Mounting a Zumo up high

[CyncySpyder]

Great write-up and pictures- Thanks for Sharing another Great Mod.

Do not mean to highjack the thread, but added material here to make it easier for other forum users to find information in one location. I just installed a Zumo 350 on a Spyder RT with A/C, heavily "inspired" from other user's experience and recommendations.
Here are my thoughts/advice if you consider doing the install: Note that I had never removed any tupperware before this.

:2thumbs::yes: Another reason Teddy & I LOVE this Forum :yes::2thumbs:

:clap: People are always willing to help and share their experiences:clap:

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[MtlBen]

665 or 350LM? Opinions being solicited

As you saw in my post, I bought the 350LM. I have not used the 660/665 so I can't really compare.

The fact that the 350 does not link to a phone seemed like a step back at first, but while looking for an intercom I realized that the intercom itself will pair simultaneously to both the GPS and the phone, so there is no real need for the GPS to do it. The 350 is not an MP3 player either, but then again I already have an ipod in the trunk and I do not really use it, as I find the sound is just horrible on my RT.

I bought it hoping that their new "app" approach would add additional features in the future, and also hoping that the bluetooth interface get improved, as I read that it seems to have some limitations.

Although it is available for everyone to buy, the 660 series design seems to be more geared toward OEMs, allowing them to add a bluetooth option to their radio without having to design it themselves. This would explain why they have 2 models of different generations with almost identical feature set, and at similar price point: you probably can't just kill the OEM model without fullfilling your contractual commitments.

I found that the screen gets hard to read when riding towards the sun with a light colored jacket. (see the recent thread about that: http://www.spyderlovers.com/forums/showthread.php?43290-GPS-White-out)

The other annoyance I found is that the 350 will not sync with anything that does not have an hps bluetooth profile. If the device only has a2dp, it is a no-go. I am looking for a bluetooth adaptor that I can connect to the 3.5mm aux audio input in the trunk and tried 3 so far: only 1 would pair but had horrible audio.

As for the GPS itself, it does a very good job: I am very satisfied. You can plan either with Garmin Basecamp or HD Ride Planner and send the route straight to the GPS, then read back the track logs. But the 665 probably does that also.


...Ben...

 

[Ride Master]

I am considering purchasing a Zumo 660 and really would like it mounted high center like you guys have done; however, I am mechanically deficient and would have to ask my dealership to do this. I have a 2011 Spyder RT-S SE5. I am wondering if they would do it as they normally use the BRP mount that goes at the apex of the handle bars.

Any suggestions on what I should say to them regarding how this mount can be done? What is the full name of the mount you are using and lastly........is this something that would/could void the warranty.

Any help will be appreciated greatly!!!


"I would never ride anything I built"

Mine did

 

[BitSlayer]

I love this site!!!

Thanks for all the feedback and pictures. I did get my Zumo move up to the top of the dash and man, what a difference it made. We just got back from a week long ride where we put on over 2500 miles. The new position was fantastic as it allowed me to view the navigation and still keep the road in sight.

Instead of removing the old mounting bracket in the middle of the handlebars, that became a new Ram mount point.

While I had the top of the dash off, I also added some Ram mounts to each side of the dash just above the speakers as discussed by Lamonster. Very nice to have those availalbe for use as well.

 

[capt.jim]

I have the Madstad windshield on my 08 GS. The aluminum piece that replaces the factory windshield is very sturdy, I mounted the Zumo 660 on the underside with only the brackets that came in the box. I can raise it up high when needed or lower it down or to the side. Minimal vibration also.

 

[dizzyspots]

Ok...so I need to clarify the Zumo high mount option. i have a factory installed Zumo...on the handlebars
I have all the Ram mount parts to move it to the top of the dash
I have read the posts that say that I can use the BRP Zumo harness..and that it has enough reach.
My question is...what is the process to re-route the existing cable...after unbolting the cradle...can I wriggle the harness out from under stuff and get the cradle up to the top of the dash...
this weekend project, so Im ready for Spyders in the Redwoods....
Thanks in advance

Mike