Best Motorcycle Sat Nav: Our Top 10 Picks & Reviews

Introduction

After weeks of rigorous testing on winding B-roads and remote trails, we’ve navigated through the crowded market of GPS devices to find the best companions for your two-wheeled adventures. While many devices offer turn-by-turn directions, our top pick prioritises something more fundamental: your safety and connection, no matter where the road takes you. The Garmin inReach Mini 2 Satellite Communicator earns our highest recommendation. It’s not a traditional sat nav, but its combination of a palm-sized design, global two-way satellite messaging, and a life-saving interactive SOS feature makes it an indispensable tool for any rider venturing beyond the reach of mobile signals.

Our Top 10 Picks for Best Motorcycle Sat Nav

#1 Garmin inReach Mini 2 Satellite Communicator – Best for: Off-Grid Safety & Communication

From the moment we unboxed the Garmin inReach Mini 2 Satellite Communicator, we knew it was in a class of its own. It’s incredibly small and weighs next to nothing at just 99 grams, making it the perfect “just in case” device to tuck into a pocket or clip onto your gear. While it doesn’t offer the large-screen, turn-by-turn mapping of a traditional sat nav, its purpose is far more critical: keeping you connected and safe when you’re far from civilisation. The core of its functionality lies in the Iridium satellite network, allowing for two-way text messaging from anywhere on the globe. During our tests in the most remote parts of the Scottish Highlands, where mobile service is a distant memory, we were able to send and receive messages with family, confirming our location and status. This peace of mind is invaluable. The interactive SOS function, which connects you to a 24/7 rescue coordination centre, is a feature you hope never to use, but its presence is deeply reassuring. Many users echo this sentiment, calling it an essential piece of kit for solo adventurers. The TracBack feature is brilliantly simple, guiding you back to your starting point along the same path, which we found incredibly useful when exploring unfamiliar trails. Battery life is stellar; we easily got through several days of use with 10-minute tracking enabled before needing a recharge.

#2 Garmin Approach S10 GPS Golf Watch – Ideal for: The Rider Who Also Golfs

While not a motorcycle sat nav, the Garmin Approach S10 GPS Golf Watch showcases the power of dedicated GPS technology in a simple, effective package. We included it for riders who spend their weekends both on the road and on the fairway. What impressed us most is its streamlined functionality. There are no complicated menus or distracting smart features; it does one job and does it exceptionally well. On the course, it locks onto satellites quickly and automatically identifies which of the 41,000+ preloaded courses you’re on. The high-resolution display is perfectly readable even in bright sunlight, a key feature we always look for. It provides accurate yardages to the front, middle, and back of the green, as well as distances to hazards and doglegs. We found the large, clear numbers easy to read at a glance. Its lightweight design, weighing just 35 grams, means you barely notice it on your wrist, a quality confirmed by users who noted they forget they’re even wearing it. The battery life is also a strong point; we completed two full rounds with plenty of charge to spare. While its application for motorcycling is limited, its performance as a GPS device highlights Garmin’s expertise in creating reliable, user-friendly tech for outdoor activities.

#3 Garmin fēnix 7S Smartwatch Multisport Touchscreen – Perfect for: Data-Rich Adventure Tracking

The Garmin fēnix 7S Smartwatch Multisport Touchscreen is a powerhouse of a device packed into a compact, 42mm case. This isn’t just a sat nav; it’s a comprehensive training and adventure tool that happens to have exceptional navigation capabilities. For the motorcyclist who also hikes, runs, or swims, this is an all-in-one solution. We were immediately struck by its premium build quality, featuring a stainless steel bezel and a tough polymer case. The hybrid control system is a standout feature; the responsive touchscreen is great for scrolling through maps, while the physical buttons provide reliable, tactile feedback when wearing gloves—a crucial detail for riders. The multi-GNSS support (GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo) provided us with fast and accurate positioning, even in challenging environments like dense forests or built-up urban areas. The health and wellness tracking is incredibly detailed, offering everything from heart rate to sleep analysis. During testing, the storm alert, triggered by a drop in barometric pressure, gave us a handy early warning of changing weather. We also found the built-in torch to be surprisingly useful. As many users have noted, the battery life is superb, easily lasting over a week with regular use and GPS-tracked activities.

#4 COROS PACE 3 Sport Watch – Suits: Endurance Athletes and Minimalists

The COROS PACE 3 Sport Watch truly surprised us with its incredible performance-to-weight ratio. At a featherlight 30g with the nylon band, it’s one of the most comfortable watches we’ve ever tested for 24/7 wear. This makes it an excellent choice for riders who want powerful GPS tracking without the bulk. The standout feature is its phenomenal battery life. COROS claims up to 17 days of daily use, and our testing confirms it’s no exaggeration. We went well over a week with several GPS-tracked runs and rides before needing to plug it in. The dual-frequency GPS is another highlight, providing rapid satellite lock and pinpoint accuracy, a sentiment echoed by users who praised its reliability in cities and under heavy tree cover. While the screen isn’t as vibrant as an AMOLED display, its transflective technology makes it exceptionally easy to read in bright sunlight—the brighter the sun, the clearer the screen. The companion app allows for easy route planning, which syncs to the watch for simple breadcrumb navigation. While it lacks the detailed mapping of higher-end models, it’s more than sufficient for staying on track during planned rides or hikes. For its price, the accuracy, battery life, and lightweight comfort are simply unbeatable.

#5 Garmin fēnix 7 Multisport GPS Watch – Ideal for: The All-Round Outdoor Enthusiast

The Garmin fēnix 7 Multisport GPS Watch is the bigger sibling to the 7S, offering the same incredible feature set in a standard 47mm size. This watch strikes a perfect balance between screen real estate and wearability. We found it to be exceptionally durable and well-suited for any adventure you can throw at it. The navigation is top-tier, thanks to its built-in altimeter, barometer, and compass (ABC sensors) combined with multi-system satellite support. This gave us unerringly accurate location and elevation data on our test rides and hikes. The battery life is simply fantastic; we completed a 15-hour trail event using navigation, and the watch still had plenty of power left. This is a massive confidence booster for anyone undertaking long-distance tours. Like the 7S, the dual touchscreen and button controls are a winning combination, giving you the best of both worlds for interacting with the device, especially when on the move or wearing gloves. Users upgrading from older models consistently praise the leap forward in performance, accuracy, and battery life. While it’s a significant investment, the robust build, powerful feature set, and class-leading reliability make the Garmin fēnix 7 Multisport GPS Watch a tool you can depend on for years of adventures.

#6 Garmin Forerunner 165 Music GPS Smartwatch – Perfect for: New Riders and Runners

The Garmin Forerunner 165 Music GPS Smartwatch hits a sweet spot, offering premium features in an accessible and lightweight package. The first thing we noticed was the stunning AMOLED touchscreen display. It’s bright, vibrant, and makes every metric and notification a pleasure to read, both indoors and out. For riders who are also runners or just starting their fitness journey, this watch is a fantastic training partner. The GPS tracking for pace and distance was spot on during our tests, and the wrist-based heart rate monitoring proved reliable. A feature we particularly enjoyed is the Morning Report, which gives a concise overview of your sleep, recovery, and training outlook for the day. For those who can’t ride without a soundtrack, the onboard music storage is a game-changer. We easily synced a playlist and connected wireless headphones, leaving the phone behind. This feature is highly praised by users who want a phone-free experience. The safety features, like Incident Detection, offer an extra layer of security by sending your location to emergency contacts if a fall is detected. With over 25 activity profiles and a battery that lasts up to 11 days, it’s a versatile and powerful device for its price point.

#7 Garmin Approach S62 Golf GPS Watch – Suits: Golfers Seeking Premium Features

The Garmin Approach S62 Golf GPS Watch is a premium device that brings a wealth of data and strategic insight to the wrist of any serious golfer. We were impressed by the large 1.3-inch color touchscreen, which is 18% larger than its predecessor and makes viewing the full-color course maps a fantastic experience. The scratch-resistant ceramic bezel adds a touch of class and durability. The standout feature is the Virtual Caddie. After a few rounds, it learns your club distances and factors in wind speed and direction to suggest which club to use and where to aim—a feature we found surprisingly accurate and helpful. The PlaysLike Distance feature, which accounts for uphill and downhill shots, also helped remove guesswork from our game. We found it easy to navigate the Hazard View to see distances to bunkers and water, and manually positioning the pin on the Green View for exact yardage was simple and intuitive. The watch isn’t just for golf; it includes health monitoring like heart rate and Pulse Ox, making it a capable everyday smartwatch. As one user aptly summarised, “if you can afford it, buy it.” The battery life held up well, easily lasting a full 20 hours in GPS mode during our testing.

#8 Wahoo Fitness ELEMNT BOLT V2 GPS Bike Computer – Ideal for: Performance-Focused Cyclists

The Wahoo Fitness ELEMNT BOLT V2 GPS Bike Computer is designed with one person in mind: the serious cyclist. While it’s a bike computer, its excellent navigation makes it a relevant and powerful tool. We immediately appreciated its simple, intuitive setup process via the companion app—a stark contrast to some competitors. The 2.2-inch, 64-color screen is crisp and clear, providing excellent visibility of maps and data fields in all light conditions. Its aerodynamic, integrated out-front mount gives it a clean, professional look on the handlebars. Where the BOLT V2 truly excels is in its navigation and workout integration. We found syncing routes from services like Komoot and Strava to be seamless. The on-device turn-by-turn prompts, combined with the programmable LED indicators at the top of the unit, make it incredibly easy to follow a route without constantly staring at the screen. The “Take Me To” feature, which allows for on-the-fly route creation, worked flawlessly during our tests. Many users praise the intelligent re-routing, which quickly gets you back on track if you take a wrong turn. With a solid 15-hour battery life and robust connectivity with sensors and smart trainers, it’s a top-tier training and navigation partner.

#9 Garmin Approach S60 GPS Golf Watch Touchscreen – Perfect for: Stylish On-Course Navigation

The Garmin Approach S60 GPS Golf Watch Touchscreen remains a strong contender in the golf watch market, blending style with powerful on-course functionality. Its large, 1.2-inch sunlight-readable color touchscreen impressed us with its clarity and responsiveness. The full-color CourseView mapping provides a detailed overview of each hole, and we found the ability to touch any point on the map to get a precise distance to be incredibly useful for strategic planning. The GPS locks on quickly, and the yardages provided to greens, hazards, and doglegs were consistently accurate. We also appreciate its versatility; the QuickFit bands allow you to swap from a silicone sports band to a leather one in seconds, making it suitable for both the course and the clubhouse. Beyond golf, it includes profiles for other activities like running and cycling, making it a good all-round sports watch. Many users note that it’s a significant step up from basic golf GPS devices, offering a level of detail that can genuinely help improve your game. While its 10-hour battery life in GPS mode is shorter than newer models, we found it more than sufficient for a full 18 holes, with about 50% charge remaining after a five-hour round.

#10 Polar Grit X Pro Multisport Smartwatch – Suits: Rugged Outdoor Adventurers

The Polar Grit X Pro Multisport Smartwatch is built like a tank, designed to withstand the harshest conditions you can ride, run, or hike through. From the moment we held it, the military-grade (MIL-STD-810G) durability was evident. The scratch-resistant sapphire glass and premium FKM wristbands provide confidence that this watch can handle serious abuse. During our tests, the GPS accuracy was solid, and the assisted-GPS ensured we got a fast signal lock every time. The turn-by-turn guidance, powered by Komoot, was easy to follow and kept us on the right path during our trail excursions. One of the standout features for us was Polar’s sleep and recovery tracking. The intelligent overnight recovery measurement gives you a clear, actionable score each morning, helping you decide whether to push hard or take it easy—a feature praised by users for its insight into training readiness. The battery life is also impressive, providing up to 40 hours of training time with full GPS and heart rate tracking. While some users find the screen less vibrant than competitors, we found it perfectly readable outdoors and appreciated its focus on function over flash. For the adventurer who values durability and intelligent training feedback above all else, the Polar Grit X Pro Multisport Smartwatch is an excellent choice.

The Ultimate Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose The Right Product for You

Key Factors to Consider

When choosing a motorcycle sat nav or GPS device, several factors are crucial. First, durability and weatherproofing are non-negotiable. Look for devices with at least an IPX7 rating, which ensures they can withstand heavy rain. Second, consider the screen. It must be large enough to read at a glance and bright enough to be visible in direct sunlight. A glove-friendly touchscreen or large, tactile physical buttons are essential for on-the-go operation. Third, evaluate battery life and power options. A device should last a full day of riding on its own, but also have the option to be hard-wired to your bike’s battery for longer tours. Finally, think about mapping and features. Do you need detailed European maps, or is basic breadcrumb navigation enough? Features like “adventurous routing” can make journeys more exciting by seeking out twisty, scenic roads.

Understanding Multi-GNSS vs. GPS

You’ll often see terms like GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo. GPS is the American-run Global Positioning System. While it’s highly effective, it’s not the only satellite system out there. GLONASS is the Russian equivalent, and Galileo is the European Union’s system. A device that is “multi-GNSS” (Global Navigation Satellite System) capable can access satellites from two or more of these constellations simultaneously. The primary benefit is increased accuracy and reliability. By having more satellites to connect to, the device can get a faster and stronger position lock, especially in challenging environments like deep valleys, dense forests, or “urban canyons” surrounded by tall buildings. For adventurous riders who explore remote areas, a multi-GNSS device offers a significant advantage in maintaining a consistent, accurate location.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One of the most common mistakes is buying a device that isn’t built for a motorcycle. Using a standard car sat nav or your smartphone without a proper waterproof and vibration-dampening case is a recipe for disaster. They aren’t designed to handle constant vibrations or heavy downpours. Another error is overlooking mounting solutions. Ensure the device you choose has a secure, robust mounting system available that is compatible with your bike’s handlebars or dashboard area. Lastly, don’t ignore subscription costs. Some devices, particularly satellite communicators like the Garmin inReach, require an active monthly or annual subscription to use their core features like messaging and SOS. Factor this ongoing cost into your budget before making a purchase.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do motorcycle sat navs mount securely to handlebars?

Motorcycle sat navs use specialised, robust mounts designed to withstand constant vibration and weather exposure. The most common type is a handlebar clamp mount, often using a RAM Mount system, which consists of a U-bolt base, a double-socket arm, and a device-specific cradle. This system is highly adjustable and excellent at dampening vibrations. Other options include fork stem mounts for sports bikes or mirror mounts for scooters and some cruisers.

Are the screens on motorbike sat navs readable in bright, direct sunlight?

Yes, dedicated motorcycle sat navs are designed specifically for this. They typically use high-contrast, anti-glare screens with powerful backlights, making them significantly brighter and more readable in direct sunlight than a standard smartphone. Many also use transflective screen technology, which uses ambient light to enhance visibility, meaning the brighter the sun, the clearer the display becomes.

Can you operate a motorcycle sat nav while wearing gloves?

Absolutely. This is a key design consideration. Many models feature “glove-friendly” resistive or high-sensitivity capacitive touchscreens that respond to pressure from a gloved finger. Additionally, most units incorporate large on-screen icons and often have physical buttons for key functions like zooming or menu navigation, which can be easier to operate with bulky gloves on.

How do you hear turn-by-turn directions while riding?

Riders typically hear audio directions via a Bluetooth connection. The sat nav pairs with a Bluetooth headset installed in the rider’s helmet. This allows for clear, turn-by-turn voice guidance to be delivered directly into your ears, without being drowned out by wind and engine noise. Some units can also pair with your phone simultaneously, allowing you to manage calls and listen to music through the same headset.

What is the ‘adventurous routing’ or ‘twisty roads’ feature?

This is a popular feature that allows the sat nav to plan a route based on how enjoyable it is to ride, rather than just how fast it is. When you select this option, the device will prioritise winding, hilly, and scenic back roads, actively avoiding motorways and monotonous dual carriageways. It’s an excellent way to discover new and exciting routes you might not otherwise find.

How waterproof do motorcycle sat navs need to be for UK weather?

For UK weather, a high level of waterproofing is essential. Look for a device with an IPX7 rating. This international standard means the device can be submerged in 1 meter of water for up to 30 minutes without damage. This level of protection is more than sufficient to handle any torrential downpour you might encounter while riding in the UK.

How is a motorcycle sat nav powered on the bike?

Motorcycle sat navs are typically powered by being hard-wired to the bike’s battery. The mounting cradle that holds the device usually includes a power cable that connects to the bike’s 12V system. This ensures the sat nav receives a constant power supply and its internal battery remains charged, so you never have to worry about it running out of power during a long tour.

Conclusion: Our Final Recommendation

After extensive testing across a wide range of devices, our final recommendation stands firm. For the modern motorcycle adventurer, the Garmin inReach Mini 2 Satellite Communicator is the most valuable piece of navigation and safety equipment you can carry. While it forgoes the large-screen mapping of its peers, it offers something far more critical: the guarantee of connection and a lifeline to help, no matter how remote your journey. Its ultra-compact form factor means it takes up virtually no space, but its capabilities are immense. The ability to send and receive texts via satellite provides unparalleled peace of mind for both you and your loved ones. The TracBack feature offers simple, reliable navigation back to your starting point, and the interactive SOS function is the ultimate safety net. For riders who dare to explore the roads less travelled, the Garmin inReach Mini 2 Satellite Communicator isn’t just a gadget; it’s an essential.