Tom Tom Rider 550- The Good, The Bad & F*%$*!

[@marktaylor4277]

Having had my 550 for about a year now and have had numerous problems with it, I can agree with a lot of the points you raised. Updating can be horrendously slow and often fails :( That 'U' bolt mount, what were they thinking? :( I charge mine overnight turing the unit off so never know when it's fully charged. I recently did over a 6 hour ride running on internal power. :) Never tried charging it by USB battery bank, just plugged mine in and it works! Maybe your pack didn't supply enough oomph? So, that's a :) Now comes my worst issues with it, navigation - which is what it was designed for... You can program a route in 3 different ways not including importing from another source.. a whole new ball game. So, from a PC, a phone or on the 550 itself and are the versions of maps on each of these devices exactly the same and are the algorithms working out the route the same? I ask because normally I would plan a route from the comfort of my own home on a bigger screen but find that if I follow my route I am taken off my intended route for seemingly no reason, coming back the original way there were no roadworks etc, this often happens. Recently travelling from north Wales to the south my 550 reboots (internal power so no outside cause) and once back on my route is shown ahead, no problem but I notice at the right side it says recalculating route 0%. I wait.. and I wait.. several miles later it announces you have a new destination. Erm... OK... going to tell me what my new destination is? Nope! I have to pull off the road to investigate and find my new destination is where I started out from :( I've travelled 1000's of miles in cars with satnavs and not had these issues. The least troublesome way of programming a route I have found is to to it on the 550, just seems to work better but isn't the easiest of jobs to do due to the small screen size. Please don't get me started on connectivity. Damn, you just did! In busy traffic I found I needed audio in my helmet so bought a Freecom 4X, in the beginning it all worked well until I tried pairing with a Senna unit and it's been unreliable since despite several resets of all devices and setting up again from scratch. Not managed to find the culprit between Android phone, 550 or 4X. This all brings me back to my current dilemma and the reason why I watched your review. Where do I go from here? Garmin have recently release the XT-2 and costs in excess of 500 of our best British pounds - but early reviews I've watched make it look clunky to program a route. Mobile phone maybe the best option but mine is a few years old and early water resistant.. decisions, decisions. Thanks for your review :)

[@ToniReviews]

Wow! Thank you mark for sharing this detailed user experience! Simply wow….lots and lots of issues here you have highlighted. Thanks so much for sharing you detailed review which I’m sure will help so many people out there. I’ll pin this comment as it is so detailed and useful. Thanks for sharing 👍

[@ToniReviews]

As a side note , I invested in a second phone (2nd hand and waterproof iPhone SE) that I just use for navigation on the bike . If using satnav maps I use an app called maps.me, but a majority of the time simply Google maps or sygic. 👍

[@pj3175]

Brilliant , honest review.. A real joy to listen to .. Big THANK YOU

[@ToniReviews]

Thank you kindly! Knowing people enjoy an honest review from a real person is encouraging. Thank you for your kind words of support 👍

[@chiefxnetconz]

Wow Toni, as a born pom now a kiwi I really appreciate your review, I was just about to purchase one at $288NZD after watching 3 positive reviews untill i saw yours. I have had Zumo's for the last 4 years and can 100% agree sat navs have their issues which build up to " i can't be bothered spending valuable riding time to make this work " I already have the Quadlock vibration dampening charging system on my Vstrom which works perfectly. I have just purchased Cygic Premium and am keen to try out. Thanks Toni, you saved me some bucks.

[@ToniReviews]

Wow a Pom / No. love to hear how far these videos reach. Yes I sold the sat nav as soon as I got back to the uk. Really did not feel it was worth the money or the effort. There are so many good apps out there that far outweigh the clunky old sat nav’s. I used sygic on a small European trip and it was outstanding, so the pro version I reckon will be amazing. I think phones and apps do an amazing job and the variety out there is just awesome. I recently used an app called REVER, to take the odd twisty route home when riding, and whilst it definitely has some drawbacks, some of the roads it chose, took me on some amazing little routes I’d never before explored. Good luck with the app I think the pro version will be more than capable and far outweigh a Tom Tom. Let me know how you get on!

[@philbell3342]

I have experienced all the problems you are saying here. Bloody frustrating. I thought it was me. Now I'm looking at the zumo xt2 which looks more ch easier. Thanks for your review.

[@ToniReviews]

Yes I ended up selling mine just after the Spain trip. I get in far better with downloading Google maps and using a second phone just for the navigation. Thanks for sharing. Please do let me know how you get on with the alternative option 👍

[@FREE_PUREBLOOD333]

Love this honest review...this was the first vid i watched of yours a while back..just watched some other vids of yours today n come back to watch this vid again. Im actually looking at changing my trusty old garmin zumo 550 now.its looking knackered like me and starting to creek and moan like me too. Cheers for the info. 😎👍

[@ToniReviews]

lol 😂. Many thanks glad you enjoyed it. Yes I’ve just returned from travelling and used maps.me with kml files and Google maps downloaded and worked perfectly

[@sidcrowe7301]

Had mine for a few years now , no problems. You always find start up is confusing till you are familiar. But all over Europe, from Portugal to Greece perfect.

[@ToniReviews]

Thanks for sharing. I’ve reverted to using an iPhone and either downloaded maps or something like sygic.

[@lesliewatts7537]

that is what I call a bloody good video............. thanks.

[@ToniReviews]

@@lesliewatts7537 ahh thank you Leslie. Much appreciated. Thank you for the kind words. Glad you found it useful

[@adiohead]

Nice review, good to hear the negatives that other reviews haven't given.

[@ToniReviews]

adiohead thanks for the feedback. Glad you found it useful. I think that’s why I made the video as when I was looking for a sat nav all I could find were positive reviews and felt they needed to reveal the good and bad points. It’s interesting when you read people’s comments on here too.

[@nickfry7705]

Partially agree re RAM mounts. Form is horrific, function is pretty good, rugged, simple and flexible. One concern over the idea of relying on phone over a dedicated Bike satnav is the vulnerability of phones to water ingress and their general ruggedness. I have had phone failures due to water even when IP68 rated when simply in a damp environment in my pocket, never mind sitting in a handlebar mount in the wind in an 80 mph rain storm. Sounds like a lot of you problems might have been avoided by not buying it the day before a big trip, like it or not most tech needs updates and some significant learning before we can get the best out of it. Just the nature of the beast.

[@ToniReviews]

some good points raised, it definately was a rush no question. The problems however persisted after the trip once I had time to look into things a bit more. interestingly one viewer on here had an incident where the ram mount penetrated the fuel tank when manouvering the bike on full lock as the bolts stick out. I too was a little reluctant to simply just rely on a phone incase something were to happen and that being your device with almost everything on. However now days most phones are waterproof and I have personally used my phone on many a journey using the Quadlock system. The only complaint i really have at the moment is that the navigation apps tend to make the phone run hot, so not a problem at higher speeds, but lower round town stuff can see them overheat. I have since sold my Tom Tom as I just wasnt happy paying that amount of money for a device that didnt live up to what I had hoped. I think we will see a big change in sat navs in the next few years, whether it be them developing more advanced apps or becoming multi functional. Interesting times. Thanks for the time to watch and to comment, always helpful to hear others opinions and experiences. thanks

[@andynotdave]

I just come off a tour. A little tour to Wales, Cornwall, Devon etc and back up to North Yorkshire. I reset my 550-Rider before going because it was misbehaving but it didn't solve the problems. My 550 turned on and off whenever it felt like it (only for 4-5 seconds but at a junction or roundabout you don't need it). Told me to be left before a roundabout then told me to take the last exit (turn right). Didn't adjust quickly after an instructed maneuver into the next (keeping direction arrow beyond the move, adjusting too late leaving me stranded in the wrong lane). A couple of times it took me off a motorway and back on it. Wasn't clear about what exit on complicated roundabout systems (no close-up window). Absolutely last second telling me to turn. The arrow disappeared below the screen view a few times. The image turned sideways randomly for a few minutes. Nightmare satnav that cost me a fortune to mount it without their ugly as sin mounts. I'm ditching it. Only used it for three holidays

[@ToniReviews]

@@andynotdave wow what an absolute nightmare. Thanks for sharing this!

[@ad78]

Literally got mine an hour ago.. looks like this review is a user error. Out of the box I connected to internet via wifi. Got an update for like 600mb and updated flawlessly. No connection drop. Paired with my new iPhone 12 pro max and cardo packtalk seamlessly. Also, the ram mount is solid and built like a tank.

[@ToniReviews]

Always good to have others opinions so people can get a balanced view. This was mine. Needless to say I sold it. Also before you install the ram mount take a look in the comments below. Someone had an issue with the mount puncturing their tank. Safe adventures

[@TheOverlordOfProcrastination]

I’ve had nothing but positive experiences with tomtom in the car. I just bought the 500 Rider for the bike, and after this review I’m looking forward to trying it out 😂 I’ve been using the Beeline Moto but some of the exit numbers are so tiny I can’t see them, so hopefully I won’t have too many bad experiences with the Rider.

[@ToniReviews]

I think if you already have a 500 for the car and are looking to purchase one for the bike then you are already familiar with the device so you will most likely love it. the screen is certainly bigger than the beeline so you wont have any issues there, if that was a concern. safe riding and happy adventures and thanks for sharing.

[@TheOverlordOfProcrastination]

@@ToniReviews thanks for the reply 🤜🏼🤛🏼

[@shadevelt]

another point you missed the back gets scratched from the mouint

[@ToniReviews]

I didn’t own it long enough to experience that, but thanks so much for sharing this information 👍

[@Surefiresecurity]

I fully agree about updating the maps. Updated my 42 recently and it aborted partway through and left me with a satnav with no maps. Luckily I sorted it out eventually. I love the RAM Mounts and use them extensively. Very robust. My Rider 42 is getting old these days and im seriously considering updating to a 550.

[@ToniReviews]

If you like the 42then you will like the 550. However just not for me especially for the money. I recently traveled Spain and Portugal using Google maps and that did me just fine. I sold my 550 after this video. Many people live a satnav it just wasn’t worth the price tag to me. Hope this helps 👍

[@tonymousley8253]

Don't know if anyone else has had this problem, buy mine keeps switching itself off. It's been back twice to be either be repaired or replaced, the lockable docking station has been changed, I've connected straight into the bike's ignition side of the wiring loom, I've had it wired straight to the battery, still doing it & today, it switched off for over a minute before coming back on &, to top it all off, water proof.......it's got condensation inside the screen, it's going in the bin & I'm now on the hunt for another make & model....

[@ToniReviews]

wow Tony thanks for sharing this. Have you been in touch with Tom Tom? maybve they will replace it as it sounds as thoug this particular one may be faulty?

[@mattmccarty72]

After hearing as chapped as you are about this product, the massive kick in the bits is that all of these manufacturers say lifetime maps, yet what they don’t say is that “life time” is what they consider the life of the unit. I believe depending on the manufacturer, it is between 2-5 years. My iphone battery lasts 5 hours running maps and music without a problem. I’ve been through downpours on long trips plugged in also without a problem. I have map apps for roads and trails also with curvy road options. Why in the wide world of sports would I purchase any of these dinosaur fixtures for my bike. I do carry a paper map with elevations in a zip lock bag as a last resort back up. I do thank you and appreciate your complete to the point honesty. Reviews this bloody good are hard to come by on KZbin as everyone is trying to sell, sell, sell. Thanks again !

[@ToniReviews]

Good advice with how you do things. Its a shame, so many reviews out there are biased as they get the freebies. Its a little nervewracking putting videos out there that go against the grain as there are a lot of people who get disgruntled. When someone has spent over £300 on a device they become protective and your likely to get shot down, but I felt it was important as a consumerto be honest, which is something I failed to find when I was looking for options. Thanks for the watch, and the comments, much appreciated

[@lexx348]

Same feelings. Did a 7k trip to Nordkapp with just a phone and lots of rains, only got chargting port flooded once after 2 continuous days of rain. The more I read reviews of clunky outdated GPS's the less I want to spend 500 EUR on one. Main advice is try to have a phone mount with Qi charging, at least as a backup, as even IPX67 phones can have issues charging when charging port gets wet inside

[@ericwebmaster4121]

What I don't read anywhere is that you downloaded / read the manual. I also agree that you cannot charge via a USB port of a PC or laptop, which is normal, I think the device needs 12V and a USB only has 5V. I did not experience any problems with updating the software and went entirely through the WiFi connection. If you cancel a map update, the map is no longer on your TomTom Rider. If this is the case, go to Maps in the Settings menu and download the map again. grts

[@ToniReviews]

Hi. Many thanks for sharing your experiences very helpful. Unfortunately due to an amalgamation of issues the maps did not download from the settings menu for me and I was left with no maps on the device and was unable to add maps.I’m had to download smaller countries and regions one at a time but when I got to larger countries the Wi-Fi clapped out. I was also unable to download the maps via the mac. Just a variety of issues that happened. However when I got the device it worked ok if left untouched, but really wasn’t worth the money in my opinion. I sold the device after the trip and did my next European adventure using my phone and a mixture of Google maps and sygic which worked seamlessly.

[@Musashininja]

Love your rave on the Tomtom. You are 100% correct it is high time GPS manufacturers develope a motorcycle GPS for the 21st century not add bits to old technology and charge top price for it. I personally don't like to use my phone for navigation on my bike because it overheats and the battery drain kills it in no time. I'm in Australia so anything on the handlebars is going to cook especially when it's 39c and seeming I'm connected to the handlebars I'm cooking also. I just wish a GPS could tell you Skippy is about to jump out in front of you 100meters around the next bend or there's a dead animal on the road ahead in the shadows keep a lookout! You should add Australia to your riding agenda the options are endless here! Cheers!

[@ToniReviews]

This is my favourite response to a video of all time! First off thank you for taking the time to comment. Secondly I totally agree with the phone overheating. I’ve had this when I once did a European road trip, lost in the middle of a brussels one way system in the scorching weather. Nothing as hot as Australia’s! So phones would be a definite no no out there. Again we both agree sat navs as devices need to be re thought…. It’s definitely time for an overhaul!. Lastly I love the fact you have to think about kangaroos 🦘 i think the nearest we have would be a deer jumping over a hedge or maybe a cat or a squirrel that’s decided to make a run for it…. I would love the opportunity to ride the Australian roads… you have put a thought in my brain now… one day! Thank you for this, it made me seriously smile on a Sunday morning in the rain in the uk. 👍

[@j4zzx297]

*** If Gordan Ramsey did sat nav reviews ***

[@ToniReviews]

😂 it certainly got me like that 😂

[@undercrackers56]

Editing was a bit lacking in places, but the main point of the video is spot-on. Thank you. I was just about to buy one of these after seeing online reviews. My guess is that the other reviewers did not want to say anything negative in case manufacturers stop sending them free gear. I bricked a TomTom a couple of years back whilst trying to update it. Needless to say that TomTom made it clear that they were not interested. Having decided to give the Rider 550 a chance, I find that it requires WiFi to update traffic info and won't charge via USB. As you say this is unacceptable in this day and age.

[@ToniReviews]

Yes. Way outdated in an era where we are looking at technology we only dreamed about, sat navs haven’t really moved on a great deal and the Tom Tom for me was a big disappointment. Safe riding and happy adventures, thanks for sharing your views

[@lold6130]

Thanks for this review Toni. Not all mobile phones are waterproof (if you have ports for headphones, etc then it's not waterproof). Also, phones can fog up in wet weather. Just using a phone for nav on your bike is putting all your eggs in one basket. What if your phone falls off the bike or some tea-leaf has it away then you're screwed. I like to keep my phone in my pocket connected to my Cardo headset & that works just fine with audio instructions only.

[@ToniReviews]

Hi. Yes your absolutely right. However Most phones these days are now waterproof. I have previously used a phone in a cheap waterproof case, which fogged up in the rain, but if I’d have invested in a proper sealed hard case it would have done the trick. However now most phones seem to be waterproof now and you also have the capability for Bluetooth if using earphones- so there are so many advantages using a phone these days. I do agree it could be all your eggs in one basket. I recently did a trip to Spain and Portugal and I used a mobile phone with downloaded maps and had a second phone as backup (an older phone I no longer use daily) this was absolutely perfect. Also for non waterproof phones a quality waterproof hard case is a great option.

[@gr8fulride]

I've got a commercial tom tom I use daily in my truck. It did the same thing once . I pressed yes for downloads and hrs later still had no maps. I use the phone as a hot spot so tried again a few weeks later and it was a signal problem . Strong signal took a few minutes and had the tom tom working. Mine also slows down and needs a soft restart twice a month. All that and it's slower to input data than Garmin & rand McNally commercial truck gps units and is missing mile markers. I still like it better. The one in the car has never been updated & never fails. Got one for the bike and will fab my own mount . On longer days I'll plug it in the bike USB. Mostly I plan to remove it after riding and charge in doors.

[@ToniReviews]

Hi gr8fulride. Thanks so much for sharing. Really helpful and insightful comment. Shortly after my trip I sold the device, as I felt the price for a stat bag just isn’t justified for me personally. I recently did a trip around Spain and Portugal with my phone utilising Google maps and an app called sygic trucks as I was in my campervan. Both seemed to work really well, especially as I downloaded the regions I was visiting before I got out there, so the maps are already on the phone. Again thanks so much for your very helpful response, I think it clarifies some of the issues I faced with my device. 👍

[@gr8fulride]

@@ToniReviews happy travels .

[@GBMatthew07]

Love your reviews Toni your so funny but honest.

[@ToniReviews]

Hi @mattGB thank you for the kind words 👍

[@viktorbenedek868]

The phone's camera could be damaged by the bike's vibrations. Raindrops can confuse the phone. You must switch off automatic screen rotation and than back after the ride. So mobile phone is not the best solution either. But my TomTom Rider broke down after 1 year and I can't reach warrany service in Hungary. Their number is dead.

[@ToniReviews]

Yes the phone isn’t the best solution but there are many positives to using a phone. Of course I would only use a waterproof phone (which most phones are now) and the quadlock system has a new anti vibration pad. Tom Tom and other sat navs seem to be charging a lot of money for these devices, which only have a single use. Plus things like lifetime maps and warranties are great when they work. Sorry to hear about your experience with Tom Tom customer services, sounds bad especially when you consider the cost of the item. Many thanks for sharing your views and experiences it’s very helpful. Take care and safe riding 👍

[@ToniReviews]

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[@WorldSurvivalist]

Good to hear someone say something different. I probably still get one because a phone is just not a good salutation

[@ToniReviews]

World Survivalist yes you welcome. I try to give an absolute honest opinion from the riders ‘ buyers perspective, and with so many positive reviews out there (which is why I first purchased mine) I was expecting to be shot sown by hard core supporters who had paid their money and would be willing to defend their purchase decision. However I think it’s important to try and give people the opportunity to see the the other side and hopefully make a more informed decision about their purchase. It definitely got me out of jail in Spain , even if it did cause a few issues, largely it was a great help. Glad you found it helpful, good luck on your adventures

[@maxwellportlock2119]

Yep. Agree with everything you said. Grossly oversized .I have a Street Twin as well. And the system is illogical. Why does it turn on when you just wanna charge it? and why isn't MYDRIVE built into it? so you can plan future routes on the fly without it losing them? Good when it works but getting it sorted each time is a right royal PITA. Ride Safe.

[@ToniReviews]

I agree. What was annoying for me was all the motovloggers bugging up the de vice like it was the best thing since sliced bread- then realised most of them had been 'gifted' the tom tom. you just wan to honest truth. the good bits the bad bits and then make a decision. I think a lot more could be done with these sat nav's they just need to move with the times. great when using my drive... I loved that... we just need more of that. Thanks for the watch and the response.

[@Thomas-us4wq]

So this is 3 years after the video was posted.. Anyone knows if a new product has come to marked since the video was posted ?

[@ToniReviews]

I think from Tom Tom the rider550 is still their top gps device.

[@Thomas-us4wq]

@Toni Reviews i think so also. But how can that be, with the problem pointed out in this video. ? I do notice a series of price reductions on the device, so maybe a new model is on the way.. one can hope..

[@odinairsoftuk9809]

Thank you, useful and honest!

[@ToniReviews]

many thanks. hope you found it helpful :)

[@odinairsoftuk9809]

@@ToniReviews bought a garmin cheap and going to do the silicone water proof mod.

[@ToniReviews]

@@odinairsoftuk9809 Id be ibterested to see more on that

[@odinairsoftuk9809]

@@ToniReviews type in how to waterproof garmin nuvi for motorcycles the old boy sprays it with a hose at the end. Got a little tube of silicone off ebay for £3.

[@MsDenver2]

You can download the more detailed instructions off internet?

[@ToniReviews]

Yes thank you. It’s not the instructions that were the problem, more the technical glitches that were happening

[@MsDenver2]

@@ToniReviews I’ve noticed that on a lot of videos, riders having problems. It’s a lot of money to spend for a system to let you down?I have not bought one yet so I’m wondering whether to just buy a Beeline as I haven’t seen anyone having problems with them?

[@Brad-RB]

I use a BMW satnav made by Garmin. Updates take forever or just don’t work at all. The software interface is a through back to the 1990s. Cannot modify the calculated route when your on the road. Why is the GPS technology so terrible?

[@ToniReviews]

I agree. I think sat navs could do so much more! Thye app world is rising fast, try out a few navigation apps on your phone and see how they perform? maybe you will get some more joy gthat way?

[@dsilva70]

Spot on! Interesting experience indeed, spending 350EU on a TomTom Rider 550 in 2021 and within 5mins you feel like throwing it directly into the bin. What a waist of money.

[@ToniReviews]

I know... so annoying. I literally did my Spain trip and sold it. Way too expensive for what it is. Thanks for watching 🙏

[@Flythebird1600]

Word of warning the latest smartphones can be damaged by motorbike vibrations. So i'm going back to dedicated bike nav

[@ToniReviews]

Hi. Yes that is true newer phones can suffer from vibration damage, but you can purchase an addition vibration dampener mount for a quad lock case for about £15. 👍

[@smarciu]

I have similar problems with good old TT Rider 3, with small screen. It would not like to communicate with my BT intercom. At first it was working well, but suddenly it just stopped. I do not know why. I have tried resetting all the devices, and still nothing. After that I thought that navigation devices are useless. But they have a potential. Thanks for sharing your story.

[@ToniReviews]

smarciu thank you for sharing your comments

[@2007sox2007]

My 550 failed during a map update via WiFi, it then got stuck on a continuous reboot recovery. Failed whilst under TomTom’s update now I have a useless GPS!

[@ToniReviews]

That’s exactly what happened to me!I took mine back to the shop and got a new one. Even plugging it into my laptop and over riding WiFi didn’t work for me. The only thing I can suggest is maybe connecting to a fast WiFi like a work WiFi maybe if you have the chance to do that. Or contact Tom Tom support and see what they say. I sold mine after my trip. Just wasn’t worth the hassle and the money. Let me know how you get on.

[@dmitry.demenchuk]

I was hoping they solved the problems you mentioned from 450 model. Thanks for your review, I’ll wait the next generation. Hopefully they make it better. At top of what you said, 450 is bloody slow. In order to make it somehow work - I had to disable all the features such as connectivity, automatic screen direction and so on.

[@ToniReviews]

Hi. Well this is the first Tom Tom I’ve owned and I wasn’t too impressed especially with the hefty price tag. I think sat navs will need to develop in the next few years in order to keep up with the fast paced technology arena. Thanks for watching and commenting. I’m sure his will also help someone in a similar situation so thanks for sharing

[@j-rdrapeau3875]

Wow, I like your honesty! I'm a TomTom Rider 550 user as well. I couldn't agree more with all your comments! I would also add that the OS versions can't keep up with Android. So as soon as Android comes out with an update, the GPS looses some functionally. I wouldn't purchase this GPS again. A waste of $$, plain simple.

[@ToniReviews]

Thanks for your time to watch and to comment. Its nice to know people have experienced the same issues and im sure it will help bikers out there looking for suitable navigation devices.

[@golf1diesel]

what should I purchase? I am torn between this and zumo xt which is 60 quid more...

[@j-rdrapeau3875]

@@golf1diesel I would give the Zumo a try...

[@golf1diesel]

@@j-rdrapeau3875 do you know anything of 396 lmt or 595 lm? Or should I just pay the extra for the xt? 400£ is a lot if money for me and I don't need some of the xt features. However it's the brightness and screen that draws me to it..

[@j-rdrapeau3875]

@@golf1diesel the XT seems more comparable to the Rider 550. So between the two, since the 550 wasn't too good for me, I would go for the XT. I'm sure the other Zumo models are good, but in my view, just not comparable to the 550.

[@bobsyeruncle4841]

good review i aint getting one now whats best for a gps for a bike

[@ToniReviews]

Glad you found it useful. I wouldn’t know what the ‘best gps ‘ would be for a bike ring now as I think the whole area needs development to bring devices up to speed. Apps for the phone can be very useful and also a lot cheaper. That’s what I currently use right now. There is also bee line moto which is not like a fanfare device, fairly small and cheaper than regular sat navs (although still fairly expensive in relation to apps) but they would be my 2 choices atm. Hope this helps?

[@bobsyeruncle4841]

I just found one it's called WAZE its excellent and free.

[@ToniReviews]

Robert Speirs yes waze is a great app, and it has live travel updates. Great app

[@johnelliot4845]

Bet you feel better after that rant lol, but have to agree with you, I wouldn’t go past my phone, much more pleasing to the eye, and some great Nav apps out there, keep up the great vids.👍🏻

[@ToniReviews]

Hi john. Yes you are completely right I did feel better after that rant. I’ve just returned from a trip to the continent and used my phone only. Fantastic devices, especially when you download the maps for offline use. Happy travels, safe riding 👍

[@stevenlewis9047]

Thanks for the review was thinking Garmin xt2 really expensive and 75% of the people who have the say they are shit so wanted to look at the tomtom will still with my phone. ,for now

[@ToniReviews]

Interesting thanks for sharing that about the Garmin. Yes I’ve been using my phone with a variety of different apps and it seems to work fine although the phone can get a bit hot

[@wallaceshackleton1889]

Three years down the line and I think your first problem was that you were in too much of a hurry. The wee booklet is just a quick start guide not much better than coloured toilet paper, the main material is downloadable. The mount is a lot better that a Zumo 395/6 mount, although both rely on Ram-mounts, however they work but they don't win prizes for aesthetics, that's true. I gave up using a Rider 550 and went back to Garmin because of a horrendous routing "bug." In my opinion the Garmin 396 is better but with long term use it is very mechanically unreliable. I'm back to using a TT for the moment wile the Garmin is repaired/exchanged. Connecting it with a phone and headset was difficult, I finally got it set up properly, after having a lie down in a darkened room. Bottom line is Garmin or Tom Tom, none are perfect they each have their plusses and their minuses. I'm considering DMD2 which could be a viable alternative to Garmin and TomTom.

[@ToniReviews]

Hi. Yes true my first problem was that I was in a rush that’s no doubt, however, having used the Tom Tom for the trip and after the trip I just found it too clunky. I agree I once had a Harmon. Which I much preferred. I ended up selling the Tom Tom . I think sat bags as we know it will soon be a thing of the past what with technological advancement being so rapid. If you think 20 years ago to have a mobile phone was a wow factor a rarity, know 6 year old have them, people are working remotely, 3r headsets and virtual reality is not a concept and AI is pretty much able to do everything a human can if not better. It won’t be long until we have a variety of apps that make a single use device like a satnav a think of the past. Thank you for sharing, very interesting and thought provoking

[@googlelimp9834]

Ok i have to say nice to see an honest person not a liar thats all they are on youtube, first of all yes you can use the computer lead as a charger, only problem it aint waterproof so other option is better, but like you just said about phones yes garmin and tomtom are kind of going to crash one day, the items are to thick and big considering its only GPS, how ever i just tried three garmins pile of rubbish and silly bills for the maps after you bought it, tomtom ride550 one off and every map. I bought to tomtom today for a simple reason went around thailand for three months on a phone with their sim it still ended up costing me about £50 over three minths now tomtom even if cant use phone still covered so yes until world wide sim cards still stuck with tomtom 🙁

[@ToniReviews]

Good incite thanks for the response. Im sure people will find this useful. thanks

[@petermorrall8337]

Refreshing approach!

[@ToniReviews]

Thank you Peter. Try to give as honest opinion as possible 👍

[@neilsimpson5900]

I know you were trying to sound annoyed about the TomTom, but I found your delivery hilarious :D

[@ToniReviews]

That was my my attempt at pure frustration lol

[@MrEye4get]

Tom Tom Go and their maps have gotten me lost too many times! Too many times it selects a different route I normally commute. Rerouting is slow and sometimes I drive past a turn before it appears, requiring me to u-turn and backtrack. A unit priced as much as the 550 should be better than google maps (Wazes, Here, others) on my phone. The mount needs to be lockable!! Bought a RAM mount for my phone and never regretted it. Good and truthful review!

[@ToniReviews]

Thank you and thanks for the feedbck. im sure people will find your comments helpful

[@supportengineer5889]

Toni's review should be sent to TomTom for software redesign and/or firmware updates.

[@ToniReviews]

Support Engineer 😂😂 can you imagine., change that, update this, make it also do this this and this

[@dannyjonze]

Interesting, have seen the top price garmin gets top reviews. I had a rubbish garmin for the car that should have been sold in mother care for tricycles. Seems garmin may have improved. There is even an email feature that can send an emergency email anywhere even out of signal.

[@ToniReviews]

I once had a garmin and I must say at the time, that was a great device. This was my first Tom Tom and I didn’t like it at all. I also think sat navs need to upgrade their abilities as a device in general for the age we are living in. They just seem way too old nd outdated. I think you get far more of a clearer review if products watching peoples youtube reviews and reading the comments. You get a mixed bag of opinions, but generally you can see the positives and the flaws which ultimately give you a more accurate rounded view of the product. Thanks for sharing your comments on the garmin! I’d be interested to see how garmin perform. Do they have a motorcycle version?

[@pcat1378]

Thank you for this...nearly bought one and won't go near it now. 2023 and they are over £500 now....roll on seeing these companies die

[@ToniReviews]

Hi. So glad you found this helpful. I’ve just come back from travelling north Vietnam on a motorcycle and I used a combination of maps.me app and I’m files as well as offline google maps, and they worked an absolute treat. I had a spare battery bank with me incase the phone died but it way better than these outdated old sat navs. Google is fantastic as it shows all the nearby attractions and hotels etc, things you may need on the go. Sat navs need to drastically rethink things as ai and app technology is moving so fast. 👍

[@rogerioaparecidogarciagarc4430]

Thanks for your advices ... was very helpful ... it made me realise that I don’t need to buy the Tom Tom ...

[@ToniReviews]

Rogerio Aparecido Garcia Garcia Hortega yep that’s totally what it did for me. Having. I realised I don’t need to spend £300 on something that isn’t as advanced as I thought, and there’s other ways I can get what I need at a fraction of the price

[@DL6UK]

Ride in bright sunny weather and you will want something else but your mobile :)

[@vtid1981]

Totally agree paid £339 from j&s it won’t pair with phone to take calls and text messages I also fixed the u bolt with the threads facing me went full lock and put a hole in the tank my fault there but overall not happy

[@ToniReviews]

vtid1981 blimey I never even thought about what would happen if you put the u bolts the other way!. It is just very lazy design by ram and Tom Tom and asa consequence the buyer is paying. I’m sure your not the only person that has done this! Hope you managed to get a repair.

[@vtid1981]

Toni Reviews / Reviews & Rides yeh sorted it now thanks 🙏 a good app on iPhone Cali moto you may have come across it 👍

[@MsDenver2]

Did you read instructions first and you should save to micro SD before you update?

[@ToniReviews]

Hi. No I didn’t save to a micro sd, but that’s a good tip which I’m sure people will find helpful. Thanks for sharing 👍

[@samwheaver4404]

Well said I totally agree, I’ve had a few TomToms one on a phone app that was really good but then tomtom didn’t want me keeping it because they had my £30 for the app they then decided to close it down. The tomtom drive on the PC is so outdated it reminds me of Tetris Atari game. I wouldn’t by tomtom use a phone with a good contenting system not like tomtom outdated construction mounts. Use your phone and save a fortune.

[@ToniReviews]

lol... Tetris... well put! Thank you and thanks for the feedbck. im sure people will find your comments helpful

[@JLfromSF]

The " Life time world map " is bogus. I own an early Tomtom rider (~$300+) with a large print "Life time free map update" on the box, but Tomtom stop supporting my model. Since, I am not even able to connect for any updates or transfer my routes and waypoints back and forth. So, Tomtom buyers, beware "Life time" is much shorter than you think 🤔

[@ToniReviews]

Thank you for sharing. Very informative, thank you

[@davidmetcalf219]

Honest unpaid review.. thank you

[@ToniReviews]

No problem David. Hope you found it helpful 👍

[@sambagogo777]

The TomTom Rider 550 has seemingly been out since 2018 so they've not released a new and improved model in half a decade?

[@ToniReviews]

That’s impressive… my guess is the market and technology is changing rapidly and putting any additional resources into development may not be economically feasible. Thank you for sharing this information 👍

[@sambagogo777]

@@ToniReviews Well the market is seemingly economically viable to their main competitor because the Garmin Zumo XT2 came out only a couple of months ago!

[@ToniReviews]

@@sambagogo777 I wonder how long these companies will invest in these stand alone devices, before they either produce and app version or some multi use device? I don’t see how the stand alone navigation at the prices they charge are going to be a feasible solution in the future what with the rapid developments in technology. It will be interesting to see. Thanks for sharing

[@sambagogo777]

@@ToniReviews I suspect they'll continue until the day it becomes an industry standard for (most) motorcycle manufacturers to include Apple or Google's navigation software.

[@MrAh67]

Very good said. I have the same experiance. don't update by wifi. Very strange that it cleans up al maps and than update. The only way to correct the error is download it by computer. Tomtom is also very difficult to contact by phone or other help. They really need to make an service pack to undo this problem. I also notice connection problems by blue tooth. Schuberth helmet and mobile phone

[@ToniReviews]

A.B. Haasnoot yes I think a few people have had the same issues.

[@simras1234]

BUT, you don't want to drop your phone off your bike and the shape of a phone is not practical in the wind.

[@ToniReviews]

Hi. Since filming this video I’ve used a phone multiple times around the world. No you don’t want to drop your phone but then you don’t want to drop your sat nav either. A sturdy quad lock case should be fine. Also in terms of audio if you like to listen to instructions then you can simply Bluetooth it to your headset. Works perfectly 👍

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

Great review. I've got a £500 hgv tomtom that does live road updates so it's not only possible but tomtom already have traffic updates in their products, why they can't put it in the motorbike version I don't know.

[@ToniReviews]

That sounds great!

[@stevebiron3036]

Brilliant review. I bloody agree with all "especially" the aesthetic values stated and mind set on how neat and trim we like our steeds..not all this junk hanging from every limb. On that note, great example that "quad lock" ! Been a user for years, they have their shyte together. Thanks for sharing your story. Cheers

[@ToniReviews]

Steve Biron thanks for the feedback and also reassuring to know other riders have similar experiences. I’ve now reverted to full time using quad lock and a mix of navigation devices on my phone. Safe riding.

[@chrischristofis8501]

None of the sat navs are perfect, the BMW one is ridiculously expensive ( based on Garmin) has issues, the Tom Tom 550 is actually great if you do some proper adventure riding.

[@ToniReviews]

thanks for sharing this :)

[@louvega8414]

Bloody (flippin-annoying) Satnavs....I feel your pain, sister! PS: Love your hair.

[@ToniReviews]

Totally Lou! I sold it after my Spain trip, just not worth the hassle. And thanks for the compliment… my hair at this stage was full on lockdown hair lol… although to be fair it’s like that all the time

[@franks6617]

I guess you should get ready possibly more that 12 hours prior the journey and this should eliminate most of the issues. Also I think it gives 4 hours riding not 6.

[@ToniReviews]

Everyone that was scheduled for the trip bailed, including the person who was the main navigator, hence the last minute dash.

[@franks6617]

@@ToniReviews I can imagine the stress. I hope the trip went well.

[@prat8529]

Tom Tom will then tell you you need a new device to receive updates… outrageous!

[@ToniReviews]

I find the whole thing in this day and age so outdated. It’s just so clunky and expensive. And from what you just said even more outrageous. Thank you for sharing. 😊😘

[@racheltaylor6578]

I fancy the Bee Line.Its small and compact.It got good review from MCN.

[@ToniReviews]

Thank you Rachel. Yes i have seen the beeline, and it looks quite a fun device. I think i would definately use it to navigate on home turf, but if i were to go to Europe for example i think i would want an actual map i could plan the route to see what potential types of roads id be hitting. but definatelty a fun alternative. thanks for sharing

[@uptowndisco2]

@@ToniReviews Hi on Beeline you do plan the route on your phone , the phone just sends the info and gps location to the Beeline screen it cant work without the app running in the background on your phone , it is ok local UK nut you would need a mobile phone signal to plan a new route , not much use if you were out in the wilds of Siberia lol

[@x-man5056]

What a nightmare. Instructions for everything are horrible these days...if you get any at all. Even if you are and engineer, instructions always offer something so you don't have to interpret engineering intent. A picture or diagram. Digital instrument instructions are always written by someone who knows too much about what to do to be able to break it down into basic steps for the layperson. When you are reading instructions and have to Google several words to understand them as a layperson, the instructions are terrible. And as we know, if you don't tell it what to do exactly right, everything it puts out will be exactly wrong.

[@ToniReviews]

Yes very very frustrating I agree. 👍

[@thewrongbike7709]

So you bought a satnav, didn't take the time to set it up and learn how to use it and you it and you couldn't make it work. This is what happens. Don't get me wrong, the Rider 500 has its faults, but failint to set it up with you existing tech is rookie stuff.

[@ToniReviews]

Hi. I bought a satnav having had the experience of a garmin of my own (car version) and a parents tomtom I’d used and set up for them when they originally bought theirs (car version) so I wasn’t adverse to using and setting up satnavs. I’m a pretty tech savvy person generally, I can write the odd bit of html code etc so I’m not a blind seller expecting the world straight out the box- but it was apparent from the start this device had some serious flaws and compatibility issues which were not specified by Tom Tom. It was a rush job yes, but considering my knowledge the set up wasn’t a concern if it was to perform as they outlined but that was obstacle one in what turned out to be a bigger headache than expected. Would I buy another Tom Tom even if I had a week to set it up- shirt answer no. An outdated and clunky piece of kit that performs nowhere near as described. Thanks for sharing your views it’s always handy to have other’s opinions comments and suggestions to open up debate and allow other people to read between the lines if considering such a purchase. Thanks

[@krazed0451]

There is zero chance they will provide wiring instructions for these units, wiring is bike specific.

[@ToniReviews]

yes you are correct. I was refering to them mentioning a generic methid for connecting like the wire will need to be connected and fused to an ignition live that sort of thing. thanks for taking the time to comment

[@krazed0451]

@@ToniReviews Aha, that makes more sense! I'd have thought it would come with a generic pin out.

[@flashfuss]

Excelente review... 😊😊😊

[@ToniReviews]

Thanks. Glad you found it helpful 👍

[@1969tonksy]

I would never purchase anything from TomTom again. The last satnav i bought which had lifetime updates after a couple of years the updats stopped and they offered me a trade in for a new one. When i queried the so called 'Lifetime Updates' I was told "Lifetime means the useful life of the device, i.e. the period of time TomTom supports your device with updates, services, content or accessories. A device will have reached the end of its life when none of these are available anymore." A total con... By the way, what make/model is your helmet, loving the retro look... Cool Vids..

[@ToniReviews]

I know lifetime updates is a scam. In the small print it basically says lifetime means the life of the product, so as long as they make it and or updates for the device. It can be very misleading. Thank you for watching and the comment.

[@ToniReviews]

The helmet is the Shoei Ex Zero. Best helmet ive had. Absolutely love it. Ive usually ridden full face race helmets like Shark, Soumy, HJC. This is the first Shoei, and first road retro goggle helmet ive owned. Brillant helmet.

[@sharmaLlama]

Hmmm...first time ever I heard anyone complain about the legendary and durable ram mount....🤔

[@ToniReviews]

Personally I found it to be a bad solution. It’s just not well designed both in terms. If it’s purpose and aesthetics. Someone in the comments also had an experience where he mounted it with bolts facing inward, turned his bats and damaged (maybe even punctured his tank). It did the job but just not for me personally. Thanks for watching and commenting. It’s always good to get rounded opinions and to open discussion. Thank you

[@paulinoo2]

I think you juste don't like GPS 😂 but what if there is no internet where you Travel ? Then, You would be happy to have it ! A phone does not replace a GPS waterproof and shock proof. What if you fall, you're stuck on the road and and your phone brakes ? You can't call anyone... By the way , updates and maps should be uploaded before the trip, otherwise, yes, you might be in trouble

[@ToniReviews]

Hi.yes I agree I think I don’t like gps devices. I think they’re very outdated in today’s technology advancement. You’re completely correct a phone could easily get damaged on a bike. However I would advise taking a 2nd phone , one as your main phone and one as just the navigation device. I did this when I travelled to Spain . I purchased a 2nd hand phone and used that as just a travel device. I’ve just riden north Vietnam and used just a mobile phone using designated apps to navigate some of the best roads in Vietnam. In terms of internet if you download maps of the areas your travelling to in advance then it works fine. Even in the most remote places you can usually find Wi-Fi or signal and once you have your route set with maps downloaded you don’t need Wi-Fi as it works on gps . Hope this helps. Thanks for the comments and thoughts 👍

[@paulinoo2]

@@ToniReviews I used to have second phone (androïd) but I frequently had WI FI problems. and I gave it up... (It cost the same price as GPS).. each experience is different, i guess.

[@donjingle4059]

The routing on these is horrifying. I hate mine, it always takes me way the hell out of my way no matter what. I set it to go straight to a destination and it always wants me to go the moon and back first. I had several people try to make a route with this piece of junk and no one could do it. Then they did the same thing with my Garmin and they all made the route in less than 2 minutes. Guys,,, Leave this one on the shelf. If you get one remember you can only blame yourself for such a poor choice. I only use it for tracking because that is all it is good for and it sucks at that too because you have place and replace the chip every time you want to get tracks off of the piece of junk. And no map for pc, tom-tom makes you sign in to use your map to make routes which is worse then the Rider 550 junk. You have been warned, heed it and you will be much happier.

[@ToniReviews]

Hi Don. Many thanks for sharing your user experience. I ended up selling mine straight after the spain trip. Recently went to Spain and Portugal in my campervan and used Google maps on my phone which did the job perfectly. Thanks for sharing

[@djalixer]

I don’t think RAM mounts are great. I have one. Phone kept falling.

[@ToniReviews]

Yeah I found it fiddly to connect and just ugly personally. Someone commented on here he had the bolts facing inward, turned the handlebars and damaged his tank. Do not a great design. Thank you for sharing your comments

[@thereallovetrance5262]

Great review! And love the accent 😉

[@ToniReviews]

lol that is what you call cockney. An east end of London accent. Must sound strange to you guys...lol

[@thereallovetrance5262]

Toni Reviews / Reviews & Rides cockney is cool 😎 Here in the south of the USA we have a southern drawl !

[@ToniReviews]

The Real Love Trance I love country music and one of my favourite bands is the Cadillac three. One of the tracks is called I’m southern and I love the lines “I’m southern and it ain’t my fault My daddy’s from Louisiana like the hot sauce”, and another song called “the accent has the lines “It's a sweet slow roll of southern drawl, it’s my last name, it's where I come from “ love it!

[@thereallovetrance5262]

Toni Reviews / Reviews & Rides Hahahaha those are not country songs I’m familiar with! But I love country music too! Btw, my ex is from Louisiana 🍤🥂

[@ToniReviews]

The Real Love Trance well I’ve never been but I live the music. Been to a few country gigs over here in London. It’s great because yo get to see stadium acts in small venues over here as country has a relatively small following- so fantastic for people like me!

[@leemedd8189]

Thank you I’ll buy the Garmin

[@ToniReviews]

Glad you found it useful. Maybe check out some other reviews to get an overall view of what currently is the best on the market for your needs. Take care

[@lexx348]

It's same shit. early 2000s design with some bells and whistles added. UI is an eyesore, basecamp is stone age. Only XT model starts to look like something

[@mickeyreyes3189]

You should check out Beeline Moto a simplistic, aesthetically pleasing and brilliant nav kit. I just got mine and it’s amazing and a fraction of the cost of those bricks. Lol

[@ToniReviews]

Noemi Reyes that sounds cool. I’ll check that out. Thank you

[@TheOverlordOfProcrastination]

As long as you’re not long-sighted like me. I can’t see the exit numbers.

[@chewitt6426]

... the moon on a stick ?

[@SuperGizzzmo]

So I’m guessing you don’t like it then, in all fairness I had the same thing I bought the tom-tom ride 550 As you said no instructions how to set it up on the bike so I took it to a mechanic. 30 quid later it was working okay. Passed my test went to put it on my new Kawasaki 650. No power to the main mount called Tom Tom Rider and they said it was rider error when installing. Bullshit I think it’s more likely that water got into the two metal prongs and fucked the wiring up.

[@ToniReviews]

Blimey. Well thanks for sharing your experience, it will hopefully inform people thinking of buying and give them a more balanced actual rider experience. I sold mine after my Spain trip. I just didn’t actually think it was with over £300. Thanks again for taking the time to comment.

[@pk5333]

So much emotions here. Even the mount does not fit you. You definitely should change the equipment. :) P.S. Not charging from power bank via USB is not true. I have just checked that and that was the point your review lost credibility to me. Greetings to Garmin or whoever else is paying you.

[@ToniReviews]

Pio Tr hi. The device is not able to charge using usb power bank. It even mentions this on the website. Like I said this is a personal opinion, I am not paid by any companies and I paid for the Tom Tom myself, which I have now subsequently sold due to the reasons listed.

[@pk5333]

I have this device and tried to charge from my power bank and it works. Thus either producer is wrong or I am lucky with it. 😉 I can share a video if anybody doubts.

[@ToniReviews]

Pio Tr you may be lucky with that. Mine didn’t do the same. As you can also see from other people’s comments on here. But if it works for you then great. Happy days

[@pk5333]

Finally I am lucky with something. Best of luck. 🙂

[@ToniReviews]

Pio Tr ha ha ha... if you have any spare send some his way please. I could do with some of that lol

[@prat8529]

I’m not buying one. Thanks for your advice…

[@ToniReviews]

I had one, and sold it after my trip. Just wasn’t worth the money. I’m holding out for something better. With technology advancing as it does surely there’s going to be something on the horizon soon!

[@lucamiranda7014]

Non compratelo, ho acquistato ahimè un tomtom rider 550 e la Sincronizzazione con MyDrive e iphone 12 e’ inesistente, quelle poche volte che qualcosa si sincronizza lo fa anche male, sistema di interazione sotto le aspettative, app MyDrive inutile per mancanza di stabilità e connettività , assistenza tomtom inesistente assistenza app inesistente , azienda inaffidabile,una delusione, ci avrò perso una settimana a cercare di configurare ripristinare provare e girate in moto non concluse per la mancanza di stabilità della connettività .

[@ToniReviews]

Sorry if I could respond I would, but I guess your commenting on iPhone 12 the rider550 and my drive synchronisation issues?

[@fabianobenedetti6692]

And that's why I bought the TomTom app for my phone, but I stayed away from the device itself...

[@bikerpaul1074]

You can stick your phone back in your pocket...she is clueless in what she is doing that's why...lol

[@ToniReviews]

interesting. I havent seen a tom tom stand alone app- if it was good enough it may negate people wanting to buy the device I would think?

[@ToniReviews]

I generally use my phone with navigation devices- I fund them to be far more efficient than the Tom Tom device itself.

[@cbr6864]

Maybe your wifi sucks I downloaded 6 updates in 10 minutes

[@ToniReviews]

yep thats true. at the time my wifi did suck, but even the smaller updates were an issue of just a few mb. Overall there were just too many issues for my liking.

[@ignand]

should've watched this before I got one lol

[@supportengineer5889]

I'm getting a GPS and deciding between Tomtom, Garmin, and others. I'm glad to see her experience and definitely not getting a TomTom now.. Thanks Toni for saving me $400 US dollars.

[@ToniReviews]

Hope it has helped and hope you find a solution to suit your needs. take care

[@michaeluk8924]

tom tom mounts look terrible

[@ToniReviews]

Agree. One person on here also commented that he had the bolts facing towards him rather than out, and when he turnwed the streering to full lock the bolts punctured the tank. -terrible design