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CVO Technical => Electronic Toys and Gadgets => Topic started by: 07_Flhrse3 on August 05, 2009, 04:52:52 PM

Title: Nuvi 550 GPS
Post by: 07_Flhrse3 on August 05, 2009, 04:52:52 PM
Anyone out there using the Nuvi 550 GPS on their motorcycle?  I'm thinking about getting a GPS, but don't think I'd use all the features of the Zumo at over twice the expense.  Any thoughts? 

thanks, Otter
Title: Re: Nuvi 550 GPS
Post by: Fired00d on August 05, 2009, 07:08:27 PM
Anyone out there using the Nuvi 550 GPS on their motorcycle?  I'm thinking about getting a GPS, but don't think I'd use all the features of the Zumo at over twice the expense.  Any thoughts? 

thanks, Otter
You ever ride in the rain?? If so get something that is waterproof rated and can also take the shock (jolt) abuse that a GPS unit will get on a bike.

 :pumpkin:
Ride Safe,
Fired00d
 :fireman:
Title: Re: Nuvi 550 GPS
Post by: 07_Flhrse3 on August 05, 2009, 08:40:44 PM
Yes, I've ridden in the rain.  Specs say it is waterproof and "drive, hike or boat...."  and the make a motorcycle mount that handles the 500 series.  Just trying to find out if anyone out there is using one. 

thanks, Otter
Title: Re: Nuvi 550 GPS
Post by: Fired00d on August 05, 2009, 08:57:16 PM
Interesting the waterproof specs are the same (IPX7). :2vrolijk_21: Still not sold that it would be motorcycle friendly. :nixweiss: One thing I did notice is the lack of ability to create routes on your computer and download them to that unit. That feature alone (after using it to create my own routes) would deter me from getting it. You will be able to put a destination in that unit, but it's going to take you on the route according the the preferences you've predetermined in the unit. The ability to create a route on the computer w/the predetermined preferences then editing (moving) it to the way I want to go is a worthwhile feature to me.

 :pumpkin:
Ride Safe,
Fired00d
 :fireman:
Title: Re: Nuvi 550 GPS
Post by: 07_Flhrse3 on August 05, 2009, 09:19:06 PM
Thanks Dood.  Good point.  That's why I asked here.  Anyone else out there with an opinion. 

ride safe as well, Otter
Title: Re: Nuvi 550 GPS
Post by: bribe36 on March 24, 2010, 11:07:35 PM
I bought the 550 last year, June 2009. I thought it was a great GPS at a great price. It doesn't have all the features of the Zumo but it does do everything I need / want. I used it on my bike and in my truck, until it was stolen from my truck. I'm shopping for a new gps and I think I'll get another Nuvi 550.
Title: Re: Nuvi 550 GPS
Post by: Indenial on March 26, 2010, 09:51:09 AM
I have used the 550 and like it alot. Rode last year 6 hrs in downpour to Milwaukee with it and just put a zip lock on it with the zipper down. Have used it that way 6-8 times in rain and it's not a problem. Just may not be as clear.  I would like to be able to download routes into it. if I could, it would really be cock. I'd get another one if I lost this one. Use it in my truck also. Fits me fine.
Title: Re: Nuvi 550 GPS
Post by: Jock on May 26, 2010, 09:07:59 PM
Well I have never considered a GPS for the bike until my truck was broken into recently in the past three weeks...Among possessions stolen - GPS.  With my West Coast Trip on the chart I considered a new GPS and could not justify the Zumo since I would rarely use one on the bike.  I made the decision to purchase this unit since the cost factor was in my field of consideration.

I have purchased a mount and made the first test ride tonight.  It's what I expected and I am fine with that result.  No it does not have all of the bells and whistles other desire in a GPS but for me it could be fine.

I plan to post a report after my journey since I will have over 3,000 miles on the GPS via a bike...Time will tell...
Title: Re: Nuvi 550 GPS
Post by: Jock on May 26, 2010, 09:09:48 PM
Oh yeah...it was $199 at Bass Pro Shop this weekend!

(http://smileys.smileycentral.com/cat/36/36_2_50.gif)
Title: Re: Nuvi 550 GPS
Post by: harlee79 on June 02, 2010, 11:10:17 AM
I have this unit and have used it on the motorcycle in the rain with no issues.  There was a video floating around on the internet with a guy using it in a fish tank.  It is waterproof, no issues there.  I also use it in the car and on my UTV for hunting, Like was mentioned above it doesn't have all the bells and whistles but it is the jack of all trades model(waterproof, Topo maps, and general Nav). 

Here is a link to my install from another thread if anyone is interested.

http://www.cvoharley.com/smf/index.php?topic=50160.0
Title: Re: Nuvi 550 GPS
Post by: harlee79 on June 02, 2010, 11:46:49 AM
Found the video, enjoy.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ALDiGADCl9c