Like many riders I have used my phone as a nav system in my older bikes. A simple phone mount let’s me plop it in, and follow Google maps where I need to go.
But I’ve had two issues with that over the years:
- The vibration of being mounted to handle bars can kill your camera.
- I’ve shorted out the USB power supply in a rain storm.
So instead of just replacing my power supply this spring (though I did that too!), I decided to try a little updated.
In full disclosure I did get the part free from an Amazon review program. The device is Wonsidary waterproof motorcycle console, compatible with car play and android auto.
The device came with 2 power cords, one with a USB plug , and one for direct wiring. I chose the latter but wired it into my accessories switch of the ignition. The mount used standard ball mount with a short 2inch arm to allow easy adjustments and removal for those sketchier stops.
The concept is really nice. I just turn on my bike and my phone wirelessly connects to the large screen, with music and maps ready.
In reality there are a few shortcomings.
The included arm mount is a joke. It doesn’t use the standard thumbscrew, but instead a plain old bolt that needs an allen key to make any adjustments. I tossed that and luckily had a spare arm mount to use.
The thing is slow. Slow to start, slow to change functions, and I haven’t really pushed it with music and maps on a long ride but will update once I do. Based on quality of the wire and mounting arm I expect some pretty cheap components inside.
So just in case I also mounted another USB power supply. Got it on discount sale from Revzilla, but it has a nice auto-shutoff based on voltage, and a sturdy waterproof connector.
If you’ve installed any aftermarket nav system, let me know how you feel about it below!
