The Golden Triangle Rider

[pikey]

I'm toying with the idea of getting a GPS unit so that I can plot/swap/follow offroad tracks but before I take the plunge I need a little info about suitability. I'd be looking for a unit that can run off the bike's power supply. Normally this would be a hardwired to the battery (DC) but my XR does not have a battery so my question is does anyone categorically know whether I can tap into the bikes wiring and run it of an AC connection without damaging the unit?

If yes, does anyone have a suitable secondhand unit for sale?

Cheers,

Pikey.
_________________
"Belligerent, honest, sarcastic and rides like an arse? Hmmm, that'll be me then! "

Visit http://www.thehungersite.com today!

[Lightemup]

I only have experience with using Garmins and there are hardwire options for battery connections available for all the most popular models for motorcycling like 60Csx or Zumos.

I currently have and use the Zumo 550 and a Vista C (And Foretrex 101 and Garmin 12 and 40)
I like the big screen on the Zumo for riding. Vista for dismounted tasks (.mil and work)

For purely offroading, Id probably advise getting the 60Csx, although the Zumo plots tracks too. As I found out recently (Who reads the manual anyway?)

The new Colorado T unit looks promising though with 3D view of the terrain.

[pikey]

Thanks for the info Lightmeup but you need to reread my post. I understand that most GPS units come with a connection for the vehicle battery BUT my XR does not have a battery (XR400R - enduro spec) which is why I am asking if I can tap into the wiring loom (the lighting circuit for example) to get power without damaging the GPS unit.


Cheers,

Pikey.
_________________
"Belligerent, honest, sarcastic and rides like an arse? Hmmm, that'll be me then! "

Visit http://www.thehungersite.com today!

[BignTall]

Pikey I'm speculating here but I'm guessing you would have to convert the AC to dc which would require all the usual suspects (regulater,rectifier, etc.). For what you are intending I would just rely on the AA batteries for simplicity. i run them on the YZF without issues and Happy feet runs all his rides/tours with AA's in his GPS. They run all day without a problem. I know Mark has run his for two days full riding with no issues.


Good luck
_________________
Cheers all.

"Looking for the woman that takes the wheel when I'm seeing double."

[johngooding]

I have the Garmin 60CX and run off standard AA's which last a good 12 hours. Unit will run off rechargeables as well. Some small chargers available, not too heavy to carry, so could recharge every night.

[pikey]

B&T, John,

Thanks for the info. I was aware that a lot of units run off dry cell batteries but thought that the battery life was a lot lower than you guys quote from real life experiences. That gives me confidence and yes, like you say Justin, is the way to go for simplicity's sake.

Thanks again chaps & ride safe.

Pikey.
_________________
"Belligerent, honest, sarcastic and rides like an arse? Hmmm, that'll be me then! "

Visit http://www.thehungersite.com today!

[harrythefinn]

I run an older Garmin on my XR it chews thru the batteries. Buy a small 12V sealed gel battery from any Thai PC store and use that , mine is about 50 X 50 X 100mm. It lasts a couple of days before needing a charge. I stick in behind the headlight shroud.

The lights cct is only enough for about 35W and it is AC on the XRs, if you have blinkers(indicators) and a horn then you have DC there as the horn only works on DC. That maybe an option but my indicators don't flash if I use this source.
_________________
Harri.XR650R.

[pikey]

Thanks Harri - I assumed that a unit would need DC power but in this day and age with all the high tech stuff, I thought maybe they could accept an AC input. If/when I get a unit, I'll just run it with batteries and the PC battery sounds like a great idea.

Thanks to all for the advice.

Cheers,

Pikey.
_________________
"Belligerent, honest, sarcastic and rides like an arse? Hmmm, that'll be me then! "

Visit http://www.thehungersite.com today!

[daewoo]

[TonyBKK]

Hi All!

Can you tell me if the Garmin Zumo is water proof, or at least water resistant?

Anyone have any recommendations for a tough GPS that can be used during the rainy season?

I've decided I definitely need a GPS, but I'd hate to kill it by riding in the rain. What do you do to protect your GPS from the elements?

Thanks for your help!
_________________
The Large Print Giveth, and the Small Print Taketh Away

[siinthai]