BMW Navigator V Review

[@davidharrington1133]

Got a 2016 K1300 coming with 6.5k miles on the clock. Comes with Nav 5 hence watching your old video. Helpful as always, even from the past :)

[@cbaldeagle5]

nobody speaks clearer or gives as precise a review as you do. it is a pleasure to listen to you. i own many motorcycles a bmw k1600gtle and a bmw k1 purchased from james daniel may [top gear] yesterday i test rode the bike that i intend to purchase as soon as money permits. the bmw r1200 gs te in matt racing red like yours. keep up the excellent videos. respects bill...

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+William Chivers Thank you Bill - appreciate the kind words and for stopping by! All the best - TMF

[@snowcatxx87]

Thanks for the video, it may seem silly to some but it was a big help for me to decide if I wanted the OEM nav or not.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Glad to be of service! If you have a bike that's pre-prepared with the mount and controller then. OEM Is defo the way to go. All the best, TMF

[@zAngryAustrian]

Thanks for doing this detailed review. I found it exceptionally interesting and I will get the Navigator V for my GS. Keep these reviews coming!

[@TheDervMan]

A tidy garage/workshop, a great bike and tech! What more could anyone want?! Thanks for posting. 😁👍

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Cheers Derv Man....thanks for watching and commenting!

[@SBKPete]

Fantastic review. I've just sold my Blade to buy a new R1200RS Sport SE; and after watching your video, I have decided to purchase the NAV V with the bike, when it arrives mid July. Keep up the great work 😀

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

SBKPete Hi SBKPete - good choice on the new bike, I'm looking forward to trying one out as soon as I can, I only read good reviews. You'll love the Nav V - brilliant piece of kit and a real one up for the competition on the way BMW integrates it with the bike....ride safe, TMF.

[@richardsherwin3259]

That's a great video on the Nav5. Love how you do your videos. Very well filmed and edited. Ps love your 'man cave' ;-)

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thanks Richard - glad you approve and thanks for the kind words - all the best - TMF

[@HJC1950]

Another nice video, TMF. The Nav V with locking mount is an excellent feature for the new R1200GS. On my last road trip on my old bike, I wound up in a horrible stop-and-crawl traffic jam in Chicago. It was a nightmare, and happened because I veered off my intended route. That's why my next bike (a new GS) will have satnav. The one on the new GS is also mounted in a good position to view it, and not having to take it off the bike every time you stop is a very appealing feature.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Hi again Harold - nice to hear from you....yes the SatNav on these machines is simply brilliant and definitely one of the reasons I bought the GS over (for example) the Multistrada which isn't a patch on the Beemer for ease of use.....

[@Standupnfall]

Hey mate. Just picked up a great 2013 r1200gs in the same color as yours (and similar spec= everything) with 9,000 miles. Thanks for all the very informative and enjoyable videos!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Congratulations!

[@turbo3492]

Hi TMF,hope you are well.i thought I would give my honest opinion of the Nav 5,for what it's worth.Truth is,I got tired of looking at the empty mounting on my GS.A friend of mine was off to Canada for 6 months so he very kindly said I could use his Nav 5 whilst he was away,brilliant.I currently use the latest TomTom Rider 400 series,because the mapping is based on Google maps,there is loads of information on the maps and the unit is so easy to plan your own routes on via Tyre .TomTom send very regular map updates so you know you are not going to get lost. I found the Nav 5 to be absolutely superb,you have a screen right in front of you that,as you know,tells you everything that's going on with the bike as you ride,I was like a kid in a sweet shop,when I was playing with the function wheel,excellent. When it comes to it's Sat Nav function,that's another story.One must not forget,this thing is a Garmin,which carries the usual Garmin traits,i,e, outdated maps with little useful up to date information,and the Devil's own invention...BaseCamp,who thought this was a good piece of software? I have found room to run my TomTom right next to the Nav 5 so I can still have the telemetry the 5 offers,alongside a proper Sat Nav that doesn't get me lost. BMW should take a long look at this unit,at this price point,it should be way better than it is.The Nav 6,is exactly the same but with a better screen.I am sure BMW could and should do better with this unit,seems not! Just my opinion.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+Brian smith 100% agree with everything you say Brian, as an integrated bike information system the nav 5/6 takes the GS beyond any TFT equipped bike in my opinion, but as a device to plan and ride routes on, it is rubbish! That said I still highly recommend them to anyone with a BMW that has the whizz wheel - great bit of kit :0)

[@JeffHenshaw]

Very clear review - much appreciated! I was hesitant to spend the money on such an expensive piece, but I fully agree with your perspective that the integration with the thumbwheel, and the integration with the bike's data bus, makes it very much worth it. I love mine.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Great stuff Jeff - glad you agree with my appraisal...great bit of kit! Thanks for watching.....

[@Srmal-kv1tn]

Thanks for the review, I have just bought a new R1200RS and BMW are throwing in a Navigator 5, f.o.c. Your observations are most helpful.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Wow, that's a nice sweetener!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+Danny Engels I don't know, but you do get free lifetime updates if you're buying in the UK....cheers - TMF

[@danengels9626]

+TheMissendenFlyer Thanks.....The reason I ask is that I have a Garmin unit for the car. Not as expensive as the BMW model. But I am totally not happy with the free maps updates I'm getting. They changed some roads around my town and I’m still waiting for a garmin update, while every Nav app or even a tomtom is already updated to the new road situation. Except mine. For my new bike, considering buying a BMW navigator but if these map updates are as bad as with my car unit. I rather not buy it.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+Danny Engels The Nav V is so much more on the bike than a GPS though - I use mine far more to replicate instrumentation etc than actual route work - if you have the GS with the control wheel in my opinion it's a must purchase (regardless of how up to date the maps are - I've had no issue by the way)....cheers - TMF

[@SounderAU]

Very cool! I like the way it's integrated with the bike, displaying tyre pressures, temps, etc. I like bells and whistles. Just for a laugh, switch on captions and watch it again. Haha, it has trouble translating my Aussie accent as well.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Cheers Sounder....I'll give that a whirl now... ;0)

[@tooyoungtobeold8756]

I am taking delivery of a new GS on March 1st. I think after spending gazillions of pounds on the bike, I will add the sat nav to list. Nice revue and very useful. Thank you.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+Anthony Farrar Yes, the Nav is a brilliant option - completely recommended!

[@Robert8455]

10 mins well spent. Great overview and seems to be packed with some great features too. Thanks for doing this.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+Robert DeMilo You're very welcome - thanks for watching....

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

***** Cheers Paul, and agreed, the mounting position is about as ideal as it can be (infact I glance at the data on the satnav more than the "dash").....

[@mtlleo4792]

Thanks for the great review. I got myself a 2013 R1200 Gs and the Nav. V and I love it.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Mtl Léo Thanks for the kind words - glad you like the bike, they are terrific machines aren't they (I'm 18 months in and still love mine)......All the best - TMF

[@AI5AASIA]

Thanks for the good review. I purchased my Nav 5 after watching this. also thanks for the video of the shift assist. I'd covered 2,000 kms on my new GSA before watching your video and learning how it worked.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Excellent! Glad I have been able to help - thanks for stopping by and letting me know. All the best - TMF

[@cadburylover1367]

Yes I recently bought it. Pricey yes, useful for technical data. More useful I think when in unfamiliar territory. Didn't know about shift count or lean angle etc...I have not yet connected to my home PC.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

...it's all in there under "last ride" in "my motorcycle" (in the Apps section) if memory serves me correctly - together with number of brake actuations and some other stuff you don't need to know!

[@mg2959]

Very useful video thanks. I ve just ordered a R1200GS TE and all being well I will be collecting it on Tuesday. Thank you for your videos, they have greatly assisted me in making my final choice. Like you I also rode the Multistrada, but also looked at the Explorer, the ktm 1190, and the Yam Super Tenere. I have to say that I think I've made the right decision.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I'm sure you have made the right decision mg2959, the GS is an awesome piece of kit! Exciting times this week for you then.....enjoy the new bike (and I'm chuffed you found my reviews helpful)....all the best - TMF

[@mikebreen2890]

Just bought Iconic number 16 and will be bolting one of these on. I never knew it could record lean angles!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

...actually don't get excited on that one Mike, I'm not sure it does, I was confusing it with a phone app I had....the Nav 5 records a helluva lot of similarly useless (but fun) stuff though, like number of brake actuations and % throttle opening, etc...enjoy the new bike and thanks for watching - TMF

[@jan-martinborman8310]

TheMissendenFlyer

[@BikeRambler]

Just got a GS and got this with it thanks to your reviews of both.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+Bike Rambler Glad to have been of service Bike Rambler, enjoy the new bike, they are brilliant machines....thanks for stopping by - TMF

[@rn6538]

Thank you for this. Picking up an 800 adventure today and this video convinced me it's worth the dollars. Very informative!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+Ryan Norsworthy ....excellent! - enjoy the bike! (and hopefully the Nav V - I assume it integrates in the same way on the 800??).....

[@rn6538]

+TheMissendenFlyer I certainly hope so. I'll be calling my dealer this morning prior to the drive over! As you said that wheel is a killer app.

[@spkuse]

Always look forward to your vids. Thx for the input and recommendations on the sat/nav. Looking at buying an BMW RT1200 or K1600 early next year and this vid gives great advice on the new Garmin tool for these bikes.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

If you do go for one of the big Beemers than the Navigator has to be a no-brainer! I love the look of the K1600 (and the newly revamped RT1200)....just not sure I have the strength to lug them around my gravel driveway! Enjoy your research (exciting times).....

[@michaeleidenberg9823]

Nice review. I just bought one for my 2016 GS Adventure. Still the same unit with no real updates.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+Michael Eidenberg None the less still great little units - enjoy!

[@paulb19691]

Great video again. I like the high mount position. Safer than glancing down at the speedo, I nearly crashed my new zzr1400 looking at the sat nav screen mounted on a steering stem bracket. It was like driving your car with the satnav on your lap, these high mounts are a must in my opinion.

[@johndwyer3663]

Great review - thanks. I am about to buy a 2015 R1200R and have been wrestling with the cost on this as an option. The R1200R has a analog speedo which is a bit ordinary after using the big digital job on my Speed Triple. But now I can know where I am going and just maybe keep my license intact as well. Thanks for the detailed review!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

John Dwyer Hi John - glad you found my review of use, as you've spotted I'm a huge fan of the way BMW integrate the Navigator V onto their bikes, I thoroughly recommend them (especially if like me, your eyesight isn't as good as it used to be for those tiny BMW dials!!). All the best and enjoy your new bike - TMF

[@1200gs1000]

Just got the sat nav. Going to take a while to get my head around it. Thanks for the video.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+Toby Duke It's a great bit of kit and I'm still trying to get my head around it!!! As a satnav I find mine a bit rubbish, but as an augmented motorcycle information system it's brill! Enjoy.....

[@philiphare8176]

Hi TheMissendenFlyer, Thanks to posting all these vids and reviews. Its great to follow someone with an enthusiasm for motorcycles the same as mine. One thing I'd love you to do is review doing routes/track on your BMW Garmin. It would be brilliant if you went a little deeper, no one on KZbin has done this thoroughly yet. I don't know if its just too complicated but things such as doing an off road track and following it. Whether its worth / necessary upgrading to a Montana for off road use. I really think it would be helpful (especially to me!!) as there is so much controversy over how to do it properly. Cheers Phi

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I've never managed to get mine to work to follow a route, so my video would be very negative!

[@beverke7]

Very good review, very well done, great bike and this nav is really well positioned.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thank you beverke7 - and agree!

[@torqueofthedevil8145]

Thanks for making these videos it's really helped me in making a few decisions from the actual bike to accessories too.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Cheers Tim - glad to be of service!

[@arthurb8631]

Took your advice and got the device. I splurged on the 6 for the motorcycle friendly road option.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

And what do you make of it?

[@arthurb8631]

TheMissendenFlyer it looked amazing. I have been using my phone but very frustrating. The fact that I can plan my route then upload to the device sounds amazing. I can now find the routes upstate with the best curves.

[@Bubbleback01]

I got my new GS in august 2015 and decided on your recomendation to get the navigator V afterall. I must say, a great kit to have on this fantastic machine. As i am a fan of your reviews i even viewed some of them several times........ Now i noticed that you mentioned that the nav can show the leanangle. Maybe my eyesight is getting bad 🙈, but i can not find this option. Can you give me a little hint 😳. Keep up the good work, 👍looking forward for your next review.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Sorry Rob I think I've misled you there - can't find the lean angle now, think I must have made the comment in a hurry and got confused with an app I used to use on the iPhone to record lean angle! Glad you like my videos and apologies for the error, hope you'll stay tuned!! - all the best, TMF

[@Bubbleback01]

+TheMissendenFlyer no problem at all 😁, would have been a very nice gadget though. In some way i am glad it doesn't exist, now i look less stupid then i thought , hahaaaaa. And again, still very happy with the navigator, realy a must have on "the beast". 👌

[@raymondwright2660]

Just bought a used one thanks for the intro its very useful.

[@ianflowerday6008]

Very informational video. Looking forward to getting my GS adventure in may.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Hi Ian - glad the video was of interest, thanks for watching/commenting. You'll love the big GS, fabulous bike....exciting times ahead! :0)

[@keith270619]

. Picked up a new R1200RS a couple of weeks ago and because like yourself didn't want to look at the blanking plate I also bought the Navigator V, agree with you thats its a great bit of kit. I do have one strange thing though - on the 'statistics' that show number of gear changes, front & rear brake applications etc, it shows current 300+ uses of the front brake but over 700+ for the rear (?). The number of times the rear is used is far less than the front and I've checked to make sure my boot isn't resting on the pedal. Does your also show the anomaly ?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

keith270619 I'll check next time I'm on the bike - if the R1200RS is the same as the GS then the back brake is linked to the front, so will record all front brake uses + just back brake - that would account for the higher number....enjoy the bike! - TMF

[@keith270619]

TheMissendenFlyer Thanks for the quick reply, would be interested to know if yours show similar trend, my message started 'great review' but didn't show that on the printed comment.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

keith270619 Just popped out to the garage to check and yes - mine is showing approx. 21000 on the back and 15000 on the front....

[@keith270619]

TheMissendenFlyer Ok thanks very much, still curious although reassuring that yours registers in the same way - thanks for your time….. Keith

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

keith270619 Definitely the linked brakes thing - if you're unlucky (like me) you'll need to have your rear pads replaced come the first service....

[@Gabbro83]

I wasn't ever gonna bother with one. I just assumed it was a £600 gps, which my phone can do just as well. Showing the other features like complete computer display, instead of clicking through the onboard options... I do that a lot! The bike has the mount and the wheel as standard. Shame the unit doesn't come as standard. I'm now gonna go get one! Awsome video, great review. You've just earned Garmin some money :)

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Wish I was on commission! You will love the unit - so much more than "just" a GPS. Enjoy - TMF

[@tonywheeler1281]

great sat nav its definatly on the to do list

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+Tony Wheeler Yeah it's a top bit of kit - rude not too if you have the funds....

[@marknichols5818]

Great review. As the Nav links to your phone via Bluetooth, will it display phone information? Just wondering whether you can make a call using the whizz wheel? Im not keen on making calls when riding but at least you can phone home to say you are running late rather than having to stop.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes!

[@wrigglyfan]

Cheers buddy. Just need to find a decently priced one on Ebay now.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Nigel Collinson Good luck with that!

[@mdaydj]

not noticed any lean angle data on mine not sure that is an option but generally great review even though i already have one i agree its a worthwhile option

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

You're right - I must have made that one up!! Number of gear changes and brake actuations are all there though (why you need to know this stuff god only knows!!). Despite the lean angle error it is a great bit of kit, if you're going to splash out on a GS with the thumbwheel and mount you may as well splash out a bit more and fit the GPS unit it was designed for.....cheers for watching and ride safe! - TMF

[@mdaydj]

Wilco TMF.... enjoyed your aviation vids too i've been flying since 1989...... 172's and PA28's mostly but bought recently a CTSW hangared at Damyns Hall (EGML) might see you there if you pop in for a cuppa or an expensive bacon sandwich us aviators go in search of

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

mdaydj Not been to Damyns Hall yet although it's on the list!

[@osibig]

New awesome TFT screen announced....is the GS upgradable? Seems like the thumb wheel controller and buttons (black)have also been updated....

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes looks good doesn't it - I look forward to getting my hands on one for a go!

[@JIMMYSBN]

just watched this, 4 years late to the party! I did noticed that you mentioned lean angle, did you said that by mistake, or was it available on the V only? I have a VI and cannot get to find it in the "my bike" section. Thank you for your hard work! Cheers

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I think you're right - might have been my enthusiasm getting the better of me....not seen it since!!!!

[@lthomasl16]

New back to biking, love the videos and just bought the Nav V based on your review .... not sure if dealer has sold me a former demo at full price as packaging not pristine .... any chance you remember if the box on yours was sealed or the poly bag inside the box was sealed ?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+lthomasl16 No mine wasn't sealed, the Nav V was on the bike so obviously the dealer had to take it out the pack to fit it - I just got the empty box with instructions etc...thanks for the kind words and welcome back to biking!

[@fjrboy]

Excellent video!---------is the tank pad a BMW one ?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Cheers FJRboy - and yes, the tank pad comes as standard with the bike (to be honest it could do with some on the sides of the tank too). Thanks for watching and ride safe! - TMF

[@Back2TheBike]

Really helpful oveview TMF, thanks. Question: suppose you're using the wonder wheel for the SatNav as you demonstrate in the video, how do you then switch it back to controlling the bike's menu panel, and vice versa?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

You don't need to on my GS - it just works (you only use it for the nav)....

[@pawelkisiel6539]

Hi again! I've picked up my 3rd navigator V from BMW today after other two developed same issue during nearly 2 years of ownership altogether. First got replaced by Garmin themselves couple of months after initial purchase, 2nd packed up on NY eve. Issue is that at 20mls scale terrain overlay dissappears and takes with it city names and gets really sluggish drawing map when you move around. All resets possible that I tried didn't help. Brought unit to my local dealer and explained issue and they ordered new one without fuss. Glad that BMW gives 2 years warranty on it! I know have brand new unit but only with week worth of warranty! at least this one works perfectly and draws maps in 20mls scale instantly! worth checking yours. all the best.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Hi Pawel, what a strange issue to have, like you say good job you were still in the warranty period. Thanks for stopping by - all the best - TMF

[@markhpluygers2226]

Here’s a few points owning a 2017.5 GS. The 1200 is (imo) about the last proper conventional twin, the 1250 is smoother, faster and is slightly more sophisticated and last but least, everyone Raves about the TFT Dash. I Hate it. Love the clocks, nice to see the rev counter pointing in various directions and the LCD display on the Clocks in great too. Put on the Nav 5 or 6 as I have been using, you can have your speed in front of you, the clock you all complain about not being to read is not relevant but looks classic and classy. I’ve just had my GS stolen (somehow with the Keyless Ride, (no one can explain how they copied my emergency key!!!!!), but am replacing it almost immediately with another 2017.5. Guess I am going to get a new Nav 6 too. I think having Nav 6 & TFT is an over kill. Keep your wonderful 2014!……. it looks great and thanks for the channel. Greeetings from Amsterdam.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thanks for the advice and greetings back!

[@perhaps6112]

Hi TMF I'm in the process of ordering a BMW RT with the Nav5. I've since discovered that on the RT, the "My Motorcycle" app that you mention in the vid, where a load of information can be shown, does not exist. It appears only when the Nav5 is on the GS. I don't understand why BMW have done this.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Per Haps Really?! That's nuts!

[@perhaps6112]

TheMissendenFlyer Indeed it is. Another annoying thing about the Nav5, though I presume this applies to the GS too, is that helmet communication is Bluetooth only. I've been told this differs from earlier versions which had a wired connection available. The weakness of Bluetooth, unlike wired connections, is that the helmet units require recharging after some hours which can be a hassle on a tour. All I want helmet comms for is to hear the nav directions and maybe listen to the radio or music at times. Personally I have no interest in phone calls on the move, glad to get away from the phone.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

...agreed all round...

[@houstooon]

Hi. Thank you for the great video. Does the GPS unit work without the bike? I mean can i use to find places when i'm not on my bike? Thank you again.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

houstoooon You certainly can...great bit of kit (and glad the review helped).. All the best - TMF

[@brianbrooking496]

I know that the VI has a car mount kit as well, so you can use the VI in your car.

[@MrChrisWorkman]

Hey thanks for you review. After watching this I decided to go ahead and purchase the Navigator VI to replace my Navigator IV on my GS LC. It discovers my Sharktooth R119. I click connect on the Navigator VI when the sharktooth shows up as a selection. The selection disappears on the Nav 6 and the flashing discoverable lights on the Sharktooth go out at the same time but no connection is made. I also tried this on my Sony SRS-BTX500 portable soundbar and it connects find for calls and music. Did you have similar problems. Be great to hear from a fellow biker with the same equipment.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+Chris Workman Nope I've had no issues...

[@MrChrisWorkman]

Thanks for the reply. I think the case is that my Sharktooth is not compatible with the Nav VI. What bluetooth system do you use in your helmet? Thanks.

[@MrChrisWorkman]

Well. Although the bluetooth doesn't work with my Sharktooth I've gotta say what a truly amazing bit of kit the Nav VI is. It has so many features and the screen with the anti glare is fantastic. I'm looking forward to finding a good compatible headset that will fit in my new Shark Evoline One helmet.

[@31acruz]

mine always shows all of the small boxes, seems like you customized it to show one only or four only, did you do that by zooming with the wheel, or did you do something else?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Zooming with the wheel...

[@Mik01ist]

Nice review mate! Always a go-to place! Just got my '18 R1200R and the cradle was already there. I'm thinking at this V rather than the VI, what do you reckon? Just considering with phone apps too, maybe the VI isn't necessary if this does a good job

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

the V is fine if you can find one - the 6 only has marginal improvements in my view.....

[@austinmatthews347]

Does your nav 5 do live traffic. I just bought a used nav 6 with a lug broken at back got it reasonable to go on my new gsa which my friend i am getting sat morning i am getting exited

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Err yes I think it does (when linked to your phone)….

[@thefalcon6617]

Thank you for this video. I'm sold on the navigator now

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Hi TheFalcon, I'm not a salesman but these are great bits of kit when hooked up to a BMW machine, hope you agree once you've used it! Cheers and all the best - TMF

[@jane9960]

Hi, just bought the Garmin Nav 5 for my husbands RT, works fine on bike and just learnt a few more tips from your video, problem is with trying to load a route onto it from the Tyre programme. I am used to doing this as previous model was the Garmin Zumo so know the procedure. However cannot load a custom made route onto the Nav 5 and I am completely at a loss to know why. The laptop knows it is connected to the Nav 5 as shows both the Zumo and Nav 5 in it's list but cannot transfer the route over, advises that it is not connected any ideas?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Jane Olney 'fraid not Jane. I've singularly failed to make any decent use of the Nav 5 as a navigator!! I can't even get it to follow a route once one is planned (even if I've directly entered the way points along the way) - so you're asking the wrong person for advice on this one! I love the Nav 5 as an extension to the bike's instrument cluster but as a GPS Navigator I think it's a bit rubbish - mine even tells me about turns 50 yards after they've happened, rubbish!!!!

[@adrian1965sedden]

TFM how well can you see your route when the sun is shining directly onto the screen

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Alright on the V not good on the glossy VI

[@stevebez9556]

Hi TMF... great reviews as always ... a comparison with the VI would be timely now?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

...if you care to lend me one I'd love to do the comparison ;0)

[@sydznl]

Just wondering, does this version of non-tft dashboard have a speedometer on screen? Or is speed purely on that needle gauge. Assuming no gps.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

It has a speedometer on the upper GPS display.....not on the LCD on the instrument binnacle though....

[@massimofede96]

I followed your suggestion. is really fantastic! one question: when you use it to look to the data instead of the map, I can notice that speed is showed. I'm not able to have this data available. I can see temperature, odometer, Tyre pressure. and engine temp. how can you add the speed instead? Thx!! max

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+massimo cardone ...if you click on one of the fields you don't want (press on the screen with your finger) you should be able to select speed and replace what's already showing - don't forget by using the scroll wheel on this screen you can zoom in to one field or out to 16 - all selectable in the same way. Have fun! - TMF

[@robertwootton2161]

Hi enjoying your reviews on the navigator 5 i have only got a tablet but I'm thinking of getting a lap top how easy is it to download and use garmin basecamp? A walk thro of that would be good as you are obviously a bit of a wizard with computers

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I find it relatively straightforward when I’ve tried, albeit a bit of a faff - ultimately pointless though as I’ve never managed to get the satnav to follow a pre loaded route without stopping at every waypoint.

[@SantaridesaKTM]

Another excellent Video.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Cheers - glad you liked it....

[@troyfilson]

Hi there! Great review. Sadly, I don't think my budget will allow me to spend AU$1200 for the Nav V, but as a gadget enthusiast, I think it would be a cool nice-to-have. Can you comment on removing the blank plate? Is it possible and if so, can I do it or would it be better to have an authorised BMW Motorrad centre do it?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+Troy Filson The blanking plate just clips off when you turn the key and pull the levers at the back of the mount.....no issue...or do you mean the mount itself? If you mean the whole Nav V mount I'd be inclined to get a dealer to do it (but that's just me, it's probably not complicated).....thanks for watching, all the best - TMF

[@troyfilson]

Thanks for the thoughts. Maybe I should save my pennies and buy one...I am a bit of a gadget lover anyway! ;-)

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+Troy Filson Yes do - they are brill bits of kit (albeit a bit rubbish as a SatNav).....

[@easyboys06]

Liking these GS vids! I have a Garmin Zumo 660, which fits in the GS bracket just can't use the wheel control, couldn't bring myself to pay another 500 for sat back! How do you find basecamp? Have you tried planning any long trips with it? Done a Europe, Wales, and a Scotland trip on it, each around 2-3000miles and it's a pain I must admit. Interesting if you have the same experience with it? Planning Norway at the moment, and not looking forward to uploading the routes.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Hi Buck, glad you like the videos. I've not had much joy with base camp either, non intuitive and a pain to use! In fact I don't get on with planning routes full stop and haven't yet worked out how you get the unit to follow one without it stopping at every waypoint! I love the thumb wheel integration and all the GS specific extras you get on the Nav V but as a GPS per se I don't find it that good.... :0( thanks for the kind words, all the best - TMF

[@pawelkisiel6539]

+TheMissendenFlyer basecamp will ask you to stop at each intermediate point if you don't change its type from stopover point to shaping point. you can tell the difference as it looks like blue dot instead of orange flag. you need to double click on your route to get details of it and then you will be able to click each point and change it to type you want.

[@WayneBogan]

+Pawel Kisiel I've just started using Rever.co app on my phone and to download files to my GPS. Not sure how well it works outside the US for the maps but the website says it will work anywhere. Much, much easier to plan a route than Basecamp.

[@001hsiang]

hello sir, may i ask does this navigator v able to link with any brand of helmet hèadset other than BMW helmet's? thanks. appreciate your good review by the way.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Hi Wei - The nav is standard Bluetooth so should work with any Bluetooth headset....doesn't have to be BMW specific (the Nav is actually made by Garmin BTW)....

[@001hsiang]

thank you sir

[@CallsignVega]

Thanks for the video. Like you said it'e pricey but it's worth it. I didn't even know it had those fancy grip controls. Going to get the GPS with my 1200 GS Adventure.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+Callsign Vega The grip controls are what makes it so usable on the bike, I don't know why other manufactures don't buddy up with the satnav manufacturers and do similar - a great bit of usability. Cheers for watching, ride safe - TMF

[@jonnykeeb]

Hi, can you tell me if the info displayed next to the navigation map can be changed? I.e. Instead of speed or elevation can you have distance to destination or time of arrival.

[@jonnykeeb]

I think most Garmins support this function but I have not been able to find anything on internet in relation to this for the navigator v.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Hi Jonny, I'm sure it can but I'm not sure how off the top of my head....someone out there will maybe tell us?

[@bassmandudge]

Hi, Thanks for this info. Great video. Bought a 2014 Rt and I am umming and arring about the outlay. I am hoping that I can Bluetooth phone to sat nav then sat nav to schuberth so I can get caller id on the sat nav. Do you know if this is possible? also I would like to pull music from phone to sat nav and then to helmet..save uploading music to sat nav itself..again do you know if this is possible? I have read that a lot of people have had major issues with the bluetooth between phone and sat nav..have you had any issues?? Thanks.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Hi Bassmandudge, glad you found the film of interest. I'm 99% sure you do get caller ID on the satnav ('though haven't hooked mine up for that recently to check), no idea about the music from your phone. I've not had any major issues with Bluetooth but tend not to use it for that anyway - frankly I find a Bluetooth connection direct from my iPhone to Headset works well and I prefer TomTom on my Phone to the Garmin GPS - I have found the bike GPS a little "laggy" (i.e. it's 20 yards behind me) and the sound quality direct from my phone is far superior than from the GPS. As you may have gathered I mainly use the unit for the additional bike display modes rather than for the GPS itself! Despite that and despite the high cost, I still think it is well worth the money on the GS which has ridiculously small numbers on the primary instrument cluster and this fixes that problem a treat....all the best! - TMF

[@SteelHorseman]

My 2014 did not come with one. Is it really worth that 800 plus dollar 💵. Could I just use my phone instead and keep my 800 dollars?

[@SteelHorseman]

Best place to buy one.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Well worth buying - the integration with the bike is fabulous....

[@rickjwilliams]

Great video, thxs for sharing. I didn't know that it had the off-road way point feature in it. Just what I need.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+Rick Williams No worries Rick, glad you found it of interest....

[@Spoolz07]

Great video, very helpful. I'm on the verge of buying a 2016 GS Adventure, and I'm tempted to get the Navigator 5 as well. On my present bike I currently use a handlebar-mounted iPhone (in an Interphone weatherproof case) for sat-nav, phone and streaming Internet audio. The iPhone links to an Autocom BTM-02A Bluetooth receiver which is plugged into Aux 2 of my Autocom Super Pro AVi, and my custom-molded earbuds plug directly into that. It all works brilliantly, and I'm not yet convinced that the Navigator could seamlessly take the iPhone's place for all those functions. Sadly my BMW dealer simply didn't know when I asked for more in-depth information, so I don't know what to do. Do you know if both the Navigator and an iPhone can connect to a Bluetooth receiver simultaneously? I heard you say you're not a fan of music on a bike, but I find it helps my concentration because I'm mainly doing long motorway trips, and I'd rather listen to radio stations than just mp3 files. Your thoughts would be much appreciated! :)

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

The iPhone is a much better satnav than the Nav 5 - the Nav 5 is only good (IMHO) for the integrated bike features like the additional speedo, etc. In your case I think I'd stick with the iPhone solution....

[@Spoolz07]

OK, thanks for the warning! I'm currently using CoPilot on the iPhone, which I think is excellent. The only thing it doesn't appear to do is the 'breadcrumb' trail, which I would find very useful. Ne'er mind, you can't have everything I suppose...

[@ozrider8896]

Just re-watched this as I have the Navigator V on my XR, did you get the tire pressure monitors on the GS and have you connected them via Bluetooth to the Navigator?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I have got tyre pressure monitoring on my bike but I didn't have to do anything to have the Nav V report on them - it's part of the standard data suite on the GS...

[@jamlot76]

Great review. Thanks! Unrelated Question: What kind of crash bars are you running on your GS? They look great.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Hi James - glad you liked it. The crash bars are the SW Motech ones, I think they look good in black. I did a video on fitting them if you're interested.... Fitting SW Motech Cylinder Protection Bars to the 2014 BMW R1200 GS

[@camilobueno]

Hello and thanks for the video... What other thing would I have to purchase/install to have the tire pressure function?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+Camilo Bueno Err, I'm not sure - my GS came with Tyre Pressure Monitoring as standard on the "TE" spec......

[@camilobueno]

+TheMissendenFlyer OOOhhh I see! Thanks for the reply!

[@danengels9626]

Hi, Can you tell me how frequently the maps are being updated for this navigation system? Thanks.

[@MaartensTravels]

Hello Danny. If I'm not mistaken, it's at least once a year. Probably more (minor updates). Not that often that you need to hook up your nav to your computer every weekend and often enough that you still have the impression that they're still working on it. I find the maps to be pretty accurate, if you keep it up to date of course.

[@danengels9626]

Thanks Maarten, I bought a TomTom for my R1200GS but I optioned for a bmw Garmin, because I'm using a Garmin for my car, but I had this disappointed experience with outdated roads and slow updates. My question was based on that these updates may be more frequently with a more expensive system. That was not the case. But recently they stared to put out more updates. Seems to be ok now.

[@skygeorge907]

Unfortunately the "My Motorcycle" mode only works with the R1200GS . . . not the R1200RT. Can't figure out why on that decision !!!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+Sky George How very odd, like you day, makes little sense! Thanks for stopping by - TMF

[@MaartensTravels]

The manufacturers probably wanted to keep the difference between the RT and the GS. The GS is an adventure motorcycle (offroad) by nature, but is very popular to commute on. I guess that when you're offroad, on an adventure trip, you probably want to pay attention to all those details such as tyre pressure, engine temperature, etc. The RT is pure for the road. I guess pretty much the same why the RT does not come with xenon headlights like the K1600GT: to keep the difference and identity of the bike. Nevertheless, I find the nav to have ample options available. Even the latest addition "Tracker" is cool to keep track of your friends or family members who own the BMW Navigator 5.

[@fredh1475]

There is so many posts to go through. Could you please tell me where you can see the angle of your motorcylce on Basecamp PLEASE!!!!!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+Fred H It's not in base camp as far as I know - I'm not near the GPS currently but it's one of the settings under "my bike" I think, similar place to number of brake activations I reckon (if it is there)....

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+Patrol Gear No problem - glad you found it of interest......you'll love the Nav V!

[@Al_Essex]

Hi based on your great review, I bought a Nav 5 for my 2016 GSA which came with the mount kit pre-installed. However, I can't find the 'My Motorcycle' application on the Nav unit, even when it's mounted on the bike. I'm sure the mount unit is working as I can use the the BMW control wheel to navigate the unit. I've opened a case with Garmin - the unit is up to date via the web and BMW today ensured my motorcycle software was also up to date. Any ideas what might be causing the missing app? I was really looking forward to seeing the bike stats on the unit. Thanks Al.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+Sheikh Ali ...out of interest, have you tried looking with it off the mount?? I have a feeling all the historical stats are only available when it's not connected (I may be wrong)....

[@Al_Essex]

+TheMissendenFlyer Hi - i tried it off and on the mount - no joy. Did some more digging across forums and it seems I need the 'on board computer pro' option on my bike. But I don't think my bike has it installed. Did a VIN check on a site and the option doesn't appear to have been factory installed. Which seems a bit nuts when they pre-installed the GPS mount..! Asked the dealer to double check. Under your bike's 'Settings' menu, do you have the 'BC On/Off' option?. This is apparently the option to turn the Computer Pro on or off. My bike doesn't have this setting. Thanks Al.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes I do have that setting....very odd that you don't, is your machine the "TE" spec?

[@Al_Essex]

+TheMissendenFlyer I have no idea what spec it is! In Bahrain they only seem to sell the one type of the GSA bike but no mention of spec.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+Sheikh Ali Maybe something to do with that then - the "TE" spec they sell in Europe includes a number of what would be options as standard - and the enhanced on board computer may well be one of those....sounds odd though to sell a bike with a GPS unit that isn't fully featured...rubbish in fact...good luck getting it sorted out with the dealer...

[@BHPBikesuk]

Hiya is it a TFT screen? I have a tomtom rider and that has a glass screen which is great :D

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I suspect it's colour LCD - the screen certainly isn't glass - generally it's pretty clear though, no issue with reflections in the main....great bit of kit (if pricey!)...

[@BHPBikesuk]

Yeah I managed to negotiate it into the deal on the XR so not too bad... I am off to monaco for a couple of weeks in april so time will tell :D

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

nice....

[@Rmatt26]

Fantastic video. Infact, I really like all your other videos as well. I'm picking up my new S1000XR in couple of days time and there's an internal debate going on in my head about the Nav V. My biggest concern is that the unit cant be locked unlike on the GS. I'll still get the Nav though... I think ;)

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+Renji Mathews Got to be done Renji - no great hassle to take it off if you leave the bike unattended. I'm surprised it's not lockable on the XR though....bad move BMW! Enjoy your new bike, awesome machine.....thanks for the kind words, all the best -TMF

[@torqueofthedevil8145]

Great review as always, I've just got a Nav 5, how did you choose the 4 instruments you have displayed. I've taken if off the bike and plugged into PC and still can't work out how to customise this.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+Tim Ash Thanks Tim - From memory - with the Nav V on the bike mount and powered up, bring up the "instrument screen" - hold your finger on the field you want to change and select another parameter....simples! Use the scroll wheel to go from many "instruments" to 4 to 2 to just the 1 :0) Do let me know if you work out how to activate a route to follow on the GPS without it stopping at each waypoint as if you've arrived, and then having to select the next waypoint to go too, that's what I can't figure out........annoys the hell out of me!

[@nikoscosmos]

+TheMissendenFlyer Do you know whether the speed is gps derived or from the bike speedo? Cheers.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+Nick Laskaris Pretty sure it's GPS derived.....

[@SJCB27]

Hey Flyer! Another clear, concise and informative review. Thanks for taking the trouble to post. Think an old fart like me would suffer information overload and ride through a hedge! Interesting that the temperature display is in foreign but the tyre pressure is in good old PSI. Can you change the former to Fahrenheit? By the way; like the tyre pressure reminder sticker on the clutch reservoir... Did you make it yourself? KR, Buzz PS: Borrowed the GS demonstrator last week and found that the navigation wheel really gets in the way of the high beam/flasher switch.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Hi Buzz, yes I'm a big fan of labels - gives me something to compare the nav 5 readings with :0)

[@jtgt85]

Hi, really nice review. Many thanks. One question please: how do you setup what to display where on the "My Motorcycle" page? Many thanks in advance

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Jérémie Hoelter Hi Jeremie, thanks for your kind comments. If you want to change which parameters the "My Motorcycle" screens show, just go to the screen you want to configure, touch the field/parameter you want to change and it'll give you a list of options to choose from....easy!

[@OliverRiefler]

100% agree - I have it on mine as well and it makes things so uncomplicated coz it just works...

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+Oliver Riefler ....a major reason why I bought the bike in the first place (how sad is that!) ;0)

[@RobertoChibbaro]

excellent video, just a curiosity about the on board camera: what do you use? Mounted where?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Hi Roberto - glad you liked the video, I just use GoPro cameras for my on-board shots, normally mounted on the front/side of my helmet (although I have other mounts and occasionally position cameras elsewhere). Thanks for watching! - TMF

[@RobertoChibbaro]

TheMissendenFlyer also for audio? Any external mic? Sorry to bother you...

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

***** No bother at all! - I just use a £9 lapel mic I bought from eBay plugged into the camera on my helmet and feed the mic in front of my mouth, works a treat :0)

[@RobertoChibbaro]

Tnx a lot, i just starting to make touring video about Sicily...

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

***** Excellent - would love to see that once you're done....let me know when it's up?

[@davidjobling6016]

Hi, Firstly thanks for all you GS uploads I found them very useful . I've just picked up my new GS and loving it . I am considering buying the sat nav 5 but can you tell me if you can switch from mph to kph for use on the continent? Thanks

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Sure can! The Nav V is brilliant...well worth the money...

[@backscratcher383.7]

Hi there, did you know you can have your bike speed on your digital clock display?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yep....

[@ArcanePath360]

How do you get that "My motorcycle" screen? I just bought a second hand Nav5 which is on my R1200RT and I can't get the data such as tire pressure, voltage to my screen. I can get trip computer which is a black screen and doesn't have the info I want. Please help, this is one of the reasons I bought this Navigator

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Maybe you only get it if the satnav was supplied with the bike???

[@ArcanePath360]

@@TheMissendenFlyer Navigator V is supposed to have integration with the RT. I've seen other videos show the "My motorcycle" screen with all those readouts. Unless they were newer models of RT. I have the 2014 one. Very disappointed that the screen I get only gives you info such as sunrise, elevation, coordinates, average speed... all useless stuff on a black and green style screen. I want my tire pressures/ voltage/ miles left in the tank etc, but can't see any way to get that screen.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Sorry I can't help :0(

[@ArcanePath360]

@@TheMissendenFlyer Ok, thanks anyway

[@zerothrough2hero]

HI mate, can you get world maps on the V and VI? thanks

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+zerothrough2hero I suspect yes but not all at once....but I don't actually know to be honest...

[@jayfizzle5721]

Sweet review. I like all of your content. Cheerio!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thanks Jerry - until next time, cheerio to you too....

[@stevetodd4477]

Hi tried that but the tyre pressures enlarge not the speed....????

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+steve todd Press the tyre pressure field and change it to speed......??

[@paulbridge6063]

I have the Navi 6, and it does not seem to have the same kind of riding info screens that you ride with :-( Or at least I cannot find them

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Oh dear!

[@paulbridge6063]

@@TheMissendenFlyer Do you know if the Navi 6 has those screens?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I don't know I'm afraid but I'd be surprised if it didn't??

[@31acruz]

how do you get it to display the speed only like you did?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Zoom with the wheel....

[@ririshow]

I just spent 3 days riding the new 2015 RT. 3000 kms in total heading for the south of France.. I cannot say how disappointed i was with the navigator 5. First it is almost not readable in sunny situations despite setting the brightness to maximum. In fact on some occasions when the sun shines from behind, it becomes totally useless. Then when you scroll up the names of cities remain terribly small forcing you to stop to try to read the names and not cause an accident. As far as i am concerned it is far from being perfect and i even wonder if it deserves its price.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+ririshow Hi Ririshow - it sure is an expensive bit of kit so it has to be good to justify it's price and if you found it wasn't much use then that's poor value in my book. I must admit I tend to use mine as an augmented dashboard rather than for it's satnav capability - but good feedback about the lack of reading in direct sunlight. Thanks for watching and commenting - all the best - TMF

[@joseacosta3244]

Do you know how to change tire pressure indicator BAR to PSI on the GPS? my motorcycle is in PSI and the gps shows BAR

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Off the top of my head no I'm afraid I don't....must be possible I would think though, maybe someone reading this will know....

[@mariuspike]

i m Curios, what is the total miles you have now on this bike? The ODO on the bike.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

19,070

[@mariuspike]

That is awesome! Considering that you are using for touring, and the number of other bikes you own ... not saying the one s you do reviews also. I have a GS Adventure from 2007 and is a bike to keep for life (even with the "agriculture feature") but sadly not for commuting in a crowded city. For that i took an thin, and tiny "plastic rocket" from 2007 YZF-R6. I m enjoying every time you post a video and watched the you on live stream. Wish you all the best and can t wait to see Dellboy on GS :-)

[@osibig]

Nav VI worth the upgrade?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Not in my opinion....

[@alfistasubbie]

How does all the extra features work on a 2013 RT with multi-function wheel?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Err dunno as I've never tried one - I imagine if they come with the Navigator V and a thumb wheel thingy then it will be pretty similar if not identical to the GS features and functions.....

[@alfistasubbie]

TheMissendenFlyer My mistake, I should have mentioned clearly that my RT came with IV mount and multi-function wheel but no navigator, since V fits perfectly fine on IV mount, I am debating whether to get IV or V and if I know that all the extra features on V work with IV, I think why not go with V.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

fair enough...