BMW R1200RT/R1250RT Forum

No experience using a dedicated GPS
I have used several apps over the years for off road riding (GAIA, COTREX, onX off-road) and my iPhone and now a CARPLAY device on my street bikes.

I don't love the carplay option, still kinda hard to see and a bit wonky, and not great at setting up routes.

I have purchased my first BMW (2023 RT) and am looking at getting an actual GPS device
No desire to spend more than I need to: I see an overwhelming amount of info, often posted by long-time actual GPS users, but hard to get a baseline of where to start and what to get
Of course mounts and powering are also part of the equation....
Suggestions: what I really need or want. (in USA)

Just download the bmw connected ride app it's free?

I plan to try that but have yet to read about anyone that really loves it. Does it work well for you?

Yeah works well once you've got it all set up right, I prefer it over my nav 6. It's even better on the RT because it's all displayed on the TFT.

Here is a link to a BMW Motorrad produced 'How To' video to instruct users on the Connected App:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UJ3o2dI8zDA

Key points, and possibly why some may not like the navigation app and/or want something else:

- There are other videos by Motorrad related to downloading the app and setup, with specific discussion of allowing it full access to the storage functions of your phone (location tracking, pictures, etc) that you might not typically want to relinquish access to.

- What happens if/when you lose cellular service on your ride?

- What happens if/when you stop for a break somewhere along your ride and the app and/or motorcycle are turned off?

Dugway wrote: Thu Jul 10, 2025 4:33 pm
- What happens if/when you lose cellular service on your ride?

- What happens if/when you stop for a break somewhere along your ride and the app and/or motorcycle are turned off?

The maps you require are downloaded to your phone so it does not matter if you lose cellular service, all you need is GPS signal same as a sat nav.

If you stop for a break and turn the motorcycle off it just resumes the route same as a sat nav would when you turn the ignition back on.

Thank You, I am still trying to figure out how to operate it and do not necessarily know why it quits working for me during rides. Will be trying it again this weekend!