Garmin zumo XT - The features no one talks about

[@mikemorin3131]

I really like all the details in your video, super well done. I am trying to follow the directions on transferring waypoints with the basecamp icons. I don't have success. between 01:57 and 03:16

[@tshansen]

Hello Mike, go into basecamp.... highlight the waypoints you would like to export. go up to file and export selected user data. after that, go into your web browser, head into your explorer account/map, and import the file you just exported. Than you will see the waypoints in the explorer web page?

[@mikemorin3131]

@@tshansen Yes that worked great, it did not transfer the symbol , they all got little flags, however I can change the symbol to a tent or building. It's just that I have almost 500 to do. Thanks

[@mikemorin3131]

Figured it out, it's simple yet complicated the first time. Explore waypoints are not the same as Saved waypoints . It's possible to select in Explore website many waypoints and change the symbol in one shot, each changes "individual or as a multiple selection" needs to be sync with the XT. This is done by the XT connected to wifi and going to the "WhereTo?" and selecting Explore. You will have to exit Explore on the XT in order to sync again if more changes are done in the Explore website. I hope this helps newbies like me that want to save their symbol .

[@tshansen]

@@mikemorin3131 Thank you for that insight. Will pin your comment so its easy for others to find.

[@seniorpilot9619]

Perfect video. Well done. In Germany we don’t drink a Erdinger beer out of the bottle, we drink out of a glasses always. 😉🍻

[@joelpaez833]

We never talked about the features since we didn't know they exist. Great job and thanks. I will be going to Norway next summer and now I know how to enter the names using the special alphabet.

[@tshansen]

Hehe, that can probably be the case, but there is so many reviews out on this unit, you should think that people tried the unit properly before reviewing it? 🤔 Glad you liked it and had use of it. Cheers

[@gnarlybadger690]

One of the best reviews of the Garmin XT thanks for sharing Thomas 👍🏻

[@tshansen]

Thank you Peter, so glad you found it helpful 🔥👏🏻 stay safe

[@Ibanez012003]

Damn what a good review - clear, detailed, showed screen outside. Thanks for posting!

[@tshansen]

Thank you sir... glad It was helpful👏🏻 You are welcome 🔥 Cheers

[@greogesnote8507]

Thank you. Very informative.

[@tshansen]

Glad you found it informative mate 👏🏻

[@Herold1977]

Awesome thank you. Hope you are doing good great. coming back to Norway 🇳🇴 week 33,34,35. Best regards Allan from Denmark 🇩🇰

[@tshansen]

Wonderful, another Norwegian Adventure is never wrong. And whit the DKK being so strong, it is actually fun for you guys to enjoy Norway 😂

[@manfredohlmann8714]

Super gemacht, danke für den informativen Beitrag.

[@tshansen]

You are welcome mate 😊

[@RidetheBean]

Great review. Very useful how you explained in detail how things work. I just got mine and have never used one before. So this is very helpful to me 🙂

[@tshansen]

Yeah, alot of people miss out on many of the strengths this unit has because they dont quite know how it all works. Basecamp, the route planer from Garmin can be a PAIN to learn, but works really good when you know how it all works. And adding custom maps can seam like a easy task, but there is no place they inform you about the need to add a folder called garmin? Glad you liked it. And glad to see you got the hang of the animated map :-D

[@dennismacwilliams196]

Well done. Good info thank's It looks like you have good off road riding, I hope one day I will be riding over there. From the USA

[@tshansen]

Thank you McWilliams, glad you found it informative. Well, Norway don't have so much off-road riding, more fire roads and gravel roads. But it has some incredible views and scenic landscapes. Cheers

[@dennismacwilliams196]

That would be great for me... Maybe one day

[@theonlyredspecial]

Thanks from Ireland. Very helpful. Appreciate you taking the time to share this

[@tshansen]

theonlyredspecial you are welcome mate 👏🏻 glad to hear you found it informative 👍🏻

[@mariogauthier1957]

Très belle vidéo mon ami j'ai commandé mon zumo xt je vais le recevoir la semaine prochaine Mario du Québec

[@tshansen]

Thank you Mario, glad you liked the video. I think you will be happy with your purchase 🤩

[@manu311]

Hey Thomas, nice lil insight video you did there. I knew you will follow my recommendation to go for the XT, it's brilliant! One tip for you, I think you will like this feature as much as I do ;) No matter which route, track, rolling map or what ever you ride, when the XT is running it is recording the track in the background. BUT they are saved in a kind of temporary folder, you kann find them in the tracks app (show all or something like that). So if you think "Wow that's been some nice new trails I've done accidentally" just go to this folder and save the track to keep it. Easy and no need to set up the "tracking" app, except you want to see the extra details while riding.

[@tshansen]

Yeah, i’m really impressed by this unit! I know, i have turned on auto tracking everything! And you can still track individual tracks on top of that! Works perfect 👍🏻 it’s not temporary, they only show the last 3 days! If you plug it into your computer and hook it up to basecamp, you will find all the tracks from day one 👍🏻

[@manu311]

@@tshansen That's right, BUT I have read something it will delete automatically after a certain time ✌🏼

[@tshansen]

That is possible! I have not experience that with other zumos, but good to be aware of

[@jarretbyrd1]

I love how you have it mounted above the bike's display... Plan on doing this on my 1290 SAR... Great video & thanks for sharing - JB

[@tshansen]

Thank you JB. I think this is the most natural place to mount it, and it prevent it from shaking when riding 👍🏻

[@ericswild]

Great tutorial of some of the features. Thank you! Cheers!

[@tshansen]

Glad it was helpful Sir 👏🏻

[@Marv968]

Looks like GPS have come a long way since I bought a Tom Tom back in 2007! Interesting vid on the Garmin's features. Didn't realise they can do that much now. Thanks!

[@tshansen]

It has come a long way! The last years 👍🏻

[@cpglamming]

Excellent clear video Thomas - learned lots of good things about my XT!

[@tshansen]

Thank you and really glad you found it informative 🔥👏🏻 cheers

[@norbertkalff2176]

Thanks for sharing, i learned something new.

[@tshansen]

Thanks mate, glad you found it useful 👍

[@paldhlen1743]

Great review Thomas.

[@tshansen]

Thank you Pål 👏🏻🔥

[@adventuremotorcyclediaries5899]

Very well explained, I learned a lot about my new XT. I agree, it is the best out there at this time. I never knew how the aftermarket topo maps will work with the standard topo maps that come with the unit and which topo map overrides which, so now I will follow your method and just turn the standard delivered topo off or on based on where I am. Also the routing tip that you brought up is definitely a plus, thanks.

[@tshansen]

I did a hard reset of my zumo this season... and when I first boot It up, I could switch between topo maps and regular maps in the side panel on the map. But after setting it up, that feature is just grayed out (after update maybe?) so for me the only way to put on topo maps, is to disable the ones that override the 3.party map. Cheers

[@Gun1ld]

@@tshansen Vet du om det er mulig å eksportere ruter fra Google maps(på tlf) til GPS`en ?

[@tshansen]

@@Gun1ld nei, dette tror jeg ikke fungerer 🤔 siden Google Maps bruker et annet format

[@Gun1ld]

@@tshansen er mulig på PC ved å eksporter korrekt format fra my maps(Google Maps) til basecamp, men var nysgjerrig om det gikk på tlf

[@DiegoAstorga]

Nice review, it debunks many myths around it, I have it on sight but I'm too much in love with my Montana.

[@tshansen]

Yeah, the montana is a brilliant unit. I just dont love the screen size on it :-)

[@t.p.o.adventures]

Just ordered one. Thanks for all the tips and tricks. Im a fellow Norwegian so finding letters like Æ Ø Å normally is an issues with equipment like this.

[@tshansen]

I hope you will like it, I really enjoy this unit. Finally a great GPS from Garmin. Glad you found the video informative. Cheers 🇳🇴

[@marcbelzil7275]

Thank you for your vidéo,well done!

[@tshansen]

Thank you sir.... glad you found it helpful 👏🏻

[@adventureandy9229]

Cheers Thomas 🍺, i have to agree, the Zumo XT is a great device. If you take time and understand Garmin Basecamp you will reach all your waypoints and follow your planned track/route.

[@tshansen]

Yeah, basecamp is old and can be a pain! But when you master it, you have a great tool

[@matchlessajsbsa2157]

Good review, thank you. I'm trying to choose between ZumoXT and TomTom550 for road use only. Cheers, John

[@tshansen]

Thank you mate... Well I only had the TomTom 500 I think for a little while, so I can't give you any solid advice on this unit. The only thing I know for sure, is that it is road only usable. I'm not sure how old the 550 is? Maybe worth considering if they have not made any upgraded lately? Cheers

[@stevehines8864]

This was great thank you.

[@tshansen]

Thank you Steve... glad you liked it 👏🏻

[@fyraiett]

Great info about the XT, thanks!

[@tshansen]

Glad you liked it ☺️

[@armandlarochelle4443]

Thank you very much , I appreciate your advice and will follow your recommendations .I am going to get a Sumo XT to replace my Rider 400 and want to keep the good sides of Tomtom . Thanks again and have good evening . Armand Larochelle. 4:10 PM at my home

[@tshansen]

You are welcome my friend 👏🏻

[@jimhejl6896]

That was fantastic. Thanks for the vid

[@tshansen]

You are welcome sir 👍🏻 Glad you found it informative

[@viajarMOTO]

Nice video! Thanks for making it and sharing some handy features. Ride safe!

[@tshansen]

Thank you, and really glad you found it useful. Cheers 👏🏻

[@seethebutter]

Thank you

[@tshansen]

You're welcome John 👍🏻 hope it answered some of your questions about the XT. Cheers

[@kaguario]

Nice review ! I went for the tomtom rider 550, because I had a nice discount. And I really enjoy the motorcycle features included within the tomtom.

[@tshansen]

There is just one problem with the tomtom! You cant navigate offroad with it 😢

[@kaguario]

@@tshansen it depends on what kind of offroad. If it's a registered track, in some well mapped countries/region it works really well. But for the others cases, you right it won't be really helpful. I've also heard from heavy off-road drivers friends that the android app "osmand" is really good for this type of use.

[@tshansen]

Yeah, the best android app for that use is locus map pro i think! Amazing maps and features

[@jeremycanning8934]

you made the right choice, Garmin XT is Rubbish

[@St3rmTig3r]

Very helpful. Thank you!

[@tshansen]

So glad to hear that mate 👌 glad you found it informative 👍

[@ihsanulusoy16]

cheers mate

[@tshansen]

Cheers 🍻

[@shaunrenwick]

Fantastic review, thank you.

[@tshansen]

Thank you :-) Glad you found it informative

[@skyridercommendor6303]

nice walk true, just what i need to pick the garmin. Thank alot

[@tshansen]

Glad it was helpful mate 👏🏻

[@joeblack2216]

Haha excellent video and thanks for all these clear explication and cheers ! ;-)

[@tshansen]

Glad you found it helpful mate 🔥

[@brawlski]

What a great review think @garmin should have you on their Ambassador list . I have been running the old 345lm!! Time for an upgrade. Some of the annoying things are addressed on the XT

[@tshansen]

Haha, thank you sir.... I'm not sure about the ambassador list 🤣 The XT is what the Garmin should have made many years ago, finally a product that can compete with some of the many great features in a smart phone

[@Nomad-Drifter]

Who has a computer nowadays? It’s very responsive compared to my crappy TomTom rider 550 💩. Good review pal 🍻

[@tshansen]

Thank you, glad you found it useful mate 👏🏻

[@robormsby7259]

Great review thank you 👌😁

[@tshansen]

You are welcome :-) Glad you liked it

[@ERUtheWINDRIDER]

Take a look at carpe iter. I want to mention that I'm a very long time garmin user 2005 I think and I had over 6 devices from them, but after my Montana will be done, and it's close I'm done with them. Carpe Iter will be my next moto gps.

[@tshansen]

Is this the same unit that RadeGARAGE are working with? After seeing how the new Africa Twin with the new Car play and other brands are developing units based on a smartphone or tablet. I'm sure Garmin will get blown out of the water if they dont compete and up their game. I personally think they did a huge leap in the right direction with the zumo XT. I'm not sure what my next satnav will be. There is a ton on function in some units that I will never use. So what is the point? But i would love to see a roadbook app on the garmin. And better maps. Than i'm all covered

[@ERUtheWINDRIDER]

@@tshansen I don't know anything about arcade and Carpe Iter, and I like R/G products (I'm a happy customer). I know about CRF1000 but no manufacturer to this date (except Garmin only on Montera device) let you have a free android. And that mean that you cannot install whatever app you want (think tet 4 example) and it also mean that you cannot use it 4 entertainment purposes in your hammock after a long day in the saddle. Carpe does it all that, and also have a nice remote control on the handlebar (not as nice as 1200 gs but still)

[@TihomirSavic87]

Very useful video, thanks for explaining the device. Just a couple of questions? 1. Battery life while in normal or tracking mode? 2. Internet connection needed or not? 3. Auto brightness during change of the light? Thanks

[@tshansen]

Hello mate. Well, i never use it without it standing in the cradle so i can’t give you a good answer on the battery usage. Internett connection is not needed for anything else then updating Explorer app and software/maps updates. You can turn auto brightness on and off! I find it really good on auto. Even in auto you can adjust it up or down to your liking.

[@TihomirSavic87]

@@tshansen Thanks again mate, will defo get one soon. Keep up the good work and enjoy the ride. Great bike you have. Cheers

[@tshansen]

@@TihomirSavic87 you are welcome, glad to help. Stay safe and have a good one 🔥

[@Braapncamp]

Really nice walk thru of features Thomas!

[@tshansen]

Thank you Tjommi :-) I guess you will be using some money on a new gps soon :-P haha. Where is the clip you promised me :-P

[@Braapncamp]

Thomas Hansen ooops! Will fix, its on the SD.

[@tshansen]

@@Braapncamp You are walking on thin f-ing ice my patty green chump :-P hahaha

[@giuliogreselin9178]

Bravo, well done

[@tshansen]

Thank you mate :-)

[@josematos4757]

Great video. Tks

[@tshansen]

You are welcome mate 👏🏻🔥

[@MrRotendahl]

Great review - with a lot of useful and relevant information. As a "Tomtom-man" this is my first Garmin. Had a BMW Nav 6, that came along with the bike - but I've changed it for the XT.

[@tshansen]

Thank you Thomas, great name by the way 😎 I had the Navigator on my 2016 R1200 GSA and it was a ok device, but Garmin showes how it should be with the new zumo XT 👍🏻 Glad you found the video helpful. Stay safe mate

[@brianrundle9219]

Sorry to hijack this thread but how does the BMW nav 6 compare with the xt.

[@jeremycanning8934]

First one had software issues replacement wouldn't charge on the third one now and can't see it lasting. When TomTom launch their new one I will go back to them

[@tshansen]

Well, it is always hard to trust any company that dont provides a good unit. For me, it has worked flawlessly since day one. I will never go to TomTom, not before they start opening up for offroad and gravel trips on their devices.

[@rthorarensen]

Very informative video about the Garmin. Thomas, could you perhaps make a video about how you make your videos, what cameras you use and how you use them and how you edit your videos? This is something that I would like to learn about so I can make my own videos for me and perhaps later for others.

[@tshansen]

Of course, just need to think about how and what. There is so much to cover in a video like that, but I love a challange, so i will see what i can come up with in the next couple of weeks :-)

[@JoonesAdventuresMC]

Nice review👍

[@tshansen]

Thank you

[@AegeanEpiphany]

Was looking for some off-road tracks in Norway around Femund but downloaded TET and see that there's 'work in progress' - Hilsen fra James...

[@tshansen]

Work in progress? Not sure what you mean?

[@tomvidqvist4768]

Its look so easy.. what a

[@tshansen]

Did not understand to much of that 🤣👌🏻

[@JackTRyan]

Sort of basic...read the manual. Better for Europeans I’d guess. Nicely produced but unclear in several places. Helpful. Thank you.

[@tshansen]

Thank you for the feedback mate... is there any point specific you would like me to clarify? Thank you for the post. Cheers

[@thetubelesschannel]

Looks great, looks very responsive. And use of track function seems great. Have to throw some money in my save pig. (Is it save pig in English ???)

[@tshansen]

I'm really impressed with the unit. I just downloaded the Gravelmaps from that german guy. Looks really good, and have to do some more testing. But at first glanse it looks much better than the frikart topo :-) Haha, i think it is called piggy bank in English, but we get the idea :-P

[@thetubelesschannel]

@@tshansen thanks for the advice. Just also downloaded the Nordic.gmap file from the German site, I like it has all Nordic countries in one file. Great when you rides in the border area between Norway and Sweden. Looks OK so far in Basecamp better topographical representation, will also download the img file to test on my Montana.

[@oklahomahank2378]

Piggy bank.

[@happypvr]

Excellent video. I want to know how to play mp3 files on my sd card rather that putting them in the zumo internal storage. I have a very large music library that I would like to listen to while riding. I don't want to exhaust the internal memory capacity on my Zumo XT. Thanks for any help & advice.

[@tshansen]

Hello mate. Sorry, I don't know how to do this. I dont play music on my device so I have never looked or tried the stuff you are asking for. Sorry

[@happypvr]

@@tshansen Howdy. I found out how to put music on the Zumo XT. It's fairly easy to do. Make a folder on a sd card and name it mp3 and put mp3 music files in that folder. Install the sd card and turn the Zumo on & off. The turn Zumo on and the files will be in music.

[@tshansen]

@@happypvr Great to hear mate... glad you found a solution. This will help others also I think. Cheers

[@aguriga]

Very nice video. Can you please tell me where to download the off-road maps? My region is Spain. Thank you!

[@tshansen]

Well, i wish i could tell you that, you could try to search for a open source map for Spain in google and see what you get. I don’t know of any sites for Spain my self. Sorry

[@buckymoto1784]

Would an old smart phone be just as good /functional than a dedicated satnav device like th XT? For instance. I use my old Google pixel 5. Which is waterproof. I have it inside a Mous case which you are supposed to be able to drop from 100ft and not break the phone. I have guru maps, DM2, Google map, waze, etc all loaded on the phone which means it will sync with my pc. When I am out on rides and I want to maybe update something I just tether the slave phone (GPS) with my current mobile phone so this give the GPS phone Internet access for downloading a map or route etc... It would maybe be interesting to do a comparison video between the pros & cons of this setup.

[@tshansen]

Hello Bucky… a smart phone as many great features that a garmin satnav don’t have. I have tried Guru maps and some other apps on my iPhone smartphone, and i did not like it that much. The screen is hard to read in sunlight and it becomes hard to use and navigate with rain or dust on the screen. For me i need a simple and effective device that shows routes and trips on a great map. I have not yet found a device that does this better than the XT. When i plan my trips or customise my trips, i use a computer or a smartphone. And transfer to my unit. This work best for me and dont have to many options i don’t or never use. I’m not the right guy to make a comparison video about this because i know what works best for my use, and don’t want to tell others how they should do it, they should find their own best option.

[@bazza8947]

We had this discussion on Facebook already but I found the unit reboots at 40% on many occasions when converting a track to a trip. Sometimes it's only a track with 4 waypoints but sometimes it works! Happens the most with tracks exported from MyRouteApp for some reason. I still can't workout why Basecamp crashes on my iMac when the XT is connected. I have a GPSMAP 66i and BMW Nav VI and neither of those crash basecamp. Running 4.8.8. too. Unfortunately software always seems to be the downfall of Garmin GPS devices in my experience

[@tshansen]

I have not experienced the problems you describe. But in most or almost all of the times, i transfer my tracks or rutes to the unit with the drive app. I do not connect my unit to basecamp. But i will try to see if i can replicate the troubles you have tomorrow. Thank you for bringing this to my attention :-) Cheers

[@bazza8947]

@@tshansen Would be interested to see if you can replicate it. I have tried the Drive app but mostly imported track into the Explore webpage or used direct folder access to place the GPX into the device. I've been using MyRouteApp for years and never had this problem before. Maybe I am special :) haha

[@tshansen]

I have been with Myroute-app for some years myself, and i have not yet used the explore webpage for my routes and tracks, only waypoints. But i will take a closer look tomorrow and do a stress test of the different errors you mention.

[@bazza8947]

@@tshansen Try doing a route/track where it's a loop back to the same address. Like I mentioned above, the unit reboots at 40% conversion to trip on one of my GPX files with 4 waypoints where it was out and back using the same road from my house. I hope one day they turn the Explore page into a full route creation system like Tomtom have with their excellent MyDrive page. So much easier!!!

[@bazza8947]

@@tshansen Hi Thomas, Did you try to replicate this issue?

[@Lukebob10]

excellent review. did I miss where you said you got the maps from that you activated in "offroad mode"?

[@tshansen]

Thank you... you have a site called frikart.no but a even better offroad map I found lately is www.freizeitkarte-osm.de it is a really good topo map, but you need to check if it covers your needs.

[@mart7404]

great thanks. How about topo maps and off-road features? Does it come close to Garmin's Montana units? thanks

[@tshansen]

You are welcome. Well, it depends on what Montana future you talk about? from the 680 series or the 700 series? The Garmin Topo maps are not that great, there are much better OSM maps out there you can download 👏🏻

[@garrethsnowball7707]

👌

[@tshansen]

🙏

[@kryspy5682]

✌🏼very good review. Thanks for insight on track imports which I was worried about. Can in import long tracks that are available on Wikiloc ? Ride safe

[@tshansen]

Thank you Krys👏🏻 I have not used Wikiloc myself, but i know when i transfer rutes or tracks from Myroute-app there is noe problem with longer rutes. It just splits into minor sections. Depends on how many waypoints, viapoints and shapingpoints there is. 👍🏻 Stay safe brother

[@sagamanic3083]

Hello, thank you for the video. Can I download wikiloc maps into this gps?

[@tshansen]

Thank you mate, well… I’m not sure about the wikiloc map, not used it my self, but as long as it is a img file that the gpx can read and you put it in the right folder it will work like any other open source map 👍🏻

[@markmason8114]

Good description. Is there a way to change the factory colour teal of a route being ridden or can the colour only be changed if the track is saved Thanks

[@tshansen]

I have not checked, but I will take a closer look at this.

[@tam340r5]

Hi I liked your video , may have a question how to avoid the zumo to pass exactly on a way point ? My zumo is forcing me to,pass exactly on it ,,,even asking me to turn back,,,

[@tshansen]

Thank you sir...appreciate that 😊 Well, how to answer best on this. It all depends on the software you use to make the route. Garmin units has to way of showing where to go. shaping points and waypoints. If your route just consist of waypoints you need to press the skip waypoint button on the device. If you do it like this, you should avoid having recalculating route set on in the device. this can mess up your route if you have waypoints far away from each other. It is really hard for me to give a good answer to this in writing. But in general, I will say that the device is built to take you to the waypoints you set. If you miss, you need to tell it to continue to the next or it has been told of you to take you to that exact spot. Hope that made sense ? anything else I can help you with? please let me know. Cheers

[@Ronald7077]

Waypoints are improtant to allow flexibility in route planning. I would have liked to have seen how you do that?

[@tshansen]

Hello Ron... what specific about the waypoints are you curious about? I'm doing a new video about how I plan my upcoming adventure this winter, so I would be glad to include a answer for your question. Cheers

[@Ronald7077]

@@tshansen I have only had my XT a couple of days and still exploring. Finding how to set favourites to use as a starting point or to choose as an end point is a real pain. - I just cannot do it at the moment. A round trip would be good to see how done. Also how to set up the pc to do what you have done re google maps import the route straight in to the garmin. Would also be fantastic. The explanations that garmin produce are not great.

[@tshansen]

@@Ronald7077 I don't have the GPS unit in front of me when I write this answer, but I think you have to go into "where to" and then find your favourites and choose the POI you want to navigate to. Or you need to go into the trip planer app in the unit to adjust the route with POI on it. This is probably something I could make a video of. The Goole map file need to be sent trough the Drive app from your phone to the unit if you want to make a route/track trough google maps. I'm not sure if you can make a roundtrip in the unit it self, I never use this feature my self, so I have to investigate

[@dh-flies]

I've been agonizing over getting this or the trail tech Voyager Pro. Both have their positives but only the Garmin does actual navigation like an automotive GPS. The only real negative I've heard on the Garmin is the mount. Flimsy? GPS pops out? It looks like you are more adventure riding. I have a KTM 500 EXC-F and do much harsher off-road riding. I'm off-road probably 80% of the time. What are your thoughts? This was very informational. Thanks for making.

[@tshansen]

The mount for my gps are rock solid, but i’m kinda resting it on the back side of the whole setup. So it stick in position. I know there is alot of great third party options that are great as well. I don’t ride so hard offroad as you. I have no experience with the voyager pro, so i can’t tell you much about the differences. Sorry 🥺 but i can try to Ask any question you have regarding the xt 👏🏻

[@dh-flies]

@@tshansen I'm very used to Garmin products. I have their pilots watch, their avionics in my plane, a Montana on my 1290 KTM, an old Zumo 550 on my Harley. Not sure I want to learn a new system. and this XT looks sharp and much improved. I'm glad I watched this...I think this is what I'm going to buy. Thanks! 👍

[@tshansen]

@@dh-flies Aaahh, then you know what is good and what’s not so good with the garmin system. For me personally it works really well for what i like to use it for. So glad it was helpful… stay safe mate.

[@oklahomahank2378]

I put a rubber tether on it just in case.

[@dougsATadvs]

Look at the mount that Touratech offers , looks pretty tough

[@nelsonpereira81]

How the screen responds if you are wearing gloves? Have you pair it with a mini inreach yet, and text messages through Zumo? Keep the good work. Regards from New Zealand

[@tshansen]

Hello Nelson… I have not paired it with Inreach mini yet, I hope i get my hands on one before 2022 season. The screen responds just as fast with gloves as with the fingers. Will continue to do my best. Cheers 🔥

[@nelsonpereira81]

@@tshansen Thanks for the prompt reply :) really helpful with my decision going forward. Cheers

[@ronaldreid2185]

Hey Thomas. Great vid, well made and informative, thanks. The RAM mount looks like a better option than other after market solutions, but how are you powering the device?

[@tshansen]

Yeah, and i like that the GPS unit is right behind the windscreen! Not sticking out in any ways! I run the cable from the box down on the side and in under the fuel tank, down on the side of the battery, on top of the airbax and back to the ACC connector behind the rear brake light

[@marctepas9912]

Is it possible to create different rider modus, like car and motorbike with different preferences (like for the car no u turn or no off road and automaticly recalculation). With zumo 660 it automaticly switched modus depending on the mount you use, care or bike.

[@tshansen]

This is a good question mate, i have not tried this my self, but i know you can change ride modus, but not sure if it will change or do anything automatic.

[@barrymcarthur3064]

Great video! I have one question though, have you had any trouble using it in the rain? I've read that the nav sometimes thinks that the rain is someone using the touch screen and this can cause it to change screens?

[@tshansen]

Thank you sir 🤩 well, no! I have seen some talk about it, but believe me when i say i have tested it alot in heavy rain! Never had any issue with the screen and water! 🔥 I just don’t believe this is a issue at all from my experience

[@TrilhaVale]

When you compare zumo 396 screen with zumo xt (1:32), is the 396 screen in the maximum bright? The impression it is set lower...

[@tshansen]

Both are on brightest settings 🔥

[@johncrawford2304]

What about the pre installed off road trails ?

[@tshansen]

I dont like the garmin topo maps, but yes you can use those 🤌🏻🤩

[@sahem92]

Hey, thanks for this great review! I have a question about this Garmin unit: can you use it to designate an off road / adventure route? Or set something like: prefer unpaved roads?

[@tshansen]

Cheers mate, glad you found it helpful. Well, that Is a good question, I need to investigate this because I dont have a good answer at this moment. I'm not sure this is possible, because riding on unpaved roads are illegal most places, but I will try to figure it out. Great question. Cheers 🔥

[@bladwin321]

Hei ser ut som du har glemt å ta vekk markeringstapen over spottene hehe

[@tshansen]

Neida, ikke glemt. Jeg ser etter at jeg malte veggen at jeg må helsparkle. Prøvde å skjøte inn en plate midt på veggen, Det ble ikke veldig pent :-P

[@mattving61]

The transfer is worth it alone

[@tshansen]

Indeed 👏🏻

[@Palcious]

After crushing my phone and going back to a conventional, button based device I noticed all I miss was a gps navigation function. Can I make full use of the Garmin without pairing it to a smartphone? For the money I could aswell buy another android phone but for navigating, the stand alone device seems better suited...

[@tshansen]

How should i answer that question... you will miss out on small features like weather forcast and certain minor stuff. But yes, you can make full use of the Garmin without paring it to a smartphone. You can import routes/tracks trough Basecamp or trough micro sd card. (just like the older models from Garmin)

[@billybean7488]

Great video thanks. Do you know if any cameras work with this apart from the BC40. The BC40 does work but is far too big for me to mount on my bike. The BC35 wont pair? Have you any experience with any camera that will pair to the XT?

[@tshansen]

Thank you Billy, glad you found it informative 🔥 I don't have any clue about the cameras that will or will not connect to the Zumo XT.... this is a function I don't use my self. Sorry 👍🏻

[@billybean7488]

@@tshansen Thanks anyhow. Mines mounted on a KTM 1290 Superduke R with evotech mount and always in line of sight, it would be perfect if could connect to smaller bullet camera. The one it works with is far too big. Thanks any how..

[@jay4967]

Hi Thomas, good detailed review thats....how’s the back plate for attaching the XT to, is it very secure and apart from touratech secure locking plate do you know of others thanks.

[@tshansen]

I have ridden it hard on gravel roads in Norway in it has not come loose! How secure it is i’m not sure of! I have not seen any 3.party mounts yet! But i bet there will be some soon from the most known brands! The XT has become really popular this year

[@Dr4g0nW00d]

I got aftermarket mount for my bike prnt.sc/u83d2e

[@MrPaulo1400]

what about the Garmin 276Cx?

[@tshansen]

What about it? I know it is really popular amongst alot of offroad users, but for my use it is not a great option :-)

[@MrPaulo1400]

Thomas Hansen I wanted to say in comparison with the XT regarding functionality. Some users say that being tactile and also useable for marine, the 276Cx is better protected against sand, dust and water and being tactile easier to use with gloves. It is just what I heard because I am torn n between these 2 models

[@armandlarochelle4443]

Bravo pour vos explications . Est-ce que je peux transférer un parcours fait sur mon iPhone vers Zuno XT comme je peux le faire avec l'application Mydrive vers Rider 550 Tomtom . Et , me dire svp l'application de Garmin pour faire la synchronisation. (Sorry for my poor English) Is it possible to transfert itinerary from iPhone 12 to Zumo XT and what application in required to do this as the application Mydrive to rider 550 re: Tomtom ? Thank you. Armand Larochelle. Québec

[@tshansen]

Yes you can transfer trough your iPhone. You can use the Garmin explore app on the phone and it will sync with the explorer app on the unit. Or you can transfer routes and tracks with the Garmin Drive app on the phone. Was this a good enough answer to your questions? If not, please ask for more info. Cheers from Norway 🇳🇴

[@hom13ane]

Hi Thomas. Thank you for providing so much great content. I note you are using Basecamp on an iMac with success. I also have an iMac which runs Big Sur version of OS. I cannot get Basecamp to recognise my zumo XT (it did not recognise the zumo before I upgraded to Big Sur either). I cannot get my iMac to recognise the zumo XT in Finder either. Did you have to do anything special to connect your zumo XT to your computer and Basecamp... did you make any particular settings on either the zumo or the computer?

[@tshansen]

Do you try to connect your device trough a dongle or a usb hub or straight to your computer? I'm having issues when i connect my XT trough a satechi usb and card reader on the front side of my imac. If i plug it into the back of my imac there is no issues. Worth a try. Or check your cabel if that is broken. Cheers 🔥

[@hom13ane]

@@tshansen Thanks. I changed to direct USB connection instead of through USB hub. That did not fix it. However, I checked the settings for Garmin Express. I found it was set to remain running in the background. When I turned off that setting, I finally was able to see the XT in Basecamp. Using the maps is very slow though. I cannot seem to install the maps on the computer - keeps getting an error. Probably something to do with Express again. Anyhow, thanks for your help. Evan.

[@tshansen]

@@hom13ane hmm... that is good information mate. Thank you for telling me. Try to use 3D mode, command + 3 this will make the whole program run so much faster. Cheers

[@humoto1]

Hi Thomas, thanks for the video. Once you have imported a track and show it on the Zumo XT, how do you then navigate from where you are at the moment (home for example) to the start of the track (TET Sweden Section 1 starting point for example)? Please explain... Many thanks and best regards Hubertus

[@tshansen]

There a couple of different ways, the most easy way is to load the track to be visable on the screen. Then tap the screen where the start point is and hit drive to. Then the unit will calculate a trip based on your preferance to get to the exact point. When you arrive the destination, your rute is finished and you see the visible track line in the map you can follow. (Did that make sense?)

[@humoto1]

@@tshansen That sounds really easy and makes perfect sense, Thomas, thank you. Will try on Friday... Cheers mate!!

[@tshansen]

@@humoto1 You are welcome mate 👍🏻

[@feetdownbarrows4434]

Hi, thank you for this video. I am new to off road motorbiking and i wanted to know in practice how it works when you go off road. Does it just show a line that you follow - and that is the right way? So you always know where you are and follow it to the point you want to come off? i assume you will see if you go off the track? Is the zumo strong enough for off road riding?

[@tshansen]

Hello mate... Well, it depends on what map you run. But if you ride off-road you just follow the line on the map, like you would with regular road track/routes. If you don't have any route or track you are following you need to have a good topo map to navigate properly or Birdseye satellite footage. The Zumo XT is strong enough for offroad riding yes!

[@greatfallskam]

Hi Tshansen, I wanted to ask your opinion on the Garmin Zumo XT. Towards the very end of your video, you said the XT is one of the best Garmin devices so far. Even the Montana. I recently purchased the new Garmin Montana 700. Very disappointed with the transflective screen. Not very bright. I also don't see the option of making street names as big as the Montana 650T. I use Basecamp extensively to make my own Routes and Tracks. I also share Tracks form other sources. So I need a device that supports both Tracks, Top Maps, and Custom Routes ( spoken Turn by Turn navigation ). In your opinion does the Zumo XT do all of these better than the old Montana 6xx series? Is the XT bright and readable in any lighting condition? Can you make the street names ( Text ) large? Happy Holiday! Thanks. Kam

[@tshansen]

Hello Kam I will try to answer you as best I can. I have not tried the Montana 700 that much, but I think that is more a hiking GPS than a motorcycle GPS. I know Greg Villalobos has made a great video about the Montana 700. I need my device to do the same things as you, except street names big. This is a function I don't know if it is possible on the XT. In all the other parts the XT Is lightyear ahead the old 6xx Montana series and same with the older Zumo series. I find the XT screen bright and great in all conditions. But it is hard to answer if this is good enough for your usage. It looks really reflective on camera, so it is hard to show how good it actually is on film. Happy Holliday to you as well mate. Cheers

[@greatfallskam]

@@tshansen Hi Thomas, I am more convinced to switch over to the Zumo XT. I did see Greg Villalobos's video on the Montana 700i. Yeah, the 7xx series is more of a handheld / outdoor device. I am realizing the ability to quickly and clearly see your gps screen is key when riding. Thanks. Kam

[@snatr]

So you also had the 396 and you like this model that much better? Also, I was wondering if you can create a route through the explore app on the road? In other words you don't need to be connected to wifi to transfer it. Thanks for sharing 👍

[@tshansen]

Yeah it is night and day in difference of the screen, the responsiveness, key features etc. The 396 feels like a 10 year old unit compared to it. I have never tried to create a route on the explorer app on the unit it self. If you do it on the web or on your phone, you need data or wifi to upload and sync the media. Hope this was an answer to your question. Cheers

[@snatr]

@@tshansen Yeah, I forgot there is an explorer app built in. I was thinking of using the app on my phone and then having the route show up on the unit- But you think it would need a cellular connection to do the transfer though 🤔 I was thinking it might do it directly through the Bluetooth somehow (no service required). Thanks!

[@tshansen]

@@snatr I have never tested this, I don't use the explorer app for more than just my favourite waypoints. Sorry I can't give you a proper answer to this.

[@snatr]

@@tshansen Well get on it man 😉😋

[@tshansen]

@@snatr Hahaha... Sir, yes SIR!! 🤣

[@endurojitsu3804]

Great video, both from information and edit perspective. Quick question: I did try to add waypoint/saved place on my enduro ride on XT but it didn’t show up on the map (will try again). Also, for “unpowered” use of XT, I cannot get the full brightness when the battery is lower than fully charged. Is there a way to get this overridden? You can see both of these issues on my (now only) video on my channel. If you have the time, would really appreciate the feedback. Got GPSMap 66SR for (hard) enduro (on my KTM 250Exc) but will probably keep XT for my 690 (since I was thinking of selling it and using quadlock and iPhone)

[@tshansen]

I know I have answered this post before, but it keeps popping up? Well, if you save a waypoint or POI on the map when you ride, it would not be visible on the map all the time, you need to search for it. or find it in your favourites folder. The only way to get POI to stay on the map is trough the explorer site or app on your phone and sync that with the device.

[@endurojitsu3804]

@@tshansen Thanks - I have one a sync, and now it shows up on the map

[@garyevans5335]

That settles it, the BMW nav 6 is going on ebay, and getting the XT instead 👍

[@tshansen]

Sounds like a good decision 👏🏻

[@TheFastphill]

hi have you had problems with the mount on my dirt bikes the zumo XT has come off 3 times and one this last weekend on the road bike it did not charge

[@tshansen]

Hello mate, sorry to hear that. No my XT has yet to come of in any of the conditions I have put I trough?

[@jesusacovarrubias1390]

Thank you for your opinion on the XT. What's your opinion on the difference between the XT and 595LM?

[@tshansen]

Night and day to be honest! The speed, navigation on the screen. Touch. Tracking, and ease of use. It is like garmin finaly stepped out of the 1990 bubble and made a sat nav for the future.

[@ilveropippi]

Hi! Have you checked if it is possible not to navigate a route to a waypoint? I mean for example on a boat, to go by straight line to a point. In gpsmap serie it's possible. If also in this it's possible i could evaluate to change my almost new gpsmap66. Thanks

[@tshansen]

Hmm... i have not checked this! I’m at work this weekend, but let me come back to you when i have tried it next week! See if this is possible 👏🏻🔥

[@ilveropippi]

@@tshansen thanks! I love old physical buttons series on old SuperTénéré but maybe with new Africa Twin it's time to evolve and follow technology steps, also for gps.

[@اروحلمين-ي2ج]

What is the difference between the Garmin XT and 595 and what is the best

[@tshansen]

The list is huge! About everything is better on the XT. The XT is much better

[@اروحلمين-ي2ج]

Thank you for filling up the sky, my friend

[@andrewsoldan6050]

if you follow the track which is large to fit on the screen - will it scroll while you move along?

[@tshansen]

Yes? Does not all gps units do this? Or dont i understand the question?

[@jamesprecious1035]

Thomas, Are you still happy with the XT? I'm about to invest in my first touch screen GPS unit for my 890 and I respect your opinion. I will be downloading custom maps once I learn the process so are there any other tutorials that you would recommend? Thanks in advance.

[@tshansen]

I’m really happy with it for my use! So i can highly recommend it as adventure navigation unit. The only thing i miss on it is to do roadbook, that would be a Nice feature to have. I have not come across to many tutorials, sorry 🔥

[@jamesprecious1035]

@@tshansen Thanks Thomas, Can yo expand on how you mounted it on your 790. What xtra parts do you need. TourTech just put them on sale for $399.00 USD so I think that's not a bad deal. I don't think I like their $200 locking cradle, have you looked at it?

[@tshansen]

@@jamesprecious1035 if you take a look at the start of this video...kzbin.info/www/bejne/aHzaoYVobpybbZY you see how I have attached it to my bike, I just needed a ram ball plate to screw into the plastic cover already on the bike.

[@jamesprecious1035]

@@tshansen Thanks, OK, last question. I ride hard off road, with that mounting system hold up or do you think a locking type cradle is needed?

[@tshansen]

@@jamesprecious1035 That is a tough question... mine has not failed yet, but if you ride alot off-road I would find something more secure for sure...!

[@Aprival]

Hi Thomas, thanks for the video. Can you tell me which size ram plate did you use? Did you go for the B size or C size? Thanks!

[@tshansen]

Hello mate... damn, that was a good question. I will take a look and see if i can find info on that for you.

[@tshansen]

www.clasohlson.com/no/Ram-Mounts-feste-med-AMPS-hullbilde/p/38-5996 it is a B size ball according to the webpage i bought it from :-)

[@Aprival]

Thanks very much Thomas. I think your setup is one of the best I saw so far. Thanks again for your answer and looking forward to your next video.

[@tshansen]

Thank you mate, appreciate it 😊

[@SotoMotoAdventures]

Is there a better software alternative other than basecamp?

[@tshansen]

Yes, you can use Garmin explore online, or you can use sites like Calimoto, Myrouteapp, etc You can use any program that export a gpx file

[@Herold1977]

Hi thomas, How do you transfer the waypoints to your INreach account? I still get the Blue flags when I do it.

[@tshansen]

I transfer them to the explorer account on Garmin web page.

[@Henryairsoft2]

Do you see the way points on the map only when you use basecamp? Do they also show when you navigate and come past a saved way point? I haven't worked with basecamp yet but my XT doesn't show waypoints I saved, like my home, when I drive past it while navigating somewhere else.

[@tshansen]

I have to test this out for my self... It have not crossed my mind as a problem, but i will check it out tomorrow for you mate. Cheers

[@Jimo368]

I wish someone would make a unit with Apple CarPlay and Android auto built in

[@tshansen]

We may see something brilliant in near future mate 😊

[@Cos3D]

Can this go in a bmw z4 or mazda mx5?

[@tshansen]

Yes, you Get a window mount in the box and a 12v charger as well!

[@PennsylvaniaDualSport]

Question: when you record a track, can you only share with another Garmin unit or can you share it with a Garmin app so you can email or text it to someone? I currently use smartphone apps like Gaia to create and share tracks on the fly (usually for club events) and I’m thinking of getting a proper GPS instead. The XT checks a lot of boxes for me. Thank you for your time and Greetings from Pennsylvania, USA!

[@tshansen]

Yes, you can share this with the explorer app and to your smart phone. I need to double check if you need Wi-Fi connection or not. I have not used this feature to much because i transfer most of my tracks to base camp. Glad you found this video helpful

[@PennsylvaniaDualSport]

@@tshansen so for instance - our club holds several events and I’m typically on the trial team. If pre riding and I see that there needs to be a reroute I would record the rerouted track and email or text it to the rest of the trail team. I may not necessarily be going home at the end of the day to do this via computer as sometimes it is required to camp due to how far the event may be from home. So I kinda need to do this on the fly.. which is where mobile apps like Gaia shine.

[@tshansen]

@@PennsylvaniaDualSport I know that mobile phones shine in some parts. But for my use the XT is the best option for my use and way of riding. I will try to test this function out tomorrow when I’m back from work. Thank you for bringing this to my attention 👏🏻