BonusVFR

OK.......... I just tried another RAM setup for the Tank mount.

I found that often with my stem mounted electrical outlet, I do not have room for some plug ins especially when I use my BMW/Cig adapter. With a straight BMW plug I had no no problem but I made another change so I can better use the Cig dodads.

First a Short ARM (comes with Zumo package) goes to the Tank ball Mount ............then the two balls (familiar?????) RAM extensioin and then a Med Arm to the Zumo cradle. THis setup is a little longer than the Long Arm and gives you more options for positioning..........very important when you have a large tank bag. This gives me adequate room for the electrical stuff and also allows excellent Zumo viewing without blocking the instruments. In this shot, I have the BMW/Cig adapter and the 12DC charger for my cell.

Next up a quick review of an external amp and more lessons learned from the road.

Sorry about your experience as well.

My unit has been pretty much faultless for a year and half. Just one ctrl alt del (reboot) and one cracked rubber dust cap (garmin fixed) in that time.

I know there have been units returned but do not have any sense of the % or whether there is a fundamental/engineering proplem etc. I also have not really spent any time on "crapped out" threads in the Zumoforums as I was ok.

When I was investigating other GPS units before I got the Zumo, I found that there were issues with many GPS units........even on Wings which tout a smooth ride and protection. Actually the latest/greatest was part of my rationale for the Zumo as I assumed all Garmins MC lessons learned would be rolled into the 550.

However, I also have found probelms with just about every product/MC especially on the forums I frequent. Unfortunately when it is you instead of the other guy it .............sucks. Even our beloved VFRs have let some of us down.

Chev - I would be interested to know if you upgraded your maps/firmware just before your trip. And I have to believe there is a way to recover your trip logs.............somehow.

Sorry not much help here.

Only way to check battery is to unplug whether you are talking bike power, AC adapter or USB.

Let me know if there is another way.

Tools - Map - Triplog - visible

Tracks and routes downloaded to Mapsource in Yosemite last year

Just don't ask me what to do if this comes in????????? Not in manual.

This is what it looks like when you are following tracks. This is on a road which does not exist yet in Mapsource/Zumo. Been over it quite a bit as you can see. Following tracks works to reverse a route but be careful as you might find yourself in the wrong side of the road if you follow exactly!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Tracks should be visible for the last two days of riding. You can convert them to routes but they will be going the other way if you are trying to reverse the route.

I'm a bit disappointed that the Zumo doesn't come with both US and European maps like the Nuvi -- is this just a space thing or what? Anyone know if I would have any problems if I got it with the European maps and went back to the states (other than the $100 map pack)?

PCNation has the 010-00567-00 listed for $300 less than the Garmin site, but I don't see the map pack.

Lots of the off road types put the topo maps on a SD card. When I get my KLR?

I went for a ride today mainly to test the zumo.

The setup: I had a route loaded, a list of Speed and redlight cam POIs, I had an SD card with music, and I had earphones.

A few observations...

- 1/4 mile before getting to a POI location, I got a warning voice and visual message.

- The route worked fine

- I think I got Gill upset, I took a little detour and her tone when saying "Recalculating" did not sound nice.

I also got some "turn LEFT" that sounded like she was really getting upset from me not doing what she wanted.

- Now I got to my destination and I want to go back. :fing02:

- how do I reverse my route to get back to my starting point?

- It was great to just have one device for GPS and music.

- I wish there was a quick way to switch from the map and the MP3 screen.

or better yet, have both on a split screen like the nav in my bimmer.

- I wish the headphone jack was on the actual unit and not in the cradle.

if I want to get off the bike and go somewhere and keep listening to music... I can't.

Also, if I remove the keys from the ignition, keep the zumo on battery, and try to listen

to music, I can't. The cradle has no power.

- All in all, I'm REALLY happy with this device.

Glad you like the thread - fun getting it going and going and going!

You should post up how you the did the camera/speed thing - I just have the Honda dealers in my POI.

The bottom line is that there is no easy way to reverse a route - either on Mapsource or the Zumo. You could just follow your tracks back but no you have to fiddle quite a bit to reverse. Almost easier making a new route with the same waypoints/favorites. Most of the time I take a different way back so no big deal. If you just follow (not navigate) the original route back in reverse it can be entertaining as sometimes the Zumo gags and tries to turn you around. I think the problem is with freeways and alike where it could be problem reversing............................

Using the third button on the left you can switch betweeen screens.

No MP3 off the bike or without power. Just the way it is for now. At night sometimes I do use it to walk around to find places to eat and hydrate???. Once I get off the bike at days end I don't like to get back on till the next morning.

My first Sierra tour on Zumo power early last year. Replenishing fluids. On the right boy!

Don't give up with Mapsource. It gets better once you get wet.

Make sure Mapsource is updated in addition to the maps. Best to use start and end points and then shaping points to force the rooute to the roads you want. Should be in this thread somwhere ...........if not zumoforums.com

Was at the Honda dealer recently and they had the Honda branded Zumo on display. It also has the remote control (speak & zoom).

Here is a crappy phone pic.

Ah, yes, the infamous "GathersM" Honda navigation system. Somebody managed to test the remote with a normal Zumo and said it worked, but they didn't say how it connected (through the mini-USB?), nor if it had its own part number...

Ciao,

One thing that concerns me is the software updates to OEM Branded Zumos/Garmins whatever. The software changes/updates seem to take forever to get in the system. The Wing guys are constantly complaining about the Goldwing GPS unit (Garmin unit) and how long it takes to get the latest software (not maps but OS but map updates too). The BMW badged Zumo has the same problem too I think. You can use some of the changes but you risk screwing up the BMW features..........then what you have is a plain ZUmo.

When you have the Zumo hooked to a relay controlled fusebox, pulling/turning the key switchs off the VFR power to the Zumo. If you do nothing the Zumo shuts down in 30 seconds or you could opt to stay on Zumo battery power or shut it down immediately. A dialog box pops up automatically to give you the choice. Most of the time, I just shut the Zumo down and stick it in my pocket ..........unless I have a clear view of the bike. Sometimes if I am going to do some route fiddling at lunch I just let it run on Zumo battery till I figure my next move.

What ever the inline fuse specs that come with the Zumo power cord I stick in the Blue Sea fuse holder that leads to the Zumo. I use a 30amp inline fuse from the battery to the hot leads on the Bluesea.

What gauge..............this is a problem cause every time I touch wiring I have to completely retrain myself what bigger /smaller is etc. I will see if I can figure out what I used (big/thick though).

Sold. Thanks so much for this thread.

I ordered my 550 last night.

Going today to get the blue sea fuse box

My only question (might have been addressed before) is about BT earphones.

I have no intention to use the cell phone while riding. So no need for a mic.

All I want is a BT device to listen to music in stereo quality connected to the Zumo.

Suggestions?

I have sort of "Back to the Future" cut on wireless stuff. Too many batteries already on tour! Cameras (on bars and separate), FRS radio, cell. Did I forget something.

Simple earbuds will get you started and damp road noise and Stereo too! I have a spare set I carry on the VFR/Wing if my speaker/headset rig fails etc. Not sure if they have a BT stereo that works with Zumo.

Plug Earbuds right into the MC mount. Plus you can hear if somebody tries to call you or left a message if you link your BT phone.

If you buy the 550 and you should, don't do a me and cheap out on the 450, which on top of bluetooth does not come with all the car mounts a $120 package like the 550 does.

In the box you get the parts all the you need to connect it to your tank, other than some longer bolts

Even if you do not use the BT on the VFR (it is great to use even if you do not talk) the BT Zumo makes a great hands free device in the car ..........even if you plug it in to remote speakers.

Could someone please verify the mount I need to get my Zumo mounted on my tank?

Do I need the RAM-B-238? Linky

Also, is the medium arm the 5.25' arm?

Thanks

You need the 231 for a 5/6th gen ............Cyclegadgets has them. But not sure for your bike ...........measure the bolt pattern width.

The 5.25 is the longest arm and my ARM of choice for the Tank Mount...............especially if you have a tank bag!

Do the headsets only plug into the Autocomm unit or could you plug them into the Zumo/ipod direct.

Why did you pick the Autocomm Active Rider Plus system?? What else did you look at? I am have been struggling with this issue for months. On the Wing no problem but on the VFR ???? And do I want to spend the MONEY?

Thanks

Looks like the Screen Magnifer can be adapted to work for the Zumo......

I use this dual use pane technology which is still available and actually works. Once you get over the ego thing .................

Adding the Zumo to a VFR support vehicle ie the grey box.

I am addicted to the Zumo on tour and increasingly use it in the truck too.

One of the really nice things about my Zumo and Wing combo is that I can fully integrate the MP3/Nav/Cell sound right into the stock sound system.

The Wing uses a 3.5 mm Aux input jack so that external inputs can be run through the system. The 2.5mm input for the Cell output/transmit is also shown here too.

While most new cars have this 3.5mm input jack, my 2001 Chevy truck does not. What are the options without buying a new radio? A radio with this input and integrated device is clearly the best option. But if you do not want to listen to the crummy and tiny Garmin auto mount speaker what do you do.

My Research options:

1. FM transmitter – which I bought early in the process. This works but has a problem. If you live in a large metro area or adjacent to a foreign country it can be hard finding a clear radio station and you have to adjust the station when you are on the move – ie the only time I need the GPS. Hello ……..San Diego is not Nebraska. It gets worse as I often drive north to an area called LA.

2. FM Modulator – this device hooks to your FM antennae input and essentially sends a strong signal through the radio – you access the Zumo/ipod device by tuning to one or two FM frequency choices. You use your radio presets to access the Zumo output which is 3.5mm hard wire plugged into the FM modulator.

And finally I kept looking at my radio and wondered what the hell is that? How do I tap into that.

Inquiries with all the local car audio shops, web research and the Chevy dealers/GM came to naught! Very Frustrating.

I gave up talking to the young audio geeks at the shops and decided to buy a FM modulator so that I could save some money and keep the stock radio.

While trying to figure out how to get my radio out to see if I avoid an installer fees, I found exactly what I wanted.

http://www.discountcarstereo.com/detail.aspx?ID=347

Wow!

The GM Aux Connector unit plugs into the 9 pin factory CD changer jack. I just hit the Aux button on the radio faceplate and I am in.

Voila Zumo inputs into the radio via the RCA/3.5 mm plug. Works like a charm including full Bluetooth outgoing phone thru the Garmin speaker on the auto mount.

Next up more Zumo sound farkling on the VFR.

Why don't you buy a Uly and park the RC45?

Though certainly not a Zumo expert (yet), I thought I'd share the experience I've had planning for my 4-day trip to Vermont this summer. Playing with the Zumo and MapSource is also the best way to learn how they act and interact and has been a fun way to pass PMS season. I'd also rather learn the nuances now than wait until I'm on the App Gap. :joystick:

My first bit of advice is to read through this entire thread .............................................................................

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One thing I would like to see on the Zumo is a way to reduce the number of alerts. After you take a turn, Jill kindly tells you what your next turn will be. As you get within striking distance, you get her early warning announcement. When you finally reach the turn, she tells you where to go. That's 3 announcements per turn. I would like more control over Jill (I've been married for 29 years, so I'm not holding my breath) and decide whether I want her to badger me once, twice or three times per turn. :salesman:

All in all, this has been a great purchase and I believe it will add another dimension to our group rides. :thumbsup:

Great post. You really have to play with Mapsource a while to get the hang of it.

................

As regards controlling Jill’s Voice Recommendations and Marriage………..Here is my “Life is not Fair” soliloquy.

While I have been married over 30 years (different women …..but it nevertheless adds up), I have learned very little about GPS units. Some years ago, I was forced to trade in an older unit for newer, lighter, better performing and more attractive model. Caution..........It was more expensive of course and required that I contribute a rather large recycling fee and ongoing premiums.

But in some ways despite the significant upgrade there are parallels. There are “apparent bugs” in the core operating system. From my conversations with other aficionados and board members, these software glitches seem endemic to all GPS units.

Now as to Jill, I have found with experimentation that you can alter the voice protocols by reprogramming the Logic and or Feeling modules. This usually has a short term impact. Messing with the logic controls often cause my unit to uncontrollably transmit…….so I do not attempt this often and only when I make the mistake of acting instinctively to solve a problem. This can be aggravating especially on tour. Albeit blurting out a decisive fact gives you fleeting satisfaction (measured in nanoseconds), this action is never a good tactic or strategy.

As I have “matured” I have found that I can dabble with the Feelings component. This usually works at the onset ………if you understand. However this exacting and somewhat tedious programming requires considerable patience, follow up, and unnecessary audits. The reprogramming also decays over time and obliges one to make more and larger investments downstream. It is a catch really ………the better you are at it the more you have to ……..well…….talk about it. This is not encouraging particularly if you like to spend large amounts of productive time on VFRD.

Of late, I have been outsourcing the interminable task of code writing to females geeks. Although their actions often seem imponderable and aimless, they are remarkably effective at getting the job done.

If the either of these “pearls” do not work for you……………Try this!

Announce “Yes Dear” and proceed on the route you like. Disregard Jill as best you can and under no circumstances stop and ask for directions.

:goofy: J/K :warranty: :goofy: :blink: :blink:

Oh ............Version 3.9 of the Zumo software has a Upgrade on Jill but I am not sure what it does. I think that anybody who reads my post knows this all too well.

Can I be of any further help?

More software Updatees:

Changes made from version 3.80 to 3.90:

Corrected issue that provided invalid search results near your destination for long routes.

Corrected issue with MadMaps support that could cause an incorrect Speed Zone alert to display.

Mine still works :warranty:

Ok so I got my Zumo all setup on the bike I mean in the Car (bike is sleeping because of winter :goofy: )

And it works great, but now its dumb question time.

Why with a unit that can find my location anywhere in the world with in 20feet, but I have to tell it what time zone I'm currently in :blink:

You think the unit could figure that out on its own, please tell me I'm not smarter than all the guys at Garmin and no one has ever come up with that idea before? :goofy:

They come from Kansas .................Some Wizards of .....................Oz. :goofy:

It was explained to me once why you have to change the time zones manually but I forgot. I think it is more about that you can not write a formula to describe what pols will do with time zones. When I was in the Navy we used to use Zulu time to eliminate some of the confusion when traveling lots of miles.

When I start doing cross border or do they or do they not have recognize "daylight savings time" travel, I just look at the Zumo time and see if it matches Bank neon alternating time/temp displays.

Pretty easy to change and it makes me feel like the machine needs me and that we are a total system. :goofy:

All files can just sit on the SD card, or in the MP3 folder of the Zumo.

the key to zumo displaying titles, artist etc is all in the Id tags of the mp3 files. If you right click on the file in Windoze Exploder, choose Properties, choose Summary these are the id tags of the file.

Zumo will allow groupings based on Artist, Album if these are filled in right.

You can edit these tags, or use some shareware to do it en masse (google it). Or get these right when you ripped the music in the first place (for backup purposes only of course!)

Cheers

AB

Most of my ID info is there already ..........have not taken much time to fill the few holes I have. I can navigate the MP3s fine with the current data.

When I run the Ridges I like my MP3 player on!

Try dumping the mp3 files into a Directory on the SD card called .........MP3. If that does not work try putting the music into the MP3 directory on the Zumo itself to see if that works ok. Music has to be MP3 format.

All my naming efforts did not work but there is some software somewhere that ID for you. But if the id stuff is there it should show up on the Zumo.

Well I did more experimenting with the Mapsource quick delete of all favorites described above and the technique does not work. Here is what I added to the post above .

"EDITED to add but it does not! There appears to be no way to instantly delete all your favorites...........still looking"

Sorry about the bum steer :warranty: :blink:

There was a question in another thread about how to clear out your Waypoints/Favorites on the 450/550

On the Zumo:

Lets talk about Recently Found locations too. On the Zumo itself you can clear out all your “Recently Found” attempts in one sweep using the Clear Button .........Do you really want to do this?? Or individually when you select the found location and then “Edit”.

With the “Favorites”, which are essentially the Waypoints downloaded from Mapsource or manually entered/saved in the Zumo, you can only delete them individually after you have selected a particular Favorite then use the “Edit” function to delete.

Now the Mapsource way:

Have you backed up all your files on the Zumo yet???? Do it!! So in case this method or any other crazy idea does not work …….you do not have to call Garmin tech support.

When you hook up to the USB, the Zumo first Enters a USB mass Storage Mode and saves all waypoints, routes and trip logs in GPX format. These data points are saved in a Current.gpx file found in the Zumo storage in a directory called Garmin and then a GPX subdirectory. Your SD card should also be available if you want to look at that but the Current.Gpx file will be on the Zumo unit not the card.

It is simple then to load up the Current file in Mapsource using Filemanager. Delete the “Waypoints” you do not like in Mapsource and save the file back to the Zumo.

There are other ways to do this but this should work.

EDITED to add but it does not! There appears to be no way to instantly delete all your favorites...........still looking

Did I say Backup first!!

As I said before, I like to eliminate all non relevant waypoints when I go for a tour in a distant land plus add in a few maybe Points in case my plan changes. I have saved all the old waypoints in a Mapsource file so I can load them back on when I need to. In fact after every tour, I save everything in my Zumo including the archived trip logs to one gpx file.