First time GPS user on a bike - Thoughts?

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woodcycl

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I'm a noob when it comes to using GPS or anything needing powered while on the bike. Here is my I have or am ordering … if anyone can help me understand what I need ideally to be able to provide power to my devices while on the bike and on the go …

RAM Mount using the gas tank mounts … w/ adjustable 6in twist lock double-ball end adjustable. (see photos below)

Garmin nüvi 2460LMT 5-Inch

GarminNuvi2460LMT.jpg


RAM Mount Cradle f/Garmin nüvi 2400 Series

RamMountCradle.jpg


I don't typically use a tank bag on the FJR since I have so much storage … including a 55litre top case. Here are a couple quick photos of the bike and dash as-is:

P1000619.JPG


P1000618.JPG


 

What do I need to setup or install on the bike so I can power the GPS and possibly my phone, etc.? Thanks for any help!

Brian

 
I power all of my stuff through a Fuze Block, but I'm assuming you want the simple explanation.

First, swing that extension forward over the steering nut. Attach the cradle in that position and it won't interfere so much, and will be more visible.

Get a hardwire power supply for your Nuvi 2460. You can use a cigarette lighter, but I have found them to be kind of unreliable with the vibration of the bike. If you decide to install an accessory socket, the best way is to get a battery harness with an inline fuse, and SAE plug. This can also be used for a trickle charger if needed.

Battery Harness:

41VwHgzEyjL._SS500_.jpg


https://www.amazon.com/Battery-Tend...sconnect/dp/B0041CDPQO/ref=pd_bxgy_auto_img_b

Accessory socket. You may optionally want to get a SAE Y-Splitter for additional accessories.

31j8-3LJcaL._SL500_AA300_.jpg
31c2-84zmQL._SL500_AA300_.jpg


Finally get a Glare Stomper. You'll need it for the automotive GPS

316%20on%20iway%20250c.jpg


 
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It wouldn't be my first choice for a bike-mounted nav, but to each their own.

Keep in mind that the unit you are considering is not waterproof - also the 2400 series uses a quick disconnect mount, so you can install the bracket and wire the power to the bike - use switched power to prevent accidentally drawing all of the juice from the battery.

The simplest place to find power is at the OEM heated grip box connector location behind the glove box - it goes live with the headlights.

I suggest you wire in a cigarette lighter socket and use the traffic receiver - since there is a regulator and fuse in the plug you don't need to get too fancy about fusing, but you will need to fashion a retainer to keep the power plug from backing out of the socket.

 
buy a route capable gps. get a discontinued 765T or a zumo 220 - you are going to want to upload custom routes to your gps. Another benefit of the 765T is that it'll stream gps and stereo MP3 to a bluetooth headset.

 
It wouldn't be my first choice for a bike-mounted nav, but to each their own.

Keep in mind that the unit you are considering is not waterproof - also the 2400 series uses a quick disconnect mount, so you can install the bracket and wire the power to the bike - use switched power to prevent accidentally drawing all of the juice from the battery.

The simplest place to find power is at the OEM heated grip box connector location behind the glove box - it goes live with the headlights.

I suggest you wire in a cigarette lighter socket and use the traffic receiver - since there is a regulator and fuse in the plug you don't need to get too fancy about fusing, but you will need to fashion a retainer to keep the power plug from backing out of the socket.
Agreed ... however, this is the GPS I'm buying for business and is going to be the only one I'll be allowed to purchase (the wife) so I'm going to make it work as best as possible. :)

Thanks for the suggestions!

 
buy a route capable gps. get a discontinued 765T or a zumo 220 - you are going to want to upload custom routes to your gps. Another benefit of the 765T is that it'll stream gps and stereo MP3 to a bluetooth headset.
The 2460LMT has bluetooth, but not sure what the 765T offers that the 2460LMT does not?

The Zumo 220 is too much $$ at $400.

Again, I am choosing a Auto NAV first and then hopefully using it as best as possible on my FJR.

 
Agreed ... however, this is the GPS I'm buying for business and is going to be the only one I'll be allowed to purchase (the wife) so I'm going to make it work as best as possible. :)

Thanks for the suggestions!
The first GPS unit I used on my FJR was a little Nuvi 250WT. It was a work unit, and meant for a car, but it took me across the country more than once. I plugged it directly into the glovebox plug and just closed the lid on the wire. Never an issue.

Rain caused some issues, but I found that the sandwich bags from Subway are perfect rain covers. They are clear, waterproof, long, and sturdy enough for more than one use. The GPS touch screen still worked with the bag in place.

Do what's easy and don't over think it.

 
If your going to hardwire a line to the bike and NOT use the cig lighter plug, that GPS actually uses 5 volts going in, NOT 12 volts.. https://buy.garmin.com/shop/shop.do?pID=87417&ra=true

__________________________________________________________________________________________________

From Garmin re my 2300:

Thank you for contacting Garmin International. We do have a hardwiring cable available for this device. This can be found at https://buy.garmin.com/shop/shop.do?pID=87417

It comes with an inline fuse, and will not harm any device we currently make. With Best Regards,

Britton H

Product Support Specialist

2nd Shift Garmin Mobile Team

Garmin International

913-397-8200

800-800-1020

www.garmin.com

Additional solutions may be found at https://www.garmin.com/garmin/cms/site/us/support/searchsupport

 
Last edited by a moderator:
I'm a noob when it comes to using GPS or anything needing powered while on the bike. Here is my I have or am ordering … if anyone can help me understand what I need ideally to be able to provide power to my devices while on the bike and on the go …

RAM Mount using the gas tank mounts … w/ adjustable 6in twist lock double-ball end adjustable. (see photos below)

Garmin nüvi 2460LMT 5-Inch

GarminNuvi2460LMT.jpg


RAM Mount Cradle f/Garmin nüvi 2400 Series

RamMountCradle.jpg


I don't typically use a tank bag on the FJR since I have so much storage … including a 55litre top case. Here are a couple quick photos of the bike and dash as-is:

P1000619.JPG


P1000618.JPG


 

What do I need to setup or install on the bike so I can power the GPS and possibly my phone, etc.? Thanks for any help!

Brian
 
buy a route capable gps. get a discontinued 765T or a zumo 220 - you are going to want to upload custom routes to your gps. Another benefit of the 765T is that it'll stream gps and stereo MP3 to a bluetooth headset.
I'm confused I was told that a non motorcycle gps will not connect to your helmets headset. Then why do u have to spend 800.00 on a dedicated motorcycle gps?

 
Last edited by a moderator:
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