New garmin

[starkruzen]

January 6, 2010 2:45 PM PST

CES: Garmin debuts Zumo 665 motorcyle GPS

 

by Antuan Goodwin

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http://i.i.com.com/cnwk.1d/i/bto/20100106/zumo-665-1.jpg (Credit: Garmin)

 

LAS VEGAS--Most of our readers are pretty familiar with Garmin's Nuvi line of in-car GPS navigators, but most have never heard of the manufacturer's Zumo line of motorcycle GPS devices. At CES 2010, Garmin has added a new top-of-the-line model, the Zumo 665.

The 665 replaces the previous Zumo flagship, the 660, but almost matches the previous unit spec for spec. Both units have the same 4.3-inch WQVGA touch screen, removable, rechargeable lithium ion battery, and waterproof construction. Both feature Bluetooth hands-free calling with A2DP stereo audio streaming.

Dig a little deeper and you'll find that the new 665 boasts a better battery life (up to five hours versus the 660's three), but the biggest change is the switch to XM NavTraffic and weather from the soon-to-be-defunct MSN Direct network used by the older unit. A cool byproduct of the XM traffic integration is that the Zumo 665 can also stream XM Radio programming through its integrated speaker or to Bluetooth-connected headphones or helmet headsets.

Combining an XM Radio tuner and a waterproof GPS device in one housing makes us feel a little better about the Zumo 665's $999 MSRP, but not much. The Zumo 665 motorcycle GPS navigation device is currently available.

[Freebird]

Looks good and I'm glad to see that they have added the XM back to it BUT...it doesn't offer enough that I would sell my 550 and then spend that much for a new one.

[Freebird]

On further review, it is actually a better deal than the ZUMO 550 if you want the XM antenna. The 665 comes with the antenna where it is an extra $200+ dollars on the 550. Since I am happy with my 550 though and already have the XM antenna for it, I won't be upgrading.

[starkruzen]

it's attractive but I'll wait till the cost comes down

[Lone Eagle]

My thought entirely - I'll wait until that price comes down - wow.

[RedRider]

A THOUSAND DOLLARS?? Do they think I ride a BMW?

 

RR

[Cougar]

:happy65:Very Nice, keeping my EYE on that one.

[Marcarl]

It has everything that the 660 has????? well the 660 didn't have the 999, what ever that is for.

[krp41151]

Okay I am attempting to decide which GPS system I should buy. I have a very limited knowledge of these items, so I have a few questions that I would appreciate commits on:

1. In order to have bluetooth connection is it possible to use the existing radio on the Venture? If so is this done by the Buddy Rich cable that I have read about? If not then what must be done?

2. For XM radio on the Garmin unit can the antena be installed inside either the fairing or rear storage area?

3. What is the best mount for the bars?

Thanks

[aharbi]

It has everything that the 660 has????? well the 660 didn't have the 999, what ever that is for.

That's the price $999. Guess because we have big fancy bikes we'll pay big fancy prices too! For that price it better change my oil, give me a back rub, rock me to sleep and pay my hotel bill.

[Cougar]

Guys , the Gamin 550 was also listed at $999.00 as well

Matter of fact it was always it's listed price. I am betting that

they will run for around $760.00 or so. we will see ! and then

of course there will be places that will sell them for even a better price!

[dragerman]

Does anyone know if the 665 will take the same XM antenna as the 550 or if not how much an antenna for the 665 will cost??

[Cougar]

On further review, it is actually a better deal than the ZUMO 550 if you want the XM antenna. The 665 comes with the antenna where it is an extra $200+ dollars on the 550. Since I am happy with my 550 though and already have the XM antenna for it, I won't be upgrading.

See above!

[Sleeperhawk]

Does anyone know if the 665 will take the same XM antenna as the 550 or if not how much an antenna for the 665 will cost??

 

Re-read the above posts, the new one comes with a built in antenna

[Freebird]

It's not built in but it does come with it. Different model number than the one for the 550 but I don't know if they would interchange or not. As long as it comes with it, really doesn't matter.

[SledgeHammer]

For the same amount of money, I got a Garmin NUVI, 780 that has bluetooth, FM modulator, MP3, Traffic,weather, and MSN. I also bought a separate Sirius radio, antenna (mounted in fairing) and a LIFETIME membership (no monthly fees) to Sirius/XM. The only difference I can find between the NUVI 780 and the Zumo is the NUVI is not waterproof, but they do sell a waterproof box mount for it. The NUVI does not have satellite radio capability, but I would rather have a separate radio head. For the same money, I am quite happy with my decision.