Garmin Zumo 550

The Garmin Zumo 550 is a versatile electronic GPS device that is specifically designed for the modern bikers. Whether you want to get to your destination on time with accurate real-time GPS updating or enjoy some nice entertainment while on the move, this all-in-one electronic gadget will serve all those needs of yours.

Before I go on to summarize the important benefits and features of this GPS system, please watch this video review of Garmin Zumo 550 by a real user. This would be very helpful for those who are contemplating to get the GPS system. There are 2 parts to this video review. Be sure to watch both of them to get a better idea.

 

Video Review Part 1 (left) & 2 (right)

 

5 Best Benefits of Zumo 550

• Specifically Designed for 2 Wheelers

It is made from fuel-resistant and waterproof plastic materials. Therefore, it is very durable and suitable for all weather conditions. Aside from being extremely durable, it has undergone vibration tests to ensure its usability when you are on the road.

• Navigate While Riding

Worried about getting lost while riding? Don’t worry, this portable GPS comes with preloaded street maps which house a huge POI database. Therefore, whether you are looking for Starbucks, McDonald’s or any outlets, you can find it within the system itself.

All you need to do is enter your desired destination, then Zumo 550 will guide you there with a voice that will speak out the street names to you. In addition to that, it allows you to pre-load electronic maps of your desired destination into the device to prepare for your journey in advance.

• Pick Up Calls And Listen to Songs Without Using Your Hands

The Zumo 550 allows you to pick up calls without taking off your helmet or gloves while riding. Thanks to its in-built wireless Bluetooth technology. You can also listen to mp3 music which you have uploaded into the device while riding.

• Ride Safely While Avoiding Bad Weather and Traffic

It has an optional XM subscription and antenna that allows you to check weather and traffic conditions in advance. You can also listen to the radio while travelling.

• All in One Device

Aside from providing entertainment, the Zumo 550 allows you to plan your trip on a computer and upload the entire trip with maps into the device. This allows you to travel with your friends and family smoothly without any hiccups in between. The availability of a SD card slot in the device makes sharing among fellow zumo biker friends much easier.

 

Garmin Zumo 550 Vs Teletype 3500 World Nav3500

I chose Teletype 3500 in this comparison because it is the best seller in Amazon aside from the Garmin ones to make a fair comparison. In terms of functionality, the Garmin one boots up faster and takes a shorter time in its recalculation of distance and mapping function. The only drawback is its pricing, it is almost 2 times the price of the Teletype 3500. Therefore, it is a case of quality over pricing.

 

5 Main Technical Features of Zumo 550

• Compact and Lightweight

Weighing at 10.6 ounces and with a dimension of 4.8 x 3.9 x 1.6-inches (WxHxD), this motorcycle GPS is extremely portable. Apart from its portability, it has a screen size of 3.5 inch which makes it very ideal for viewing.

• GPS Receiver

It has a very sensitive GPS receiver with a 10,000 point tracking system, powered by SiRF Star chipset which allows very accurate mapping regardless of the environment you are riding in.

• Wireless Bluetooth Technology

The state of the art Wireless Bluetooth Technology allows you to pick up calls safely while riding.

• Rechargeable Battery

It has a removable lithium battery with a lifespan of 3 hours. Therefore, you can use this GPS for trekking or exploring on foot as well.

• Bright Display

The Zumo 550 has a very bright display which provides readability under sunlight. It is also UV resistant, therefore it will not spoil when it is exposed to the sun for prolonged periods.

 

The GPS System In Action

Here are 2 videos to show you how it works and how to use it. There are 2 parts to this video. The first part is on the left followed by the second part on the right.

 

Customer Reviews

Buyer reviews of Garmin Zumo 550 are largely positive except for a few of them who find the unit a bit pricey. However, according to some customers, Garmin has provided everything that you need such as screws, mounts, to mount the GPS system on your bike which justifies the increased price.

Having a temperature gauge to monitor the temperature of the surroundings would make this unit an even more superb one though. Some customers complained that the unit takes a long time to load which can be overcome by downloading the latest software update for the system. Other than that, this is probably the best motorcycle GPS system available in the market.

 

How Did This Motorcycle GPS Rate On Popular Websites?

References

Amazon: 4.4/5.0 (based on 220 reviews)
CNet: 4.0/5.0 (based on 32 reviews)
Buzzilion: 4.4 /5.0 (based on 60 reviews)
GPSCity: 4.3/5.0 (based on 98 reviews)

Overall: 4.3/5.0 (based on 410 reviews)

Useful Resources

1. Garmin Zumo 550 User Manual

Click Here to download a copy of the User Manual after purchasing.

 

Where to Buy It?

 

Last Updated: 9 Jan 2012