BMW Connected Ride Navigator Users Review - Is It Any Good?

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[@davidwilliambrowning]

Hi Andy, I work for BMW Rider Training and I've had one of these to try out at work and on my own 1250GS. Apologies if others have mentioned this (I haven't had time to read all the comments) but the new connected ride navigator is the new hub for your phone and any intercom you may have. So if these have been connected to the TFT previously, you should delete the connections from the TFT and reconnect to the new connected ride navigator. As the connected ride navigator is effectively hard wired to the bike (via the sat nav mount) this is how it acquires the bike data (tyre pressures, engine temp, fuel level, MPG, lean angle, oil level etc.). This new unit is really designed to work with an in-built SIM card for the live traffic info, POIs and to sync your rides with your BMW online ID. If you don't have a SIM card installed you need to set-up a Wi-Fi hotspot on your mobile phone and connect to that. Once you've done that you will see the traffic info displayed (green line on map for clear roads, amber and red for delays, as per Google maps). With a Wi-Fi hotspot connected, your recorded rides will then appear in the BMW Motorrad Connected Ride App on your mobile. You can also set destinations or import GPX routes to the Connected Ride app on your mobile (e.g. in the comfort of your home) and as soon as you fire up the bike (with Wi-Fi connected), everything will sync up. It works really well, but you need it connected via Bluetooth & Wi-Fi to get all the functions to work. I plan to buy one soon for myself but will get a cheap data SIM card to install to save all the faffing with a Wi-Fi hotspot. Hope that helps. Cheers.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Crikey what a load of faff!!

[@jjnewman65]

Good info Dave. Thank you 🙏🏻

[@skinnyrides]

1. can you set out your planned touring route on your desktop computer and transfer to the device as per the current Nav 5 /6? 2. If connected to the phone is it using your phone Data?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Re 1 yes - you can plan your route using the TomTom planner or MyRouteApp 2 Yes one has to assume so - but not for the mapping, just traffic updates etc (the dynamic stuff)

[@skinnyrides]

@@TheMissendenFlyer thanks for coming back. With Brexit about to do away with our phones ability to roam on the Continent the cost of having your Data connected would be come eye watering whilst touring

[@mojo4376]

Actually, BMW needs to incorporate Apple CarPlay into the TFT display like the Honda Africa Twin does. Beautiful system.

[@peterdane9138]

It can’t be any worse than the one on my RT. After being lost in a Spanish town in the pouring rain when it dropped out again I fitted a nav 6 to the bike. My top tip is always carry a map with you!

[@LTVoyager]

I have used Garmin on my BMW since the Nav III. I will take a dedicated GPS any day over a phone based navigator or even a navigator enhanced by a phone. Phone makes a great backup, but I like separation of function and redundancy and thus always use a dedicated GPS for navigation in addition to having my phone.

[@billstanden]

A good tip for the iPhone people, set up an Automation in the Shortcuts app to automatically open the Connected app when it connects to the BT on the bike. Set the Automation to Run Immediately. Saves opening the app ahead of time.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Good tip!

[@allen-ty2it]

Sorry not being that techs how do you set that up in iPhone and how does it assist? Just getting to grips with CRN and connecting to phone and intercom (cardo).

[@TiagoVieira]

@@allen-ty2it with the automation set, once you turn on the bike's ignition and the cradle connects to your phone (which is like instantly), it opens the connected app. Saves time if you use the cradle all the time. App Shortcuts > Automation > New "+" > Search for "Bluetooth" > Chose Device (should be your cradle bluetooth "BMW XXXXX") > "Execute immediately" > Press "Next" button > Search for "open app" and then choose the "Connected" app. Save it and you're all set

[@stevenpeyton7476]

@@TiagoVieira Thanks!

[@Teatimeted]

@@TiagoVieira This is solid gold mate, cheers.

[@kellyburris287]

The Connections menu is on the dash, not the nav unit.

[@horspiste]

Indeed, I heard him say the app said connect to the bike, not to the nav unit.

[@MRGS48]

Yeah the guy is obviously a retard🤣🤣🤣 And he said it twice open the connections on the bike🤣🤣🤣🤣 But these are the people that “tell” you what’s good on a such bike or not pretty pathetic I’d say

[@MichaelWade12]

Came here to say the same…..

[@johnalbone3372]

Brilliant bit of kit I bought mine when my old Nav 5 packed up after 6 years of daily use It's realy useful and as you said a great display I've had the app for some time and found it useful as it records all my journeys Still not sure what the app adds to the navigator Look forward to some more updates as you get used to it and as you found out the connections menu is on the navigator

[@SmileyoureonTV]

Whoops Andy you even said it at the start connect the app to the bike

[@AndrewRockliff]

Thanks for the research and practicality of your videos.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Wow - thank you very much!

[@BibTheBoulderTheOriginalOne]

As someone of a certain age, I found within 30 seconds I was drifting off to sleep. I like these old-fashioned things called maps. Yep, you need to stop now and again, but I don't mind that. I also find memorising routes before I set off is good for my old-age brain. Then there is the enjoyment to be had when you are at home or in your hotel opening/unfolding the map and looking at it in its glorious entirety, the whole area (or country, I am currently researching a future trip to Morocco) visible. Nonetheless, for you young puppies out there, I'm sure this is a great piece of kit.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I get that Bib - I personally use both, a map in the planning stage and a satnav when on the road….

[@BibTheBoulderTheOriginalOne]

...and I get that too....@@TheMissendenFlyer

[@k.o.486]

Great Review - Love themissendenflyer videos!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thanks!

[@grezallen]

Proper ‘man cave’ style review - top marks !

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thank you!

[@oddjob4877]

I’ve bought 2 of the CRN units so far and handed them both back as they both froze after a few days of usage. I’ve spoken to two dealerships who both report a number issues with the units even on latest software. I use my phone with the BMW CR app as my sat nav - which works very reliably. I use the BMW phone cradle to keep the phone both charged and secure.

[@keweenawbee]

Just got mine yesterday thanks for the help!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

No problem 👍

[@dsimon9s29]

Thank you for posting. Very informative video.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Glad it was helpful!

[@gnmurray5955]

I used a prototype version of this last July/August on a 14,000km 5 week ride through Central And Western Australia. I found a few bugs and made a few suggestions but essentially it was a pleasant unit to get along with. And I didn’t get lost!

[@chrisbroekhof]

Hi Andy, I love your youtube channel. Thank you. I think when the app ask you to connect with the bike, you have to connect with the bike. I am using the app without the Navigator and am connected to the bike. I am sometimes use the BMW connectedride cradle. When using this item I have also to connect withe the cradle. So what I am thinking is, you have firstly connect the app/phone to your bike. The phone/bike will remember this for the next times. Than connect to the navigator. (Probably the app or navigator will remember this also for the next times). Connected the app to bike will give you information in the app about your motorcycle data and your trip data on the app Connecting to the navigator will help the navigator to be up-to-date and give you information about speed limits and traffic information

[@mikedignum1868]

I went through five Nav6s before I gave up on their "issues" and bought a Zumo XT. No problems after a year of use and it's a lot cheaper than Nav6 or this BMW version which I think is approx £600. I keep my phone as a backup with a quad lock attachment on the bike.

[@busterrabbit]

For some reason the Zumo 660/Nav 4 and the Nav 5 appear to be far more reliable than the Nav 6.

[@nevillegriffiths8681]

Sorry for what could be a silly question but does the Zumo XT fit and work in the BMW cradle that’s already mounted on the BMW?

[@mikedignum1868]

@@nevillegriffiths8681 Yes but you need to buy an adapter, and the bikes wizz wheel wont work with this model

[@loddude5706]

Hmm, Add-on Gate, Navigate, Constipate? 'In days of old, when gloves went cold & Sat-nav weren't invented, we taped a half-mil to the top of the tank & rode around contented. . . . rarely actually got anywhere though . . . didn't really matter back then! . . . 'Progress' eh? : )

[@troppo4872]

Good review, thanks. I had the same setup as you on the 1200 GS - great. It is a real pity that BMW went in the WRONG direction with the RT nav arrangements....I use a Zumo.... 🙂

[@jimmyrottencauli]

I love the connected ride app, especially like planning your route on the phone and being able to change/alter it at cafe stop.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Sounds good!

[@bigmanmoto9897]

Thanks for this. Spot on with respect to not reading the manual. Real men don't need instructions 😅. And thanks for giving up what looks like a spectacular morning to be flying.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

It sure was!

[@davepyer]

Make sure the firmware on the CRN is updated to the latest version Andy. The original v1.0 firmware had lots of issues.

[@loztagain8278]

Always worth checking out how well it takes to change :) Anyway, interesting to see how these things go. Connecting to my honda was a faff as well.

[@KarlyBoy]

Andy, whenever dealing with BMW Bluetooth, the Bike is 'the Hub', connect everything to the BMW Bike (via TFT) through connections, so Pair Navigator to Bike, Headset to the Bike, Phone to the Bike and let the bike handle the connections between them

[@edwelld]

This is not the case with the connected ride navigator. Everything must be connected to the CRN, nothing to the bike/TFT

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Fun this isn't it.....

[@KarlyBoy]

@@TheMissendenFlyer 🤣

[@KarlyBoy]

@@edwelld good to know

[@getyourmotorrunning...]

This advice is contrary to @Edwelld - so who is correct?

[@mparrish444]

I just bought the new Connected Ride Navigator and returned it after using it for one day on my 2023 R1250 GSA. The map screen is useless for identifying street and town names as everything is terribly small. I applaud BMW for having a go at improving but after one week with my new Garmin XT2, I am disgustingly in love.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I agree the names are small - I need to checkout the Garmin….

[@CCooke-nm2be]

Excellent review Andy. I love your suck it and see approach to setting up and using new technology. 😄👍

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

It's the standard bloke approach isn't it?

[@maxflight777]

@@TheMissendenFlyer😂😂😂 Yep !

[@CCooke-nm2be]

@@TheMissendenFlyer Totally 😂

[@m.f.m.67]

Andy, as a pilot, you might enjoy the following anecdote: An old-time flight instructor once told me, "The difference between men and women pilots is, a woman pilot always reads the manual, and a male pilot just starts pushes buttons until something useful happens!" Perhaps motorcycle riders are the same?! 😁@@TheMissendenFlyer

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

@@m.f.m.67 ....actually when it comes to flying aeroplanes, I always read the manual! But good anecdote none the less!

[@GrumpyGoat]

Nice straightforward review of the basics of the unit. My kind of review! My issues with these phone-based piggy-back solutions is the reliance on the Bluetooth connection. Sometimes the connection is broken (from the get-go) for no apparent reason and the solution is to go into the phone and reset Bluetooth (turn off and then on again). When one needs to get going additional fiddling around is an irritation. On your ride you noted that the thing was offline and the phone was disconnected. See, with me that only needs to happen a couple few times before I would ditch the idea. Then the other concern for me is what happens when there is no phone service? This means no navigation. OTOH I do love the integration with the jog wheel and the idea of display of bike telemetrics its screen. That integration is its only selling point - in my view - over a stand-alone modern GPS. The BMW Nav VI is an excellent unit aside from the screen ghosting issues that have plagued it. Garmin has been very good about unit replacement, and there are rumours that updated screens for these units may now be included with the replacements - hope this is true. My replacement unit is still behaving. 🤞If not, then one would have to settle for one of these Connected Ride units if integration with the jog wheel is important. If not, then the very excellent Garmin Nuvo XT2 makes more sense and is cheaper. In a pinch without cell service, one could rely on using the phone directly and an app which has downloadable maps like CoPilot.

[@johnalbone3372]

You can run it as a standalone also you can install a sim card so it becomes a phone so the best of of all worlds

[@SouthWest-jj8yu]

I’ve got the Nav IV and it works fine not had any of the issues that get reported, so far anyway. The previous control up to the GS1300 you hold down or up to switch between screen control. The new connected ride seems to combine the old sat nav and what you get on the connected ride app on your phone. The TFT time set to auto time update usually does the time change when connected to the sat nav, or supposing in this case the connected device.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Hence why I mentioned it....

[@butlersg1]

Great video- interesting format for the review, a lot of work for the editor! Take 115!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Much appreciated!

[@garyhope0103]

A good 1st impression review. I'm not a great admirer of a 'connectivity' satnav, but the screen view and essential information looked pretty good, and the redirection quickness sounded spot on. When I toured, I used a tomtom rider, would put in my destination, add a stop or two and then check the route with my maps (always carried maps with me), and 9 times out of 10 it would be the route I'd looked at. But as you say Mr Flyer, that technology is 10/15 years old now. Looking forward to see more when you get more use out of it. Also, if you found it difficult to read some town/city names in normal, I'd have to rely on the road signs 🤓🤓😂😂

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I know the feeling!

[@stevebolton8471]

I use the round trip planning for twisty routes a lot in the riding season to potter around on back roads with the best scenery. Both Calimoto and Tom Tom have these (other apps are available). That saves a lot of time spent planning on a paper or digital map.

[@garyhope0103]

@@stevebolton8471 I also found that very good for round trips, especially the 3 options for 'twistyness' and hillyness.

[@grahamhunter3233]

My family bought me a Garmin 340 for my 60th birthday. It has taken me all over Norway, Sweden and Europe and it still going strong after 10 years with lifetime map updates.

[@neilhutton1528]

the connect to bike via settings was supposed to be to your bike (via the TFT) not the connected ride module. RTFM TMF. That said the connect ride app was designed before the connected ride screen was produced. The app gives you bike data, logs rides and gives turn by turn directions on the TFT in the absence of a navigator. I suspect the new navigator does both (gets the bikes vital stats via the cradle and is your nav).

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Sadly I do't have a manual! Thanks for the tips though!

[@MrBecksy2]

I'll stick with a Nav V for now I think and use a phone as a back up. I am quite handy with Basecamp and that combo with the Nav V works really well.

[@russellfletcher114]

I'm very late ..... sorry Andy just catching up 👍 Great little video as always, very informative and I'm sure a great help to anyone who's thinking about buying one 😀 All the best Russ

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thanks 👍

[@billcotton1551]

TMF ,my local dealer has a 1300GS in white and blue, with the gold wheels. It is gorgeous!

[@paulv22]

Not quite the same, but I've been using the ConnectedRide phone cradle and BMW app for nav. Overall, I can't complain about it. From what I can see, it's very similar to the Navigator as a solution. One thing that can be done is the TFT can display the turn by turn while the phone displays the map. I prefer that as it's easier to read. I do have an extra phone though so I keep my main phone in my pocket while riding and the second phone lives in the cradle. I do have the nav phone and my Cardo connected to the TFT and that works well. Every once in awhile though, the whole thing loses mind and I need to repair everything. Nice review. Thanks.

[@busterrabbit]

I love how spending £600 on a unit and then having to have an extra phone isn't seen as a major issue!

[@paulw3016]

@@busterrabbit You're misunderstanding. First, BMW makes the Navigator shown in this video. They also make a Connected Cradle which mounts to the BMW nav prep and holds a phone and ties into the control wheel, etc. With the BMW app running on the phone, you get very similar functionality to the stand alone Navigator. I paid ~$150 for the cradle on sale. You don't need an extra phone. I happen to have two phones (one work, one personal) and I use the work phone in the cradle and keep my personal phone in my pocket. Other people use an old phone with no service, possibly using the phone with service as a hot spot. The BMW app downloads maps locally so it doesn't even need service to work. You won't get real time traffic info though. The Navigator also doesn't need to be tied to a phone if you've already downloaded the maps.

[@jamesfisher1827]

Nice review Andy. I’ll be Interested to see if the whole integration between phone, bike and nav is smoother than the Nav6. I like the Nav6 when it works, just wish I could 100% rely on it, but I’ve had one completely fail and the current one has played up a little, which makes me dubious about touring with it.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Oh dear - sorry to hear that! I’ve yet to get a phone to talk to a bike reliably on any bike (including my GS and my Gold Wing)….in general although I love having a satnav available I’m not impressed (or bothered with) phone connectivity - too much faff!

[@geoffreymurphy896]

Great show flyer looks good the new system just one thing has it got a favourites system on it like the old that was so handy on the old one 👍

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I think it has yes but aren't 100% sure....

[@CAJLAMB]

Thanks Andy! Can you still customise the data items from the bike to display on the unit? Eg speed, heading, trip 1, etc.?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes you can....

[@michaelneve3223]

Really good review Andy. I’m trying to decide what to buy for my R1250GS, I’ve been using my phone with the connected ride app. I’ve had so many problems with it and BMW aren’t interested in helping. I have to say that £600 is a bit salty for me so I was thinking of getting the Zumo XT (£450 with blue light discount direct from Garmin). Do you not think that the Garmin colour palate and overall ease of reading is better than BMW’s user interface on both the connected ride app and the new navigator that you have reviewed?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I do!

[@michaelneve3223]

@@TheMissendenFlyersuccinct and to the point. Zumo XT2 for me!

[@charliestoybox2099]

When I used the connected ride app on my phone with my GSA 1250, figured out like others that it’s based off the Tom Tom.

[@richardsalsman1069]

Hi Andy. Does this unit display speed and fuel range etc. like the NAV 5? Like you I use the NAV 5 for that purpose since my 2016 GSA does not have TFT and if I were to upgrade to one of these I would miss that feature.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes I think it does (withough checking for it specifically)....

[@thomasgeser8486]

Nice video. Looking forwards to seeing other functions and all that other things... so far there is no big difference between Garmin and the BMW

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

No there’s not really - pretty much a straight replacement/upgrade afaic

[@edwelld]

I’ve had one of these for a few months now. Once you get the hang of it, it’s a big improvement on the nav5/6. The instructions provided are very thin and it has taken a bit of trial and error to get it to work as it should. Most important to note is that phone and helmet must be connected to the navigator NOT to the tft. I think the 1300 has different software on the bike which removes the connections menu item when the Navigator is present. It is still there on 1200/1250 but don’t use it, in fact best to remove the connection between the tft and your phone. This is a bit of a pita as you have to reconnect if not using the navigator. You can plan routes on the app on your phone including importing gpx files and these will automatically transfer to the navigator via “the cloud” provided both have WiFi connections - there is no direct connection between phone app and navigator. The new nav makes much better use of the wonderwheel than the nav5/6. Software updates keep coming, hopefully we will get speed camera alerts soon!

[@getyourmotorrunning...]

This advice is contrary to @KarlyBoy - so who is correct?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

@edwelld Thnaks for that lot - very useful feedback!

[@edwelld]

@@getyourmotorrunning...me 😂

[@Trevelyan1971]

I have this and find it very good, I did 'learn' that i had to remove my phone and Senna Connection from the bike and just have it connected to the Connected Ride plus I brought a cheap Data Sim card rather than use the phone data and that also works much better. The SIM card was £10 for 100gb per month.

[@paulchambers2296]

I understand that the new Navigator has a SIM facility in the unit so can upload and update en route. I have the Connected Ride Cradle which houses and wirelessly charges my phone but is still operated using the whiz wheel, the Motorrad app needs installing on your phone, but interestingly when using you get the map on your phone but also turn by turn instructions on your TFT. It looks like there is no turn by turn on your TFT with the Navigator, I think they missed a trick there! You also get all the bike info on the phone using this app.

[@roavrgroup4914]

BMW is always so much faff! I have the connected ride app and built in Nav on my K1600 and that actually works okay when it is all connected up! However, for down and dirty quick nav, nothing beats Google Maps on your phone just mounted to the handlebars! 650.00 is a lot of wedge when you have it on your phone.

[@walkingpictures]

I much prefer a stand alone sat nav (I use a TomTom Rider) but each to their own of course! Kimbo

[@davidbirchall5124]

Morning Andy Another Good video, the new set up looks good so far, as you say time will tell. Slight cha ge of Subject I was out on my Harley Deluxe yesterday and a brand new GS1300 went passed me, and I must say it really does look a much leaner version actually seeing in in the flesh....definitely not as in your face as the old GS was, not sure if that's a good or bad thing, but it definitely looked leaner...!!!! And I liked it, being a smaller rider like yourself, I'd definitely be more interested in having one than the old GS as size seem more easy to live with. The New 1300 does look smart tho, still not sure on the New Headlight, I guess I will grow on me. Keep up the Great Videos 🤘🤘✌️✌️🏍🏍😎😎

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Cheers David - don’t be fooled, I find the new GS much harder to move around than my 1200 that is actually lighter!!

[@davidbirchall5124]

@TheMissendenFlyer wow really much harder to move around....really.....thats strange as you say it lighter..!!! Well it definitely looks a leaner machine...!!! Looks can be deceiving then I guess..... Do you think you will get a New GS 1300 this year...??? Is stick with the old faithful 1200..???

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I'm saying the 1200 is lighter than the 1300 - technically (minus the centre stand etc) the 1300 is lighter than the 1250.

[@flyingjeff1956]

Timely. My dealer in Tennessee just "gave" me a connected ride navigator. Mixed review so far. Also, I've notice that the clock update is not "connected". Something basic. AND, when I downloaded the app, I got the impression that a subscription would be in my future (not.)

[@andrewmanahan2469]

Hi Andy There is also s sun position from behind where the Navigator’s screen surface is totally rendered opaque. I’m looking forward to your final conclusions on the 1300 - I’m not at all convinced about mine sadly.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Oh dear, sorry to hear that - what about the bike are you not convinced about? WHat did you come from?

[@terencenicholas5557]

Never mind the Sat Nav Andy, I think you need some more helmets!!

[@simonrobins9571]

Hi Andy , Can you tell me if Apple carplay works on the BMW connected nav so you could use other apps for navigation?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Sadly no it doesn't......

[@Bazza47]

I tried the app on my previous GS and it lost the phone signal justvwhen I needed it so I reverted to using my Nav5 instead. For what I need one for I'll stick to what I've got already and save the £600 but a useful video for anyone who's thinking of getting one.

[@markstemmett5296]

How about a video on the new menu system on the gs 1300

[@marklapirow5473]

Used the Nav V since 2016. Often use music on a SD chip. The new device does not do this. Phone connection here in Oz using Samsung, is very poor and often fails. Actual GPS is good. Price of new unit is horrendous.

[@johnsparks211]

How about route planning? You could use basecamp on the old nav. Can you plan with the new unit?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes you can but I tend not to get into that - as I said I'm a "simple" user!

[@Hooner77]

Thanks for the review. I use Garmin in my autos and the really like them. I have an older cheap TomTom on my motorcycle, and it has worked alright. My plan is to upgrade to the Garmin zumo XT2 this year. The one thing I liked about Garmin is they will update the maps for free. Will you have the same luxury on the BMW unit or like some auto manufactures charge you to update the map?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Good question - I have a feeling they are free but don't know 100%

[@Hooner77]

@@benkelly2190 Thanks for the update.

[@ianbutcher4652]

Andy, Have you thought about trying a Chigee AIO-5 Lite and comparing against the Connected Ride Nav? This would also give you front and rear cameras, blind spot detection, CarPlay/ Android Auto and all the nav apps that go with that. Would be good to see how you compare these against each other.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I've not heard of that - sounds cheapo chinese or am I wrong? I do like the idea of reliable carplay I must say...

[@extremeways2930]

Hi Andy. Have you any plans to test the Chigee unit or equivalent?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

No I had never heard of it until I put this video up and everyone seems to be mentioning it!

[@johnlenart597]

I still have the Nav 5 on my RS and probably use 1/10th of it's knowledge. Being old school, I still use AAA maps and the GPS as my backup. I guess I'm too retro.!! Lol. 👍👍5🏍🙋‍♂️

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I'm with you John!

[@LTVoyager]

How much faster does it run down your phone? I know using the navigation feature on my phone runs the battery down at least 3X faster than just listening to music and having the phone on.

[@jackmccourt6180]

If you put a matte screen protector on your dash screen it removes the glare and makes it readable in direct sunlight. Protects it from getting scratched too... win win

[@johnalbone3372]

The BMW screen protector does the job

[@alpacino1976]

Hi thanks for el video, I have a query. Can I use this new connect rider only as a gps? And still use TFT to handle music? I like being able to see the road in the gps (like I did in the old navigator 6) and have the music, calls and so on be used by the tft? I like the fact that I can change the song just by moving the wheel and being able to lower and increase the volume also just by moving the wheel, if I use this new connect rider, I would have to leave the map, go to the music section and change the song, and then, return to the map, I don't know if I understand? Thanks in advance, greetings

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I don’t know I’m afraid - sorry!

[@mojo4376]

It needs to be 2” bigger all the way around.

[@DonHutchins]

How much functionality do you get from this (and from BMW's other bikes where nav is built into TFT, i.e. RT, K1600, etc.) if you do *not* connect using your cell phone and the BMW app? For example, without any phone connected, does it still offer basic map/navigation?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes it does - as I thought I's explained in the video - having my phone connected seemed to make no difference to the mapping functionality!

[@veeken777]

WhooHoo. Saturday Andy

[@jonomasonILoveU]

Nice, I love kTm😁.

[@ccetin1968]

Hi Andy, Is it possible to rename points marked as Favorites in BMW Navigator? For example, I could not rename my home address, which I marked as a favorite, as "Home". It doesn't seem possible to reuse these favorite spots unless you write down the names of the places marked in Spot Marker. regards,

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I don’t know I’m afraid - sorry!

[@jimhutton4352]

Andy that damp patch is affecting my anxiety mate 😮

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Mine too!!

[@nlmotor]

Interesting video Andy, next time, clean the windscreen 😂

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Sorry!

[@willwye410]

An extravagance! OK, it can be controlled by the “whiz wheel” but personally I don’t find it a hardship to use the touch sensitive screen on my Garmin. It does nothing a good dedicated satnav doesn’t do, but it can only be integrated to BMWs. I’m sure there are plenty of BMW technophiles who will rush out to get one just because it’s a new BMW gadget but I’ll stick with my Garmin which I can also use on my other bikes.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Fair enough!

[@chewie8]

Do you know if the new dash is also a tracker like the cars have with My BMW app?

[@AndreiGrad007]

I have same one , THE PROBLEM is once you put the address in phone on app bmw connected app should automatically transfer to navigation same is going to TFT in navigation you need to enter address manually, which is not good. Is easier to do it on phone and after to pop up on nav but I think BMW should do something about

[@steveh545]

excellent. most ('most'!) sat nav units allow you to change font sizes and detail levels at different zoom levels. (comment more for the algorithm than anything else.. lol)

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes I assume there’s a setting in there somewhere too but I’m yet to find it!

[@MarkATaylor]

I have the Nav 6 which I like although it malfunctioned - random screen movements and touch screen failure - but to be fair to BMW they gave me new one without quibble. I understand this is common fault and perhaps why BMW dumped Garmin. Does the Nav 5/6 work on the 1300GS ?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes I guess it does as the mount is the same and the new device works on the older bikes…

[@Chris-fz1ju7ru7e]

Andy, on another matter, you had plastic protection film fitted to your red Ducati. I’m considering fitting this to my new bike, would you recommend having it done?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes!

[@S.p.a.c.e.C.o.w.b.o.y]

How they can justify £600 for a satnav these days is ridiculous.

[@colingoldthorpe5918]

The windshield bracket looks like a Batman logo 🤷‍♂️🤷‍♂️. I have a Garmin GPS on my Trophy and it was garbage. Google map’s Bluetooth to my Cardo is the best solution. I build my route on my computer and airdrop it to my phone. Pretty simple and using what I already own. Travelled all over the western USA with zero issues. GPS systems are kind of obsolete now if you’re staying on paved roads. I use an 11” Apple CarPlay screen in my Ford F150 1/2 ton pickup truck which is incredible. That $140 airplay screen was the best thing automotive I have purchased in years.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

SOunds good to me!

[@gbreslin6635]

I'd guess the sat nav angle was slightly more vertical when the dash was glaring out which would have had an influence on how much better the sat nav was re glare.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Possibly - but the difference in reflectivity between the screens was quite marked....

[@sussexbiker]

@2:53 "Open the connections menu within the settings menu on the MOTORCYCLE and pair a new mobile device" You went to the satnav which was why you were having issues.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

That'll teach me!

[@dean-does-stuff-81]

I bought the Bluetooth module for my new ktm. I have installed it myself but it needed to be flashed by the dealer. I paid for that, but unfortunately I still can’t use it in the sat nav mode. So I have to go to the dealer and ask what’s up. I have to say, in retrospect I wish I had just waited for the new beeline that comes out in May of this year. I love my beeline, but for motor way work, it is a bit crappy, and I miss junctions quite a lot. I really don’t want a screen up on the bike, but at this point, I may have to bite the bullet and just get a sat nav for it. As I want to get out and about this year on some longer rides around Europe. I am living in hope that the new beeline is the answer… 🤞🏻

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes I'm looking forward to trying that too....

[@davidz8]

I have just seen you in 4k for the first time as my new MacBook Air M3 just arrived, you look so much younger than in 720p Andy. 😀

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Well that's good to hear!

[@jackryan1962]

So what is the actual device in the cradle? I’ve got a ‘22 GS and use my iPhone in the Connected Ride cradle with the BMW Connected Ride App…. Works pretty well and integrates with the wiz wheel

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

It's called the "BMW Connected Ride Navigator"

[@jackryan1962]

Thanks Andy 👍

[@getyourmotorrunning...]

Do you have to pay a subscription - when you buy it - after a 12 month trial??

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Not that I'm aware of no....

[@user-wx1jk4mg1t]

Hello Sir, hello Andy, great work on KZbin, i'm a fan but I have some problems with the new BMW connected Ride Navigator on my R1300GS. When the Navigator is in its holder, original BMW, it connects with your phone and packtalk after doing the necessary. So far, so good, but music quality is bad and I lose communication with my fellow riders in DMC-mode. The thing with this new navigator is that once it is in the holder you can not access connections in the TFT menu because it simply disapperars and so can not pair your helmet and your phone through the TFT what I always did with the Navigator 6 on my R1250GS. I think that is very strange and not good. My dealer told me they could shortcut some wires so that connections will reappear in the TFT but this will unable the rolling wheel to be used with the new Navigator. Do you have any experience in this matter and what are your thoughts about this? Many thanks to you and all that reads this.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I don't I'm afraid (I've never been able to get connectivity to work satisfactorily on any bike!)...what a faff!!

[@doolar]

I have the exact same problem. The sound quality is horrible when playing via the CRN. Another thing is that when connecting as BMW suggests, there is no connection with the Packtalk Edge and my phone, so I lose the ability to control the Edge via its app. I would like to have control over which Bluetooth service every connection uses in the CRN. I think it’s a great device otherwise, but unfortunately I can’t use the phone and music controls. I do appreciate that the CRN is self sufficient with a SIM card in it, it does not need a BT connection to do its job.

[@xraylover]

A great insight into my next possible purchase upgrade from the Nav 5. on anther topic that lead flapping about and rubbing the paintwork would bother me and I would have to change the routing somehow. :-) #ocd ;-)

[@mkuric]

hi, do you know where to switch on altitude display? tnx

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I'm afraid not no....

[@gbreslin6635]

Hi, As an oldie with a garmin 5, the labels on the screen are always too small.

[@scottyuk]

The map layout looks 10-15 years ild. No 3D? No imagary or even countours etc? If the poster belownis correct and its mesnt to have a sim thr question is why? We have phones with data capabilities so why would we also need another sim? Useful video 👍

[@backtoonature5594]

You don’t need to download the app. Just connect using bt. However before you connect to Bluetooth you have to connect to WiFi. Not sure why. Once you’re connected to WiFi, go to connect phone via Bluetooth and connect your phone like pairing any other Bluetooth device

[@bikerslow2598]

Are speed data etc uploaded somewhere by BMW with this new system?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

It appears to be yes…

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I’m assuming you mean speed limits downloaded not actual speed you ride uploaded btw

[@SoDakTwisties]

I'm planning on getting a new RT this year and I already know I won't be relying on BMW's awful navigation solution. I'd rather have a self-contained unit I can take inside and update via WiFi once in a while. I work in IT, love tech on bikes, etc...but the way the BMW phone app works, it demands to be the 'active app' at all times. I'm not willing to hamstring my phone to have in-display nav. I may test with my old Pixel 5 w/o a data plan dedicated for use on the bike just to display a map. Otherwise, I may do what 'Nothing to Prove' has done and simply mount a Garmin nav unit.

[@commander_lard]

to be fair the instructions did say to connect your "bike" .... the settings and connection menu was actually in the bike menu ..... the app wanted to connect to the bike it seems

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes you may be right although clearly it wasn’t obvious to me!

[@RichardHMorris]

A pity about the lack of any "safety camera" notifications for all those 'dangerous' places, unlike the Garmin units.

[@RustyRecovery]

So is this still a GPS or is it purely a phone driven device? If the latter, there will be times the signal drops out. Also, if using on a trip through Europe there will be roaming charges.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

It still works, even if you don’t connect it by phone, it has a built-in GPS as I said in the video.

[@RustyRecovery]

@@TheMissendenFlyer Apologies for leaving the comment. I didn’t recall you stating it had built in GPS, only that it worked to a degree without a phone connected.

[@critch.]

I couldn't see current speed, is that available? I always ride by GPS speed due to the how speedo's have to over-read by law and GPS speed is more accurate (with a good connection to the GPS satellites). The device looks a bit small too and I agree about the labels being too small. Not all of us have 25-year-old bionic eyesight!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes you can show current speed same as you did on the old nav V and VI

[@P.M_M]

Just minus 10% from your current speed 🤷🏽‍♂️

[@CaravanWithThatYorkshireChap]

Nice unit. For a BMW accessory I think it’s priced right. I suspect it’s still made by Garmin.

[@davepyer]

It is not made by Garmin. I think I read it's made by a company called Cyrus (maybe wrong) and it uses TomTom mapping now.

[@CaravanWithThatYorkshireChap]

@@davepyerbe interesting what computer software it uses for route planning

[@alanhall7213]

Looks like Garmin has now teamed up with Yamaha. The Tracer 9+ has Garmin based nav

[@jonathanroper9956]

Does it give speed camera warnings?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Not that I noticed - does give speed limits though

[@robertcorbett4720]

I have one of these but was not supplied with a user manual so have been finding it very difficult to work out how it runs 😮

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I share your pain!

[@smudger3195]

you have got a great stash of beer in that man cave 🍻😁

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Well spotted...

[@allen-ty2it]

For me the Nav 6 was a disaster. Aside from the ghosting issues caused by dodgy screens it was awful when you imported routes and tracks. If you accidentally set the start point at an inaccessible location it threw the whole thing out because to follow the track you had to ride through the start point, you couldn’t join it 10 metres up the road and continue. Couple that with constant connectivity issues with bike and intercom, it made riding a faff. In Northern Spain Nav 6 let us down so many times but phone wasn’t a solution as no phone signal. I replaced with the CRN and first impressions are good. I connect phone then Cardo direct to CRN (not to bike) and connectivity seems to work fine. I have done routes on RouteYou app on PC, saved as GPX file then saved onto my phone and added to BMW Connected app which uploads automatically to CRN next time I turn it on. There is no manual so reading other users tips on here really helpful. Great vids @themissendenflyer - thanks for sharing

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thanks for confirming there is no manual- thought it was just me!! Surely there must be one to download somewhere?

[@allen-ty2it]

@@TheMissendenFlyer I think there is a starter manual that basically tells you how to turn it on. Trying to find the route you took in your 2018 video when you went off road on the GS with Toro Trails. The 15km stretch of trail off the A366 that eventually led you to Restaurante El Mirador? Any clues as to roughly where the track started 😬👍