Best GPS Watch for Motorcycle Riding: Your Ultimate Guide

When it comes to motorcycle riding, having a reliable GPS watch can significantly enhance your experience by providing you with accurate navigation, speed details, and more. A GPS watch designed for motorcycling helps you stay on track without needing to constantly look down at a dashboard. In this article, we’ll explore the best GPS watch for motorcycle enthusiasts and provide tips on what to look for when choosing one.

Features to Consider in a Best GPS Watch for Motorcycle

Best GPS Watch for Motorcycle

Durability

A good GPS watch for motorcycle riding needs to be tough enough to withstand vibrations, shocks, and all weather conditions. Look for some of the best watches that are waterproof and have a robust build.

Readability

The watch face should be easy to read at a glance. A larger display with a backlight is ideal for visibility during both day and night rides.

Battery Life

Motorcycle trips can last for hours or even days, so it’s important that your GPS watch has a long battery life. Opt for a watch that can last several hours on GPS mode.

Navigation Features

Essential for any motorcycle GPS watch, detailed maps and clear directions are crucial. Some watches offer turn-by-turn navigation, which can be incredibly helpful.

Additional Features

Some GPS watches come with extra all the features such as speed alerts, trip computers, garmin connect and the ability to sync with your smartphone for notifications, music control, and more.

Read more on: Dirt Bike GPS  , Dirt Bike speedometers , Best GPS Tracker For Bike , Best GPS Tracker For Motorcycle , Best GPS Mount For Motorcycle

Top GPS Watches for Motorcycle Riding

1. Garmin Forerunner 945Best GPS Watch for Motorcycle

Garmin Forerunner 945
FeatureDescription
Display Type1.2 inch color display, easy to read in sunlight
Battery LifeUp to 36 hours in full on gps mode, perfect for long rides
GPS NavigationOffers full-color mapping and advanced navigation features of gps track
Water ResistanceWater-resistant up to 50 meters, suitable for all weather conditions
DurabilitySturdy build, garmin instinct, garmin fenix, designed to handle outdoor activities
Special FeaturesMusic storage, Garmin Pay, and safety tracking features
Price RangeHigh, but offers value for comprehensive features

The Garmin Forerunner 945 is an excellent choice for motorcycle enthusiasts who need reliable navigation and comprehensive fitness tracking. This GPS watch offers detailed maps and route guidance, ensuring you never lose your way during rides. It’s also equipped with a long-lasting battery, perfect for extended trips. Although it’s on the pricier side, its versatility and advanced features justify the investment, making it suitable for both sports enthusiasts and avid motorcyclists.

Pros:

  • Offers detailed maps and navigation.
  • Long battery life in GPS mode.
  • Lightweight and comfortable for long rides.

Cons:

  • High price point.
  • Complex features that may require a learning curve.

2. Suunto 9 Baro

Suunto 9 Baro
FeatureDescription
Display Type1.4 inch color touchscreen for easy interaction
Battery LifeExceptional with up to 120 hours in Ultra mode
GPS NavigationSupports GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo for accurate positioning
Water ResistanceUp to 100 meters, excellent for adverse weather
DurabilityExtreme durability and shockproof, ideal for rugged use
Special FeaturesBarometric altitude, storm alerts, and heatmaps for detailed insights
Price RangeHigh, reflecting its advanced outdoor capabilities

Suunto 9 Baro stands out for its rugged durability and precise environmental monitoring capabilities. Designed to endure extreme conditions, it comes with a barometer for real-time altitude and weather updates, crucial for riders who traverse varied terrains. The battery life is impressive, catering to long-distance riders without constant recharges. While it may be bulkier and more expensive than some alternatives, its robust build and reliability make it a top choice for adventure riders.

Pros:

  • Extremely durable with a robust build.
  • Excellent battery life.
  • Barometer feature for altitude and weather prediction.

Cons:

  • Expensive.
  • Can be bulky on smaller wrists.

3. Polar Grit X

Polar Grit X
FeatureDescription
Display Type1.2 inch color display that’s clear under various lighting conditions
Battery LifeUp to 40 hours in GPS mode, suitable for extended trips
GPS NavigationProvides turn-by-turn navigation powered by Komoot
Water ResistanceRobust water resistance, reliable for outdoor use
DurabilityBuilt tough for outdoor adventures and harsh conditions
Special FeaturesTraining load and recovery insights, weather trend information
Price RangeModerate, great for budget-conscious adventurers

The Polar Grit X is tailored for outdoor adventures, offering a durable design and excellent visibility in different lighting conditions. It features turn-by-turn navigation powered by Komoot, which helps riders explore new trails confidently. Although the map details might not be as extensive as other high-end models, its intuitive design and focused outdoor features provide great value for motorcyclists looking for a solid all-rounder GPS watch

Pros:

  • Basically designed for outdoor adventures with strong build quality.
  • Good visibility in different lighting conditions.
  • Offers turn-by-turn navigation powered by Komoot.

Cons:

  • Limited map detail compared to other models.
  • Slightly less intuitive interface.

4. Garmin Fenix 6

Garmin Fenix 6
FeatureDescription
Display Type1.3 inch high-resolution display for superior clarity
Battery LifeStrong performance with up to 36 hours in GPS mode
GPS NavigationMulti-GNSS support and detailed topographic maps for precise navigation
Water ResistanceWater-resistant up to 100 meters, ideal for varied environments
DurabilityHigh thermal and shock resistance, suitable for extreme activities
Special FeaturesPulse Ox sensor, PacePro pacing strategies, and ski maps
Price RangeVery high, for those who need premium features

The Garmin Fenix 6 excels with its crystal-clear display and multi-sport tracking functionalities, making it perfect for riders who enjoy multifaceted fitness activities. This watch includes advanced navigation tools and a robust build that can withstand the rigors of off-road motorcycling. It is quite expensive, but for those who need a watch that can handle motorcycle riding, hiking, swimming, and more with equal proficiency, the Fenix 6 is hard to beat.

Pros:

  • High-resolution display.
  • Advanced navigation and tracking features.
  • Can be used for multiple sports and activities.

Cons:

  • Very expensive.
  • May be too complex for users who want basic features.

5. Apple Watch Series 5 with GPS

Apple Watch Series 5 with GPS
FeatureDescription
Display Type1.78 inch OLED Retina display offers crisp visuals of apple watch
Battery LifeUp to 18 hours of mixed usage, sufficient for daily activities
GPS NavigationBasic GPS capabilities with route mapping
Water ResistanceWater-resistant up to 50 meters, good for casual use
DurabilityModerate, with scratch-resistant glass
Special FeaturesECG app, activity rings, fall detection, integrated App Store
Price RangeHigh, offers advanced connectivity and health features

For those who prefer a seamless integration with their iOS devices, the Apple Watch Series 5 with GPS is an excellent choice. It offers reliable tracking, a user-friendly interface, and a stylish design. While it may not be as rugged as other dedicated outdoor watches, additionally, it provides essential functionalities for urban riders and short trips. However, users should be mindful of its battery life, which can deplete quickly with continuous GPS use, and its delicacy compared to more rugged counterparts.  

Pros:

  • Sleek design and user-friendly interface.
  • Integrated with iOS for seamless connectivity.
  • Offers reliable GPS tracking.

Cons:

  • Battery life shorter when using GPS continuously.
  • More fragile than other rugged watches.

Conclusion

Choosing the best GPS watch for motorcycle riding depends on your specific needs and budget. Whether you prioritize durability, battery life, or advanced navigation features, there is a watch out there that will enhance your riding experience. Investing in a high-quality GPS watch not only provides convenience but also adds an extra layer of safety to your adventures.

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