Garmin And BMW Launch Motorrad Navigator IV GPS

While Garmin's definitely most famous for its nuvi line of in-car navigation devices, the company has lately begun to branch out somewhat. It makes sense, really--with so many factory cars arriving with NAV built in, Garmin better start looking elsewhere for a steady stream of revenue. To that end, the company is teaming up with automotive powerhouse BMW in order to debut the Motorrad Navigator IV.

The motorcycle-friendly GPS navigator is based around Garmin's own zumo 660, and it's said to take the best of Garmin’s navigation technology and add exclusive, BMW specific features such as a customized mount, preloaded BMW dealer database, unique audio and Bluetooth handling capabilities, and more. Roger Jollis, Garmin’s director of OEM and mobile marketing, seemed understandably elated about the partnership:

"Garmin and BMW are known within their respective industries for providing high-quality, high-end products with superior customer satisfaction and support. By equipping BMW motorcycles with the BMWMotorrad Navigator IV, riders can let the GPS device deliver spoken turn-by-turn instructions while they focus on the road and enjoy a worry-free ride. "

The device itself boasts a 4.3" touchscreen display, detailed street maps and millions of points of interest that include locations like restaurants, gas stations, ATMs, hotels and specific street addresses. There's also voice-prompted directions, Bluetooth support and A2DP support for using a BT earpiece within a helmet. The BMW Motorrad Navigator IV comes with a BMW exclusive, four-button motorcycle mount that enables many quick-key functions for extra control and usability; the mount and GPS device are vibration-tested, waterproof (IEC 529 IPX-7 standards), and designed to withstand fuel sprays and UV rays. It's expected on the market beginning in Q3 for an undisclosed price, but you'll have to jet on over to your nearest BMW Motorrad retailer in order to find one.