium / long distance travels, my suggestion is to have both. They provide different information, and you always have a backup. It's even more important when you are crossing frontiers, if you are unable to connect to internet and you dont have the chance to download offline navigation. Also, the phone fails quite a lot, as you pointed out, when you are above 35ºc or in minus degrees, they tend to shut off, the ruggerized gps worth every penny on this matter. Also many people underestimate the gradual damage electronics takes with vibration. The problem with Garmin gps (i have a 4 years old zumo xt) is that you need to connect it to a PC for updates, or to manage tracks, and you need basecamp to do so (very very annoying, i dont know if this happen to tom tom users). If you dont have a backup, just dust off one of those old phones abandoned on your wardrove, and keep it as backup on your luggage. Very nice video ;)
I prefer using my phone for navigation, like you said - the possibilities are pretty much unlimited.
OsMand is my favourite App for offroad and TET navigation. Google Maps is my favourite for simple and fast road navigation.
But on longer trips I do always carry a good old papaer map and compass, just in case 😉
Good!
exactly
Yes,and also, what was,how was before smartphones and navy, i think for sure good to have 1 but i also like to stop,5min,helmet off,feel the place,drink water,look the map and ask the locals, takes a minute.but sur is nice to have a navi.offcourse
I use an old smartphone with the battery removed. A few wiring connections allowed me to connect it directly to my CBR 250R.
If I want to access maps with the internet, I turn on the Wi-Fi and turn my current smartphone's hotspot on and usually download the maps. It's helped tremendously and because there's no battery, there's no overheating issues for the most part.
Using this trick for the past 5 years with no issues.
Good to know! Thanks!
The great thing about being old is I learned to navigate pre GPS or internet and computers, only paper maps, and strangely it has never been a major issue.
9 years ago when I went over to the UK and Romania I bought a hand held hiking GPS I carried in my pocket, it helped me navigate the cities but was basically there to let me know where I was rather than show me how to get somewhere, trying to get out of London was a nightmare but I did succeed..
Now I do the same thing with a phone and offline maps, it still only lets me know where I am and I guess the rest.
If you traveled pre SatNav it is no different now, a SatNav or GPS is not essential, nor even a Smartphone, but they are convenient at times.
Don’t want to sound like an old dinosaur but I did learn mathematics before calculators and writing before spell check, so navigating without a GPS is not that difficult. 😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂
I am with you!
Getting out of cities always seems harder than in. I also remember pre GPS, sitting with the map together with the gang in the evening deciding the route then writning notes to stick on the tank bag.
Hi Pavlin, my experience has been positive with my old galaxy s10e and a 20 euro qi wireless charge I bought on ebay. Waterproof, no wires, charger connected to the battery. I've travelled around west africa and europe with no issues whatsoever.
Thanks for sharing!
Hi Pavlin. Nothing to do with navigation but love the 'old school' glass jars with metal lids screwed to underside of workshop shelves for small parts storage. Respect from UK!
Thanks, Ian!
For proper off-roading I have been using Gaia GPS. It was primarily made for hiking and overlanding, however I've found it great for the motorbike. Works on all platforms and has a web interface as well - so you can make routes on your big home PC and they automatically sync to your mobile devices.
Thanks for the info!
Hi Pavlin, for Garmin car GPS you need an OTG ( = on the go) usb cable or adapter. OTG is a specific usb cable connection. You can then connect to a normal usb power supply and it will be recognised as a power supply by the GPS. Works for me on two motorcycles.
Good to know, thanks for adding!
I’ve used a TomTom car gps in a waterproof case for many years. It still works today and it has lifetime updates for worldmaps, it even has gpx and twisty routes. This year I started using an old Samsung s8, again with TomTom software for routing or Google maps when I’m looking for something specific like an ATM. I mounted it above the dash and charge it with a wireless charger, so no cable or connector issues. I keep my regular phone in the pocket of my motorcycle jacket.
I like the phone solution more, because it is more versatile and compact.
Thanks for sharing!
Very comprehensive.
For me I do my planning on maps, mark route, and transfer the route to a program I can save and store in my gps, backed up on my phone.
But often I see something off route I want to follow, and then just follow my nose.
Whatever works.
Happy travels 👍
Good one 👍
Thanks for sharing!
That was really interesting. We use google maps for about everything, but we do not go that far (and we still have paper maps just in case). Regarding devices: an option to consider, if you do not need gigantic amounts of data or the latest games, may be a real "outdoor" phone, water and dustproof. We now bought one for our daughter (she is now also fully into motorcycle riding and her phone got rained on - did not survive - no IP rating or something like that.). So he chose a brick of a phone, which she uses only for navigation. She does not need any of those cases, and the battery has 13.800 mAh, which is more than enough for one weekend. It is rather heavy, but for short messages in WhatsApp (I still like to read from her when she reached a destination) or a quick call, it is okay. Mounted to the handlebar, it does not matter.
Thanks for sharing this information, Sandra!
Great video, really useful. I personally use a second phone as the vibration of a motorcycle can kill your camera so my main phone stays safely in my pocket.
I am loving the new studio too, the videos look great!
Thanks, Andrew!
Great video, tried both phone and GPS consoles like android/iOS, consoles like garmin and Tomtom, the key is the accuracy of google/local map on the phone or the map/ver of the country where the consoles can be purchased
All depends on where will you travel , let say China or Russia , the local app on phone is more accurate than the map of console like Garmin
I agree.
Hi, I'm from Brasil, I have a Garmin Zumo 396 lm and don't need a 9v adaptor, just plug ir direct on batery (and in comes with a cabe for that); I have all map (here, EU and Rest of the world) free and I can update it wireless. If you don't like garmin maps (Powered by Here), have many GPS communities that you can download to your device any map you want. I used for a long time a cellphone as navagator, when a changed to a Zumo it was a life changer. No internet and all information on that, anywhere. Don't have to be a "xt", look for a 396, cheaper and does the same job. I like your vídeo, keep de good job. Big hug. ✌️🤘👊👍
Thanks for sharing!
Another option may be to use a tablet designed for harsh conditions. I've just bought a used Samsung Galaxy Tab Active3 8" tablet. I haven't tried it on the bike yet. But it is a rugged tablet designed for use in wet or dusty conditions (it works underwater), is allegedly resistant to vibrations, works with gloves on, can run any GPS software designed for Android (or Google Maps of course), has a memory card slot if needed, is bigger than any dedicated GPS and also a SIM card slot (for data). Because it's Android you can split the screen and run two different apps on each side if you want. I'll try it when I get another bike but in theory it should be good.
Best of all worlds. Paper maps for the big picture, I can spread it out and see a lot of area at once. Garmin Zumo XT mounted and smart phone with Google maps. You are correct about the spelling issues with Zumo but with the smart phone I can easily get the correct spelling to enter. In my opinion, the biggest problem with Google maps is the limited number of way points. I tend to get carried away some times. Set your motorcycle up to recharge your battery packs and you never have to worry about them. Of the three options, paper maps is still my favorite one. If something happens to one, they can be easily replaced. Safe travels!
I also prefer the maps but in modern days not many will use it.
Found your channel - Fantastic. Really good common sense advice that is sorely needed. ("There are old Motorcyclists; And there are bold Motorcyclists. But very few old, bold motorcyclists"). I find myself nodding along in agreement with your vids - and can personally attest to the fact that Car GPS's will fail after a few 000 KM's on a Bike (even when riding only on sealed roads). Took less than a few thousand km's to turn bar-mounted Navman to a brick.
Welcome aboard!
I travelled the TET for four months and only used my phone (Samsung Galaxy S20) to navigate. It’s really versatile especially for off-road use. I used LocusMaps Pro, the best navigation app in my opinion. It costs about 10€ but it’s worth it’s money. Maps cost under a euro per country and you can download lots of different maps. I only used the ones from LocusMaps itself. They are extremely detailed. There are a lot of good videos about LoMaps on UA-cam.
For roads or city’s I use Google Maps.
The only downside to the phone is, it overheats quickly so it turns down the brightness of the screen so you can’t see very well. And the worst thing, if you ride off road it will destroy your camera if you have mechanical zoom or stabilisation. This is the main reason I’m switching to a real gps this year.
Thanks for sharing!
In terms destroing optical zoom/stabilisation - this is why I'm thinking of buying another smartphone like Cat S41/61 just for navigation purposes. Still cheaper and easier to use than gps-motorcycle-navigation and Cat is water&shock&dust proof.
I do not have any experience with GPS devices but on my travels I use my phone. Problems like the charging port issue that Pavlin described happen to me multiple times. Long rain will make the charging port wet and it will complain that there is water in the port. You can not charge it for a while after that. You need to get it dry. My next upgrade will be a mount with wireless charging and a second phone that just has maps. I will put the phone in a as waterproof cover as possible and hope it works out fine.
I have had already a few close calls with battery almost dead on a trip in a place where I needed to find a specific camp grounds or fuel station in a new country I have never been to and its not a really good feeling :)
Thanks for sharing your experience!
Thank you, another great presentation! Can I make few observations?
1. As I understand it, as GPS devices use signals from satellites, they almost never suffer loss of signal. Smartphones, on the other hand, are reliant on signals from nearby phone masts, which may be lost in rural or mountainous areas.
2. The "lightning" charging cables and sockets on iPhones are very sensitive to any moisture. Even with my iPhone in a waterproof case, connected to a 12V socket, in damp or wet conditions there is still a chance that I will get a message saying "Charging not possible due to liquid in lightning socket or cable". It can then take several hours to recover.
3. You didn’t mention the Beeline Moto system. It uses Google maps via your smartphone. But instead of a distracting satnav type screen, it consists of a small circular dial giving simple information about the next junction or deviation. It connects to your smartphone by Bluetooth, so no problems with cables and moisture. The Beeline device charges quickly and has more than enough power for a day’s riding. Route planning is done using the excellent Beeline app, usually in my case in the comfort of my room the night before! You can store your smartphone anywhere on your person or on your bike (maybe under your seat), or if you wish, you can mount it on your dash/handlebar, keep the screen off, and activate the app if you want more detailed route info via Google maps. Finally, it costs much less than a GPS satnav, will re-navigate if you go off the planned route, and has a "fun" option which finds good biking routes.
Happy touring!
Thanks for taking the time!
at the point 1---the smartphone are using the satellite gps signal....some of them are more accurate and performant than a motorcycle dedicated GPS....if you have the option to download the maps on the smartphone, the is not need to have any network connection, its just between satellite and the smartphone done ... as an example for Ip 13 has as Positioning: GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS, QZSS, on Samy Galaxy S21 Positioning GPS, GLONASS, BDS, GALILEO .....
2 ---there is motorcycle smartphone holders with wireless charging, so no more cables....
3---some are using the turn by turn voice of the smartphone gps if is connected to the helmet headset .... 🙂
👍
On the road I always have an old NOKIA 'burner phone' with me with the 2nd SIM card for emergencies. A SAMSUNG with only google MAPS is more than enough for navigation including the old overview maps of the area you are driving through, thanks again! Powerbank, waterproof, 60 temp, including jumper cables, 20000 Mpa.
Thanks for sharing!
Very helpful! Simple and direct. (another) Great video!
Glad it helped!
very good info. i used an old car gps last sept traveling through Kansas. it was about 5.00 at a yd sale. it bit the dust the second day in the rain. my next one will be one for a motorcycle
Thanks for sharing!
Regarding power banks, i can highly recommend Telwin. It can not only charge devices and work as a flash light but also jump start a dead battery many times. I've even started a tracktor that had a dead battery with it.
Thanks for sharing!
A very helpful subject to cover. Thank you very much.
Glad it was helpful!
Greetings Pavlin
Finally a slight return to the old ways when you became popular and then a small period of stagnation or whatever. I hope for a complete return when we were waiting impatiently for a new video.
This is just my opinion
Greetings from Serbia😁
Thanks, man!
@@motorcycleadventures 😃👍
I use a mobile as a back up to a Garmin XT. The mobile screen is not easy to read in bright sunlight and even ramping up the brightness causes overheating issues.
Thanks for sharing!
I use Zumo XT with Garmin Drive app + Garmin Smart Link + my IPhone 12 for back up if I need. Now I purchase Samsung Galaxy Tab Active 3 (8 inches) with Ram Craddle 👍🏼
Tank you again for an nice video. One thing I learned is to change the language in Googlemaps when I travel in countries that spell their villages names differently than on the map I have. Even when the country uses a different alphabet, this can be a very good help to find the right way.
Thanks for sharing!
Whatever consumer gadget you choose for navigation, always take a printed road map as backup!
You will need it sooner than expected.
I agree!
I had a Garmin Nuvi and here in New Zealand we have an Open GPS Map system that I was able to use to get up-to-date maps for free , but everything you say about using a car GPS on a motorcycle is true, so I've never used it on the bike. Also, as an older GPS, it can only detect one "constellation" of satellites, which makes it *_extremely_** slow* to determine where it is - I've managed to drive all the way out of town before it's worked out where I am and updated the map and location. For comparison, my cheap mobile phone detects GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO and BDS and gets a "fix" within a few seconds.
I've used my phone in a waterproof case mounted on my bike and it's done wonders for navigating, though occasionally the sun is too bright to read the screen (need a better brighter phone). In addition to some really good GPS apps (with downloadable local maps) and Google Maps, it runs other travel apps, like DMD2 (Drivemode Dashboard).
Thanks for sharing your experience, again!
Voile connectivity is great, but I live in Tennessee in the US and 70% of my time traveling there is no signal from any provider. I use my phone with maps downloaded and the route, a Garmin Montana with the routes and maps with a satellite subscription, and a Garmin XT. I keep them all going when touring away from home and can triangulate, but it’s a pain and requires some babysitting.
Thanks for sharing!
Hi Pavlin, thank you for the video. Actually the best and most cost efficient way is to use one of rugged mobiles for £100 - £200 dedicated for navigation. closer to £200 you cen get really good stuff with filtered screen, waterproof, powerful and wireless charged. Then you mount wireless charger behind holder and voila! This is what I have done. Works like a dream. I have multiple navigation systems on it plus WhatApp for receiving information. Dedicated, highly overpriced, single system, closed sat navs are the relicts of the past. Just my thoughts.
Sounds interesting. Can you recommend a brand?
Sure, Blackview BV4300 Pro
Thanks for sharing!
Thanks a lot for this video, I am starting my first motorbike trip at the end of September and i was very confused about buying or not a dedicated GPS. Great video
Glad I could help!
Hey, thanks for the video. I have long been solving what to navigate by, I wanted to be able to navigate online (with trafic info) by google maps so I need internet, to be able download offline maps (other than google), the device must be logically waterproof, it must have wireless charging (or rather not a standard connector for charging as the phone has) and the last requirement I had was the possibility of e-sim for use outside the EU when you can buy a SIM that works in more than 100 countries for cheap. In the end the cheapest device that fulfilled this was a smart phone (in my case I found a reasonably priced Motorola Edge 40) the price tag was about 300Eur
Thanks for sharing!
I think using an old iphone on a good quality holder which has paddings is a great solution with infinite possibilities. GPS devices can never even come close to competing with them.From the touch quality to the screens themselves. Plus amazon has millions of products designed for you to protect the phone from sunlight to weather.
Agree
Great content, you also need to be mindful of vibration killing the phone camera's image stabilization. It's worth investing in a mount that damps the vibration
True!
Svaka cast batko. The best Balkan you tube channel
Thank you!
I use my Garmin Navigator 5 on my BMW R1200 GS with the factory mount and have never had a problem. But in some ways I am still old school. I use a paper map and Goggle Maps to lay out my route and use a list of waypoints to plug into the GPS. I carry my smart phone in my jacket, so if I would have an accident the phone is where I can get to it for help. Plus I can charge the phone in my tank bag.
Thanks for sharing!
That is exactly how I would write Szeged. Hope you come to this area soon and maybe we can meet sometimes. Greetings from a fellow Hungarian.
Sounds great!
Hi Pavlin, thank you for sharing this very useful and essential information. Much appreciated.
Glad it was helpful!
i think carplay or aindroid auto are the future so i am still surprised that there is still nothing on the aftermarked devices especially for motorcycles
They will come.
Very good hints and specific approach! Thank you 👏👏👏
Glad it was helpful!
Pavlin, excellent video with good or not so great things for every each device and you are correct, bottom of the line whatever fit you better that is the perfect option for you but I loved the way you present all the possibilities. Good Job !!
Glad you enjoyed it!
Great tips and recommendations!
Glad to help!
QuadLock sells wireless charging mounts that work pretty well. No need to connect the cable to your phone and even if the USB port gets humid you still charge
Thanks for sharing!
Very informative, thank you
Glad it was helpful!
I like my Tomtom 550 Rider GPS. Was expensive but very worthwhile. Easy to update and operate.
Fair enough!
Hi Pavlin, thanks for the info, but Using a modern mobile phone wil not work for several reasons 1e Overheating (and they will especially in bright sunshine, in the south of Europe) 2e The camera (if you use models with mechanical lenses mechanism) will break. (And no mount will protect you for that) they not designed for the vibrations on a inline twin, and defiantly not for a one-cylinder Enduro machine. 3e the power connectors (USB-C, USB-2.0 (type-A), ore even lightning connector, which is the most robust option (because there is a little click mechanism build in) will not hold forever, and they definitely get moister and dust in it and the connection will get corrosion eventually (experience it myself on several occasions with different phones). 4e They also expensive … unless you use a cheap model … but they are mostly not rugged and not as waterproof as a the more expensive Samsungs or iPhones.
I agree with you that the software is mostly better on IOS or Android, that’s a fact.
So for me there is only one option for now, dedicated navigation system like Garmin Zumo-XT, or TomTom, or even better ones like the one you showed for ATV vehicles. It is more expensive but you get more for the money.
Each has some pros and cons. That's why I use paper map and a second telephone only when I need to find a specific address.
Hi Pavlin
Previously I use the Navigator 5 on my beemer R1200GSA, but after sometime I started to put adaptor in the cradle to use phone.
I just completed a 24 days solo tour on my tiny bike, on this trip I use an old iphone 7+ with usb plug in 100% of time rain or shine. After that trip I recently purchase a secondhand Kyocera Torque G4 which is water proof and a samsung A7 to upgrade my gps setup, the 7 inch samsung I will use as a big screen during dry weather, when it rain I will use the Kyocera phone.
Android has a fantastic apps Drive Mode Dashboard 2 which make it very easy to organise your nav apps and most use apps. I installed in on both the android device.
Do have a look at it.. 👍
Thanks for sharing!
I use the old smartphone for navigation each time I replace my daily driver. My preferred mapping is TomTom, as the maps are download, and use little memory, so it's convenient. TomTom enables complicated routes to be easy planned using as many waypoints as you need. Charging is via a wireless charger, so you can stick tape over the unused ports if you think there's a danger of wet or dust getting in. I may switch to Google Maps or Waze for local navigation as these provide a different sort of information.
Thanks for sharing!
Hi Pavlin, I always like to have two options and one will work at least. That's why I use one GPS device (TomTom) and one Mobile Phone based (e.g. BMW Connect). Both showed up to be not 100% reliable 🌻
Good!
All material is very good 👍 I think that there is also one big difference between phone and navi, the GPS signal is better in navi, phone, a specially when is bad weather, can loose the signal. But I agree with you Palvin, I'm using my old phone, Black View with big baterry, screen and contrast. A map I use is TomTom Go Navigation and I like it. The fact is that Google Maps is the best with names. When you write something not correctly it has always some right suggestions. 😁👍
Thanks for taking the time, Robert!
it's the way I took. I have my iPhone to do hotspot for a rugged 6.6 inch phone where I have downloaded maps and other apps.
Thanks for sharing!
Great video with sensible advise! I regularly save my older smartphone each time I upgrade and keep it only for navigation purposes.
I also own a Garmin car GPS and I never pay for map updates. I legally download and install Open street maps for it.
Finally I would greatly appreciate if you can review the BeeLine navigator, as I actually am on the fence on buying it.
Greetings from southern Chile!
Thanks for sharing!
Why not using the Wireless chargers for connector issues? Here in Pakistan the heating issue is same as I faced, that the phones get very hot due to high temperatures.. during the day time charging, specially when the phones are charging with the 4G data is on, mostly that happened during 11am to 4pm.
Overall its a great advice. 👍👍👍
After years of trial and error, I've settled on a second, cheap smartphone (no sim card) on my bike for music and gps - and keep my "good" smartphone in my pocket. I share the internet connection of the good phone, via bluetooth to the one on the bike. While I've never had it... I think new bikes with Android Auto / Apple Car play are TOTAL game-changers!
Agree!
Awesome episode Pavlin, thanks for sharing!! 👍👍
My pleasure!
Hi,
I use a combination of Garmin Outdoor Navigation system (not covered in this Video) and Smartphone
I like to use the garmin gpsmap series (I've used 60XC, 64S, 66S). easy to operate with gloves (good old buttons, no touch). I can take it off the bike and continue using it on walks. they do not depend on a permanent connection to the motorcycle, they work with standard or rechargeable AA batteries. a pair of AA batteries lasts a full day or more. can use OSM maps.
resistant, no problems with vibrations, dust, heat or rain.
cell phones are convenient, but they suffer from overheating in hot places like here in Brazil
Thanks for sharing!
I carry a GPS smartphone and paper maps. I find the paper maps difficult to use and I like to keep track my progress so I use the GPS. It's designed for a car but comes with a USB port worked great until that case he was talking about zipper broke didn't realize it in the GPS fell out it and was gone all part of the adventure.
Thanks for sharing!
I've used both. I use my iphone 8 and google maps. Reliable and up to date world wide. Leaving for Europe next month. The phone with a european sim card will take me where I want to go.
Good luck on your trip!
Rekomend APP SYGIC (ofline maps)
Okay
I used it for years but is awful. A lot of bugs, restarts all the time and if you change your device, you cannot reuse the activation code you paied for.
Amazing video, thank you so much. I found it very precise and useful! Thanks
Thank you my trusted friend! I have just received my Tenere, partially based on your recommendations :) For navigation I went out and spent the big bucks for the garmin Montana 750i. Oja what money...
Glad I could help! Enjoy your new toy!
Hi, not using Wikiloc ? sometimes interesting when you want some "offroad" roads (or when you are in countries where even google map as problems) . Always nice to see your videos !
Thanks for the tip!
Pavlin, love the vids and real world experience! I've been using roadbook on a ruggerized phone (from amazon for under $200) that has 5000 MAHs, so I charge it at night w/o vibrations. carpe-navigation is on my wish list for the tenere 700, but for the dirt bike, ruggerized phone with roadbook.
Thanks for sharing!
What model did you buy?
@@alanseery4458 OUKITEL WP5 Pro Rugged Cell Phone Unlocked
@@TheFoxyt2 Tried that model and it bricked itself very quickly, CAT phone no problems for 6 years.
@@domster200 how is it on the bike? Been thinking about one of these. I have a Garmin XT but the software is dinosaur to use, just don't want to break my iPhone and be stuck without communication
I just came across Carpe Iter navigation system. You need to look at this Pavlin, it is on another level.
Ok
I am using a phone for maps. Using it for several years. Just changing the profile from car to motorcycle is easy. It's not a waterproof phone and is asking for an upgrade. Maybe I'll look at rugged phones.
As for reliability, it has a strong gps signal, that's what matters for gps apps. And since it is an old phone, I have to plug it in the motorcycle.
Thanks for sharing!
I love my garmin zumo XT. But I use also my smartphone occasionally for navigation only with voice instructions over the helmet intercom. The smartphone remains in my pocket. So the display remains deactivated and the smartphone gets less hot and the battery does not empty so quickly. This works well for me.
Thanks for sharing!
Hi Pavin, I used a Garmin drive 52 with the European download when I went to Serbia last summer, it worked well on the Skoda rental car. I traveled 1200 kilometers with no issues
It works good 95% of the time.
Repost from your latest video.
Hi Pavlin, I see you mounting a smart phone as the nav unit. I just came back from a trip to Thailand, and upgrade my gps phone. Have a look at those Chinese made rugged phone with massive battery from Oukitel, BlackView or Ulefone. I just bought a cheap one from Oukitel the battery will last all day riding and the phone is rugged and waterproof.
Thanks!
Samsung tab active 2/3/4 waterproof and big screen or rugged smartphone . Good Video
Thanks for sharing!
Nice detailed video! Greetings from Hungary :)
Thanks, man!
I have tried dedicated GPS and phone. Be aware modern Samsungs will stop charging if it detects moisture in the charging port. Misty conditions stop it charging after an hour or so. Heavy rain almost immediately. Phone touch screens cannot cope with very heavy rain. So I've gone for a dedicated Android unit from Carpe Iter/Thork but it is really expensive. For me, a mid budget option is use Garmin Zumo and have the ability to mount your waterproof smart phone if you need to for Google maps.
Thanks for adding this information, Andrew!
Here in Alaska I use a Garmen Montana 700i, as I use it for hiking, jeeping, and moto. Plus it has satellite texting for emergency's, or giving friends info on your present location and health status without needing a cellular signal. It's Expensive, waterproof, expensive, shock resistant, expensive, and for satellite service... more expensive for active sub. But it's worth it when something bad happens, so I treat it like trip insurance.
Thanks for the info!
Excelant vid i use samsung s9 and tom tom rider never let me down yet
Good!
Just changed from smartphone to dedicated navigation device after many years. Visibility one of the important things. I used before scenic, google maps.
Good!
How many cheap auto GPS's can you buy for the price of a zumo xt? I ride my bike about 40K miles a year in all kinds of weather conditions. I put a zip lock bag over it in the rain. Cheap and thin enough that the GPS works as if it wasn't iy wasn't in the bag. I also use a smartphone with a waterproof cover. GPS works all the time, Smartphone depends on having a cell signal.
I have 2 phones, older phone conected to a usb charger, and my regular phone with wireless charging, they're both water and dust resistent, the only problem i had was with my personal phone was exposed to the sun, and to hot and don't charge. But theres good rugged phones out there, with good battery life. One thing that i'm thinking it's a 7" rugged tablet, the bigger screen i think it's a must have, even if you want to make a ride with digital road book.
Thanks for sharing!
Do you think the best solution would be: "Use both, GPS for off-road with track files, and Cellphone for on-road where there is good cell coverage"?
Might be for you.
There are apps for smartphones that can use track files.
There is everything nowadays.
I use zumo xt and iPhone 13 mini with sp connect pro and anti vibration option! No problems on My t7 ( 7500km) handy to just twist of THE phone ,to take pictures ! And trust me off road safe!
very good info especially for me coming from usa to euro area. The sim card deal is useful. I read maps as an engineer and surveyor and traveler for 50 yrs now. however finding a cystoms office at border or a motel hostel in a crowded foreign town one needs all the help they can get. I only doeak some spanish and french basic english is my native. So dialec issues for me. A motorcycle gos is good exoensive yes bit is only device that wil last if taken good care of. google has best maos. a screen shot tajen dsy before is good as you can enlarge it. thanks again. you did a god job
Use whatever option is good for you, Sam!
I just use my Tomtom everytime (it's a bike gps and I use it in the car as well) even if I know the road because it gives me my real speed, my average speed when there are average speed cameras and when I'm on an unknown road I can know in advance how wide or tight the bends are so I'm always in the right gear. It updates whenever it finds a wifi so no computer needed. Before it I used my smartphone but I couldn't use it to find addresses in the rain and it overheated in the sun, so now I have it in my pocket, it's bluetooth connected with the gps and tells it about the traffic so the gps can find alternatives and tell me something like "queue ahead, turn right here to save 15 minutes"
Thanks for sharing!
You have also now an evolution of the Garmin XT... The Garmin TRADE supersports 5,5" (on road +offroad navigation)
Thanks for adding!
Hi there! I have uppdated my garmin xt so now I see all gravelroads an tracks very good. I even see bareiers. Realy good. But as you say. It cost me abott 150 dollar.
Thanks for good info 👌😊 To bad I cant post a picture of it.
Thanks for sharing!
I wish google maps would allow you to send a specific route to the phone instead of its preferred way (for example, some intersections or roads I drive around to avoid). Only way I found to do this is to add stops around the route, but hopefully they are close to the road so you dont have to stop.
It is what it is!
guru map is the best for outdoor and google for routes
When I travelled around South America I only used paper maps aided by a compass on the featureless salt flats in Bolivia. Absolutely no problem at all. If I was ever in doubt I asked the locals, who were always helpful. Perhaps I am showing my age!!!
Thanks for sharing!
Hy, Pavlin. I agree with you, after I experienced a lot of situations. What I wana ask you is to talk in a future video about insurance. What you use, what you can recomand us. Especially for us from eastern countries, no many companies want to assure us. Is a regular insurance enough for traveling in remotes places like Patagonia or Pamir? what is your experience with this? maybe have an German passport you have not met such situations. For me, being for Romania , was a challenge to find a proper ensure. Thank you in advance.
I do not have German passport. I will think about it and might make a video.
Those that use Apple products might note that in the US the new phones (iphone14) don’t use SIM cards. They use eSim. That’s a built in SIM card that your provider can use to sign you up.
Since we travel to Mexico I have a SÌM card for that and when we travel to Europe we purchase SIM cards in airport or convenience store. Apple phones bought in Europe still use SIM cards though.
Good to know, thanks!
13:06 i know of a possible solution, there are magnetic phone cables, where the part that connect to the phone can easily be split bc it have a small magnet, so you never run the risk of damaging your phone usb port
They work until they don't!
I bought a cheap Chinese car GPS, a Chinese clone quad lock, a Chinese bluetooth audio adapter, and a cheap headset. A friend took a bike Garmin apart, the only difference was a rubber gasket around the case joint. I could buy 6 Chinese GPS's for the cost of one Zumo? Lol. The Benelli TRK's have a USB socket on the bike as standard, which works great. I printed my own sun shade. I get free global updates with the XGody.
Good!
Hi Pavlin, I recent traveled 5000 miles from the UK to Sozopol to Bulgaria on my R1250 GSA armed with both bmw connect cradle for my iPhone and the garmin nav 6. In my case both were useful and had serious flaws. Garmin nav is clunky, dated and incredibly hard to use as an easy navigation solution. Horrendously outdate dated to plan long trips and unreliable. My phone in the cradle had great nav options of course however was useless in the 35 degree sun from east Hungary to Sozopol as the screen simply blacked out. So in my opinion neither were suitable 😂. On another not don’t cargo-net plastic bottles of water on your pillion seat, it cost me £300 to replace the seat after the sun tried to set fire to it 😂. My trip can be seen on my channel
Thanks for sharing!