Garmin zūmo XT Motorcycle GPS Navigation Device

Curated from 61 real Reddit conversations

Refreshed on: April 7, 2025

Garmin zūmo XT Motorcycle GPS Navigation Device

Brand: Garmin
Price: $477
Snoop Score:
7.7
Sentiment
8.6
Popularity
9.4
Technical
6.8

Snoop's Take

The Garmin zūmo XT is a versatile all-terrain motorcycle GPS navigation device designed for adventure enthusiasts. With its 5.5-inch ultrabright display, it offers reliable navigation and features tailored for both on-road and off-road riding experiences. User feedback indicates a strong appreciation for its durability and ease of use, with one user noting, "Zumo's have been good, durable, units for me." The device's ability to play music files through connected helmet units and provide previews of tight turns on unfamiliar roads also received positive mentions. However, some users expressed concerns about the clunky interface for street navigation, stating, "all the functionality is there, but it's super clunky to use." Overall, the Garmin zūmo XT is highly recommended for those seeking a reliable and feature-rich GPS navigation solution for motorcycle adventures, especially for users who prioritize durability and functionality in their travel gear.

Not for you? Check out our other rated Motorcycle Navigation

Zumo's have been good, durable, units for me.

Positive Feedback

It looks like Garmin isn't going to support the motorize app anymore.

Negative Feedback
Product
7.7
Garmin zūmo XT Motorcycle GPS Navigation Device
Daily Commute
4 / 10
Long-Distance Touring
10 / 10
Off-Road Adventures
10 / 10
Hands-Free Operation
4 / 10
See how this compares to all Motorcycle Navigation

What it does well!

Key strengths users can’t stop talking about.
Durable and reliable units
Zumo's have been good, durable, units for me.
Ability to play music files via helmet unit
Something I found unexpectedly useful is the ability to load music files into the "MP3" directory, and play them via my helmet Cardo unit.
Helpful for previewing tight turns on unfamiliar roads
[On an unfamiliar road, it can be helpful to have a preview of sudden tight turns.]
Users are willing to pay for the Garmin setup functionality
after reading your review, I will fork over the dough. It's a $16K-plus motorcycle, what's another $40 a year?
Bright and glove-friendly display
I like that the XT has a big and bright screen I can see in the day and use with my gloves on.
Great for tracking various activities
For recording a track of where you go in your car or on motorcycle, yes it will work great for that.
Useful for motorcycle routing
That would be the best setup.
Having a dedicated GPS is handy
Having a dedicated gps is really handy, especially if you also have audio in your lid.

Where it needs some work!

Areas to watch—feedback on possible improvements.
Concerns about Garmin's support for the Motorize app
It looks like Garmin isn't going to support the motorize app anymore.
Clunky for street navigation
all the functionality is there, but it's super clunky to use.

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Core Power Plays

The specs and strengths that make it shine.
Zumo units are preferred for waterproofing
Zumo is the best for folks that don’t have ziplock bags handy.
Fenix primarily designed for other activities
I wouldn't buy it solely for this feature, with your motorbike in mind.

Hidden Hero Hacks

Unexpected tricks and side‑door uses you’ll love.
Exploration of alternative GPS setups
When data is needed on the road, it connects to the wifi hotspot of my current phone, which is safely kept in my jacket pocket.
I found it kind of laggy going off my planned route tho.
You can add a device with wireless CarPlay/Android Auto for less than the cost of a dedicated GPS.
I love the bigger screen.
Suggestions for using non-motorcycle GPS devices
Just get a cheaper non motorcycle one and stick it in a showerproof holder from ebay.
Exploration of alternative navigation methods for learner riders
I used to enjoy that - absolutely no distraction until Siri warned me there was a turn in 2km.

Buyer’s Cheat Sheet

What to check before you click ‘Add to Cart.’
Comparison of older models shows little difference in features
I’m not seeing much difference besides screen size when I google it🤷🏻‍♂️
Comparison of Garmin Motorize and other apps like Streetcross
I wonder why Streetcross is free forever and Motorize is 40$ a year... very strange.
Inquiries about GPX file support across different Garmin apps
GPX import seems to be supported.
Using a watch while riding is not advisable
Otherwise - not too many complaints about a solution that didn't cost me anything else on top of what I already had!
On a serious note though, that’s great.
Inquiries about speedometer functionality
how can the speedometer stay on until I turn it off?
Discussion about legality of using phones as GPS for learner riders
I find them somewhat glary in the sunlight. Are the dedicated motorcycle gps systems worth sinking a few dollars as an L rider?

Cautionary Callouts

Know the pitfalls before they catch you off guard.
Using a watch while riding is not advisable.
using a watch while operating a motorcycle sounds like Bad Idea Jeans
Preference for older navigation methods over devices
I was wondering what the rest uses.
I take a look at the route on google maps, memorize it, and put my phone back in my pocket.
Sometimes I hate the convoluted routes on longer trips so I plot my own old school style.
Find a numbered road, and based on the time of the day use the sun to pick the general direction I need to go.

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