Garmin has just announced the zūmo 220, a compact navigator designed specifically for bikers. What makes it biker-ready? It’s built with a 3.5-inch screen and a clip that allows it to mount on handlebars. It also features touchscreen controls that can be operated with gloves on for ease of use, although the thought of having bikers fiddle with a touchscreen makes us a bit uncomfortable.
It does have a text-to-speech feature that allows it to send voice guided directions to the rider’s helmet wirelessly through a Bluetooth headset, so that should be pretty safe. Since it’ll be exposed to the elements along with the rider, the kit also features a rugged, waterproof body that’s resistant to fuel sprays and UV rays. Travel-friendly software comes with the package, including a lane-assist feature for city slickers and off-road navigation for weekend warriors. If you’re planning a trip with other riders, the 220 also has tools that allow users to set and share planned routes and destinations through a microSD card slot, and a function that allows you to review your trips on Google Earth.
Maps for the US, Canada and Puerto Rico will also be included for $600. Exactly what you need if you’re planning a road trip from Canada to, well, Puerto Rico.
Tags: Garmin, GPS, In-car tech, Mobile Tech
