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TomTom Rider 3.5-Inch Portable GPS Motorcycle Navigator | 
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| Brand: TomTom
Category: CE
List Price: $1,199.99
Buy Refurbished: $310.00
You Save: $889.99 (74%)
New (4) from $498.99
Avg. Customer Rating:  17 reviews
Media: Electronics
Memorabilia: No
Batteries Included: Yes
Native Resolution: 320 x 240
Display Size: 3.5
Shipping Weight (lbs): 2
Dimensions (in): 5 x 2 x 4
MPN: 1K00080
Model: 1K00080
UPC: 036926010564
EAN: 0036926010564
Availability: Usually ships in 1-2 business days
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| Features:
| • | GPS device designed just for motorbikes and scooters offers an intuitive, glove-friendly touch-screen interface | | • | 3.5-inch screen and integrated sun-visor | | • | Included mounting kit makes the Rider compatible with virtually any scooter or motorcycle | | • | Bluetooth technology allows you to route voice commands and phone calls to your helmet | | • | Download real-time TomTom Plus services to the Rider via your phone's data connection |
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| Editorial Reviews:
Amazon.com Product Description
Designed for two wheels, the TomTom Rider 32MB GPS Navigator for Motorcycles and Scooters is rugged and water resistant, and provides you with clear spoken instructions right inside your helmet. Easy to use, this unit lets you just plug it in, switch it on, and ride away, requiring no installation or activation for you to enjoy door-to-door routing to any address in North America, all with a simple touch-screen operation that is tailored for use even with your gloves on. The TomTom Rider displays crystal clear 3D and 2D graphics on its 3.5-inch, TFT color LCD touch screen with 320 x 240 lines of resolution, and includes anti-glare technology for optimal viewing even in direct sunlight. This navigator provides clear and accurate, turn-by-turn voice instructions inside your helmet via an included Bluetooth headset, which increase or decrease in volume depending upon the speed of your bike. With an extensive guided tour for quickly learning its various functions, and a useful on-screen tip feature, the Rider not only guarantees ease of use, but lets you choose your routing by quickest, shortest or avoidance of obstacles such as toll roads, as well as test your route once calculated before you actually start driving. The unit has a compact, portable design that fits both bikes and scooters via the included four-piece mounting kit. However, with an optional car-mounting kit this unit can also be used in your four-wheel vehicle, recognizing if you are on your bike or in your car and automatically switching from glove-friendly to in-car mode for driving. The multi-lingual Rider speaks more than 30 different languages in over 50 different voices, and lets you choose from 18 languages for its user interface. This navigator provides you with thousands of POIs (points of interest), which it lets you call directly through the interface, and even allows hands-free calling via any Bluetooth compatible phone. This unit features itinerary planning with multiple waypoints and destinations, the ability to save favorite addresses for quick route planning, a compass mode for added orientation while driving, and TomTom Plus service compatibility for such things as free scenic routes, weather services, additional voices, city maps and more. Constructed to be extremely water resistant, the TomTom Rider provides rugged protection against any wet-weather conditions. This unit has an integrated, high-sensitivity 20-channel GPS receiver, and includes a 380 MHz CPU with 32 MB of RAM. The Rider runs for up to five hours on its internal, rechargeable lithium-ion battery, while the included Bluetooth headset provides up to 10 hours of talk time, and up to 250 hours of standby time. This navigator includes a high-speed USB 2.0 connection for data transfers, an SD card with pre-loaded with software and maps, and a power input for recharging the battery from, and running off of your motorbike's 12-volt battery. Easy to take anywhere, the TomTom Rider 32MB GPS Navigator weighs just under 11 ounces, and measures 4.5 x 2.3 x 3.6 inches (W x D x H). What's in the Box
TomTom Rider and holder, Bluetooth headset, mounting kit, screen cloth, carrying case, home charger with multiple plugs, battery cable, USB cable, quick start guide, CD with manual and back-up tool, accessory leaflet, TomTom Plus leaflet, TomTom Plus voucher for access to free scenic routes, pre-installed memory card with region map, product code card, and an installation and security strap for attaching the device securely to your bike.
Product Description
It looks good, handles well and fits any bike with special touch-screen option for gloves, anti-glare screen, a tough weather-proof case and the cool, clean look and feel of the best bikes of the world. Spoken instructions in the language and choice of your choice reach you via a Bluetooth head in your helmet with volume automatically linked to your speed to make sure you can hear them clearly. TomTom Rider can even be used for hands-free calling. You can connect it to your mobile phone via Bluetooth (requires Bluetooth enabled phone) and gives you the edge of real-time information service from TomTom Plus while you're on the move. Excellent screen technology - Anti-glare screen and integrated sun visor Display - 3.5 inch, 320 x 240 TFT colour LCD touchscreen Safe navigation - Integrated ride mode interface for safe touch screen operation Door-to-door planning - Find your way to any address in the United States Wireless communication - Wireless Bluetooth headset provides clear voice instruction in your helmet CPU - ARM920T processor running at 400MHz Temperature - Operating temperature 14F to 131F Weather - Weatherproof IPX7 Memory - 64 MB RAM plus SD card with software and maps USB - Connect to PC for updates Battery - Internal rechargable Lithium Ion battery providing approximately 5 hours of use Power - Alternative power option from 12v or 24v bike battery Sound - Bluetooth headset for clear audio instructions GPS - Integrated GPS receiver based on SiRFStar III with 20 channel all-in-view tracking Mount - Mounting to fit most bikes Unit Dimensions - 115mm x 92mm x 58mm Unit Weight - 310 grams
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| Customer Reviews: Read 12 more reviews...
 Great bike GPS, but not without some flaws February 26, 2006
69 out of 69 found this review helpful
Overall, I'm extremely pleased with this unit. The GPS directions are spot on. The convenience of having a GPS on a motorcycle can't be overstated. There's no such thing as reading a map while riding, and unless you can memorize the directions you printed off the Internet, they're no good to you.
In searching for a GPS, I looked at a lot of different units that are currently on the market. There are a variety of different features, and a wide range of prices, this particular one being in the high end.
Top on my list of features were water resistance, route mapping, and spoken directions. This model has each of these. In addition, it has some motorcycle-specific features (included mounting hardware, glove-on menu selections, etc.) that make it great for a biker.
Overall, I'm extremely pleased with the purchase and would buy the same product again.
That said, I have some nit-picky things worth mentioning.
One of the things that sold me on the TomTom RIDER was the fact that it had a motorcycle-specific bracket included. The bracket itself is fine. When the GPS is not in place, though, the pins from the power connection are exposed, albeit somewhat blocked by the cradle itself. This aspect is definitely not waterproof. I'm hoping I don't find out the hard way how easy it could be to short the pins out and blow a fuse. (See the user picture I uploaded.) I'm probably going modify my installation to add a toggle switch somewhere on the bike so there's not power running to the cradle when it isn't in use. I'm also going to add an in-line fuse, which also isn't included. (I'm drawing power from the headlight bucket. I wouldn't mind blowing a fuse and losing power to the GPS, but I can't afford the risk of losing my headlights if the pins ever do short out.)
The power connection for the cradle leaves the individual wires showing at the connection point. The casing isn't attached to the connector, so it slides back and exposes the wires inside. (See my photo.) I'm not sure what the purpose of a casing around the wires is if it doesn't go the entire distance. I guess I'm going to have to use some electrical tape or possibly some heat-shrink tubing on it.
Tip from a frustrated installer: install the power cord onto the cradle before putting any of the mounting hardware on the cradle. The snap-in connector is so close to the mounting plate, it's impossible to get it to snap in place with the plate installed on the cradle. I had the cradle completely installed on the bike when I ran the battery connector, and had to remove it and start again from scratch.
Also, when installing the power cable to the cradle, the installation instructions have no indication of which color wire goes to hot and which to ground. (In fact, other than appearing in the list of items included in the package, there's no mention of the power cable anywhere in either the quick install instructions or user manual.) There was a black wire and a red wire, so I just had to assume red was hot. Nothing has blown up, so I guess I got it right.
When researching my purchase, I thought the bluetooth connection between the GPS and the helmet was a great feature. The down side to it, though, is that it's a second thing that has to be charged. So, even if your GPS has a direct connection to the bike's power source, you're still limited by how long the headset holds a charge.
The GPS and headset share a single charger. You have to charge them one at a time.
There's no speaker jack on the unit itself or the cradle. You have to use the bluetooth device to hear the directions. If using an intercom system on the bike, and desiring to connect the GPS to that intercom, you'll need to use a patch cable between the bluetooth receiver and the intercom. This means the receiver needs to be installed somewhere accessible because (a) it still needs to be recharged after use, and (b) it needs to be turned on and off. Many intercom systems install beneath the seat, and aren't readily accessible. (Prior to purchase, I emailed a question to TomTom asking if there was any intercom system that would interface with the RIDER using bluetooth. I also asked them if the optional additional receiver were purchased, if both headsets could hear the instructions at once. The answer in both cases was "no.")
The car version of the cradle isn't available yet. The description says, "Speakers not included" so I'm not sure if it will be necessary to wear the earpiece while using the GPS in a car, or if it will be possible to connect speakers. Connecting to speakers will probably require use of the bluetooth receiver and a patch cable. I'm still crossing my fingers, though, that the automobile bracket for the RIDER, unlike the motorcycle version, will have an audio out jack on it.
At 100% volume, the voice prompts can be heard okay at 50-55 MPH. At higher speeds, though, it becomes difficult. It is also more difficult to hear if you are in a group of bikes. I notice that the ear-piece is rather slim; I may just need to put some more foam behind it to bring it a little closer to my ear. (I've got an HJC helmet with built in earpiece pockets. They may be too deep.)
I don't have a cell phone. Even if it did, though, the microphone that comes with the RIDER is designed only for full-face helmets. I wouldn't be able to use it with my 3/4 helmet, as there's no boom on the mike. There's no compatibility chart on the TomTom web site to indicate if the unit will work with any of the bluetooth-enable helmets that have become available recently.
The unit comes with a small protective case to keep it in when it isn't in use. (This isn't the same as the leather one advertised as an accessory.) There's no pocket or pouch to accommodate the bluetooth receiver and patch cable, though. I usually wind up sticking them inside my helmet.
I have the earpiece installed permanently inside my helmet, with the connector sticking out just slightly in the back. There's no room inside my helmet for the receiver to fit comfortably. The receiver has an alligator clip on it, but I'm not sure what they're thinking I'm going to clip it to, my leathers? I usually put it in an inside pocket and run the wire down through the neck opening. It would be nice to be able to just attach it to the side of the helmet, however, the location of the alligator clip, buttons, and power indicators don't leave a surface large enough for a piece of double-sided tape.
Even with all this nit picking, I still would have given the unit five stars.
Here's my biggest complaint: TomTom's Customer Support, or lack thereof. When I got my unit, there was a technical problem with the secure data card that contains the US & Canada maps. This disk is required to get the unit to function. The RIDER wouldn't recognize the card. When I put it in, it gave me a message that it wasn't a valid TomTom disk. I couldn't get it to read from the SD reader on my PC, either. I understand that in mass production, it is nearly impossible to find every flaw, and usually roll with the punches when I experience a problem like this. When there is a problem with a product that was missed by the quality control processes, though, as a customer, I expect the company to respond promptly to resolve that problem.
The customer support representative who answered my call to their toll free number was not able to help me with the problem. He took my contact information and informed me that a level two technician would contact me in one to two business days. This was on a Thursday. On the following Monday when I got home from work, there was a message on my answering machine giving me a mailing address and FedEx account number to return the unit for repair/replacement. While I would have much preferred to speak to someone directly during my initial phone call reporting the problem, TomTom did eventually respond and make the problem right.
 Excellant product for riders February 20, 2006
23 out of 24 found this review helpful
This thing ROCKS. No more looking up directions, printing maps and then trying to follow them (from a tank bag) while riding. Now I just plug in the address (with gloves on, if you are finger endowed carry a stylis in your pocket) and ride. You can route to, route around, get weather information, traffic information, answer phone calls, send and receive emails (not supported with the Samsung A900 blade) all from your TomTom Rider. All turn-by-turn instructions and phone calls are routed to the included bluetooth headset, which fits comfortably in your helmet. Actually two earpieces are included: a thin speaker and an earbud. It will work with other bluetooth headsets as well. Nothing beats just going for a ride, getting completely lost and then "route to home" after the woman calls. Its IPX7 water resistant, battery powered (can run off your bike battery) and extremely well made. Not many US phones (non-GSM) are supported. So most likely you'll need to do some web research to manually set up the web access with your bluetooth phone. Example Sprint Samsung A900 blade are not even mentioned as a phone or a carrier. I found the correct Power Vision codes and it works great with the A900 except for the email function. I read a review at another web site that stated there was no charging status for both the TomTom unit and the bluetooth headset - both statements are false. The unit I have with version 5.420 software clearly indicates the charging status and battery level on the Status Summary screen (with or without a route planned). Additionally as the battery level runs down to about 1/3 to 1/4 it constantly flashes on the main screen. Also the headset displays a red LED while charging. Finally the power switch - just push it in, as the rubber moves you'll feel a slight click. Don't use a finger nail or anything sharp. If you have it connected to your bike correctly (switched DC) you'll never turn in on or off by the switch anyway. It automatically turns on when you start and off when you turn off the bike or remove it from the DC cradle. This thing ROCKS.
 Not worth the price July 25, 2006
17 out of 22 found this review helpful
this is my 3rd gps unit. I've had 2 others - both Garmin. Frankly, for the price of the TomTom I expected better performance. they claim it has a super bright screen that can be seen in bright light. whoever made that determination was not wearning sunglasses in bright light. the only way to see the screen in these conditions is to take your hands off the handlebars and cup them around the screen. Not real safe. I don't wear a helmet, so I rely totally on the screen for directions. You can forget about it in full sunlight - even at maximum brightness.
The data base of addresses seems extremely limited. it can only locate about 60% of the addresses I try to find. In fact, I used it in my car along side a garmin for about a week. the garmin located every destination I entered. the Ryder could not find several of them. Ocassionally, the Ryder will instruct you to take a turn only to tell you immediately to make a U turn and get back on the original route! this has happened to my several times on interstates. one time it told me to take an exit on an interstate through a major city. it then took me through a couple side streets and eventually put me back on the same interstate i exited from. all this took about 45 extra minutes and lots of city traffic.
The screens (maps) have limited usability. for example, if you want to zoom in or out on a route or map, you can only do so for about 15 seconds before the unit zooms back to a predetermined level. you can't determine your own zoom level. at times, i like to see the route on a larger scale, especially when travelling on interstates.
The voice prompts don't tell you when you've gone off route or when it is recalculating the route. there is some screen activity during recalculation, but not real noticeable
There is no screen warning about an upcoming turn. on the garmin, the screen flashes to a very close view of the intersection and turn, the ryder slightly zooms in but nothing that is attention getting.
I ride a Harley, so with the wind noise and the loud pipes, you can forget about using the headset - totally useless.
One of the things that attracted me to the unit initially was their claim to have scenic routes for the unit. The website says they are "coming soon." so much for that selling point.
On the plus side, it does appear to be waterproof.
All in all, I think this is a very poor unit even for cars, not to mention motorcycles. If i had it to do over again, i wouldn't even consider this unit and I'm probably going to be selling mine and buying a Garmin again. VERY, VERY DISAPPOINTED!!!
POOR FACTORY SUPPORT & DESIGN PROBLEMS August 12, 2006
14 out of 17 found this review helpful
On my first day with this unit the charging system did not work and the blue tooth wirless system failed to work. I tried to get factory support and all I got was failed promises. After five unsucessful calls, I'm in the process of trying to get my money back. I'm very unhappy with Tom Tom and I'd recommend looking elsewhere. This unit has all the great features but for nearly $900 I expect to get good service.
Great, esp in Europe May 15, 2006
11 out of 12 found this review helpful
I am an owner of a Tom Tom Go 300 and have been nothing short of satisfied with it. I got word that Tom Tom was coming out with a motorcycle specific model and I was foaming at the mouth for it but then I saw the price $1,000+ WOW! Well needless to say I skipped on buying one. Well low and behold there is a store here called GB and they had a promotional sale and the units were going for 399.00 Euro. Even with the conversion rate of 1 Euro = $1.20 it was still $200.00 cheaper than anything I saw anywhere online. So I snatched it up. My biggest concern was the ability to transfer it from the bike to a vehicle since my wife who lives in Germany claimed stake on the 300. Also I had to make sure the maps for the 300 were compatible with it, which they are. I did a search online and nowhere was there a vehicle mount. I then went straight to Tom Tom and there it was! So for an additional $45.00 I got the mount which is very similiar to the 300 and volia! The unit itself is very very sturdy. I did run into one problem when starting it for the first time. It completely locked up on me and I had to let its batteries run all the way down. Luckily with this unit it comes with a wall charger and I was able to charge it back up and it started and booted with no problems. The interface is almost identical to the other Go products and the navigation is spot on. Tooling around Europe, esp for us Americans, can be an adventure beyond adventure but the software takes almost all (nothing is 100%) uncertainity from navigating. The mounting system I used worked pretty well. The tape used to circle your handle bars snapped several times and this led to some small frustration but in the end it worked as described. I did crack one of the mounts, it comes with but in the end I didn't need it and it comes with three for different mounts. The wireless system works well with a full face helmet and at 100% volume, which I think you will need regardless, worked well. I do have a European Nolan helmet that is designed to accept an array of different communication systems with bluetooth capability so I will probably upgrade to one of those and utilize it in place of the one which came with it. All in all I highly recommend this unit esp for the price I paid for it.
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