The preparation for a motorcycle trip has evolved a lot, and one of the biggest questions for any motorcyclist is how to navigate. In the past, it was a paper map in the pocket; today, the question is: Dedicated GPS or your phone’s app?

Each option has its pros and cons. The right choice depends on the type of traveler you are.

Remember, the world has always been in constant change, the paper map is outdated by mid-year, GPS maps too, don’t let a change in direction, a road closure due to a landslide, or local festivities shake you up, adaptation must be constant. Whether you choose one option or the other, simulate routes before setting off on a trip.

Advantages of a Dedicated GPS

A GPS made for the bike, like those from Garmin or TomTom, is an investment, but it offers advantages that a phone simply can’t match.

1. Total Durability: They’re built for the worst. They withstand rain, dust, vibrations, and drops. You don’t have to worry if it’s going to rain or if the gravel road will shake the equipment.
2. Optimized Screen: The screen is brighter and anti-glare, making it perfectly visible even under strong sunlight. You can use it with gloves, and the screen size is ideal for viewing the route without taking your eyes off the road too much.
3. Motorcycle Features: Most dedicated GPS devices have features for winding or adventure routes. You can set the GPS to avoid highways and find the best back roads. Many also allow you to plan the route in advance on the computer.
4. Connectivity: They only need to be turned on to work, no internet connection required. They sync with your intercom, allowing you to hear directions by voice and even take calls without having to pick up the phone.
5. Safety: Some have an automatic accident detection function with automatic message sending to pre-selected contacts.

Advantages of a Smartphone App

Your smartphone is already in your pocket, and that’s a big advantage in itself.

1. Reduced Cost: Most of the time, the cost is zero. Apps like Google Maps or Waze are free. More specific navigation apps for motorcycles, like Rever or Calimoto, have free versions and annual subscriptions, but the cost is significantly lower than a dedicated GPS.
2. Flexibility and Updates: Apps are updated more frequently, giving you real-time traffic information, alerts for speed cameras and accidents, and the map is always up to date without needing to sync.
3. Ease of Use: Google Maps and Waze are intuitive, and most people are already familiar with using them. The ease of searching for a point of interest or a restaurant is undeniable.

The Motorcyclist’s Verdict

If you’re an occasional motorcyclist, taking short trips and familiar routes, the smartphone is more than enough. A good mount and a waterproof case solve most problems, and its flexibility is unbeatable.

However, if biking is your passion, and epic trips across multiple countries are your routine, the dedicated GPS is your best investment. Its reliability, durability, and motorcycle-specific features will give you the peace of mind you need to focus solely on the road.

From our experience, the best is to combine the best of both worlds. I use the dedicated GPS for main navigation and the phone as a complement, to look for restaurants or hotels, using the app I like the most.

And you, what’s your choice? Share your experience in the comments!

Safe rides and happy travels!