Adding GPS/Navigation to my Softail....
Tourer
Joined: May 2009
Posts: 430
Likes: 2
From: ChiTown burbs
I used a ram mount and my cheapo Garmin navi and a zip lock bag if it really raining hard. As for power I used a waterproof outlet attached to my windshield and a sae 2 port connector. To make it quick detachable. I ran it under the tank and up the neck. You can fish the wire under the tank without removing it.
I used to use a Garmin Zumo with a RAM handlebar mount. Ran the wires under the tank and hard wired it under the seat. Worked great, went cross country with it in 09 and had no issues at all. Not sure if I have any old pics, but I'll dig around a bit and see what I can find.
Edit:
Here's a pic of the mount without the GPS attached, it's the ball mount by the left grip
Here's one with it mounted
Edit:
Here's a pic of the mount without the GPS attached, it's the ball mount by the left grip
Here's one with it mounted
Last edited by jreichart; Jan 8, 2013 at 05:35 PM.
Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Nov 2010
Posts: 2,591
Likes: 68
From: Big Bear City, CA
I use the RAM Mount myself and love it. It's a great, effective and simple to use product. They're very adjustable as well, allowing you to place the GPS just about anywhere you like. I bought the cheaper $249.00 Automobile model Garmin Nuvi 2555LM. I modified the cigarette lighter adaptor and hardwired it to my battery with an in-line fuse. It's awesome having the GPS on the bike.
Road Master
Joined: Jul 2010
Posts: 1,132
Likes: 0
From: Las Vegas
I use the RAM Mount myself and love it. It's a great, effective and simple to use product. They're very adjustable as well, allowing you to place the GPS just about anywhere you like. I bought the cheaper $249.00 Automobile model Garmin Nuvi 2555LM. I modified the cigarette lighter adaptor and hardwired it to my battery with an in-line fuse. It's awesome having the GPS on the bike.
Road Master
Joined: Apr 2009
Posts: 1,205
Likes: 3
From: Mebane, NC
Here's a write up I just did for my tunes set up but the same can be done for a GPS. RAM has just about any set up you could need and their products are well made. Hope this helps.
https://www.hdforums.com/forum/softa...l#post10751499
https://www.hdforums.com/forum/softa...l#post10751499
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PanHeadRich, that's exactly what I want!
Is this the one:
[quote=PanHeadRich;10751358]I use the RAM Mount myself and love it. It's a great, effective and simple to use product. They're very adjustable as well, allowing you to place the GPS just about anywhere you like. I bought the cheaper $249.00 Automobile model Garmin Nuvi 2555LM. I modified the cigarette lighter adaptor and hardwired it to my battery with an in-line fuse. It's awesome having the GPS on the bike.
Is this the one:
[quote=PanHeadRich;10751358]I use the RAM Mount myself and love it. It's a great, effective and simple to use product. They're very adjustable as well, allowing you to place the GPS just about anywhere you like. I bought the cheaper $249.00 Automobile model Garmin Nuvi 2555LM. I modified the cigarette lighter adaptor and hardwired it to my battery with an in-line fuse. It's awesome having the GPS on the bike.
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Thanks jreichart...looks good!!!! BTW, I just looked up the Garmin Zumo on Amazon....are they really that expensive??? What's the difference between that and a regular auto GPS?
I used to use a Garmin Zumo with a RAM handlebar mount. Ran the wires under the tank and hard wired it under the seat. Worked great, went cross country with it in 09 and had no issues at all. Not sure if I have any old pics, but I'll dig around a bit and see what I can find.
Edit:
Here's a pic of the mount without the GPS attached, it's the ball mount by the left grip
Here's one with it mounted
Edit:
Here's a pic of the mount without the GPS attached, it's the ball mount by the left grip
Here's one with it mounted
I have the 450(?), looks like they are at 550 as the model # for the base unit now.
The Zumo is designed for use on motorcycles. It comes with everything you need to get it hooked up, right in the box (RAM mount as well). Also it is more vibration resistant, and is weather resistant. Rode through some downpours with it and no issues. It also has a redundant button system so it can be operated via touch screen or tactile button. IIRC, the touch screen will also function with a gloved finger, most do not. The Zumo is the same unit HD used as their "factory" GPS, but its about $250 more for the privilege of having it in black with the logo on top. The higher end ones have MP3 storage capability, and will play tunes as well as give verbal direction via Bluetooth. I did a bit of research 4 years ago before deciding on the Zumo, and in the end is was definitely the best choice. I use it in my cages as well. Good luck, there are a ton of options out there!
The Zumo is designed for use on motorcycles. It comes with everything you need to get it hooked up, right in the box (RAM mount as well). Also it is more vibration resistant, and is weather resistant. Rode through some downpours with it and no issues. It also has a redundant button system so it can be operated via touch screen or tactile button. IIRC, the touch screen will also function with a gloved finger, most do not. The Zumo is the same unit HD used as their "factory" GPS, but its about $250 more for the privilege of having it in black with the logo on top. The higher end ones have MP3 storage capability, and will play tunes as well as give verbal direction via Bluetooth. I did a bit of research 4 years ago before deciding on the Zumo, and in the end is was definitely the best choice. I use it in my cages as well. Good luck, there are a ton of options out there!
Last edited by jreichart; Jan 8, 2013 at 07:40 PM.