How do you navigate on your motorcycle? A complete guide from choosing to 10 popular recommended navigation devices!

What is a Motorcycle Navigation System?

Source: https://pixabay.com/ja/photos/A4-6867911/

A navigation system is a convenient item to have for motorcycle riding, whether you're on a long tour or exploring new roads. But what exactly is a motorcycle navigation system?

While smartphone navigation apps are also used for navigation, dedicated motorcycle navigation systems offer features that smartphone apps do not.

Waterproof Performance for Sudden Rain or Wet Weather

Many smartphones do not have waterproof features, but motorcycle navigation systems are designed for outdoor use, so most models are waterproof.

With waterproofing, you can use it in the rain, and if you encounter sudden rain while riding, you won't need to pull over to the side of the road to protect it from water.

Usable in Areas Without Signal

When using a smartphone navigation app, if there's no signal reception, the map may not update and it might not provide guidance. However, motorcycle navigation systems can be used even without a signal.

Motorcycle navigation systems retrieve maps from their internal memory (such as a micro memory card or other storage media), so they don't require signal reception, allowing for stable guidance with fewer interruptions.

Vibration Resistance

Motorcycle navigation systems are also designed to be resistant to vibration, providing stable guidance even during constant shaking while riding.

Conversely, smartphones are often vulnerable to vibration and shaking, and without vibration countermeasures, malfunctions such as camera sensor errors can occur depending on riding conditions.

Another feature of motorcycle navigation systems is their ability to function stably in vibrating riding environments, thanks to their vibration resistance.

6 Key Points for Choosing a Motorcycle Navigation System

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There are various motorcycle navigation models available, from affordable to multi-functional, so it can be confusing to choose.

To help you select the right motorcycle navigation system for your needs, consider the following points:

Does it have waterproofing?
Can it be operated with gloves on?
Does it have Bluetooth connectivity?
Is it power-supplied or battery-powered?
Is the screen size easy to operate?
Is it easy to attach and detach?

<h3>Point 1. Does it have waterproofing?</h3>

The first point you should check when choosing a motorcycle navigation system is "Does it have waterproofing?"

Most motorcycle navigation systems are waterproof, but some inexpensive models may not be.

Motorcycles are exposed to the weather, so you may get caught in sudden rain. Therefore, when choosing a motorcycle navigation system, check for waterproofing.

Point 2. Can it be operated with gloves on?

Another point to consider when choosing a motorcycle navigation system is whether it can be operated with gloves on.

When searching for a destination, changing a destination, or checking nearby maps, you will operate the touchscreen of the navigation system. If it doesn't support glove operation, you'll have to take off your gloves every time you want to operate it.

Many motorcycle navigation systems allow touchscreen operation even with gloves on, but when purchasing, check whether it can be operated with gloves on.

Point 3. Does it have Bluetooth connectivity?

With Bluetooth connectivity, you can receive voice guidance through your intercom, allowing for wireless navigation.

While riding, the navigation screen displays the map and your current location, but receiving voice guidance via Bluetooth allows you to know your route without having to check the screen, contributing to safer driving.

If using an intercom, adjust the volume to ensure you can still hear surrounding sounds.

Point 4. Power-supplied type or built-in battery type?

Motorcycle navigation systems come in two types: those that are powered externally and those that use a built-in battery.

Power-supplied types require drawing power from the motorcycle's battery, which means some knowledge of vehicle maintenance is needed for connection. However, they generally allow for longer use compared to built-in battery types.

Built-in battery types can be used after charging before use, but their operating time is shorter than power-supplied types. For long rides, it's necessary to prepare a spare battery or charge the device en route.

Point 5. Is the screen size easy to operate?

In addition to whether it has a touchscreen that can be operated with gloves on, another important point when choosing a navigation system is whether the screen size is easy to operate.

While 5 inches is the mainstream screen size for motorcycle navigation systems, there are also models with 4.3 inches and 7 inches.

Larger screen sizes improve operability and visibility, but they also require more space for installation. So, make sure you can secure enough space to mount the navigation system.

Point 6. Is it easy to attach and detach?

Whether the navigation system is easy to attach and detach is also a crucial factor for security and charging convenience.

When leaving your motorcycle, it's advisable to remove the navigation system to prevent theft. If it has an internal battery that needs charging, you'll need to remove the main unit for charging.

Checking if the navigation system can be easily attached and detached is a good idea when choosing a motorcycle navigation system.

10 Recommended Motorcycle Navigation Systems

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To help you choose a motorcycle navigation system, here are 10 recommended models.

We've included models sold by motorcycle accessory retailers, affordable models, and models with various functions, offering a balanced selection to meet your navigation needs. Please use this as a reference.

1. Nankai Parts Motorcycle Navigation ZENRIN NNV-0022

Source: https://amzn.to/3r7pKB9

Nankai Parts, a major retailer of motorcycle apparel and custom parts, offers the "Motorcycle Navigation ZENRIN NNV-0022," which comes preloaded with Zenrin maps and Rurubu data.

It provides route guidance for up to 5 waypoints, and conveniently displays icons for convenience stores and gas stations on the map.

With IPX5-equivalent waterproofing and a screen layout that's easy to operate with gloves on, its user-friendliness is comparable to car navigation systems.

Screen size: 5 inches
Waterproof function: Yes
Operable with gloves: Yes
Bluetooth connectivity: Yes
Power source: Rechargeable
Sales price (tax included): 49,545 yen

2. SPEEDER Motorcycle Portable Navigator PD-003B-V21

Source: https://amzn.to/3P9I5p1

The SPEEDER "Motorcycle Portable Navigator PD-003B-V21" is recommended for those seeking an easy-to-operate motorcycle navigation system.

It includes approximately 60,000 Rurubu data points, useful for finding touring spots, and offers free map updates for 3 years.

The screen is a 5.0-inch digital TFT LCD with IPX5 waterproofing, capable of withstanding rain from all directions.

Screen size: 5 inches
Waterproof function: Yes
Operable with gloves: Yes
Bluetooth connectivity: Yes
Power source: Rechargeable
Sales price (tax included): 18,980 yen

3. MAXWIN Motorcycle Navigator 5-inch

Source: https://amzn.to/3r2NC96

The MAXWIN "Motorcycle Navigator 5-inch" is recommended for those looking for a navigation system that covers nationwide speed cameras (Orbis) and N-system locations.

With approximately 600 Orbis locations, 5,500 N-system locations, and 11,000 speed enforcement areas, it covers a wide range of speed enforcement spots, proving useful for obtaining information on unfamiliar roads.

Canal-type Bluetooth earphones are also included as standard. By connecting the earphones to the navigation unit via Bluetooth, you can prevent missing voice guidance due to road noise or wind noise.

Screen size: 5 inches
Waterproof function: Yes
Operable with gloves: Yes
Bluetooth connectivity: Yes
Power source: DC12V (power-supplied)
Sales price (tax included): 31,900 yen

4. KYPLAZA Motorcycle Navigation 5.0 inch

Source: https://amzn.to/3ReJ8qu

The KYPLAZA "Motorcycle Navigator 5.0 inch" is recommended for those looking for a power-supplied navigator under 20,000 yen.

It features IPX5 waterproofing for safe riding in the rain, and you can download the latest map data for free for 3 years from the web.

In addition to power supply from the motorcycle's battery with the included cable, it can also be powered via USB. However, please note that the waterproofing function will not work when powered via USB.

Screen size: 5 inches
Waterproof function: Yes
Operable with gloves: Yes
Bluetooth connectivity: Yes
Power source: DC12V (power-supplied), also can be powered via USB
Sales price (tax included): 19,800 yen

5. GARMIN zumo 396 010-02019-70

Source: https://amzn.to/47YA4Mx

The GARMIN "zumo 396 010-02019-70" is recommended for those seeking a navigation system with shock resistance, heat resistance, and waterproofing.

In addition to a 4.3-inch display that ensures visibility even in direct sunlight, it also features hands-free calling and smartphone notification functions.

It uses easy-to-read Zenrin maps and includes various safety features, such as an "accident detection function" that automatically notifies pre-registered emergency contacts of an emergency if it detects a significant impact.

Screen size: 4.3 inches
Waterproof function: Yes
Operable with gloves: Yes
Bluetooth connectivity: Yes
Power source: Rechargeable
Sales price (tax included): 58,517 yen

6. MAXWIN Portable Navigator Motorcycle Navigator

Source: https://amzn.to/45ZZQxV

For those who want a navigation system with a large, easy-to-view display, the MAXWIN "Portable Navigator Motorcycle Navigator" is recommended.

The display size is 7 inches, larger than the standard 5 inches, offering higher visibility and an easy-to-operate screen layout.

It comes with 3 years of free map updates and features GPS-based detection of speed cameras (Orbis), N-system locations, and speed traps, providing visual and audio alerts when approaching enforcement areas.

Screen size: 7 inches
Waterproof function: Yes
Operable with gloves: Yes
Bluetooth connectivity: Yes
Power source: DC12V (power-supplied)
Sales price (tax included): 15,980 yen

7. MAXWIN Motorcycle Portable Navigator NV-A011A-SET2

Source: https://amzn.to/45xLLrP

The MAXWIN "Motorcycle Portable Navigator NV-A011A-SET2" is recommended for those looking for an affordable, power-supplied navigation system.

It features a 5-inch display that minimizes installation space, and it displays speed cameras (Orbis), N-system locations, and speed trap areas for peace of mind.

Based on GPS data, it also reflects current speed and mileage. A fall prevention cable is included, which protects against damage from falling in the event of an unexpected tip-over.

Screen size: 5 inches
Waterproof function: Yes
Operable with gloves: Yes
Bluetooth connectivity: Yes
Power source: DC12V (power-supplied)
Sales price (tax included): 14,200 yen

8. Eaglerich Wireless CarPlay & Android Auto

Source: https://amzn.to/45HvG2N

The Eaglerich "Wireless CarPlay & Android Auto" is recommended for those who want to make calls and enjoy music while riding via their navigation system.

The display is 5 inches, and it has features similar to car navigation systems, such as the ability to make phone calls via Bluetooth and call contacts from the screen.

By pairing your phone with the included earphones via Bluetooth, you can easily adjust volume and switch songs, making music listening and calls more convenient.

Screen size: 5 inches
Waterproof function: Yes
Operable with gloves: Yes
Bluetooth connectivity: Yes
Power source: DC12V (power-supplied)
Sales price (tax included): 31,999 yen

9. JAMCHE Motorcycle 5-inch GPS Navigation

Source: https://amzn.to/45VNV4e

The JAMCHE "Motorcycle 5-inch GPS Navigation" is a 5-inch HD display navigation system that supports Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.

By pairing it with your mobile phone via Bluetooth, you can share maps, phone books, and stored music from your phone, allowing you to enjoy calls and music.

It features IP67 waterproofing, as well as dustproof and shockproof capabilities, ensuring peace of mind.

Screen size: 5 inches
Waterproof function: Yes
Operable with gloves: Yes
Bluetooth connectivity: Yes
Power source: DC12V (power-supplied)
Sales price (tax included): 26,870 yen

10. WOOYI Motorcycle GPS 7-inch Portable

Source: https://amzn.to/3L9bpe7

The WOOYI "Motorcycle GPS 7-inch Portable" is recommended for those looking for a rechargeable navigation system with a large display.

It features an 800x480 7-inch high-resolution display, offering a user-friendly screen size and ensuring visibility even in direct sunlight.

With IP67-equivalent waterproofing and dustproofing, and a design resistant to vibration, it can be used with confidence even on rough terrains like off-road trails.

Screen size: 7 inches
Waterproof function: Yes
Operable with gloves: Yes
Bluetooth connectivity: Yes
Power source: Rechargeable
Sales price (tax included): 78,343 yen

A motorcycle navigation case is convenient

Most motorcycle navigation systems are waterproof, but if you want to protect them further from dirt and grime, it's a good idea to use a case with a visible display.

Especially for navigation systems that provide voice guidance through earphones, where you don't need to look at the screen to be guided to your destination, cases like the following can be used:

ROUGH&ROAD Gadget P.A.S. Case Black

Source: https://bikeman.jp/products/rrd-rr9803bk

The "Gadget P.A.S. Case Black" from ROUGH&ROAD, a company that plans and sells motorcycle accessories, is a case with high flexibility in mounting location.

P.A.S. stands for Pouch Attachment System, which uses an adapter that can be easily attached and detached by inserting it and rotating it 90 degrees to secure it. This also allows for easy swapping with other cases.

The Gadget P.A.S. Case Black also comes with a rain cover with a clear top.

Size (mm): W180×D50×H120
Sales price (tax included): 3,919 yen
Accessories: Top clear rain cover

Summary

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A motorcycle navigation system is convenient for touring or when heading to an unfamiliar destination.

This time, we've explained the features of motorcycle navigation systems and provided 6 key points for choosing a system that suits your needs from the many available models.

We've also introduced 10 recommended motorcycle navigation models, so please use these as a reference to find your favorite navigation system and enjoy a more convenient motorcycle life.