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[Muley]

I'm looking at jumping on the GPS bandwagon and have been looking at both models. I can't find much here on the 450. Is anyone using that model. From my understanding they're basically the same with the 450 missing Blue Tooth and xm radio and the xm traffic being an add on. There's a significant cost difference, and with xm on the bike and not wanting my cell phone ringing while trying to escape the real world is the 550 worth the extra bucks. You can put all I know about these electronic gadgets in a thimble and still have room for an elephant, so any help would be appreciated.

Muley

[nixobilly]

I bought the 450 because I didn't need XM or Bluetooth -- however the 550 also includes the car mount system.   You can purchase that kit later but it works out that the price is the same - so go ahead and get the 550 - I wish I would have.

Mark

[Fired00d]

I was thinking as Mark mentioned above there was a (car) mount missing. When I was investigating my purchase I knew I wasn't going to use some of the features (Bluetooth/XM) right off the bat, but thought it would be better to have them and not use them then want them later and have to buy another/new Zumo. To me it wasn't worth the savings not to get the 550.

 
Ride Safe,
Fired00d
 

[iski]

Mark is right - the car mount adds the price back if you figure the $ dif between the 2 units.

I have used the 550 Bluetooth in the car & it works ok.

Too bad the Zumo comes with such a lousy handlebar mount.

[Muley]

Is there a better mount to use with the ZUMO than the one that comes with it? You guys now have me leaning toward the 550, see now how the site helps keep your wallet thin.

Muley

[iski]

Is there a better mount to use with the ZUMO than the one that comes with it? You guys now have me leaning toward the 550, see now how the site helps keep your wallet thin.

Muley

Here's a link to the best I have seen on a handlebar mount.  http://www.techmounts.com/

They go to rallys - will be in Daytona.  Give them a call or email & they will figure out what is best for your bike, then you can decide.  Way better than the stock Zumo stuff. (& it's chrome)

[Fired00d]

Another vote here for Techmount.

Below is a cheat sheet I share w/all that are interested in getting a Zumo...

Check out this thread - Standard GPS or Garmin - implementation starting at reply #11. You will find a list of all the parts that others and myself have used. I ordered my Techmount from them directly, used the Radio Shack power plug (but will replace it w/the one Terry found if ever needed), and I also got a cover to put on the face of the Zumo to prevent scratches from - Invisible Shield. Also check out this post - Zumo Tips/Tricks... this is a nice replacement security screw for the mount. The one that comes stock has this special screw/screwdriver that is a pain in the butt for us old guys. It is really small and hard to see. Both of the above threads have good information on parts, installation and tips/tricks for the Zumo.

Techmount 30997MC (these are for the stock handlebars (1") if you've changed yours you'll need to get one that corresponds to the diameter of your bars)

SOUND PROFESSIONALS - GOLD PLATED 3.5MM (1/8 INCH) RIGHT ANGLE STEREO PATCH CABLE (1 meter length)

Either one of the following two will be good for power plug if you want to use your cigarette lighter.

12V Flush Mount Receptacles & Plugs (Plug Only)

Sealink 12V Receptacles, Plugs, and Both (Plug Only)

The only other thing I did was went to a local fastener store w/the screws that hold the Zumo mount to the Techmount and got some shorter screws. You can see the difference in these two posts - stock screws and short screws.

Once you get the unit make sure you go to the following places to update and register your Zumo.

Product Registration

Web Updater (This will allow you to make sure your Zumo has the latest firmware)

MapSource software version 6.13.6 as of December 4, 2007

If you are going to be interested in loading POI's (Points Of Interest) you'll need this also - POI Loader for Windows software version 2.4.2 as of August 6, 2007.

 
Ride Safe,
Fired00d
 

[iski]

BTW - Muley.  d00d knows more about Zumo than the folks at Zumo know, more than likely.  Excellent info source & I owe him big time for all the help he gave me on this.   

[Muley]

Okay you guys got me sold on this thing. Where's the best place to purchase? My wife does most of her camera stuff at newegg.com, their price on ZUMO 550 $714.99. Usually good prices on electronics.

Next question, can any idiot install this stuff or do I need to load my saddlebags and tour pack with  and head up to d00d's and beg for a tech assist.

Muley

[iski]

Okay you guys got me sold on this thing. Where's the best place to purchase? My wife does most of her camera stuff at newegg.com, their price on ZUMO 550 $714.99. Usually good prices on electronics.

Next question, can any idiot install this stuff or do I need to load my saddlebags and tour pack with  and head up to d00d's and beg for a tech assist.

Muley

Do some searches for Zumo 550's - not sure where the best deal on these now.  I got mine from Buydig.com.  Amazon sells them - so do lots of other sites.  Make sure it is "new in box" & not refurbished, if you are paying a new price for one.


Figure if you go to d00d's you could drink HIS beer while he installed it - he is a real nice guy from what I hear.   


I'm an idiot & had no trouble installing my Zumo, if that is any help.   

[Fired00d]

Okay you guys got me sold on this thing. Where's the best place to purchase? My wife does most of her camera stuff at newegg.com, their price on ZUMO 550 $714.99. Usually good prices on electronics.

Next question, can any idiot install this stuff or do I need to load my saddlebags and tour pack with  and head up to d00d's and beg for a tech assist.

Muley

I purchased mine from PCNation.com (currently $647.15 w/free 3 day FedEx shipping) at the time they had the best price.

It's simple to install. I'm all thumbs when it comes to being a mechanic and I didn't have any problems. If you need any assistance we'll be here for you.

 
Ride Safe,
Fired00d
 

[REGGAB]

Initially........the ONLY reason I bought the 550 vice the 450 was the car mount.  REALLY like that feature, which has come in quite handy lately.  The longer I owned the 550, the cooler the bluetooth became.  I can see who is calling.  If it's Renea or Stef, then a pullover is warranted.  If it's work, then a middle finger is warranted..........as well as a downshift into rapid acceleration.   

Get the 550.  You'll LOVE it.   

[pcr02hd]

Be very carefull of scams on ebay there is some involving the Garmin Zumos.
Here is a link to a business in NY that came from everyprice.com

http://www.cameraaddict.com/viewproduct.aspx?ID=3613090&l=Everyprice

Been considering placing an order with them.
They just lowered the price from $585 to $555.

[Muley]

Placed my order for the Zumo 550 today. Prepare for multiple questions up on its arrival later this week. Thanks for all the input.

Muley

[Fired00d]

Congrats you'll enjoy it. Don't hesitate to ask if you have any questions.

 
Ride Safe,
Fired00d