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Johnny
Nairobu, Kenya
Feb 2, 2012
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COOL LITTLE GPS
Very nice, battery does last a long time.
Recommend? YES
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Hank
Coaldale AB
Feb 1, 2012
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SECOND NUVI 550
Pros: small and rugged
Cons: not as accurate as hey should be
Received first one as a gift and was impressed so a bought a second one. Use them on my motorcycle,quad and both vehicles. Not as accurate on adresses as they are out aprx 300 ft
Recommend? YES
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East coast rider
Nova Scotia
Jan 27, 2012
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FIRST OFF ROAD CAPABLE GPS
Pros: decent screen size, screen visible in sunlight
Cons: have to purchase topo maps for additional cost
Have only used a few times so far. Pretty easy to get used to functions and menus. Shipping was incredibly fast and phone advice very knowledgeable and helpful.
Recommend? YES
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Peter
Mundare, Alberta
Nov 24, 2011
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NUVI 550
Pros: very handy for all round use including off-road.
Cons: on-off switch can be accidentally activated.
This unit seems to work quite well. I do like the fact that you can replace the battery with a fully charged one and continue on. I have used it in eastern Europe with the optional eastern European card with the city navigator and it worked well. Have not used it on my snowmobile yet or on a motorcycle.
Recommend? YES
22 viewers found this helpful.
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Jamlitt
Belleville ON
Nov 13, 2011
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NUVI 550
Pros: fast response and quick route calc.
Cons: lack of qwerty key input.
Although the screen is a little small it is bright and easy to read. Would like to have a qwerty keyboard avail. instead of the abc key input. When first used item froze up a couple of times, but after software update it now works fine. Also added a BlueChart type map from Trak Maps for my boat - works well for marine use.
Recommend? YES
19 viewers found this helpful.
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Relic
Moncton
Oct 11, 2011
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NUVI 550 IS GREAT
Pros: great motorcycle unit
The unit works as advertised. It is just the right size for travel on the motorcycle.
Recommend? YES
22 viewers found this helpful.
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rabidrider
Sylvan Lake, AB
Sep 24, 2011
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THE NUVI 550 IS A PRETTY DECENT UNIT FOR A HYBRID
Pros: waterproof (ipx7), removable battery, geocaching
Cons: no bluetooth, no qwerty keyboard
Good overall unit. Precision is very good except in dense bush where there are few units that are precise in that situation. The battery life is closer to 4 or five hours than the 8 advertised but is is replacable so I carry a fully charged spare. Driving, walking, bicycling modes are awesome. I drive close to a geocache and switch to walking mode. 9 times out of 10 I get to within a few meters.
Recommend? YES
25 viewers found this helpful.
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George
Kennesaw, Georgia
Sep 19, 2011
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MOTORCYCLE USAGE
Pros: price...
Cons: battery could last longer...
Just used the Garmin 550 on a motorcycle trip thru Tn,Ky,Va, Ga. and West Va and it performed as stated in other positive reviews. Battery could have lasted a little longer but I am overall satisfied with this GPS. May not have the whistle and bells of the Zumos but is well worth the price offered by GPS City, and the service was fantastic as I received it two days...
Recommend? YES
22 viewers found this helpful.
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fijy
montreal,quebec
Sep 19, 2011
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VERY GOOD GPS!
i enjoy this multifonction gps and the fact that it is very shockproof.
Recommend? YES
26 viewers found this helpful.
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Red
York Beach, Maine
Sep 1, 2011
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GREAT MULTIFUNCTION FLEXIBILITY
Pros: very versatible!
With 4 different modes of operation, I can use this GPS in my auto, on my snowmobile, going Geocaching, hiking, and fishing. I also like the SD Card feature to add other maps and products.
Recommend? YES
24 viewers found this helpful.
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crewzzer
Toronto
Aug 18, 2011
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ONE OF THE BEST GPS I HAVE OWNED
Pros: very simple and user friendly as most garmins
This is an excellent product I have used GPS from other Manufacturers and nothing compares to a Garmin, excellent product extremely reliable but you have to know how to use it properly to get the most out of it. I want to add gpscity.ca is amazing and true to their word. There happened to be a discrepancy in the pricing they made an adjusted no questions asked, I will continue shopping here and have refereed to my friends as well. But like any business sometimes it's out of their control but over all the customer service was excellent.
Recommend? YES
46 viewers found this helpful.
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Ben's wife
Poconos, PA
Aug 16, 2011
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EXCELLENT FOR MOTORCYCLE
Pros: user friendliness, touch screen, size, options
Touch screen works nicely, directions were perfect every time we used it. Even had an estimated arrival time. We changed the car icon to a motorcycle-neat! Very user friendly. Love the options for avoiding tolls or highways.
Recommend? YES
48 viewers found this helpful.
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Rick
Calgary
Aug 15, 2011
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GOOD MOTORCYCLE GPS
Pros: low cost , waterproof
Cons: no bt, no mp3, maps
I understood the limited use of this GPS (ie no BT, no MP3 that my 660 had) bought because it is waterproof. Hope this low price point GPS stands up under the onroad rigors of motorcycling better than 660 did. Not the 550's fault but even the latest maps don't have the update on 16th Ave Calgary that was completed 2 years ago.
Recommend? YES
46 viewers found this helpful.
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Wiski
Ontario Canada
Jul 20, 2011
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TERRIBLE MARINE GPS
Pros: easy to use for auto and topo
Cons: cannot find nav aids with basic search functions
I purchased this unit to replace my Quest which is a multifunction GPS that I have used for auto, Topos and marine use. The Nuvi 550 is better in many ways than the Quest however falls very short for marine use. I have an old version of Bluecharts software V7 that came with two licenses. The software loads properly to the Nuvi 550 but the "Navaid" feature does not work. In contacting Garmin they tell me that this feature is not available on the 550 even if I purchase the most recent Bluecharts. When navigating large water, such as Georgian Bay, this makes the unit useless. i.e. it is often necessary to search for a marker bouy and then use it as a waypoint. This unit cannot do that!
Garmin is not supporting there software that I purchased! I will NEVER buy another Garmin!
Recommend? NO
76 viewers found this helpful.
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Smoky
Salmon Arm BC
Jul 7, 2011
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NOT AS GOOD AS EXPECTED.
In some ways my new GPS isn't as good as my 10 year old Garmin Quest. The screen is hard to read in sunlight, very hard to read. I also miss some of the info that could be displayed on the screen, like elevation in feet.
My old Quest was perfectly viewable in sunlight, how could the technology go backwards in this important issue?
Recommend? NO
86 viewers found this helpful.
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William S.Nichols
Hillsborough,NC
Jul 4, 2011
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POWER?
Pros: small
Cons: does not last long
I am having problems with the Gilsson power cable, but even when I charge my Nuvi550 on the USB cable, the GPS drains the battery even when OFF. Hard to keep power on the GPS
Recommend? NO
83 viewers found this helpful.
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IMACFROG
COAST OF MAINE
Jul 1, 2011
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NUVI 550: MOTORCYCLE GPS WITHOUT THE HIGH COST
Pros: solid and reliable gps
Cons: voice not very loud
Replaced a nuvI 1390t that I bought for my motorbike and auto. both units are excellent products but the nuvI 550 is waterproof and designed for motorcycles (shock-proof). does not have a litany of bells and whistles but who really needs them on a cycle! yes, I would recommend this unit for a cycle or auto if all you want is to get to your destination (at a modest price) and can forgo the "extras". very happy with purchase.
Recommend? YES
84 viewers found this helpful.
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Mark
Antioch,IL
Jun 22, 2011
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GARMIN IS JUNK!!
Pros: if you'd like to get lost all the time!!
Cons: everything!!!
Just not worth the time for a review. Used it on a 5 week road trip on my bike, and it got me lost at least once per day! Even sent me down an on ramp onto a highway, and halfway down it told me to make a U turn on the ramp. Did this trick twice!! Highways which were 2 years old, were not in the system yet. Had to go and purchase a road map book to complete my 9000 mile trip. Would like my $$$ back, so I could purchase a Tom Tom for my next up coming road trip!!!
Recommend? NO
91 viewers found this helpful.
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Kevin
Bedford, VA
Jun 16, 2011
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NUVI 550
Cons: the inability to turn off auto-recalulate.
I have only had a chance to use it a couple of times so far, but it certainly beats stopping regularly to dig a map out of my sidecase (motorcycle use). I use it almost exclusively with custom routes generated with Mapsource. I wish this model would allow disabling auto-recalculate, as it is a much lower cost alternative to the motorcycle specific models that Garmin sells.
Recommend? YES
98 viewers found this helpful.
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Clinton
Florida
Jun 8, 2011
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NUVI 550 SUCKS
Pros: none as of yet!
Cons: can't use customs routes!
This is my 2nd device. I'm still not able to use import from file when transferring routes from Base Camp. Upon doing so the GPS device crashes. First attempt with technical support stated that my device was defected. After receiving a new device through warranty, same error repeats itself. Why can't a product work as advertised? Exhausted Garmin's website for a solution...no such luck in finding it.
Recommend? NO
93 viewers found this helpful.
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Dan
Saint John, NB
Jun 7, 2011
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NUVI 550 - GREAT DEVICE
I had some initial trouble with the unit not routing as expected, but this was resolved with a firmware and map update (recommended to all purchasers of this product). Garmin Tech support was very helpful in reswolving this issue. All features of this GPS work as expected and I am very happy with it.
Recommend? YES
89 viewers found this helpful.
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who
Woodbury, MN.
Jun 2, 2011
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GARMIN NUVI 550
I already had a Garmin 530 so I wanted to pick up a water proof GPS to use on my motorcycle. I already knew how a Garmin worked and this unit works the same. I do like the new freatures on the 550 with the posted speed limit information and the speed you are traveling.
Recommend? YES
86 viewers found this helpful.
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Al
Glen Allen, VA
Jun 2, 2011
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+1
Marshman's review is dead on
Recommend? YES
83 viewers found this helpful.
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Rich
Oh
May 26, 2011
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THE ULTIMATE ! FOR MY USEAGE
Pros: quality !! great support ! gps city
The very best universal gps $ can buy. for m.c. auto
Recommend? YES
98 viewers found this helpful.
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Ed
Houston Texas
May 26, 2011
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EASY TO USE
Pros: easy to use
Cons: none
This is a no brainer. Anyone can use this GPS. Fast shipping great product.
Recommend? YES
91 viewers found this helpful.
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DD
Burlington ON
May 26, 2011
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MOTORCYCLE GPS
Pros: less expesive, easy to read, easy to use has a lon
Cons: can be "removed" in about 1 nanosecond
A much cheaper version of the Zumo 550 and if you want to you don't have to hard wire it in. Extra battery's are available and each has a run time of about 4/5 hours. Waterproof, schockproof but certailnly NOT steal proof. The only major drawback is the complete lack of being able to secure it to your bike.
Recommend? YES
88 viewers found this helpful.
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Marshman
Toronto, ON
May 25, 2011
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SO FAR, SO GOOD
Pros: cost, size, remove battery, speed limit indicator
Cons: inability to pair to headset for directions
I bought this model as a cheaper alternative to the Zumo series for my motorcycle, and so far it is working as advertised. I just got back from 2,100 kms through several serious downpours and it came through with flying colours.
I haven't really had time to test it thoroughly though so can't really comment on any more detailed features, or lack thereof, but I can't imagine it disappointing me. If it endures the bumps and vibrations of the motorcycle use, which it says it is safe for, then this will be the best value in motorcycle GPS' out there.
And paired with the power cable I bought, it is a great motorcycle solution
Recommend? YES
94 viewers found this helpful.
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Crackers Boy
Atlanta, GA
May 18, 2011
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LIKE THE UNIT, HATE THE COMPANY
Pros: waterproof, speed limits, familiar user interface
Cons: garmin won't honor its contractual obligations
I bought a 550 because it is waterproof, has built in speed limit information, and because it uses the same maps as the other Garmins I have bought (3 350's, an eMap, a GPS III+, a Windows Smartphone. We also have a wrist GPS - Trek 201 or somesuch. Obviously, we like, or used to like, Garmin). Besides these units, we invested pretty heavily in Europe maps, since we get across the Atlantic a good bit. When I bought the maps, they were for any unit I owned. Over the years, we have loaded the maps on the units as we expanded our "fleet". Until the 550 that is. The maps wouldn't load without an "unlock code". Okay. Been here before. After registering the unit, I asked for an unlock code. I was told that the maps are for use on only one device. Yes, that is true, when you buy the maps NOW, but not when I bought the maps that I own. Back and forth with customer service/support, with nothing but the stock answer "maps are for use on only one device".
Long story short, I had to find a hack (google is a wonderful tool) so I didn't need the unlock code. But the 550 is the last Garmin, or Mapsource map, that I will be buying.
Recommend? NO
102 viewers found this helpful.
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Kevin
Indiana
May 17, 2011
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GREAT MOTORCYCLE GPS
Pros: interchangeable battery
Cons: none
Bought this for my touring motorcycle. Works well with gloves. Has interchangeable battery and they will operate for about 4 hours before needing change or charge. Get the ram mounts and you are set for long road trips. I have ridden over through Canada and across the US using non Zumo GPS. It was time for a waterproof model. I have Bluetooth headsets but Zumo only works to headsets if that is all you are listening to, I have the iPod. Do you really need to hear it if you can see it? It countdowns the miles to next turn. Get this and you will have all you need for hundreds less.
Recommend? YES
92 viewers found this helpful.
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Ozzie
Winston Salem NC
May 8, 2011
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MOTORCYCLE FRIENDLY GPS
Pros: screen is easy to use even with gloves.
Cons: haven't found any so far.
I have suffered with an ancient GPS for a couple years because I hate to spend money or throw away anything. I finally sprung for a nuvi based on what a respected friend said about his. The unit is so easy to use on the road compared to my old one. I used it to complete a SaddleSore 1000 last Saturday and was terribly impressed with its flexibility and reliability. Going on a 10,000 mile tour with this baby next month with great confidence I will never get off track. By the way, the ability to add the motorcycle icon on the screen is the cat's meow.
Recommend? YES
98 viewers found this helpful.
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Ches_man
Midhurst, ON
Apr 22, 2011
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VERY GOOD MOTORCYCLE UNIT
Easy to see, very good sensitivity to the touchscreen, battery life as advertised... good 5-6 hours life from full charge. At this price not sure you could find anything better that is waterproof and shock resistant.
Recommend? YES
101 viewers found this helpful.
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D. Cameron
Tumbler Ridge, BC
Apr 10, 2011
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GARMIN NUVI 550.
Pros: cost
Cons: none
So far seems to do the trick. A lot less expensive than other Motorcylce GPS's. Does everything I need it to do. Very happy with it so far.
Recommend? YES
102 viewers found this helpful.
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Lane
Louisville,Kentucky
Apr 8, 2011
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GREAT PRODUCT
Pros: waterproof,easy to navigate on a motorcycle
Cons: needs to come with a usb cable in the package
Easy to use while riding a motorcycle. I have used it in my truck and the voice mode is pretty low. Other than that a GREAT buy at half the price of the Zumo unit.
Recommend? YES
106 viewers found this helpful.
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Bluekodiak
Liverpool, NS
Apr 6, 2011
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GREAT GPS FOR AUTO AND GEOCACHING
Pros: paperless geocaching
Cons: have to switch back and forth from auto to walking
Waterproof GPS work on our boat, ATV, car, canoe, or just walking. works great around the lakes in NS with the NS topos.
Recommend? YES
115 viewers found this helpful.
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Mike
Ontario
Apr 4, 2011
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NUVI 550
So far this GPS works great for my needs on my bike- Touch screen works well with my gloves on, Recommended.
Recommend? YES
107 viewers found this helpful.
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Ron
Newfoundland,Canada
Mar 21, 2011
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BUVI 550
Pros: the battery lasts 5 hrs in -5 degree celsius temps
Excellent product. Nice clear display. Very user friendly. I used it on my skidoo with the supplied suction cup mount and to my surprise after 48 miles of driving it was still very hard to detach. Fast shipping.
Recommend? YES
105 viewers found this helpful.
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Doug
Florida
Mar 15, 2011
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GARMIN NUVI 550
For the cost compared to the Zumo line, it will do the job I need for half the price. If you need bluetooth with and Audible book reader, buy the Zumo. If you just want a waterproof GPS to get you there, this will do. Cons: Too easy to turn on when putting it away. On/off button is not a slide like on the Nuvi 255W so you can't lock the switch or the screen. No qwerty keyboard Pros: Can set way-points on the unit.
Recommend? YES
114 viewers found this helpful.
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laper
QC
Mar 10, 2011
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GOOD MULTI-USAGE
great gps for the 1/2 price of a zumo220, waterproff and easy to use . I use it on my snowmobile and automobile
Recommend? YES
109 viewers found this helpful.
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Serge
Lorrainville, Québec Canada
Feb 22, 2011
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BEST MOTORCYCLE GPS
Excellent!!! Super fast shipping!!
Recommend? YES
110 viewers found this helpful.
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Jsbiker150
Waukegan, IL.
Dec 29, 2010
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NUVI 550
Pros: motorcycle rated
Cons: lacks an odometer feature
I've heard the horror stories about GPS units failing out of the box but so far I've had good luck with Garmin - although their optional mapping costs are a ripoff. I bought this for use on my motorcycle and this 550 has almost everything the Zumo 220 lists and is half the price, It has a tripmeter feature but I also wish it had an odometer - otherwise quite happy so far
Recommend? YES
125 viewers found this helpful.
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77ironhead
Lloydminster, ALberta, Canada
Dec 24, 2010
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EXCELLENT AND VERSITILE.
Pros: waterproof easy to use
Cons: none
I needed something for my motorcycles and I decided to use it in my FJ Cruiser also. I needed waterproof and dust proof. The nuvi 550 works great and the price is good for a versitile GPS. I have 6 different GPS units.
Recommend? YES
125 viewers found this helpful.
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Pierre
Montreal, Quebec
Dec 20, 2010
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FARMING SLOWER THAT TOM TOM
Pros: slow to recalculate when lost on unmarked route.
Cons: looks like a solid unit.
Battery life is more around 6 hours. At times the scene shows you driving on a road which does not exist and slow to recalculate. Got the unit to get me back home if I'm lost. Does the job well, waterproof and looks good on my Ducati. Perfect unit for car or bike at a reasonable price.
Recommend? YES
123 viewers found this helpful.
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Brousseau, Yves
St-Valérien, QC
Dec 18, 2010
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GARMIN NUVI 550
Pros: handy size, rugginess, waterproof, easy to use
Cons: not any yet
Excellent unit, it is the third GPS unit I own (a Garmin, then a Magellan) and this is by far the best! I have not tried its waterproofness with a bike yet, but next summer I will for sure.
Recommend? YES
121 viewers found this helpful.
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Boston
Fenelon Falls, Ontario.
Dec 17, 2010
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GREAT VALUE
Pros: waterproof and great value for my motorcycle.
Cons: it turns itself on each time i start the mc.
I've only used it once up to now. Worked Great.
Recommend? YES
116 viewers found this helpful.
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Norming
Quebec
Dec 1, 2010
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GARMIN NUVI 550
Very good GPS, the only one I found that is waterproof & you don't have to pay a lot like the motorcycle's, I used it on my bike and ATV as well as in my car.
Recommend? YES
130 viewers found this helpful.
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SmilinVamp
Calgary, AB
Nov 30, 2010
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GREAT MIDDLE ROAD
Pros: shows topo maps,storage expandable,great navigator
Cons: not so simple to figure out how to use features
I have no experience with it in Marine mode.
It's a little tricky to learn. I have successfully added a foot trail to it. Took a bit to learn how. Bad thing is, it but a flag icon on each of the waypoints and now I can't see the trail.
For automotive, works awesome, I added an SD card and placed my Topo maps on it. This has everything I need for on and offroad driving.
Nice compromise!
Recommend? YES
122 viewers found this helpful.
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Ron
Stratford ON
Oct 22, 2010
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NUVI 550
Pros: waterproof customizable and savable routes
Cons: could use an anti-glare coating on the screen
I've been using this for a couple of weeks now and I'm very pleased it. I added waypoints to create custom routes (not the shortest and not the fastest) since I have this installed on a 50cc scooter and it plots the routes perfectly.
It's even starting to learn my preferred roads so that if I enter a destination I visit frequently or take the same road (out of several options) all the time it will generate a route with that in mind. I do get a bit of glare from the light making the screen hard to see at times it's not too bothersome. My biggest complaint (which is very minor considering) is that it regards all addresses being right on the street and doesn't take into account stores/buildings set back from the road or properties with entrances on two roads. As I said a minor complaint that can be ignored in most cases.
Recommend? YES
125 viewers found this helpful.
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NDSCI
Calgary, AB
Sep 28, 2010
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VERY FEW COMPROMISES
Pros: mini memory chip, durable, light-weight, low price
Cons: windows only software interaction.
I have had my 550 mounted to my adventure bike for a couple of years - through hail storms, scorching deserts, bitter cold, blinding brightness, etc. I cannot think of a single missing feature, nor can I think of any unit I'd rather have.
I have both topo maps and City Navigator happily co-existing on the unit (very important to me for heading off-road).
The screen is glove friendly and bright enough to read under any conditions at a glance.
Recommend? YES
129 viewers found this helpful.
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alden
farmington maine
Sep 22, 2010
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NUVI 550
Pros: colored screen
Cons: everything
not what is advertised: customer support does not know how to help you out or answer questions: i can make it work for boating but it is not a listed mode as advertised: if you are one who can take the time and make it work for your mode other than driving would be decent unit: not great: would i recommend it? probably not unless you want soemthing for a toy to put in your car
Recommend? NO
132 viewers found this helpful.
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.
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Sep 16, 2010
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.
Pros: .
Cons: .
.
Recommend? YES
127 viewers found this helpful.
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Mike
Central, CT
Sep 15, 2010
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NUVI 550 COULD USE SOME SOFTWARE IMPROVEMENTS
Pros: waterproof, sturdy, mostly works
Cons: needs some common sense software fixes
This GPS is supposed to be a "multi-function" GPS auto, marine, motorcycle. While it does "do" all functions one might expect, finding your way through the menu system (and 'hidden' menus under icons) can be highly frustrating. There is nothing intuitive or logical about placement of many menu items. I've had several GPS's and never found it so difficult to know or remember where a feature was located.
When motorcycling I don't always have a 'plan' of where I'm going but I want a map of the area so I can make choices. Without a destination set, the GPS is VERY POOR on displaying relevant data (street names and so on). Trying to 'slide' the view often give strange results including switching to "Topo" display. I've found that I MUST give it a destination, even if I'm not going to follow it, just to be able to see what's around me. Zooming in/out also seems to wipe out data layers in favor of white space (in any mode).
Boating - I bought the inland waterways card with this for boating on CT river and other New England areas. It did notice that I was on water during a power-up and asked me if I wanted to switch to "Boating" mode. Great! ..except it gave me street nav anyway. Again, zooming in/out too easily wipes out data (like NAV markers) there is plenty of room, but for some reason this GPS loves to favor blank space over data. The displays shows the boat icon in the center of the display. This is a REAL problem. When moving at speed down a river the display does not show NAV aids soon enough to plot a course line -remember, you can't zoom out because then they take them away. I'm glad a laid down a track during the day when I could use my old fashion "eyes". I never could have counted on the GPS after dark to aid in navigation with the recorded track. If the GPS would recognize your speed and direction, it could place the boat icon at an edge and show you much more of what’s IN FRONT of you.
Speaking of tracks (aka cookies on other GPS's), - it only comes in one color. My old GPS supported many colors for tracks I truly miss this feature. It's really nice when you can see your variations when traveling the same general path.
Boat navigation via GPS coordinates (degrees/mins) was GREAT. I had not done this before so it took me a little time to figure out you have to but in your final destination first, and THEN put in the way-points (in order of travel). It was only by trial and error that I figured this one out as it does not prompt "set as way-point?" until after you have tried to put in a 2nd point.
Night illumination on boat is to bright on a dark night at 10%. The next stop is zero. Really needs a 5% or a up/down arrow from 1 to 100.
One last problem is the ability to “reverse” course. Maybe it’s there but I have not yet found it. No matter what the mode or where you’re going, it’s almost always going to be a round trip. With boating and coordinate plotting, this is a critical missing feature.
All of my dissatisfaction with this GPS are EASILY correctable with smarter software. Let’s hope GARMIN listens.
Recommend? NO OPINION
140 viewers found this helpful.
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Chris
Corner Brook NL
Sep 7, 2010
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NUVI 550
I was looking for a resonably priced GPS that could be used in a vehicle as well as suitable for use on a motor cycle in, if necessary wet weather conditions. Read the reviews of others on the NUVI 550. Very satisfied with NUVI 550 on recent road trip to the USA in a car - installed now on motorcycle - easy to read and have not find the lack of voice commands via headset a problem - easy to read directions on screen
Recommend? YES
127 viewers found this helpful.
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Mike
Ottawa, Canada
Sep 6, 2010
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GARMIN IS GOOD
Pros: small size, weatherproof,shock resilient, battery
Cons: excessive instructions on how to stay on highway
We bought the Nuvi because we would be using it in a car as well as bicycle or canoe trips. So far, we have used it in a car to get to Frontenac park for a canoe trip and it was excellent. It found our destination despite us not having an address for our launch point. When we took detours, it recalculated a new route very quickly without any intervention required.
The battery stays charged for quite a while which is important to us because we will be leaving it unplugged for up to a week and then having to use it again.
The fact that it is small, weatherproof and bump resilient is a real plus for the way we are using it. We plan to use it the next time we canoe back to Ottawa from lac Ste-Marie.
The only very minor irritant with the Nuvi is it gives instructions to stay left to stay on a highway everytime you drive by an off ramp. I guess that might explain why there are so many slow, lost drivers in the passing lanes in big cities lol.
Recommend? YES
126 viewers found this helpful.
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DAD
Murfreesboro, TN
Aug 19, 2010
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NUVI 550
Pros: fills 95% of my need
Cons: clunky to load and use with harley ride planner
I bought this because it was motorcycle friendly and much less expensive than other models. It is much brighter than a standard auto GPS. Fill most needs.
Recommend? YES
127 viewers found this helpful.
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Kimbull
Calgary, AB, Canada
Aug 4, 2010
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EXCELLENT FOR MOTORCYCLE
The unit works very well on my BMW F800gs. It is easy to see even in bright sunlight and the touch screen works well even with motorcycle single layer gloves on. It is easy to program and amazingly accurate in its calculated arrival time. Negatives are that it sometimes calculates that you should take short side road shortcuts instead of staying on the main highway. Also the database of lodging and restaurants is incorrect in some cases, sometimes leading you to absolutely absurd places.
Recommend? YES
133 viewers found this helpful.
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Bill
Friday Harbor, WA
Jul 29, 2010
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AN EXCELLENT VALUE
Pros: waterproof
Cons: none
I use this unit on a motorcycle. I bought it based on experiences with other Garmin products that gave good service, but were not perfect. This unit offers water proofing that was not present in the previous units.
The one criticism offered in the on line previews was when using the mounting system that came with the unit one had trouble making the 12 volt connection. This problem is solved by using the cradle offered by RAM Mounts.
Recommend? YES
127 viewers found this helpful.
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Richard
St Louis MO
Jul 29, 2010
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AWESOME GPS UNIT
Pros: finds satelites/position quickly, bright screen.
Cons: none yet
Was given the Garmin Nuvi 550 as a gift used it on a trip to New Zealand with an SD card and was extremely happy. Going to use it on my boat with SD map card and am more than confident it will perform as required. Great unit.
Recommend? YES
126 viewers found this helpful.
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Wylee2
Brantford, Ontario
Jul 27, 2010
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MORE FOR LESS.
Pros: price is a big factor.
Cons: glair at some sun angles.
Simple to use, touch screen works with gloves on, very accurate. Have not used it in rain yet. Very quick response to change in direction and recalculation of route.
Recommend? YES
126 viewers found this helpful.
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MajorPeabody
Baja Mexico
Jul 16, 2010
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NICE HARDWARE, POOR MAPS
Pros: hardware compact, operational.quick gps lock
Cons: poor/non-existant coverage of baja mexico
We purchased this for two reasons. First was to drive from Oregon to Baja Mexico. While in the USA the unit performed flawlessly. However, as soon as we crossed the Mexican border, the unit started rebooting, and the map information became very sparse. Our location was often shown a mile or two off the main Hiway (Hiway 1) and routing became non- existant. The second reason we purchased the unit was to use it aboard the sailboat, once in the Sea of Cortez, as a backup to our main chartplotter. Again, the hardware is good, but the optional charts have ZERO data on the Sea of Cortez. DO NOT spend any money on the marine G2 charts if you are sailing in the Sea of Cortez.
Recommend? YES
129 viewers found this helpful.
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Andy
Nova Scotia
Jul 5, 2010
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GREAT GPS
Pros: very versatile.
Cons: hard to see screen in sunlight,screen small
I was looking for a GPS that I could use in the car/ATV/boating, This unit covers all three. The unit performs excellent in all three modes.The Nuvi 550 works well with the BlueChart SD card. Best bang for your buck.
Recommend? YES
138 viewers found this helpful.
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Bluesy
Ottawa
Jul 5, 2010
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GREAT FOR MOTORCYCLES
Pros: waterproof and easy to use.
Cons: haven't found any yet.
I have this mounted on a Harley FXSTC. I used a Gilsson Bare Wire connection, sold here, to connect straight to the battery. It has a fuse in the wire so it's safe and works perfectly with the 550. The unit is waterproof, a must for bikes and bolts on the bike with a variety of different Ram mounts. Take your pick of a mount that you like the design of. The 550 voice directions aren't loud enough to be heard over the wind and noise of a bike, but who cares when the 550 is giving you the arrows and count downs to every turn. I downloaded Tyre software, which is free, and used it plan a couple of routes around the area. Worked great once I got the hang of how it works with Google Maps. The 550 has an import function that has to be used once the route has been loaded from your computer. It's screen just needs to be angled correctly to be seen even in bright sunlight, and I don't even have it set on it's brightest setting. I updated the maps free from the Garmin website, although they aren't perfect. It brings up a gas station in my area that has been closed for 2 years, but I'm not sure who's to blame for this kind of thing. Overall it does the job very well, and I find it a breeze to use.
Recommend? YES
126 viewers found this helpful.
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Redrider
Montreal,QC
Jul 2, 2010
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GREAT MOTORCYCLE GPS
Pros: re-calculates quickly,bright screen in sunlight
Cons: output jack for earbuds.
Bought the Nuvi 550 to replace a QUEST II on a motorcycle. Large screen, less glare in sunlight, re-calculates quickly, easy to program with gloves on, weather proof & functions in mph when in the US. Great unit for my motorcycling needs.
Recommend? YES
135 viewers found this helpful.
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Bill
Ottawa, Ontario
Jun 29, 2010
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NUVI 550
Pros: easy to use, great bright display
Cons: none
Great device with no problems at all in using it. I ride a motorcycle and had a 255 but this thing is waterproof ......and having dropped it ...it is pretty rugged too.
Recommend? YES
137 viewers found this helpful.
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BikerBob
Edmonton, Alberta
Jun 27, 2010
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GPS - US HOLIDAY
I very happy with the GPS I purchased. Riding through Texas/Louisanna it was a life saver with 6 lane of traffic and 4 freeways one on top of the other would have been nuts without it.
Recommend? YES
133 viewers found this helpful.
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Chuck
Victoria BC
Jun 25, 2010
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BEST MULTIFUNCTION GSP
Pros: highway, by-way and waterway. serves all my needs
Cons: proprietary battery
A friend has a crossover Magellan that he brought fishing and he also used it when we were trekking. When I almost got lost in the bush, I decided to do some GPS research. The Garmin 500 series has this market cornered. I was somewhat skeptical when the 2009 navigation maps were recalled so I called the Garmin service reps. The agent treated me like I was already a client and kept me informed. That service aspect sold me on Garmin. I've now bought the 550, charger and case. It works like a charm and responds faster than my buddy's Magellan. Now I'm saving up for the topo maps and the coastal maps to round off this multifunctional GPS unit. I don't need the wireless blue tooth, picture taking, bells and whistles. I want good solid performance and reliability. This Garmin 550 delivers.
Recommend? YES
141 viewers found this helpful.
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Greg
Oxdrift Ontario Canada
Jun 24, 2010
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GREAT ALAROUND GPS
The garmin nuvi 550 is a great all around GPS I can use it for geocaching, it even gives you all the cache details when downloaded from the computer. I can use it in the boat with the navionics card in it. And I use it for finding my way around cities
Recommend? YES
136 viewers found this helpful.
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Langevin
Québec, Canada
Jun 24, 2010
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AUTOMOTIVE AND VTT
Great Automotive and Vtt GPS
Recommend? YES
136 viewers found this helpful.
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blackspruce
Whitehorse, Yukon
Jun 22, 2010
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NUVI 550
Pros: great!
Cons: no direct to batt./switched connection provided.
Worked great on HD Electra Glide using RAM mount(8000km trip in rain the whole time!). Using 12volt cig. plug as provided was used the entire time but I wouldn't consider it a water resistant connection but I experienced not prob. Also use on KAWASAKI KLR650 using SW Motech mount.
Recommend? YES
133 viewers found this helpful.
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tootall
Vancouver
Jun 17, 2010
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GOOD BUT NOT PERFECT!
Pros: very bright display great for motorcycle
Cons: usb port. difficult to insert unit into ram cradle
Nice unit, big and heavy compared to TomTom One series for example. Tried to use TomTom car charger (hardwired to motorcycle) but had to use the Garmin USB charger that came with the unit, otherwise unit would switch to USB mode at first and not to MAP mode, annoying. TomTom's simply ask you if you want to connect to computer when you connect to computer USB port, otherwise they simply charge. Mapsource came with it after registering unit and free map update. Great for planning trips. Also logs past trips (tracking), would buy again because of good overall quality. Much better than TomTom 140S for example. Can't be mounted to RAM cradle while USB cable is connected to GPS, this is much easier with TomTom One. You'll insert USB cable (charges unit) through the back of the cradle into the unit.
Recommend? YES
135 viewers found this helpful.
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Danyboy
Belleville, Ontario
Jun 17, 2010
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NUVI 550 DELIVERS
Just received my GPS after super fast delivery. Could not beleive it. First time here, but won't be the last. GPS has all the features that somebody looks for. Haven't tried the lenght of the charge yet, but I am optimistic.
Recommend? YES
137 viewers found this helpful.
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World Biker
Washington,DC
Jun 16, 2010
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SO SO FOR A BIKE
Pros: with time it could find itself on the map.
Cons: one routing took us km out of the way.
The machine was waterproof as advertised but didn't give the names of adjacent streets or even towns. One routing took us down dozens of stairs.
Recommend? YES
138 viewers found this helpful.
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Frank Gagner
Quebec city,Canada
Jun 13, 2010
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NUVI 550 REALLY EVERYWHERE
Pros: trouble free,very but very versatile
On my snowmobile -25 celcius no probleme
Recommend? YES
134 viewers found this helpful.
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Phil
London, On., Canada
Jun 12, 2010
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GARMIN NUVI 550
Pros: price compared to zumo line for motocycles
Cons: hard to hear voice prompts. needs more volume.
I would say this is a great unit for the car or boat but only good for a motorcycle. Price is not a high as the Zumo line for motorcycles. The Zumo has many more features. I give "Nuvi 550" only a good rating as I found that on my stock Yamaha Roadstar I can barely hear the voice prompts. Needs more volume or sound output jack. Screen is a little hard to see sometimes but it depends on direction of travel and time of day. It could use a sun shade or the ability to adjust the screen better. Is excellent in the car. Good processing power. Is quick to respond to changes. Pretty easy to use once you get on to it. There is a reason it is cheaper than the Zumo line. Zumo's come with everything one would need to mount to a motorcycle and mapping software to use with them on your computer. The "Nuvi 550" you have to buy mounts, external power cables and mapping software seperate.
Recommend? NO OPINION
135 viewers found this helpful.
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Dan
Rockland, Ontario
Jun 11, 2010
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GREAT GPS & GREAT SERVICE
Pros: uploading of routes
Cons: does not come with usb cable
This unit works very well and allows you to upload routes from Mapquest. All this at a quarter of the cost of the Zumo 550. The unit arrived 2 days after ordering. Very happy with everything.
Recommend? YES
137 viewers found this helpful.
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Claude Charest
Joliette, Québec
Jun 8, 2010
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GPS CITY, CALGARY
Excelent service, shippement super fast, receive it 1 day earlier then promess
Recommend? YES
134 viewers found this helpful.
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Flitzer
Toronto ON
Jun 6, 2010
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PERFECT FOR MY VESPA
Affordable and easy to view in bright sunlight. Hard-wired it to the ignition. Also portable as a geocache unit. Several of my friends were impressed with the features of this unit. Will certainly give gpscity any future business. My order arrived the next day as ordered!
Recommend? YES
131 viewers found this helpful.
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Marty
Victor,NY
Jun 5, 2010
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IDEAL UNIT FOR MOTORCYCLE USE.
Pros: like the manual routing facility
Cons: none yet.
Looked for a replacement GPS for my Magellan Platinum which I used only for the motorcycle. The designated motorcycle units are so expensive so I went for the 550 after reading and researching for more than a week. It's easy to use a great interface and almost identical to the Nuvi 300series to use.
Recommend? YES
136 viewers found this helpful.
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lenard
victoria bc
Jun 2, 2010
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GARMIN NUVI 550
very nice unit, easy to operate, loaded with topo maps, make trail riding navigation a breeze
Recommend? YES
143 viewers found this helpful.
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lenard
victoria bc
Jun 2, 2010
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GARMIN NUVI 550
very nice unit, easy to operate, loaded with topo maps, make trail riding navigation a breeze
Recommend? YES
143 viewers found this helpful.
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bmw gs
Vancouver
Jun 1, 2010
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GREAT UNIT!
Pros: display, overall functionality
The unit is simple but really good, I used many different TomTom's before, latest the 140S on the motorcycle. Using excellent free TYRE software with Google Maps for route planning and tranfer to Nuvi. http://www.tyre.tk/
Recommend? YES
144 viewers found this helpful.
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John
Eastern Ontario
Jun 1, 2010
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TWO PROBLEMS
two problems 1 - Whereigo feature does not work, locks up after starting, very slow
2 - secondary roads hard to see. appears as light gray should be black, scale 300 or smaller
Recommend? NO
133 viewers found this helpful.
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Philipe
Brazil
Jun 1, 2010
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VERY NICE UNIT
Cons: only usb power
Its a very rugged unit, no problems so far. Fast sattelite aquisition. Great service from gpscity
Recommend? YES
147 viewers found this helpful.
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Propfrwrd
Vancouver, BC
May 24, 2010
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GOOD FOR DUAL SPORTING
Pros: waterproof, tough, versatile, easy to use, value
Cons: headphone jack, loading off-road routes
I've had the 550 for over a year now, and generally like it. I formerly had the Magellan Crossover, and it crapped out after some off-road pounding on the KLR650, and if I had to do it again, I would definitely go with the Garmin.
Just like my bike, it is sort of a generalist ok at most everything but master of nothing. It works well on the road, although, as other posters have mentioned, is too quiet and surprisingly lacks a headphone jack, which would be handy, although not really necessary. The screen is a bit small, but mounting with the RAM aimed closer to your face helps.
On the road, it functions as any other GPS, and does a good job with directions. Setting it up is super-simple, and although iniitally skeptical, my admittedly directionally-challenged wife finds it easy to use and extremely useful.
I have the Western Canada Topo map, and while helpful, it is not as functional as true off-road for plotting off-road routes- more below.
I used the Garmin Europe City Navigator NT for my trip to the UK and the unit was worth it's weight in gold! Trying to drive on the wrong side of narrow, winding 'streets' roundabouts of London would have led to a murder-suicide (not sure who would have went first- me or my wife!) without it. The handheld capability was great, although I frequently lost a signal in larger cities- likely because of the narrow sidewalks, which often led to frustrating detours or walking in circles while waiting for a signal again.
Like other posters, I could not justify the price of the Zumos. Being able to pair my cel phone is not a priority, as one of the reasons I ride is to NOT hear anyone yaking to me, not to mention the loss of concentration. As for a long highway trip, I can't see myself wanting to fool around with loading music onto a card and find the iPod touch is perfect as I can go to an internet cafe and email the missus if necessary.
Maybe it's just Vista (grr!), but I found attempting to utilize Google Maps/Earth to load routes to be basically impossible, although I should do some more practicing and/or research.
Overall, a great balance between functionality and price for motorcyclists.
Recommend? YES
149 viewers found this helpful.
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Marc
Quebec, Can.
May 12, 2010
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GOOD AND HANDY MOTORCYCLE GPS
I like that GPS. Gives you lot of deteils but, you have to learn it properly before . Marc
Recommend? YES
147 viewers found this helpful.
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Carl
Quebec City
May 10, 2010
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GARMIN NUVI 550
Cons: takes for ever to download the updates.
Good all around gps. Suits my needs on the bike as well as in the car.
Recommend? YES
150 viewers found this helpful.
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Blue Jim
Houston, TX
Apr 28, 2010
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GREAT AS A MOTORCYCLE GPS!
Pros: motorcycle friendly at 1/3 the cost of a zumo
Cons: no audio output jack
I wanted a unit that was weatherproof, and had the capability to store routes I created on my PC with Map Source. I did not want to spend the money for a Zumo if I could help it. This unit is the answer. The only thing I would change about it if I could would be to add an audio output jack, or FM modulator, so I could hear the audio on my Gold Wing's speakers. But for the money I saved over the Zumo, I can live with that. You just need to be aware of about when your turns are coming up by keeping an eye on the screen and watching the distance count down. Very easy to do. Great unit at a great price, and got great service from GPS City!
Recommend? YES
157 viewers found this helpful.
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Royalstar CMC
Ottawa, Ont
Apr 28, 2010
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GARMIN NUVI 550
Pros: waterproof
Cons: memory card no easy access cradle and wire hard
Works well easy to use. Some issues. Hard to see in sun needs visor. Memory card under battery not easy access and have to turn unit off to get it. With GPS on cradle the hardwire cable is not very easy to connect. Other than that unit itself works well.
Recommend? YES
153 viewers found this helpful.
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Chris
Little Elm, TX
Apr 6, 2010
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GREAT VALUE MOTORCYCLE GPS
Pros: simple and reliable
Cons: computer driver installation
I ride a Harley Davdison Ultra Glide and like to take a lot of long, back-highway rides on the weekends. The type where you cant' remember all the FM and Highway numbers!
I shopped around quite a bit before buying the Garmin Nuvi 550. I looked at more advanced models (also resold under the Harley Davidson brand) but couldn't affort the price tag. Some were as much as three times the price of the Nuvi.
I've used it for three weeks and have been very pleased. I've been able to upload maps from Microsoft Sreets and Maps as well as from the Harley Davidson Road Planner (www.harley-davidson.com) and it has worked seamlessly. The only frustration is the computer drivers were not included with the unit. I installed software included with the unit but it seems like the computer drivers for the unit were not included in the stallation and I had to download, and install, them from the Garmin website before any software would recognize the unit. Once that was done, everything has been a piece of cake.
I would recommend this unit to anyone who needs a solid GPS and doesn't need the added bling of MP3 player, video player, etc. that come with higher priced units.
Recommend? YES
160 viewers found this helpful.
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Skater
Hamilton, Ontario
Apr 5, 2010
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BEST BIKE GPS FOR THE $$$$
If you want all the bells and whistles get the Zumo but this has everything you need aside from Bluetooth. I have a couple of friends who are interested in the unit now that they have seen it work. The waterproof feature works well on the MC and the Ram mount makes it easy to adjust.
Recommend? YES
166 viewers found this helpful.
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Seadog
Springdale NL
Feb 17, 2010
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GREAT GPS
Pros: rugged, waterproof, easy to use
Cons: does not show one-way streets
I purchased the 550 for a recent trip to Italy along with the Garmin City Nav card for Italy and Greece. The unit performed very well, with the exception that it does not show one-way streets. This was a bit bothersome, but the unit compensated quickly and rerouted me to the correct destination as I continued to drive. We spent 2 weeks driving around Italy and the unit never let us down once (except for the lack of one-way streets). I have also used it on motorcycle and snowmobile. Battery life is ok (4 hours from full charge) but an adapter is necessary for longer trips. This is a very rugged unit and tested waterproof! It was knocked off its mounting and lost for about 15 minutes. When I did find it, it was buried in 6 inces of slush and was (and is still) working fine
Recommend? YES
175 viewers found this helpful.
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Rob V.
Sudbury, ON
Feb 16, 2010
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COLD WEATHER TESTED
Pros: water proof, cold weather tested well. portable.
Cons: on screen menu can be confusing to navigate
Purchased because it is rated as waterproof but was not sure if it would work in the cold. I am happy to say that after snowmobiling 240km in -15C weather yesterday it worked perfectly. I have it mounted in a Ram suction cup mount to my sled tach guage and it holds well. In the cold the Nuvi 550 will operate for about 5-7 hours on a full charge. Satelite reception is great and the accessory topo map keeps you updated nicely as your moving along the snowmachine trails. I also purchased the optional 12v plug in charger and use it with both my snowmachine, quad and car. If your looking for a good all around automotive GPS that you can use with your off road toys, consider the Nuvi 550.
Recommend? YES
167 viewers found this helpful.
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Chuck
Pelham Al.
Jan 21, 2010
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GARMIN NUVI 550
It works good I would like a louder volume on it
Recommend? YES
193 viewers found this helpful.
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Robert
Edmonton AB
Jan 6, 2010
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M/C GPS
Pros: waterproof,size
Cons: price
I have had it for a while and have found the features to be more than I expected.It works well in the see thru area of the tank bag of my Motorcycle and battery life is OK. I bought the 550 for its waterproof feature and its small size, it more than meets my needs for M/C, truck and auto.
Recommend? YES
194 viewers found this helpful.
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Rob
Sudbury, ON
Jan 5, 2010
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NUVI 550
Pros: waterproof and can add other maps.
Cons: small screen. no instructions.
Nice all around unit. Waterproof (bonus) for use in boat, ATV and snowmachine...etc. Have loaded inland lakes and topo maps in it too. Easy to use. Not perfect for directoins however. Sometimes leads you off a highway and on to side roads for some unknown reason?? Garmin does not provide instruction sheets (just a quick start flyer). Left to guess and "play with it" to learn now to use it. Can lead you off a highway onto side roads for no apparent reason and back onto the highway again?? Overall 4/5 stars however.
Recommend? YES
179 viewers found this helpful.
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Big B
Qyesnel BC Canada
Jan 5, 2010
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GRAET NEW TOY
Best thing I have ever bought for my new 2010 Ford.
Recommend? YES
169 viewers found this helpful.
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Malibu205
Kelowna BC Canada
Dec 21, 2009
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NICE LITTLE UNIT
Pros: great for outdoors, motorcycles, atv etc.
Cons: none. extra doo dads would only drive the price.
So I mounted the 550 on a 1 inch Ram ball mount to the left and behind the windshield of my BMW K75RT motorcycle. My 58 year old eyes can't read fine print real well, but the 550 is very bright and easy to see. The mount means you can extend the unit towards you or either side depending whats best. It's also fairly light so I'm very happy with the 550. Long battery life is cool if I am running all the other accessories (heated clothes etc) at once. Easy to snap in and out of the Ram clip when you stop for coffee. Nice little unit! .
Recommend? YES
203 viewers found this helpful.
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Pacang
Port Alberni
Dec 10, 2009
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MULTI PURPOSE!!
Good allround GPS, I have used it in my car and on my Quad just waiting for the weather to get better and us it on my motorcycle! Just need to get the TOPO map chip.
Recommend? YES
186 viewers found this helpful.
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BMW Glen
Ladysmith, BC.
Dec 4, 2009
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NUVI 550 MOTORCYCLE
Cons: bluetooth capable to scala-rider would be nice.
Mounted to a R1200R with a Ram motorcycle mount that came with my first GPS by Lawrence (not good) I use the suction windshield device to attach to the Ram mount and have never experienced it coming loose. This is a highway bike though and possible would get a cradle type mount if I was running a GS or other off-road bike. Also have a Nuvi 255W I use for the car, and have used on the bike, but stopped using on the bike after hitting a rainstorm and had to take it off the bars and put in pocket on the move. (unable to stop safely)
Recommend? YES
189 viewers found this helpful.
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Jose
Guadalajara, Mexico
Nov 11, 2009
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FALTA BLUETHOOT EN MOTO
Pros: facil para buscar rutas de punto a punto
Cons: falta bluethoot en moto
En la motocicleeta no se escuchan las indicaciones por lo que es necesario que lo ofrezcan con la facilidad de comunicar el sonido con Bluethoot.
Recommend? YES
193 viewers found this helpful.
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Skeet
Lindsay, Ontario
Oct 29, 2009
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GREAT ALL AROUND DEVICE
Pros: flexability and ease of use.
Cons: could use a little larger screen.
I use this GPS every day, for driving, with the added topo chip, I use it for hunting, and with the added marine chip, I use it for fishing. Great all round unit.
Recommend? YES
205 viewers found this helpful.
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Dagnel
Rivière-du-Loup, QC, CANADA
Oct 13, 2009
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MULTI USAGE
Pros: waterproof, ease of use, compact
Cons: display not wide
Very good item, waterproof, can be used in car, boat, snowmobile, motorcycle. Very easy of use. Clear indications when driving. Very complete unit !
Recommend? YES
203 viewers found this helpful.
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dougsC90T
Toronto, ON
Oct 1, 2009
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GARMIN NUVI550
Pros: waterproof, full featured
Cons: small icons on screen
Having upgraded from the SP2720 unit I have found that there are many similarities, as well many differences. Overall I am very happy with the unit however it does have its differences. The differences are mostly in locating all the features however in comparison each unit carries all the features including being environmentally sealed.
Recommend? YES
206 viewers found this helpful.
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Wee Biker
Vancouver Island
Sep 29, 2009
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GOOD MOTORCYCLE GPS
Pros: waterproof, easy of use, good screen
Cons: lack of bluetooth or earphone connection
I mounted the 550 with a 550 cradle / bare wire kit to my Vstrom and it funtions very nicely. Visibility is very good even in bright sunlight. When I registered the Nuvi, Garmin provided a free download upgrade of City Navigator 2010 which has complete North America, Hawaii, Bahamas, Alaska and PR. The unit easily transfers to the car cradle. I mute the sound on the bike as it's barely audible with the wind noise. I would have liked a connection for a safety line to the bike but it does seem secure in the m/c cradle. I would not suggest using the car suction cradle on a motorcycle, as I have had it fall off the dash in the car on a good bump. The ability to detect the vehicles power is nice so it turns on/off automatically with a switched power source. I don't miss the turn by turn sound on the bike as the screen directions are very easy to see and read with the unit mounted on top of the guages up under the windshield. All in all, it meets my expectations. I had considered a Zumo but for the price difference I can live without sound.
Recommend? YES
213 viewers found this helpful.
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scotthaz1
Cape Cod, MA
Sep 24, 2009
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GARMIN NUVI 550
Pros: portability, ease of use
Cons: more choices for road types
As of now I have only had this GPS for about a month, for a GPS it is excellent, espically if it is used in a car, I bought it mainly for my Harley though, as it is for a motorcycle and is waterproof, don't get me wrong it is excellent on the bike also, I just wish it had more choices on the type of roads like it used to on the older Garmin GPS models, I do like the size of the unit which makes it very portable. Another thing that is great about the unit is that I did not have to buy the CD/DVD for the map program it comes as a download with the purchase of the unit so I can design my own routes and send them directly to my unit, I can also go to Google maps and do the same thing, so if I am at a friends house and they came up with a route and used Google I could just send it directly to my NUVI 550, a couple of my friends have told me that this is the next GPS unit they are going to get for themselves after seeing mine
Recommend? YES
206 viewers found this helpful.
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Allan
Wetaskiwin AB
Sep 22, 2009
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VERY GOOD AUTOMOTIVE GPS + EXCELLENT FOR OFF ROAD
Pros: over all very happy with unit.
Cons: needs a booklet manual to be included with unit .
Happy with performance on road , works good off road out of box but should be a lot better once specific maps are installed. Found a booklet manual would be handy to have when using off road. The one printed from internet bulky and hard to carry.
Recommend? YES
209 viewers found this helpful.
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garmin fan
vancouver, bc
Sep 9, 2009
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GARMIN 550
Pros: excellent automotive
Cons: heavy in weight.
Overall good gps. All in one.
Recommend? YES
251 viewers found this helpful.
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dan
halifax nova scotia
Aug 27, 2009
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MOTORCYCLE GPS
Pros: good display in bright sunlight
Cons: could not hear voice commands
overall good gps needs a place for ear plug for motorcycle use
Recommend? YES
258 viewers found this helpful.
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Doum
Alma, Québec
Aug 26, 2009
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NUVI 550
Nuvi 550 is a fast prossessing GPS System. Could be use anyway with is multi-functional system. Screen is very clear and easy to use. The menu is friendly user. The only little negative thing is that the speaker is not to strong enough. Solid one in hand, the Nuvi 550 is a multi one recommended for any one who want to make ALL. Automotive, Boating, hicking, ATV, or Snowmobile ... Finally, very recommended !!!
Recommend? YES
289 viewers found this helpful.
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mcolinwatts
Montana
Aug 5, 2009
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GREAT LITTLE UNIT
Pros: long battery life, good ui, water-resistant
Cons: smaller screen, volume could be a tiny bit louder
Compared this to the earlier Streetpilot units offered by Budget for their rental fleet. The new interface is great, worked flawlessly in the car, and the speed and accuracy of the receiver was very good. Haven't tried it on the motorcycle, nor have I tried to upload topo maps to the unit. Documentation is clearly oriented for automotive use, so not sure how that will go, but we'll see.
Recommend? YES
245 viewers found this helpful.
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J. May
Kingston, ON
Aug 4, 2009
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CROSSOVER GPS
Pros: simple interface, vibrant easy to read screen.
Cons: wrong polarization, weak speaker, scratches easy.
In principle the Nuvi 550 is a great GPS, but has a few problems. 1. The polarization of the screen is wrong and when used with polarized sunglasses, such as when on the water, the screen can not be read. 2. The built in speaker is too quiet and the navigation voice is difficult to hear when traveling with the windows open (or on a motorcycle I would imagine). 3. The screen is easily scratched, at least much more so than my 60CSx.
Recommend? YES
277 viewers found this helpful.
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Rod
Penticton, B.C.
Jul 31, 2009
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INEXPENSIVE MOTORCYCLE GPS
This unit is motorcycle friendly and waterproof giving you most of what other motorcycle GPS units offer, but at a fraction of the cost.
Recommend? YES
258 viewers found this helpful.
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Bug Killa
Penticton, BC
Jul 24, 2009
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GARMIN 550 ON A MOTORCYCLE
Pros: inexpensive, works very well, easy to install
Garmin Nuvi 550 GPS Install and Ride Report
I purchased my 550 at gpscity along with the parts I needed to install it on the bike
The Nuvi 550 does not come with a lot of bells and whistles accessory wise. You can download a full manual pdf here): https://buy.garmin.com/shop/store/manual.jsp?product=010-00700-01&cID=134&pID=27442 ) If you are interested in mounting it on a motorcycle see my longer review (including photos) here: http://www.vstrom.info/Smf/index.php.
You’ll need to buy a data/power cable if you want to wire it to the bike. You will also need a cradle, a RAM ball and an arm. Here is a list of the accessories I bought from GPScity.ca http://www.gpscity.ca/garmin-power-and-data-cable.html http://www.gpscity.ca/ram-mount-garmin-nuvi-500-series-cradle.html http://www.gpscity.ca/ram-mount-diamond-plate-with-1-inch-ball-ram-b-238u.html http://www.gpscity.ca/ram-mount-short-1.0-inch-socket-arm-ram-b-201u-a.html
Installing on the V-strom:
After removing the windscreen I fed the power/data cable into lower throttle side hole located on the fehring of the bike. I attached the short 1” RAM ball arm and then the GPS cradle. The cradle I chose fit extremely well.
Using the GPS On the Bike:
You can enter addresses etc. directly onto the unit by hand but I found using a computer much easier. You will need to install Garmin’s Communicator software (a very small download from Garmin) to do this. For custom routes the only choice at the moment is mapquest. For me custom routes design is probably the most important feature on the unit. Putting them together should be simple and easy. Using mapquest it seems very straight forward.
Another nice feature is that you can get your true speed in the measurement of your choice. My speedo is in mph and I live in Canada so I like being able to see the speed in km/h. The gps also estimates your arrival time (nice feature on long trips) as well as keeping track of your total time of travel, moving time, stopped time, max speed, overall average speed, moving average speed and direction. There is a compass screen that also displays speed, elevation, time of day and GPS accuracy.
You can display the map in 2 or 3D and even download a nice bike icon. A TracBak feature allows you to save your recent travels quickly to your favorites. This way if you find a new route you can save it without trying to find it on a map and download it to the unit.
This unit is intended for bicycling, motorcycling, car and hiking applications. As such it’s a nice size to carry around and will easily fit in a jacket pocket. It’s waterproof for up to 30 minutes and there is also a full skin available for it (http://www.zagg.com/invisibleshield/garmin-nuvi-500-cases-screen-protectors-covers-skins-shields.php) if you happen to want full body coverage.
The unit works nicely in full sun and I found the size large enough to read at all times. I tested running the menu buttons with both warm weather (lightweight) and cold weather gloves and found they were easy to use.
The single feature I liked the most was “Where Am I”. You can quickly find hospitals, police, gas stations or the nearest addresses and intersection with a few clicks.
Here are the pros and cons for the Nuvi 550 based on my personal experience with it:
Pros: Smaller than the Zumo 550 but still has the same size display screen. User replaceable Lithium Ion battery with 8 hours of life Easily fits in a jacket pocket (good for hiking or when away from the bike) Has the “Where Am I” feature for finding gas, hospitals etc. fast. Waterproof (so I can ride my bike for at least 30 min in an aquarium ) Considerably cheaper than a Zumo (even with a few accessories thrown in) Topographic map compatible The colour matches my V-strom!
Cons: USB connection via wire, not built into cradle (but some Zumo owners complain of problems connected to the cradle) No external buttons as on the Zumo 550 No Bluetooth, MP3 player and XM Radio (if you want them)
Well that’s about it. Overall I’m pretty happy with this unit as my first gps and recommend it to anyone in the market for a reasonably priced unit. Cheers, Bug.
Recommend? YES
274 viewers found this helpful.
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Peter
Nova Scotia
Jul 3, 2009
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GOOD ALL-AROUND GPS
I've used this unit now for off-road, motorcycling, and car and have found it quite useful. Not overly impressed with it's route calculation as it's taken be to a few dead ends and told me to get off at exits that don't exist. Otherwise, great rugged unit, I like to waterproof feature due to my line of work and the battery life is quite decent compared to other GPS units I've owned. Guarantee the best price from gpscity.ca
Recommend? YES
287 viewers found this helpful.
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Knouster
Texarkana, Tx
Jun 15, 2009
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NUVI 550
Pros: very easy to use. easy to see
Cons: needs louder speaker
This Garmin meets all my expectations. I do wish it had an option to take scenic roads since I use it for motorcycle touring. But for the money it is a great deal.
Recommend? YES
297 viewers found this helpful.
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Pin
Newmarket, Ontario
Jun 13, 2009
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NUVI 550
This is my third GPS, but first Nuvi GPS. I was mainly buying it for biking, snowmobile and a bit of boating. So waterproof is a must. It's kind of bulky for hiking. I wish there's a way you can wear this thing, instead of putting it in the pocket. The GPS software was updated so it would do street name voice navigation. I also got 2010 map for free from Garmin website. so Dont' forgot to upgrade your map.
One minor thing I don't like it - after changing a setting in the tool menu, you have to press several times to get back to map navigation. Street pilot GPS has physical map button (instead of touch screen) so one can jump to map page quickly.
Recommend? YES
288 viewers found this helpful.
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Cliff the Green Guy
Brookings, SD
Jun 12, 2009
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EXTREMELY HAPPY WITH MY NEW GPS
Pros: saves frustration, is easy to see and talks.
Cons: data is not always up to date on new roads.
We just got back from our working vacation and our first time use of our NUVI 550. This GPS worked wonderful and saved a lot of frustration and tension that is normally incurred from my wife's navigating. We had a much happier trip. Our trip consisted of visiting four different locations from Brookings, SD to St. Joeseph, MO, to Chester, IL, Sparta, IL, Pella, IA and back to Brookings. The NUVI never failed us once and we even changed our course twice from what the NUVI had originally laid out and it adjusted itself to those courses on it's own.
Recommend? YES
300 viewers found this helpful.
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R. Evans
Sask
Jun 7, 2009
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VERSATILE GPS
Pros: easy to use, precise
Cons: can't just enter business name without address
It was what we were looking for auto and motorcycle, the only downfall is you can't enter the name of the business you wnat, you have to input the address. If you don't know the address it won't come up!!
Recommend? YES
282 viewers found this helpful.
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Huy Le
Montreal, QC
Jun 3, 2009
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ALMOST PERFECT FOR A BIKE GPS.
Pros: low price for a bike gps
Cons: lack a 2.5mm headphone jack
The NUVI 500 series is nice and with it's Scooter Mount is good, but it lack a 2.5mm headphone jack in order to be really usable and hear the voice prompts. It will be also be nice to add an MP3 players to it with automatic sound level based on the travel speed.
Recommend? YES
298 viewers found this helpful.
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Moosehunter 2
Vernon BC
May 29, 2009
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MAP QUESTIONABLE
I complained to Garmin that the unit would not show my home address. They suggested I update the mapping which I did. It still did not show my home address or the streets in my complex. I have an older Tom Tom and it shows all the streets and my home address. I have not tried the unit off road but I have little confidence that it will be satisfactory. I should have purchased a Colorado or Oregon unit instead. I purchased this for ATV use as it has a large screen. It may not be as good as my Garmin 76CSx which has too small a screen but shows my home address. Also no manual was provided, just a quick start guide.
Recommend? NO
295 viewers found this helpful.
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Zuben
GTA, Ontario
May 28, 2009
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MOSTLY AS EXPECTED
Pros: easy to use
Cons: no manual, difficult to get the most out of it
The unit was delivered promptly and without problems. It works great and is simple to use. However, there was no manual with it, and sometimes it does things I can't figure out. There's probably a manual online somewhere, but I really miss the days when an actual paper manual came with new products.
Recommend? YES
292 viewers found this helpful.
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pea
US
May 18, 2009
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MOTORCYCLE/SCOOTER
Pros: well it work as a basic gps
Cons: see review
I am not overly thrilled with this product. It is quite a bit more expensive than other models, but I bought it b/c it was billed motorcycle friendly. I think any product indicating such should have audio out, b/c the noise of the cycle will drown out the prompts. I drive a scooter which is very quiet, and I could only kind of hear the voice through a full face helmet at under 35 miles per hour.
The other huge disappointment was I cannot download custom made maps from google/yahoo/mapquest. I just have to take the route they give me. Anyone who rides a scooter or MC likes to customize the route sometimes for the scenic route, or avoid certain roads for hazardous riding conditions . I contacted customer service and they tell me I can buy some program that will let me download 10 maps for $15- I could blow through 10 maps in a couple weeks. Not a real help. I could not even find a demo to see if it was user friendly. All and all I am pretty disappointed . This is my first GPS so maybe I am missing something. but who knows? it came w/o no user manual, and the online one it pretty worthless. Other than being water proof, I do not see why this unit is any better than $125 one.
[Ed. note: You can make your own routes to load onto the unit, you can only do up to 10 at a time on the unit but you can do as many as you would like. You just can only have up to 10 on the unit at a single time. The $15 program is a disc that you need to order from Garmin to be able to have the mapping that is on the unit installed on your computer, as the unit does not ship with the mapping DVD. Once you have the disc, you can simply load it onto your computer and start making routes. Garmin's number is 1-800-800-1020. Thank you, hope this helps!]
Recommend? NO
292 viewers found this helpful.
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Mathew
Rimbey, Alberta
Apr 30, 2009
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FIRST GPS
Pros: ease of use and understand, clear large display.
Cons: none right now.
This is the first GPS unit that I have used and owned. So far I am very pleased with the performance and ease of use. One of the reasons I selected this model was the user friendliness of it as my wife is a bit technologically challenged, and she can use this without to much coaching. I plan on using it with my ATV so will be looking to purchase a mount for tis.
Recommend? YES
294 viewers found this helpful.
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Vfrog
Pakenham, ON
Apr 27, 2009
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VERSATILE NUVI 550 MULTI
Pros: nice size, good battery life (8hrs), easy to use.
Cons: weak compass like many gps when not moving.
I wanted a GPS that could be clearly seen on my motorcycle and be able to both take topo maps and do paperless geocaching. I was not disappointed. The NUVI 550 is truly a multi use unit. I can get turn by turn directions to a cache. Stop and switch to walk mode and topo maps then find the cache. Paperless is the way to go. Just download the GPX files with all the cache info.
Recommend? YES
300 viewers found this helpful.
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Bob
Calgary, AB
Apr 22, 2009
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GARMIN NUVI 550
I am extremely pleased with this unit. It provides clear map data and voice instructions and is very easy to carry with you in your pocket.
Recommend? YES
302 viewers found this helpful.
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Theo
Northeast US
Apr 17, 2009
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GREAT CROSS-OVER GPS
Pros: small, fast, bright, accurate, navteq, ipx7
Cons: small, no audio-out, no mp3
This is being used in an auto and on a motorcycle. It is fast, the maps are accurate, and the screen is bright enough for use in indirect sunlight. You must make sure that you have the most recent software and map database (NAVTEQ) to get the most from this unit. Unfortunately, a USB cable for connecting it to a computer is not provided, but I used one that came with a digital camera. The cable has a standard USB connector on one end and a mini connector on the other.
The 550 is a brilliant performer in the auto, though some may prefer a wide-screen unit. My windshield has many compound curves and has resisted cooperating with any previous suction- cup mount. However, the 550's mount works marvelously! it has a slightly smaller diameter and a powerful vacuum. The screen is bright and instructions can be heard. I would like the volume to be a bit louder, however. When mounted in my sports car, the ambient noise *almost* drowns-out the volume when set to 100%.
When mounted on the motorcycle, it is equally brilliant. I have it mounted on a Nuvi 550 u-bolt mount setup by RAM and sold by gpscity. It is extremely sturdy and does not vibrate one bit (on a v-twin powered bike!). Of course, I cannot hear the voice instructions, but I have the unit positioned just above the triple- tree so it is easily in my field of view. The screen is fairly bright and easily viewable in all but direct sunlight fall on the screen. I believe a GPS hood of some kind would help the direct sunlight issue.
Interestingly, there is a driving mode for "Auto" and for "Scooter". I have yet to figure out what the difference is after traveling the same 1.5 hour route in both modes. Perhaps for urban environments "Scooter" routes you though public alleys?
For motorcycle use, I purchased a second battery. I recommend this because the screen brightness in the daytime with typically need to be set at 100% and this sucks-down the battery capacity. I have been able to run 4.5 to 5 hours on a freshly charged battery with volume set to 0% and brightness set to 100%.
In the auto, with volume at 80% and brightness at 40%, the new battery has lasted about 6 to 6.5 hours. Of course, you can also use the supplied auto power cable to charge the battery as you drive.
I also purchased the Garmin hard-shell case for storage and transport. It protects the unit extremely well and has a soft inner liner. Be aware, it *just* fits the 550 there is no room for cables, manuals, or anything else. Folks may want to opt for a larger case if they wish to store accessories, mounts, and the like.
FInally, you will want to download several free Garmin applications. Road Trip provides computer-based NAVTEQ mapping functions with the ability to create POIs and Routes that can be easily downloaded to an attached Garmin unit. Communicator is a browser plug-in that allows you to use a mapping site like MapQuest to identify POIs and Routes and then automatically download the to an attached Garmin unit.
This is a terrific unit for the money!
Recommend? YES
309 viewers found this helpful.
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Doug
Georgian Bay
Mar 31, 2009
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MAJOR DISAPPOINTMENT
Pros: as an automotive gps- nice upgrade from 255w
Cons: boating mode falls far short of marine use.
I received my 550 yesterday and installed a Garmin G2 Vision chip. The chart as displayed on the Nuvi lacks most of the detail that would make it useable. I boat in Georgian Bay. If I followed the 550- I'd be up on the rocks in no time. They shouldn't call this a marine GPS.
Recommend? NO
328 viewers found this helpful.
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Fisherman
Sept-Iles, QC
Mar 4, 2009
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OUTDOOR/CAR GPS
Pros: high versatility, big screen
At last a gps that you can use in your truck to drive into the wood and switch it on your atv to go to your hard to reach fishing spot.(you can drive with the road map then swicth the display to your topo map with a few touch on the screen) All of the other gps that are supposed to do car and outdoor leave you with a 2 inches screenthat you cannot you without a navigator by your side while you drive... The Nuvi will tell you when to turn if you don't want to look at the 3.5 inches screen. Download the free software update if you want to use it in french
Recommend? YES
339 viewers found this helpful.
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jes2ejames
Nov 26, 2008
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GOOD ALL-PURPOSE NAVIGATOR
I have had the pleasure of testing the Nuvi 550. It's an excellent unit that can be used on your boat, in the car, or on a short walk through the bush. However it does not have all the common functions of a marine or hiking GPS so if you plan to use the unit often in these circumstances you may want to get a regular handheld (60csx) and a separate car navigator(nuvi). You should end up at the same price point. Don't get me wrong, having everything rolled into one is great for the casual outdoors man. Viva la GPS
Recommend? YES
383 viewers found this helpful.
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(4.4/5.0 based on 138 ratings)
