Chigee AIO-5 Play for BMW | Finally, the Perfect Solution (Ride Tested)

[@BigRockMoto]

➕I did receive this product for free from Chigee and I do earn commissions if you use my links when buying ➕I did NOT accept payment from Chigee for this video ➕My comprehensive motorcycle navigation video is coming out soon - stay tuned. ✔Chigee AIO-5 Play for BMW: collabs.shop/4rmr1m ✔Chigee Main Page: tinyurl.com/486mm38k ➕I also use and recommend the Carpuride tablets, a lower cost option that provides android auto and apple carplay for motorcycles: tinyurl.com/bdmjxacc (note, they do not offer wonderwheel/control integration for BMW, so if you have a BMW, get the Chigee...) ➕SUPPORT➕ [I may receive commissions which are invested back into the channel] ⚡ Patreon: www.patreon.com/bigrockmedia ⚡ Rocky Mountain ATV/MC: bit.ly/33kgRIz ⚡ Revzilla: imp.i104546.net/6bxxXN ⚡ Mosko Moto: moskomoto.com/bigrockmoto ⚡ Pacific Powersports (Motoz Tires, Barkbusters): pacificpowersports.com/ USE CODE BRM2024 ⚡ 3D Cycle Parts: www.3dcycleparts.com/?aff=3 ⚡ Taco Moto : tacomoto.co/?ref=fi6gv640 ⚡ Cyclops Adventure Sports: tinyurl.com/2kaknpfn ⚡ Denali Lighting: tinyurl.com/9746het9 ⚡ Amazon: amzn.to/3viGZ0A ⚡ Merchandise: big-rock-moto.myspreadshop.com/

[@Magicinstalls]

Hey Ian. I've had my 1300 GS since April and this is one of the first units I installed on the bike. There's two things I must have on my motorcycle. Apple CarPlay and dash cams. This thing is a game changer! I had to get really creative with the wiring so there was no wire showing but once it was done I plugged it into my can smart to power it up no cutting no splicing. The wonder wheel dongle was not available at the time for the 1300 so I passed on it. There's really nothing else you need and as far as losing signal out in the wild, just make sure you download all of your maps and it won't be a problem.

[@lovecycling193]

Can this unit still navigate if your phone loses signal/data?

[@Aguatingomez]

@@lovecycling193 i have the same question

[@MartoradGaming]

Thank you for being so transparent about your exact affiliation with the brands mentioned, it is something I think we all appreciate about your journalism.

[@BigRockMoto]

I try my best, thanks

[@pistolpete6321]

This is exactly what I’ve been waiting for but might wait for 6” screen before buying. Great video!

[@richardterry.]

I have one, and you’re right. The screen is tiny.

[@craigdonk1]

i have just used mine for the first time on sunday and agree its very small and i know it is just a phone mirroring device but i lost signal for a large portion of my ride so had no maps, it also put a drain on my phone battery so my thinking is go back to using my phone on the quadlock and my garmin XT that has got me all over europe. (Expensive device to copy my phone when i already have a phone and a garmin lol ).

[@drewyager4020]

Will a 6” screen need a new cradle? Also when you Lost signal was that cell service signal or dropped blue tooth??

[@jean-paulmontgomery1225]

the 7‘‘ Carppuride screen obstructs my view on the BMW screen. 5‘‘ seems to be just fine. You might consider that.

[@kingofjland]

Super happy to see you got to review one of the these units! I've been considering one but wanted to see a review from a channel that I trust who is willing to go into the details that matter. Thanks for providing such great information before I drop hundreds of dollars without knowing what I'm getting into

[@BigRockMoto]

Glad I could help!

[@motormichael5831]

I've been a Garmin loyalist for 20 years. Not because I'm a total Garmin-or-nothing fanboy, but rather because there really hasn't been anything better. Now I have an XT2 and I feel like they're going backwards - harder to use for routing, still no Carplay and even the music app no longer allows you to search within playlists. It is SO refreshing that there is finally a better alternative. I can use Rever for routing, Carplay for Waze and the music app for music. Done. Unless Garmin gets their act together, for the first time I will eagerly jump to Chigee. Great review!

[@BigRockMoto]

agreed, garmin missed their chance, too late now!

[@zonakazika1169]

I bought xt2 before my almost 4k km trip. When i was in romanian forest at 8 p.m. Garmin just freeze. There was no GSM range, we lost our way, Perfect timing. No working for next 4 days, and on the 5th after power on, start working again. I am trying hard to learn how to use it, but its difficult, everything is not intuitive. And the worst - working speed, its horrible. So i am using Garmin to change music, and navigate on my phone....

[@airadaimagery692]

Sad, because Garmin is the only US brand.

[@magaudion]

About to fit my Chigee AIO Play today to my Himalayan 450. Been using MyRoute app for a couple of years on phone and via CarPlay on Goldwing, instead of a Garmin XT . Great review , Ian, as always . Looking forward to trying it out in the Picos mountains in northern Spain next month .

[@tuckerhauser]

Agree totally, xt2 is lacking so many features that should be std in 2024. The xt2 feels like a step back removing bluetooth transfer feature, plus garmin constantly changing their software yet never getting it right! Mate has a chigee just wish the screen went to the edge of the unit.

[@DrT1250]

This is what I have been wanting this for YEARS for my '19 R1250RT. A turn-key Android auto unit that integrates with my bike. I just pre-ordered one. $25 discount if you order now 😊 Thanks for posting this video!

[@crowbiker4462]

Hello Ian - the only significant GPS you don't seem to have tried or mentioned is the BMW Connected Ride Navigator - which is a good unit in my view. I like the fact it is completely independent from my phone, has all the maps present (so doesn't need a data connection) and it's easy to load routes via the companion app. Might be worth comparing this to the Chigee ?

[@yvesberliet8662]

I just bought it from your link. It gave me a 10% discount. Nice!

[@philipadams3325]

It is obvious Chigee decided to send this free to every influencer under the sun. (NOTE: I trust you more than most) It is the darling of the youtubes right now - I am going to take a wait and see approach. Need some non-influencer non-preorder stage real world - long term lasting info before I will jump on the bandwagon. I do like, on the surface, the features - especially the BMW wheel integration.

[@glenns001]

yeah looks like everyone but paying customers have their unit, i ordered mine a month ago

[@timothyupleger7007]

Your experience with the BMW wheel will take a while to figure out. It's not as intuitive as the Nav-6 integration.

[@dungbeetle.]

Yep. Hearing lots of praise for this from many KZbin biking channels. The fact that there's also a version which plugs straight into the BMW cradle is a huge plus.

[@GraemeRobinson]

OK but what I like about the Garmin is exactly what you don't like about it - I want an always on satnav which also displays up to date speed and road hazard info. Google Maps just doesn't do this stuff as well. Then there is the vastly better route planning you get with the XT2. When I turn on my bike - bam, the Garmin is working, no need to open an app. Further the Garmin is weatherproof, has glove sensitive touchscreen. I've tried using a phone running android as a dedicated navigator - the Garmin now lives on my adventure bike, locked in with a touratech lock. Another thing I really like is being able to download satellite terrain imagery - I love being able to see the wider terrain as I ride through it.

[@ubermains]

Also the POI like fuelstops along the route is pretty good on the Garmin, I am yet to find software that does this aswell (The BMW App is also good at this).

[@BigRockMoto]

Those are some great points. I've found using Gaia or similar fixes some of those issues for me.

[@rjsalameh]

@@BigRockMotoI agree. Same for me. I just did the MABDR on my 2016 GS and only used GAIA on my iPhone. It worked perfectly!!! I used my Garmin V as my speedo, temp, clock and fuel gauge. This unit integrates all of that!!

[@enriquejaimes3368]

Agree! At les least with Garmin your ride is not fu**ed up if you forget your phone at home

[@enriquejaimes3368]

@@rjsalamehsure, add another subscription cost to the mix

[@tonybaker5775]

Super helpful, Ian! Thank you! (and good haircut, buddy!)

[@MikeGilroyAK]

SO true on the 6" screen sweet spot. I had the light on my 1250 and the screen needed to be bigger. I will wait for the 6" screen if they roll one out.

[@dalfry]

So I decided to return this one and get the regular AIO-5 play with their CGRC LIN dongle. That way I can move the CHIgee unit to another motorcycle and still get wonderwheel integration when I move it back on the BMw. It would be USB powered and not dependent on BMw GPS prep. If they had a removable GPS prep attachment at the back that would be perfect.

[@maxwegner6787]

How can you still use the wonderwheel? I am planning to buy the universal one for exactly the same reason.

[@dalfry]

@@maxwegner6787they now have a dongle called CGRC LIN. Look in accessories. It is supposed to work with the standard AIO-5 Play. That is the most flexible combination and the total cost is the same as the BMW version which only works with the GPS prep mount.

[@btvr17]

I just ordered one for my 2023 1250 GSA! I currently use the BMW rideconnect and it's ok but not as good as google maps so I basically use the cradle for wireless charging and display but it's not fun fumbling around changing things on my phone while riding. Also, I have to pick which way to connect my Cardo because the Cardo can't have all functions with your phone and all the apps. This is nice! Granted a GPS unit doesn't rely on phone connection and that's an advantage in remote areas. Good thing I kept by old BMW Navigator V from the RT I traded in and can always use that as a backup if in a remote area.

[@drewhbend]

having apple car play is so key to enjoyment.....thankfully Africa twin is already built in. Maps, communication, music etc..

[@JeffChessher-dj4tu]

When doing your comparisons of navigation units keep in mind that Garmin units do not require cell coverage for maps. With android based units mapping information may be downloading from your phone requiring cellular coverage. Many of the areas we ride in do not have cell coverage.

[@BigRockMoto]

I always download offline maps to my navigation apps, not a problem for me. Have tested it this way. Just requires download before going out of service areas.

[@JeffChessher-dj4tu]

@@BigRockMoto true you can do that, probably my biggest issue is that I am not a android fan, I wish apple would produce a hardened iOS device. In my jeep I use both Apple car play and Garmin thread. There is no cellular coverage where I live, Surprise Valley, Modoc County Ca. You will almost drive past my house if you do the North California BDR.

[@MrNeilRoberts]

Greetings from Australia 🇦🇺 and thank you for the 10% - just ordered 🙏

[@IanSmart-g6y]

"chief fun officcer" . that's a job I could totally get on board with!

[@RogersMotorcycleAdventures]

Great review, but I do disagree on something. I use a Zumo XT2, and I have to say, what you've listed as negatives, I think are positives. I want a discrete GPS unit - not something that I have to connect to my phone. The fact that I can use it to control the music that's playing on my phone is a plus; I don't need any more than basic controls for that. I'm not sure what you mean by the maps looking outdated...they look like pretty much any other mapping/gps app. It also has a great feature - when I'm going on long rides, along with navigating to my endpoint, it will show me the next 3 towns that I'll be coming up on (I'm in Australia, so the amount of towns are far fewer), how long until I get to those towns, and what's available there (fuel, food, etc). It is pricey, but I imagine it'll last forever, it's well designed, and solid as a brick.

[@BigRockMoto]

great points, I still have my XT2 I will keep around for the same reasons

[@sillygitau]

@@BigRockMotothanks for the content 👍 Just following up on the previous commenters discreet GPS point. I’m also in Australia and often ride in places with little to no phone reception. I’m curious if you can comment on how well the Chigee GPS navigation works when you’re out adventuring?

[@chrisevans3887]

Thanks for doing the research. I have been looking for a better device for my BMW. I own an older GS and its instrument panel is a bit lackluster. Already have one on the way. Thanks again and I enjoy your videos.

[@kevins.9547]

Great video Ian. I can see how this BMW-specific Chigee unit would be useful for an easy to read and use view of all apps on your phone for road riding within cell service areas for the nav portion and even more so on a BMW GS with the wonder wheel. Nav apps like Gaia, Rever, MRA and others should work fine without cell service as they do natively on any phone with only GPS reception, and as we know Google & Apple maps are not useful without cell coverage (unless you download the area map ahead of time). Per their website, Chigee is offering a 5% discount and shipping by Oct 8th per their website, which gets it under $500 USD.

[@nzseagull]

I’ve got a Garmin XT used it for few years it’s very limited compared to the CHIGEE it’s night and day. Value for money 😊

[@ADVBear]

Hi Ian. I have the Carpuride version for BMW, and it connects directly to the BMW original cradle. However, the Carpuride, the Chigee, and other Android Auto/CarPlay systems have a terrible limitation for me: they do not have integrated GPS. Unfortunately, there are a lot of shadow regions where there's no cell coverage - and I'm not even talking about the wilderness, but several long stretches of highway in Brazil and many other South American countries.

[@ScrambledTiger]

This is exactly what I’ve been wondering. Do satellite based navigation apps work without cell reception as well as dedicated nav units?

[@MrSinner6000]

FYI, With Google maps and other mapping software out there, you can download the maps of the areas you want to travel on your phone. So if you ever lose cell service, your map software will still work.

[@paulrod6760]

Great Video. I will order one for my 1300GS tomorrow using your link of course

[@BigRockMoto]

Awesome, thank you!

[@mike.boysen]

I ordered my Lite on Kickstarter with a huge discount right after Spites review. My ATAS had a blown TFT and non e available. Got the Chigee, next day Honda had extended their warranty on TFTs 10 years. Now have both working. Still use Android Auto on TFT because of controls. But the dashcams are handy as well as TPMS. If I get an second bike I'll probably move it

[@michaelironrider9443]

For these devices, it really comes down to your own needs and requirements. As a frequent traveler, I found it most convenient to have a robust, smartphone independent navigation solution on my BMW. After 3 software and 1 hardware update (in my case), Im really happy with the CRN from BMW. it just works great, and does what I need. Solutions that depend on your smartphone require charging it, pairing needs to work, and when something fails you have to stop and pull out your phone to check what the issue is (current experience with beeline moto 2 for my wife's bike).

[@BigRockMoto]

awesome info, thanks for sharing

[@J_OSIS]

Oh, it has reached also you, Ian! After your review of the F900GS, it is already few month in my garage. Some month ago I was looking for best tablet option (Garmin is too slow, no carplay, gpx file import must be done from pc ext) for navigation on the new bike and then suddenly came across this Chigee wonder. That definitely looked like the thing I need. Needed to wait a bit in back list, but now its somewhere on the way and cannot wait to test it.

[@SVL1805]

Hello Ian! Thank you so much for these reviews. It is an actual eye opener.I have a question for all devices: how is the battery draining on the phone? I am curious if this actually protects the battery of the phone or not.

[@Wollestar]

My main issue with devices like this is not actually with the devices but the developers of the apps I use. I am using Calimoto and intending to go for DMD2 for future offroad riding. Both apps do not support android auto, so the only ways to go are either my smartphone or the dmd2 phone/tablet or similar products. And since I have a water and dust proof case for my phone, I currently do not see any reason to change to anything different. Would be different if I were to use android auto compatible apps.

[@motocrusader72]

Just bought one. I initially bought the BMW Connected Ride for my new GS. It was a struggle every time I used it…very frustrating. When you had anything less than 5G, it was essentially useless. My plan is to add a Garmin GLO 2 for GPS reception and I should have a GPS device with all the functions of my Apple phone.

[@BlackBart66zep]

Quick question: Do I pair my i0S phone to just the Chingee , OR to BOTH the Chingee and the bike (2023BMW F750GS with TFT) for best results and easiest use? Great channel, thanks!

[@XUKULATV]

Hey! Great video and great content Do you know if its compatible with a 2007 GSA?

[@utahoutings]

Still come of the best video reviews out there!

[@NobIe117]

Really nice product. Think ill save my money and continue to use my BMW cradle since it does the same thing

[@fhrides3809]

Really interesting product. It comes a year late for me, since I switched to BMW Nav VI to Zümo XT2. The Zümo is not perfect and I think it has its flaws, but I find it many times better than the Nav VI. The problem I can see with the AIO-5 is the battery life/health of the smartphone. GPS usage is what drains the battery the fastest, no question there. Also, by using the smartphone as navigation device on a regular basis affects quite significantly the battery health (current capacity of the battery compared when it was new). Other than that, it would be really cool to have a device which you can decide what App to use according on what you want to do...

[@carloalbertoranzani8041]

I was thinking about replacing my nav6 that I bought used, with something with CarPlay because Waze is just better for navigation (having me use motorcycle only lanes in Milan, for example) and for speed trap warnings. I like the garmin because it works even when the phone doesn’t, but that’s it. It’s even slow to render the upcoming map, so sometimes it’s like “oh there’s a bend here, surprise”. I was about to purchase a chegee or how it’s written but I was bummed there was no wonderwheel compatibility, this should be the best option. Your video timing was spot on :) Still kinda pricey for a no name Chinese product imho, but it’s not excessive. I’ll check if there’s local sellers Amazon included, that would honor the warranty tho (not a fan of the “send it back to China for repairs”).

[@castigo1986]

Thank for the review! A technical note: have you considered using a sort of backdrop light for this filming setup? It looks very "cut" now with a dark background!

[@andrews5093]

Thanks for t he straight forward review......going shopping!!!

[@1923Jakob]

Thanks for the content, ordered one through your link :)

[@Billet_Badger]

The Carpuride has a 6" screen version with dual cameras that was aimed at the Chigee. I think that the 7" Carpuride screen is a bit too large, but the W603 model is more of 16:9 format that fits the dash better without interfering with the windscreen.

[@joemartin7332]

Very neat unit. However, if you have to plug in your phone to keep it charged you might as well just use it for everything, and keep the Navigator VI as backup gps.

[@ski3435]

Except your phone isn't integrated with your wonder wheel.

[@SarvanDhadhich]

Bmw should have made their instrument cluster like this with Android auto & apple car play with touch screen, it would have been a game changer

[@BigRockMoto]

They just don't get it

[@DovGazit]

Right, exactly what Honda did to their own motorcycles

[@chrischassey4849]

Do you think this will fit in a K1600, where the Garmin/BMW Nav V/VI goes? It seems to be made as a direct replacement.

[@howardp924]

My exact question. I have a GS and a K16. If you look at 1:15 in the video it shows them using this unit on a K16.

[@mgrant6607]

Great review. I have a Zumo XT2 and like others prefer to ride with it. I have it installed in the BMW mount with adapter. But, would be nice to have Apple car play too. (1) is there any way to pint this while leaving the Zumo in the BmW mount? (2) I presume if you mounted this elsewhere you lose the wonderwheel functionality; pls confirm.

[@NoSkillzMoto]

I have the Chigee AI05 on my Vstrom and I love it. Yes its expensive but its solid. I use Gaia GPS for offroading. I keep phone either in my ram mount or in my pack.

[@kwraleigh]

Thx for the video,Ian. Do you prefer the Chigee unit over the Carpuride?

[@eric7639]

Wow another great video man! Does it offer turn by turn navigation if you have no cell service? I live in the Philippines now and spend most of my time touring with little or no service. I had a ConnetedRide Navigator 2024 on my r1250gs and it was perfect albeit expensive. I could only use google maps on my phone in cities, ie looking for a specific hotel or something. I downloaded offline maps in google but they simply fell short compared to the navigator because no real turn by turn offline. I just sold my r1250gs with my navigator and will be picking up an r1300gs once stock is available. So I’ll be back in the market for nav again soon. Just curious how you think the Chigi holds up if you rarely have service. Thanks and keep up the great work!

[@marthinusvorster]

Hi, thanks for the review and effort. Followed plenty of your content in the past. Currently hooked on the CRF450. Is it possible to install DMD on the AI05? I'm not concerned about controllers. Once I get going I just follow breadcrumb style.

[@CPUspeed]

Coolness 👍🏼 I suggest reviewing the generic version too. More applicable to a wider range of riders. Lot of bikes have a bar to mount a nav and that’s it. How do you install on a bike like that? You know a bike that doesn’t cost $30k 😁

[@paulrod6760]

Ian, I don’t know if you’ve ever done any videos on best radar detectors to use on motorcycles, but that would be great if you could. I want to get one for my 1300 GS.

[@kleynjan1959]

You missed an interesting alternative: WunderlinQ bluetooth controller for the wonderwheel, with a dedicated cheap 6” Android phone on the handlebars. OSMand, Locus and/or Kurviger apps on the phone, with offline maps preloaded, of course. Complete hands-off navigation, using wonderwheel and voice commands. (My iPhone remains in my pocket to protect the camera and in case I ride off a cliff…)

[@metalmystic6214]

Really looking forward to the comprehensive review coming for all these different devices. Close to just purchasing a Zumo XT2, but curious if the other options are actually reliable alternatives.

[@BigRockMoto]

Take a close look at Carpuride, great value if you want to use apps from your phone, android auto etc. I prefer that to Garmin.

[@2bazookas65]

This product looks promising. Enough so that I will be selling my Garmin XT2. However, do you have any input on firmware and software updates and if it's as easy as updating ones phone?

[@stevefjordan]

Nice one Ian, I was going to get this, but just outta my price range, so I went with the Carpuride 502 for my Vstrom 800DE. But a very nice display all the same 😊

[@BigRockMoto]

Good choice!

[@DARKHORSE0217]

Unfortunately I made the mistake and bought the BMW CONNECTED RIDE NAVIGATOR. And as u say it's limited to Navigate, music, only. So I'm very interested in A10-5 play for BMW. However I will wait and see if thy bring out the 6 inch screen first. Thanks for video very informative as always.

[@russwright]

There are also reports of phones dying (mainly the camera module, I think) because the cradle doesn't have enough vibration dampening.

[@thechamp73]

@@russwright He didn't buy the cradle, he bought the GPS. Me too! I am thinking about selling it so I can get this thing.

[@ivanhoe4766]

Can this be adapted to the RT? If so, what would that be? Sounds like I would first have to get the BMW Nav cradle. Frankly, the iPhone mount in RAM hardware and cradle make more financial sense for pure navigation, phone and media needs. Thx for the review.

[@headews599w]

This is the review I was waiting for from you Ian, greatly appreciate the effort you put into this. I don’t have a BMW but do have a Zumo XT and have been looking at the Carpuride and Chigee for all the reasons explained, how do they work with non capacitive gloves? The Carpuride is slightly less expensive but the marketing materials for the Chigee make it seem like a step up from the Carpuride. Your thoughts on this would be appreciated. Keep on keepin’ on!

[@BigRockMoto]

I am doing more testing with Carpuride now, videos coming soon. I generally like them, and they are very affordable

[@headews599w]

Ian, I picked up the Chigee, very nice unit. Also picked up the Carpuride and with both devices I tried it with REVER. When I open a saved map on my iPhone the saved map doesn’t display on the Chigee. Same for the Carpuride. I tried MyRouteApp on both and it displays saved maps. Looking forward to trying Scenic on the Chigee and Carpuride. have you had any success using preexisting maps on the Chigee?

[@Greggspies]

Going through Black Forest with a mate and his Android auto lost signal BUT, my Garmin working off GPS worked fine. So, think I'll stick with Garmin. Also, I can plan routes on Kurviger and GPX them onto my Garmin

[@benbritton7869]

I had the very same thought...Finally the perfect solution! However, I've been through two units in less than a month that have both died from vibration. I'm riding a CRF300L which of course has much more vibration than a BMW of any kind, but it sucks because I really want to run this solution on my ultralight adventure bike but I'm not sure even this unit can handle the vibrations. Maybe I was unlucky getting two bad units in a row, maybe my Adventure Spec mini fairing GPS mount is the problem? Either way, I'm frustrated and not sure what to do next.

[@papervans]

The thing I told a BMW rep at the parking lot near the top of Mount Blue sky, “the fact that my Africa twin pops up with a notification that my blood sugar is high, low, rising or dropping fast is why I went with it.” I wanted a bmw more than anything, I started on a g310gs, I rode a new f850 gs and only begrudgingly tried the twin. It makes me so disappointed that they will not improve this system. It’s like the old proprietary car phone stuff from the 90s and 2000s

[@chrishaddad5362]

Is there an adapter to use the beemer one on my other bike? I can’t believe it took this long for this to get invented it’s the best thing ever.

[@michaelkrenzer3296]

What makes the BMW one "special" over the universal one is the BMW integration (wonderwheel, connection method, etc). Are you curious as you have compatible BMW AND want to use the the BMW-specific one on a second (or more) bike?

[@navkolosvity6873]

I’m ordered it for my BMW about two weeks ago. Waiting when coming.

[@richardponjee381]

Please tell the difference with the carpuride w702B except the wonder wheel function. And don’t forget to tell the price difference

[@rallye81]

This is a great idea and I like what I’m seeing in this video. However, how reliable is the Chigee? I’ve never had a Garmin leave me stranded in 20+ years. Granted, it is an electronic device and subject to mechanical and electrical failure. That being said, I have been let down by Apple/Android maps/apps crashing and not restarting properly in a no cell signal area. This has significantly contributed to my bias towards Garmin.

[@chrisvantassel8867]

I learned a hard lesson as to why a dedicated GPS vs Phone is a must. When riding remote good luck with a phone. I was at the top of a mountain when I discovered my gas gauge failed. I needed to find a gas station.....no such luck with my phone. I was lucky enough to limp into a gas station that was 100 miles away not knowing if I was gonna run dry the entire 100 miles. I will always have a Garmin or some sort of real GPS no matter what. I prefer to use Chubby buttons to control my phone. Am I wrong but is this not just the same if you used your phone....seems redundant? When I had a GS I bought that special Phone cradle and could do anything this Chigee can do it seems? So the selling point would be that you might crash and damage your phone? Seems like that would apply to any device.

[@hengelse1]

Great review 👍 - promising, but fairly expensive (still early days, rather wait for 6’’ format)!

[@akaxe77]

Hi. Thanks for this wonderful video. Assuming I put Clearwater lights with Hexcan 7 to have jog dial functionality and I also want to install Chigee with jog dial functionality. Can both co exist and be used simultaneously? i.e the jog dial can work with the lights as well as the chigee? Thank you.

[@kk29340]

Can you please make a video comparing AIO-5 against BMW connected ride navigator.

[@Hogdriver88]

So, this device is a mirror display for the phone? What happens when the phone loses the cell network, as often happens in the mountains - no google or Apple Maps, waze, etc? Nice display, but I’ll stick with Garmin for nav.

[@davidkendall1614]

As Wil Smith would say, “You gettin’ Chigee wit it”! Fresh Prince of Big Rock. 😁

[@andycotterill9551]

I agree with the 6” screen size being better Ian, but aren’t we/Chigee restricted by the BMW cradle size?

[@ski3435]

Not if you use the Wunderlich phone mount.

[@Granza90]

I have the lite version on my gsa 1250. Its BEAUTIFUL.

[@flycast641]

I still use paper maps lol. I think I do that because I miss my dad and his maps. I’ll do step-by-step navi from my phone in my jacket into my Cardo just to listen. But that’s only if I’m in an unfamiliar place. But yeah, I’m in my 40s and looking at all these maps and it’s a nice break to pull over, stretch, and verify stuff. I get the attraction to these setups though, for sure.

[@BigRockMoto]

i always use paper maps as well, love them

[@paulv22]

Could you talk about what app you use for navigation? I've been using the BMW app in their cradle and I actually like it's winding roads routing.

[@scottb3188]

Not sure that I entirely understand what the Chigee product is. However, all of the solutions mentioned assume contiguous internet. I have a pretty good provider on my cell phone, but internet is not universally available. It's been some time ago, i.e. internet coverage (USA) has vastly improved), but the first major trip I took without maps and with a cell phone relying on Google Map, I discovered that I was SOL when internet was not available. Fortunately, I still had a Garmin as backup. Satellite GPS coverage will beat anything that depends on an internet signal, for a long time to come. Now, if Chigee can provide an internet signal via Satellite, thereby connecting Android Auto or Apple-play via Sat signal, that might be ideal.

[@BigRockMoto]

You don't need internet. Download maps to your phone first. It works good.

[@bobcobb7719]

Hi Ian, don’t know if you’ll see this or not but I’ll post it anyway. On the 1300 GS will the universal unit with the cameras still mount directly into the BMW mount and function like the unit specifically made for the BMW? I’m really interested in having the dash cameras thus my question…

[@peterniessl5043]

Wow cool product, is it possible to run all the apps having on my smartphone? I ask because I am using locus maps for navigation and on the Alpine system in my camper there can be only used a limited number of apps over Android Auto. So if locus maps will be possible to run over this device it will be my new favorite navigation device.

[@Rammit_Inha_Assol]

Not all apps are Android Auto proof. You need to find out and do your research. Besides this, Chigee does NOT support voice control when using Android Auto and a bluetooth headset! Big disadvantage that you should know before bying the Chigee!

[@Rammit_Inha_Assol]

Why are all Chigee reviewers avoid testing it with Android Auto? Since Chigee does not support Voice Control with AA using a Bluetooth headset. ( Chigee says they are working on it)

[@osimnod]

If you have an older GS (2000) without the built-in cradle, would you recommend the "universal" mount version?

[@mihai.marinescu.racing]

Does the bmw motorrad app, that you use with the phone cradel, still work with the aio5?

[@marcusisacson]

I think they made the Chigee in 5" size since that's the size of the BMW Navigators, and that's the size which best fits the original BMW cradle! If it was bigger I believe there would have been a risk of partly coverage of the bike's dash...

[@BigRockMoto]

my XT2 with 6 inch screen fits great on my GS

[@marcusisacson]

@@BigRockMoto Yes, I know. I guess I was thinking about the review of the 7" Carpuride I watched on KZbin since that was almost too big...

[@Rammit_Inha_Assol]

Exactly, sir👍

[@tonybaker5775]

Can I use this on my other bikes as well, just without the scroll-wheel functions? If so, I'm sure I'd need to buy a universal mount for each of the other bikes, which is expected. Thanks!

[@simonebellandini6072]

Do you still link your phone to the bike when using the Chigee. What is the best set up procedure.

[@johnstraw5390]

This sounds all well and good if you are going places you have a good cell connection. But I’m going to tour Southern Africa so I need something that does GPS even when I have no signal.

[@ski3435]

Can't you download your maps before hand?

[@ski3435]

To your point about the size of the unit ---- how disappointed will buyers be when they realize the Chigee screen is just 5" measured diagonally and the display doesn't come out to the edges of the unit? I would guess that most smart phones have displays that are 6 or 7 inches. When I compared it to my Google Pixel 7, a 5" screen seems tiny. Functionally, it seems great, but they really dropped the ball on the screen size. If you need your phone to remain on for the Chigee to work, how are you keeping your phone charged? I know running Google maps plus music on my phone may result in a dead phone on long rides unless it is charging. So with Chigee it seems I'll also need a mount for my phone and charging cable, right? So the only thing I've gained is wonder wheel functionality but on a much smaller screen?

[@MountainView21]

On my GS I am using an old Samsung Note with a phone cradle. Works great.

[@nur_johnny8713]

I try the same way - just using older Iphone 12 Mini - but currently 2 issues - in bright sun, the display is weak - so update of phone shoulod help - but the bigger issue is overheating (even in German summer)

[@mkviz]

I would check out the Innovv N1 pro for comparison

[@tennyis28]

It needs an actual gps as well for offline use. I find these are nothing but issues particularly when you are starting out in an area with no cell signal, can't search for anything, find a gas station, etc. I'd much prefer something like this in areas with cell reception though, android auto is fantastic then

[@tomsung2956]

Just wanted to confirm, given it is designed for the BMW satnav mount which was itself based on the mount/wiring from the garmin zumo family mount, that this device would work on the garmin zumo 590/595 family mount?

[@ogoshikimura5621]

Site note: the BMW Nav could read error codes. And was in that regard very helpful.

[@pascallandry2853]

I wasn't planing on spending any money tonight.... oh well, so much for that idea. 😂

[@martyllanos73]

Garmin can and should make an Apple CarPlay gps device. The chigee is nice, but it doesn’t replace a dedicated gps. After traveling throughout US and Canada, the phone gps apps just don’t work well in remote areas, even with offline maps, you don’t get the same level of detail as the garmin gps.any rural roads don’t even show up on google maps but they are on the garmin.

[@BigRockMoto]

Thanks for sharing. I love Gaia or Onyx for off road nav, here in the USA. Works great without cell service. I only use google maps in urban areas.

[@spencer2458]

I totally agree - while riding through South America I was completely reliant on my (Garmin) GPS in remote areas - it’s vital to have a plan B if one system fails

[@VizziMoto]

Just download maps?

[@martyllanos73]

@@VizziMoto nope. Like I stated. Offline maps don’t offer the same detail as live mapping from a dedicated gps like a garmin.

[@ApocalypseNouille]

@@martyllanos73 What do you mean by live mapping? I thought dedicated GPS units basically used offline maps as well (albeit high resolution ones). Maps are stored offline on the device, only the GPS tracking is live. I find Gaia's offline maps to be quite detailed, from my limited experience, enough that any small dirt roads will show up as well. I downloaded half the US for my upcoming TAT run in a couple of weeks, which resulted in over 10GB of data. Zooming in on the map, it seems to be going to the smallest tracks there are out there, I see no difference with the full online map.

[@zx14mep]

I have a 2013 K1600GTL. Which unit will fit in place of my garmin nav and will it work with the wonder wheel?

[@12masterr]

I was kind of more info from you since your reviews are suoer detalided! For example, the carpuride 702b has 2 big problems. Firstly, the adjustment for the brigneesss is buried in the menu, si at night you have to basically stop to adjust it, and second, the screen is not very responsive, and you have sometimes to touch it more than?once ti make it work. Is the chigee brigneess automatic? Also the carpuride, even at the minimum setting, is still way to bright at night!

[@BigRockMoto]

thanks for the info, i haven't used the carpuride units at night, don't ride at night often.

[@eduardodfj]

Actually: the AIO-5 Lite is NOT the non-BMW version. It's a similar but different product. The non-BMW version is just AIO-5 Play (without the "for BMW"). It still needs more wiring than the BMW version and has the inconvenient that it doesn't have a cradle so you need to leave it permanently installed.

[@BigRockMoto]

true

[@alejandrohidalgo9504]

Has tenido algun problema con el soporte integrado de bmw para esta pantalla en lugares mas off road donde mas se mueve con el peso de esta pantalla ?

[@stanm2.0]

What is the difference between this and a GPS....don't I want a GPS to navigate when I'm out of cell service range off road.... since this unit is just interfacing with my phone i will always be able to use the apps with it... but what's going to happen about navigation when we have no cell service

[@eduardodfj]

Most phone GPS apps can download maps to use offline, this is a non-issue. I'm using a phone as GPS unit (with a quadlock mount) and have tested OsmAnd, Gaia and Google Maps in areas with no cell service. They just work.

[@eesqui11]

I'll wait for 6 inches. For now I'll stick with Carpuride. Thanks for the video.

[@NaMinesClarence]

Thats what she said

[@motorbikedude]

I wish you guys test the products that you promoting for few months !!!! The reason is that a lot of products such as this don’t last more then a. Year , and when there problems with the product the support or warranty are none existent!!! Also I suggest before you promoting this products please test the support that you get when things go wrong !!!!