I recently purchased the Garmin GPS III+ with the idea of using it on my BMW R1100RT motorcycle for "on-the-fly" navigation and related functions. This review is targeted at this specialized use.
Negatives:
Relatively small screen size; Unit can only download 4 detailed maps at a time; Need PC to download map information; Distraction from road*
Positives:
 Accurate speed measurement (speedo is WAY optimistic on my bike); Location information is fantastic; Waypoints help trip planning; Unit is water resistant; The Garmin MapSource Software is pretty good
Personally, the Garmin GPS III+ meets my needs. Some fellow riders are using the Street Pilot model for its larger screen, but I doubt that it is as rugged as the GPS III+ - I often get caught out in the rain. I use it in my trip planning, while on the road, and after I return home. It allows me the flexibility of exploring unknown and new areas, can be unplugged from the bike and used while hiking, and is just plain cool. Keep in mind that it is a tempting target for thieves, so if you decide to use it in this manner, take the unit with you and never leave it on the bike.
The complete parts list (note that Amazon.com does not carry ALL of the listed accessories) needed to duplicate my installation is:
Garmin GPS III+, Garmin MapSource Software, Garmin Power/Data Cable, Garmin Dash Mount Bracket, and an RCU Shelf ...
First, I had my local dealer connect the hardwired power cable to the back of the dash accessory plug. The connector is routed through the inside of the fairing and out near the windshield. Next, I drilled the appropriate holes for the screws and attached the Garmin Dash Mount Bracket base to the RCU shelf (I decided NOT to use the supplied Velcro). Then, I attached the RCU shelf to the motorcycle. The rest is relatively easy, attach the GPS to the Dash Mount using the supplied screw and then connect the power cable. That's it! The GPS is high enough that I don't have to take my eyes off the road very far for a quick scan and works very well... There has been much discussion on the Internet BMW Riders site ... surrounding the use of devices which may distract the rider from the mission at hand; safe riding. Those riders who do decide to use such a device should exercise extreme caution and never fixate on any instrument or control.
I recently purchased the Garmin GPS III+ with the idea of using it on my BMW R1100RT motorcycle for "on-the-fly" navigation and related functions. This review is targeted at this specialized use. Negatives:
Relatively small screen size; Unit can only download 4 detailed maps at a time; Need PC to download map information; Distraction from road*
Positives:
 Accurate speed measurement (speedo is WAY optimistic on my bike); Location information is fantastic; Waypoints help trip planning; Unit is water resistant; The Garmin MapSource Software is pretty good
Personally, the Garmin GPS III+ meets my needs. Some fellow riders are using the Street Pilot model for its larger screen, but I doubt that it is as rugged as the GPS III+ - I often get caught out in the rain. I use it in my trip planning, while on the road, and after I return home. It allows me the flexibility of exploring unknown and new areas, can be unplugged from the bike and used while hiking, and is just plain cool. Keep in mind that it is a tempting target for thieves, so if you decide to use it in this manner, take the unit with you and never leave it on the bike. The complete parts list (note that Amazon. com does not carry ALL of the listed accessories) needed to duplicate my installation is:
Garmin GPS III+, Garmin MapSource Software, Garmin Power/Data Cable, Garmin Dash Mount Bracket, and an RCU Shelf... First, I had my local dealer connect the hardwired power cable to the back of the dash accessory plug. The connector is routed through the inside of the fairing and out near the windshield. Next, I drilled the appropriate holes for the screws and attached the Garmin Dash Mount Bracket base to the RCU shelf (I decided NOT to use the supplied Velcro). Then, I attached the RCU shelf to the motorcycle. The rest is relatively easy, attach the GPS to the Dash Mount using the supplied screw and then connect the power cable. That's it! The GPS is high enough that I don't have to take my eyes off the road very far for a quick scan and works very well... There has been much discussion on the Internet BMW Riders site... surrounding the use of devices which may distract the rider from the mission at hand; safe riding. Those riders who do decide to use such a device should exercise extreme caution and never fixate on any instrument or control.