Real world experience with Garmin Zumo 550?

[redrider]

You may want to reconsider in the future as most features are implemented in software. Since the Zumo is new, they probably released it with a basic set of features, then will add more features in future firmware releases.

[redrider]

I finally got the zumo 550 after a slow ground delivery. As this is my first GPS, I've spent a bit of time playing and trying to understand the functionality.

One of the features I'm most interested in is the track log which just about every unit has. I opened the gpx file in Mapsource to see what it contained. I found that the sample rate is variable depending on the curviness of the road i.e. if you're driving along a straight road the data points are logged every 0.3mi or so, but when you are on a twisty section, it logs points much more often, maybe every 100ft or less to capture the turns. I think this is why the zumo sw doesn't allow user adjustment of the sample rate, it probably is more memory efficient than a fixed rate. One limitation is that it is limited to 10,000 data points, if you are averaging say 20 points/mile, then the total is used up after only 500 miles. If you are on a multiday tour, this obviously is not enough to cover the entire duration, but what could be done is save the track log on a daily basis, but as another poster commented, the logs are saved as a route. I'm wondering what this would look like if you exported the route to a map tool like Google earth, would it show you the detailed path? Would it retain the date/time stamp data?

The Mapsource tool included with the zumo is a very good tool, of course this is not unique to the zumo, I understand most other Garmin devices have it as well. It's my first experience with such route planning tools, but it seems very intuitive and simple, much more efficient than trying to enter a route from the GPS screen, just upload and go.

Overall, the fit and finish of the zumo is top shelf. It feels solid and quality design all around. It's got hands free cell phone interface, Bluetooth helmet interface, MP3 player, XM radio interface, etc. I haven't used any of them yet, but definitely the helmet interface is a must if you want to hear the voice instructions.

This unit is definitely worth considering if you're after a moto specific gps device. Garmin will be introducing the zumo 450 soon which will have the same navigational set, but lacking the MP3, Bluetooth, and XM capability for a couple hundred bucks less.

[EatnAsphalt]

Originally Posted by redrider

You may want to reconsider in the future as most features are implemented in software. Since the Zumo is new, they probably released it with a basic set of features, then will add more features in future firmware releases.

Yep, you're right. Some of the things are being addressed. Garmin is currently beta testing a software update that adds elevation display. That was one thing I thought it needed.

There are some other things, that most users probably won't care about. But being that I've been using GPS' for over 10 years now, I've become accustomed to customizing screens, the order of screens, fields that are display, etc. That is something that is not a feature of the Zumo. It just isn't customizable to the point that is standard for many gps models out there. The Zumo looks like it was designed by the same "team" that designed the automobile product line. Which is known of it's lack of adjustably when compared to the handheld line of products that have just about every visible item on a screen configurable.

That's not necessarily a bad thing, just different that what I am use to. Which is why I went with a different model. On a bike, I don't need a touch screen or voice directions. In my truck, I use a Nuvi 660, and the touch screen and voice are great.

Adjustable tracklog is important. The auto adjusting setup you found with the Zumo seems to work well. The 76CSx I use can log the track directly to the microSD card. With that feature, it is no longer limited to 10,000 points, only limited to the card freespace. So I get an incredibly detailed log, that is basically unlimited in size. The log files are very small. The 2 gb card I use is only half full with map data.

Thanks for updating us. You can check out this Zumo specific forum also.
http://razorbiker.com/zumo/index.php

[chief]

Here is a write-up on the Zumo that I found helpful.

Clicky

[EatnAsphalt]

Great write up! The Zumo has all the features of the automobile line. A great product for sure!

[aperkon]

Hey all
Thank you for all the great information. Sure helps all of us that are thinking of a GPS purchase.
Andy

[chief]

Here are a couple of shots of the Zumo 550 on the bike. I'll try and get ya a review in a few.........

[redrider]

Garmin has just released a major firmware upgrade for the Zumo, 3.0. It now includes compass display, altitude, up to 200k tracking points via archives, display tracks, touch scrolling, improved trip data, and a lot more. It's not without a few bugs however, Garmin is working on fixing them.

[RollItAwnRob]

Noticed that they are showing a 450 and 500 model in addition to the 550.

[aperkon]

Wow, great information, thank you. I am heading to Laguna Seca this year and am wondering if I should wait with the purchase. I would imagine there will be many vendors there. The Zumo sure looks good on the bike.
Ride Safely - always
Andy