Navigation Tools for Motorcycle Travel
Planning a motorcycle trip takes the right mix of gear, apps, and resources to keep you on track and enjoying the ride. From rugged GPS units to versatile phone mounts and travel-ready tank bags, these tools make navigation, storage, and route planning easier than ever. Below, we’ve rounded up some of our favorite picks for riders who want to stay connected and organized on the road. And if you’re looking to sharpen your navigation skills, don’t miss our article on route planning.
Garmin Zumo XT2 $599
The Garmin Zumo XT2 is built specifically for riders who need rugged, reliable navigation on any road—or off it. With a bright 6-inch glove-friendly touchscreen that stays visible even in direct sunlight, the XT2 offers turn-by-turn directions, topographic maps, and adventure routing to keep your ride interesting. It’s waterproof, shockproof, and works seamlessly with Garmin’s Explore app. Unlike a phone, the XT2 is purpose-built for motorcycles, with durability and weather resistance you can trust in all conditions. For serious touring, it’s the gold standard in motorcycle GPS.
Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra $1,214
The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra isn’t just a phone—it’s a powerhouse for riders who want a do-it-all device on the road. Featuring a massive 6.9-inch AMOLED display, Snapdragon processor, and pro-grade camera system, it’s perfect for navigation, trip photography, and staying connected. With all-day battery life and lightning-fast charging, it keeps up on long rides. Pair it with apps like Riser or Gaia for route planning and tracking. While not as rugged as a dedicated GPS, the S25 Ultra’s versatility and processing power make it an excellent companion for riders who rely on their smartphone for everything.
Peak Design Phone Case $49
Sleek, durable, and built for adventure, the Peak Design Everyday Case protects your phone while making it mount-ready. Slim enough for daily use but strong enough for rough rides, it features a weatherproof nylon shell and rubberized bumper for impact resistance. The magic lies in Peak Design’s SlimLink mounting system, which instantly locks your phone to compatible mounts with a satisfying click. Whether you’re snapping it onto your bike, car, or desk stand, it’s secure and effortless. If you’re a rider who uses their phone for GPS or tracking apps, this case is the perfect blend of style and function.
Peak Design Ball Adapter $49
The Peak Design Ball Adapter connects Peak Design’s phone case to the world of RAM mounts. Built with anodized aluminum, it attaches securely to any 1-inch RAM ball, giving riders maximum flexibility for mounting their phone on a handlebar, mirror stem, or other spot. Combined with Peak Design’s SlimLink system, it makes snapping your phone on and off effortless, while still holding rock-solid even on rough roads. For riders who want to blend Peak Design’s sleek phone ecosystem with RAM’s nearly endless mounting options, the Ball Adapter is the missing link that makes it all work seamlessly.
RAM Tough-Charge X-Grip $115
The RAM Tough-Charge X-Grip is a rider favorite for one simple reason: it holds your phone securely, even on the bumpiest backroads, and keeps it charged while you ride. The spring-loaded “X” arms grip phones of nearly any size, while rubber caps prevent slipping. Integrated Qi wireless charging eliminates cords and keeps your phone topped off on long rides. Combined with RAM’s modular mounting system, it works on nearly any bike setup. Rugged, versatile, and proven by countless riders, the Tough-Charge X-Grip is one of the most trusted phone mounts in the motorcycle world.
RAM Handlebar U-Bolt $21
The RAM Handlebar U-Bolt Mount is the foundation of countless motorcycle mounting setups. Simple, affordable, and rock-solid, it attaches securely to most handlebars and provides a 1-inch RAM ball for connecting phone, GPS, or camera mounts. Built from powder-coated marine-grade aluminum, it’s weather-resistant and designed to last for years. Pair it with an X-Grip, Peak Design Ball Adapter, or other RAM accessories to create your ideal setup. For riders who want a no-fuss solution that just works, the U-Bolt is a must-have starting point in the RAM ecosystem.
Riser App $9/month
Riser is a motorcycle-specific app designed to make every ride an adventure. For $9/month, it offers route planning, ride tracking, group ride coordination, and community features that help you discover new roads. Riser also includes “Pack Ride” mode, letting you stay connected with friends while you ride, and “Curvy Roads” routing to find the twistiest paths. It syncs seamlessly with your phone or GPS, and you can share your rides afterward with the community. Think of it as a blend of social network and navigation tool—built for riders, by riders.
Gaia App $7.50/month
Gaia GPS is a powerful mapping and navigation tool, especially popular with dual-sport and adventure riders. For $7.50/month, it offers detailed topo maps, offline downloads, route planning, and advanced GPS tracking. It shines when you’re riding off the beaten path, giving you access to terrain, weather overlays, and public land boundaries. Unlike many navigation apps, Gaia isn’t just about getting from point A to B—it’s about exploring trails, forest roads, and remote routes with confidence. For riders who mix pavement with dirt and adventure, Gaia GPS is a must-have tool.
Nelson Rigg Commuter Lite Tank Bag $135
Compact, versatile, and practical, the Nelson Rigg Commuter Lite Tank Bag is perfect for riders who want storage without bulk. Designed to fit most motorcycles, it attaches securely via strap or magnetic mounting. The Lite version offers just enough space for essentials—wallet, keys, phone, snacks—without getting in the way of your ride. Its semi-rigid construction holds its shape, while the water-resistant design and included rain cover keep gear dry. A clear map/phone pocket adds functionality for navigation. For commuting, day rides, or light touring, it’s an ideal companion that blends convenience with quality construction.
RoadRUNNER WEB Subscription $35.99
A RoadRUNNER Web Subscription brings motorcycle travel inspiration and resources straight to your screen. For $35.99 per year, you’ll get unlimited access to premium content, including tour articles, city escapes, product reviews, and travel guides—all optimized for digital reading. Members also get access to an exclusive newsletter, downloadable maps, and the full digital archive of past issues. If you’re a rider who prefers exploring routes online and reading on the go, the web subscription is a convenient, affordable way to stay connected with the motorcycle travel community. Try it free for 30 days before committing.
RoadRUNNER Print Subscription $39.99
A RoadRUNNER Print Subscription delivers six issues of the magazine each year, filled with inspiring motorcycle tours, travel stories, product reviews, and stunning photography. For $39.99 annually, readers get a collectible print edition that looks as good on the coffee table as it does in the garage. Each issue takes you along on carefully mapped routes across the U.S. and around the world, with turn-by-turn maps included. It’s a way to unplug, flip through real pages, and dream about your next ride. Perfect for riders who value the tactile experience of a magazine they can hold onto.