Install: Garmin Zumo XT Mount for BMW R1250GS Navigation Bracket (BMW Navigator VI)

[@rickymccafferty7840]

That’s awesome. Too bad the mount is no longer available. My BMW Navigator VI screen goes haywire and jumps around on its own.

[@jamessimmons459]

Adam do you miss the Wonder wheel and how well do you like the XT with this mount. Did you go with 90 degree or horizontal Thanks

[@AdamChandler86]

I haven’t really thought about it. Wonderwheel I mostly used for zooming and so I quickly got used to not having it. I ended up changing it from 90 to horizontal on my GS. On my Husky, I keep it vertical next to the iPhone.

[@xjr13john]

Having yet another Nav 6 stop working correctly I am looking to buy and fit a zumo XT, the fixing kit you used leaves a big gap and I wonder if that will cause a problem with water ingress?

[@AdamChandler86]

No issue with that but I did end up switching to Touratech's mount because this one had issues with power delivery (power would cut out)

[@kristopherryanrides198]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/ioHMcqacibmBkKM

[@timphoto83ec]

I have a NAV 6 and have not had a problem with it. People comment that its old fashioned so can i ask everyone apart from reliability what are the advantages of the Zumo over the Nav6? Cheers Tim

[@AdamChandler86]

If your NAV 6 is working fine, no need to change. This is faster with a larger screen, has Topo maps and clearly shows dirt roads which I like. The reason I upgraded is because I was on my 4th NAV 6 replacement and was tired of the unreliability.

[@redhorsegarage]

I have a Zumo that I used on my F800 which was sold last fall for a R1200. My K1600 came with a Nav VI so I have been swapping that between the K1600 and R1200. Will look at the adapter you used as to keep a GPS on each bike. Timely share ... thanks!

[@Madforthetar]

Hi Adam. I purchased the same unit from Italy and found that the XT powered up and showed charging. However, when started the engine the unit stopped charging. I then took the unit off the adaptor and swithed it off, started the engine and the replaced the xt and it powered up and showed that iot was charging. Great vid by the way.

[@AdamChandler86]

You probably need a new base. The first batch of Zumo XT devices have a base that is slightly too large so the power connection isn't perfectly seated. Garmin mailed me a new one when I complained about losing power.

[@Madforthetar]

@@AdamChandler86Adam......cleaned all connections pressed adaptor connections.....and it works perfectly now. Start the engine it looses the lightning bolt for a second or two but then starts charging again......

[@kristopherryanrides198]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/ioHMcqacibmBkKM

[@Kameel227]

Do you have more detail on where to buy this adpater kit for zumo XT?

[@AdamChandler86]

The link is in the description but I'm pasting it here as well - www.adapter3dmotorrad.it/en/product/e-navxt/

[@Kameel227]

Tx, much appreciated👍🏻

[@keepridenon]

@@AdamChandler86 I hope this isn't a stupid question but the link says the adaptor kit is for an F750GS - is it the same for an R1200GS?

[@kristopherryanrides198]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/ioHMcqacibmBkKM

[@5280Woodworking]

The wheel doesn’t seem like a big deal to me, but what about other bike info? Tire pressure, critical bike messages, etc?

[@AdamChandler86]

Those parameters are mostly covered now with the TFT screen. It's all there except maybe...nevermind I can't think of anything the Garmin had that the TFT doesn't. BMW is going larger on the next GS TFT (look at the R1250RT) so I think they're phasing out the NAV completely as a built in bracket.

[@5280Woodworking]

@@AdamChandler86 Right. The TFT has everything but my point was whether or not the XT had any of it, sounds like no. Yea I’m holding out on a new bike until 2022 or 2023 when BMW moves to the big screen. And I will only upgrade when CarPlay is available. The BMW connected app is ok but rubbish in comparison. My buddies gold wing has it and it is lovely and super convenient.

[@AdamChandler86]

Nope, the NAV VI had an array of like 12 metal contact points. The Zumo XT has only two (power only I imagine) so it's not receiving any data from the bike, just power.

[@daoudik]

I'm asking only because I've never used an actually GPS unit and instead rely on phone apps for online and offline maps: what is the advantage of having a dedicated guidance unit?

[@AdamChandler86]

Just that..dedicated. I don't have to worry about not having my speed front & center or having a podcast playing on my phone and know where I'm going. Having the map always on updating if I miss a turn, it's just less distracting to always have one screen dedicated to navigation. I keep iPhone apps with maps and navigation installed just in case I need them.

[@e-gadgetsfreakITA]

Thank you Adam for your "how to" vlog, very useful 😊 I did similar installation on my GS Adv but I decided to use existing BMW original mount, instead of an expensive adapter mount. So, with about 12$ I was able to install everything and at the same time protect more the release button of the XT from being pressed accidentally and still keeping the installation BMW style 😊

[@BanjoManFleckFan]

How exactly did you mount the Zumo XT onto the existing BMW original mount? Thanks!

[@e-gadgetsfreakITA]

@@BanjoManFleckFan Isn't difficult. You just remove the center part assembly and with longer screws and spacers, replace the original mount coming with the Zumo XT. Of course also the customized BMW electric plug needs to be added to the XT harness. It works beautifully, I have it on my GS Adv LC.

[@mickolsen2949]

@@e-gadgetsfreakITA sounds great. any chance you can post pictures what it looks like and perhaps a brief manual? Cheers

[@trevoryard9954]

@@e-gadgetsfreakITA Can you post some pictures please? I just got my zumo xt and ready to install it.

[@e-gadgetsfreakITA]

@@trevoryard9954 How?

[@paladinadjusting5096]

Hi - will this work with the Zumo XT2?

[@AdamChandler86]

Maybe. I'm not actually sure. Haven't tested it yet.

[@Pritam77]

Thanks for sharing, do they have a kit to install Garmin zumo 396 LMT-S on the BMW GPS mount?

[@AdamChandler86]

I've found they're great at getting back to me via email. Drop the company a note and see. They're in Italy so you have to use International English or maybe google translate :)

[@Pritam77]

@@AdamChandler86 Thanks, will give it a shot.

[@rjsalameh]

How does this integrate with the BMW jog wheel?

[@AdamChandler86]

It does not. The jog wheel becomes only a controller of the TFT screen. the Zumo XT doesn't have that integration.

[@rjsalameh]

Thank you!

[@danbad63]

Sending back my second NAV 6! Had it about six months before it started ghosting, screen jumping and unresponsive screen. Will be installing the XT as soon as the new bracket arrives. If your considering a NAV 6...don't do it!☹

[@AdamChandler86]

I’m very happy with the Zumo XT. Huge upgrade over NAV VI..only loss is the wonder wheel controls on the BMW but this is definitely device to buy. 50% cheaper than NAV VI and much better.

[@danbad63]

I agree! Just started using the XT on my CRF450L and so far it's awesome. However, so disappointing Garmin/BMW can't figure out the issue with the NAV 6.

[@jeffsachs6323]

Curious how the bracket has held up off-road since installation.

[@AdamChandler86]

Good morning. So far, zero issues with this mount. Very solid.

[@jeffsachs6323]

@@AdamChandler86 Awesome! I am going to call Garmin for the ghosting issue on my Nav VI. Heard they discontinued it so will go your route if they can't send me a new one. Plus the GPS, Phone, headset connection never did work well on the VI. I hear it is flawless on the XT. So frustrating.

[@facatube]

Good kit. Anyway can you give information about tools in the background? Thanks

[@AdamChandler86]

www.amazon.com/dp/B0024LOT6Y?ref=exp_adamchandler_dp_vv_d - This is the kit I use. It is fantastic. I use all Wera tools, their Torx socket kit is very good.

[@jianxiongRaven]

is it easy to reach and use especially while riding ?

[@AdamChandler86]

It's about the same as the stock setup except you lose the wonder wheel to zoom in and out but I personally don't mind it.

[@jianxiongRaven]

@@AdamChandler86 wow , so the stock wan could be controlled from thew wheel ?

[@RidingCorners]

Thanks for putting this up. Thanks to you I've discovered this mount and have now placed an order.

[@MultipleInterface]

How has it been?

[@RidingCorners]

@@MultipleInterface it’s been brilliant. Flawless so far.

[@MultipleInterface]

How has it been?

[@AdamChandler86]

Just fine. very happy with the unit. it seems to have dropped in price since I bought mine from $499 to $399.

[@damytzeus]

what's the advantage of zumo xt vs nav6? I like wonder wheel function.

[@AdamChandler86]

You lose that but that's it. You gain a ton of off-road features like Topo maps, low class unpaved roads, cool POIs and even some 3D / aerial map features. It also has web-based POI search through FAcebook/Google/FourSquare so you don't have to type in full addresses anymore. Screen is larger and brighter. I wouldn't go back to a NAV VI now.

[@damytzeus]

@@AdamChandler86 if i could run apps on the zumo. i might consider it. i still carry cell phone for apps like cotrex and alltrails. i.e., i can use phone to fulfill all the other benefits of zumo. not enough bennies for me to give up nav6 and integrated features for zumo. i use nav6 across four bikes, only one of which is a bmw. it works for now. the size of zumo doesn't necessarily appeal for technical offroad riding.

[@AdamChandler86]

Size for me is the only negative. You and I are similar in that we can't just switch NAVs...but also we have to switch charging / mounts/locks so it's a lot more than $500. I've bought Two touratech locking mounts and 3 sets of Garmin charging wires + bases so it's been a little expensive to switch.

[@kevinchesley3705]

What gloves do you like best for using the touch screen?

[@AdamChandler86]

Any one will work. It really depends on the weather. I primarily ride with Klim's Dakar Pro (old model) or their new Latitude wind stopper glove. Touring I use their Badlands GTX and winter, their "Klimate" glove All of them work okay.

[@heinzhubbert1512]

This was definitely a good video . Easy to understand for a novice like myself 😊

[@AdamChandler86]

I’m a novice too so we’re in good company!

[@jonlongmire]

I did same install after watching this video. Question: Have you had any problems with the bike while running the XT? When using the XT installed in the Nav 6 cradle on my GS 1250 , it triggers the anti-theft system and turns the ignition off. I haven't tried it with the motor running yet but sitting on the stand it happens about 1 minute after pushing the ignition button. Any ideas?

[@AdamChandler86]

I've had issues with the electric connection being interrupted randomly but I don't think it's the NAVXT mount but Garmin's plug system which is known as faulty. Garmin has mailed me two new wiring connections and mount pieces so I'm going to reply and try that.

[@brycebergren1367]

Are you still happy with this adapter?

[@AdamChandler86]

It's good for the price and is plug & play. Nice way to get the Zumo XT wired in without any wiring required. I wanted something more sturdy so I purchased the Touratech locking mount eventually but this was a good stop gap.

[@browmi03]

Thats really cool. I just removed it and wired in the normal mount.

[@johnbellamy5970]

Do you have a link for the adapter kit from your Italian friends, I have the xt on my GSA but it isn’t lockable. Thanks

[@johnbellamy5970]

Cancel that, I found it, thanks

[@kristopherryanrides198]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/ioHMcqacibmBkKM

[@bradb2514]

Adam, I have a Nav V now on my non-TFT 2014 GSW. Does the Zumo still allow access to the other digital bike information (gauges) screens through the Nav unit? (Tire pressure, oil temp, speedo, etc.) You may have to refer back to your non-TFT GS days. Also, can you send GPS routes to the bike via WiFi? Thanks!

[@AdamChandler86]

Hi Brad. No-sir, you loose all of the wonder-wheel functionalities & bike parameters.

[@bradb2514]

Bummer. Thanks for the confirmation.

[@verdonrocksphotography3510]

cool gadget, I am looking for some cool mount for 750 for installation Zumo XT behind TFT, not planing to use BMW bracket.....if you know some company I would appreciated, cheers V!

[@AdamChandler86]

MotoPumps has a cool GPS Mount that will replace BMW's - www.motopumps.com/shop/gps-mount

[@bsalvis]

@@AdamChandler86 I got the Alibaba version of this mount and it seems to be well made. Price was also very good, just had to wait 3-4 weeks to get it.

[@verdonrocksphotography3510]

@@AdamChandler86 thank you, will go check them 🙏

[@kerseymancory]

Awesome video. Just a bummer the unit doesn't support the wheel functionality and not recognized by TFT. Still impressive that the aftermarket parts make the install easy. Sadly, I think I'm holding out hope for the Nav VII

[@RidingCorners]

Doubt there will be a Nav VII. BMW seems to be integrating the nav with the TFT judging by the new RT. I think we might see a very revised GS in 2022 with new TFT and new front to accommodate for the Radar Cruise Control.

[@keithtownsend3050]

Any word on capability in the near future?

[@AdamChandler86]

You mean integration with the BMW system? Very unlikely. I don't expect that to be the case :(

[@keithtownsend3050]

@@AdamChandler86 compatibility... yes. Seems silly to have a Nav VII when a developed product (COS) is available

[@AdamChandler86]

I have a very strong suspicion that there's no NAV VII. Garmin is now selling NAV VI units with a new software that I think was destined for gen-7. Now that BMW's connected App is being paired with larger TFT screens (RT now, GS next redesign), I think the BMW NAV is dead. Just my personal opinion.

[@bsalvis]

I received my Zumo XT last week and will be installing it soon. It looks like the adapter is pre-wired for connection from the stock mount to the Zumo, I'm assuming the voltage is already stepped down at the cradle since nav6 is basically a Garmin. My question is this.. I bought one of the can-bus pig tail plugs to use the existing wiring for the factory plug/power source and will wire it to the Garmin cable. Can i cut the Garmin cable and eliminate the in-line voltage step-down box if plugging into the BMW plug that is used by the factory nav? I haven't checked voltage from the factory plug yet, but any insight would be helpful. Otherwise wrapping up all that extra wire from the garmin and hiding behind the tft would be a challenge; not only that, but I don't want to step down a 5 volt source.

[@bsalvis]

Ok, so curiosity prevails. I just went and checked and the pig tail outputs 12 volts across pins 1 and 3, so the factory nav mount must be dropping the voltage within the mount. Now to figure out what to do with the long garmin cable. Maybe i'll just run it back to my switched relay under the seat and just not use the pig tail cable. I guess I'll figure it out this weekend.

[@AdamChandler86]

@@bsalvis Yep, you're right!

[@kristopherryanrides198]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/ioHMcqacibmBkKM

[@bradb2514]

Adam, I wanted to circle back on the XT. I was wondering if your still happy with the XT and if it’s worth the loss of the GS wonderwheel functionality. And did you stay with the Italian mount or upgrade to anything else? I read somewhere, I think, that you were considering the (pricey) Touratech mount. Thoughts? I’m about to pull the trigger on the XT and will switch it between bikes as well. I just purchased a Honda CRF300L to compliment the GS. The 300L isn’t in the same league as your Husky but it should be easier to muscle through some stuff that scares me when I’m alone on the GS. It’s my first foray into the dual sport scene.

[@AdamChandler86]

You are going to be thrilled with the 2 videos coming out this week :) ------ I'm loving the Zumo XT. It's a massive upgrade to the NAV VI unless losing the Wonderwheel controls is a deal breaker for you. For me it wasn't. the biggest improvement for me personally is my Cardo & iPhone are paired to the Zumo XT and then I move that GPS between 3 different bikes so I never have to worry with pairing ever again. I no longer pair my iPhone to the GS. The Zumo has wonderful Topo-maps, has all of the low class unpaved roads, has historical markers, faster search, online search of FAcebook/Foursquare places and is much better at controlling music. I'm a fan. Thinking of cost, NAV VI is $1000. Zumo is $399 on sale. Touratech mounts were $200 each or $400 total so all in I'm out about $900 for nav, mounts and extra wiring / base plate and I have a NAV that lives on 3 bikes. with one bike just being a RAM mount. Zero complaints here.

[@bradb2514]

Trigger pulled! The XT is on the way. Thanks for the detailed feedback! I look forward to the new videos! I hope you explain how to use the XT…I hate reading instructions! 😆

[@AdamChandler86]

Oh, I hadn't thought to do a how-to video. I need to figure out an overhead camera setup where the Garmin doesn't reflect ceiling lights back at the camera...hmm thanks!

[@Irrumbuman]

Hello Adam, I bought the E-navXT- Horizontal, without anti-theft from 3D motorrad, but didn't get the locking mechanism piece. Did you buy it seperatly. Pls let me know. Thanks, Tony

[@AdamChandler86]

Interesting. That locking piece, to my knowledge, IS the 'anti-theft' sounds like they forgot to include it.

[@Irrumbuman]

Thanks a lot for the swift response. Clarified now that the piece is an anti-theft piece and I ordered without it :( I will try to order it separately if possible. But I am going to set up on my GS 750

[@kristopherryanrides198]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/ioHMcqacibmBkKM

[@ThrillaPark]

Adam, do you know if this will work with my '14 1200GS that came with Nav V?

[@AdamChandler86]

It should work. The thing is, I don’t want to make the mistake of having someone waste money so you should probably do two things. Call a dealer and ask if the 2014 mount is the same as the 2017+ mount (NAV VI) and then email 3DMotorrad (the people who make the 3D printed mount) and see if they can confirm a 2014 GS compatibility. If both give the thumbs up, then you’re good!

[@ThrillaPark]

@@AdamChandler86 Thanks!

[@ThrillaPark]

@@AdamChandler86 Just installed. Really cool. BUT mine does not turn off when I turn engine off. In others the power is not wired to key-on. Is this the same for you?

[@chrisquarto5098]

site is in Italian . I need the adapter plate and lock mechanism. Can anyone help me order this for BMW 850 gs?

[@AdamChandler86]

Hi, best to send them an email, they're helpful - [e-mail]

[@kristopherryanrides198]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/ioHMcqacibmBkKM

[@torbensnedker8587]

Hi Adam Fantastic video :-) Do you know if there is a difference between the mounts for navigator VI? I have a bracket from Hornig (GPS mount 3 to BMW R1200RT 2005-2009) where the bracket for navigator VI sits. The bracket is exactly like what you have on the video, but do you know if there is a specific difference. The web page you are referring to in Italy does not have a BMW R1200 RT from 2005-2009 on the page, but only the R model and RT LC model. Hope you can help Regards Torben from Denmark

[@AdamChandler86]

Hi Torben, thank you for watching. Zumo XT & Nav VI connect much differently. The only similarity would be the power connectors on the rear row of connectors are the same. The rest is different from how they connect. I think what I linked to is specifically for the Bracket that BMW sells as an OEM part. You'd probably have the most luck by emailing the Italian company a link to what you have and asking about compatibility.

[@jfbourdeau]

Tks for the video ! !! JF MTL Canada

[@mrhlynnu1464]

I can’t believe BMW hasn’t released a Navigator VII.

[@PatsAdventuresTravels]

They are going built in now. Look up what they just put on the 2021 R1250RT.

[@AdamChandler86]

Yeah, I held out for a while. The NAV VI has also been unreliable requiring so far, 3 warranty replacements for me when I ride in cooler temperatures. The weather sealing seems compromised and it will take on condensation and fail. The Zumo XT is bigger, brighter, faster and hopefully won't have water ingress problems.

[@momcnomc]

a very nice share thanks