Motorcycle GPS or Smartphone?

There's an app for that.

But is it time to ditch your GPS and navigate with your smartphone?

More and more people are using the navigation features of their iPhone or Android smartphone and skipping the traditional GPS. There are tons of apps for mobile devices that work wonderfully for walking tours, sightseeing and, sometimes, automotive navigation. But it's a very different game when used on a motorcycle.


There's no question that mobile devices have the capability to equal, and often surpass, the dedicated satellite navigation system. In August 2011 the NY Times compared a Garmin with an Android smartphone. The free Google Maps app was able to best the $200 GPS in most tests. But once again, the rules change when you're on a bike.

Via Satellite
Most riders recognize the obvious advantage of a GPS is screen size. The larger screen simply makes navigating easier. Mount it on your handlebars and you can see the map. And while laws vary on using your GPS while in motion- there is no doubt that larger screen means the GPS is easier to use.

The other area where your Garmin or Tom Tom will excel is signal access. You can pretty much depend on your GPS working no matter how remote your destination. Satellites can be obscured by parking garages or very heavy overcast. But this is typically not an issue for motorcyclists.

On the Phone
The case for mobile devices is a strong one- and gaining traction all the time. Many phones today include a free navigation app, so usability is often just a question of network access and your data plan. There's no question the smaller screens make it more challenging to read the maps and directions. But younger eyes have no trouble with that, and clever tank bags are now on the market that move your smartphone closer to you.

In the end it's a matter of personal preference.

I prefer to have my Garmin Zumo front-and-center all the time. But that doesn't mean I left my smartphone at home.