New Garmin Zumo 590LM, infotainment for two wheels

The navigator as an end in itself is now a decidedly outdated tool, and even in the motorcycle sector it is legitimate to talk about infotainment, thanks to devices capable of doing much more than just guiding you. This is the case of the new Zumo 590LM from Garmin, a true multimedia device, which uses the Bluetooth connection to provide a series of new features.

The module Built-in Bluetooth is dual channel and allows the zūmo to connect with a compatible smartphone, for use as a speakerphone, and with a compatible headset or helmet; this includes the ability to make and receive calls and, at the same time, listen to navigation commands. It is also possible to make calls to points of interest stored in the navigator.

Always through the Bluetooth connection, taking advantage of the internet connection on your mobile phone, users can receive real-time weather and traffic information through the Smartphone Link app installed on their phone. Zūmo 590LM also integrates an MP3 player and can be interfaced with iPod and iPhone, and music will be directly viewable on the display of the navigator.

The Zumo 590LM benefits from the latest technologies developed by Garmin in terms of navigation, and here we are talking about specificity for motorcyclists. Thanks to the display from a full 5 inchesThe Zumo is very easy to handle even when wearing gloves. Taking advantage of the function Garmin Real Directions, reference points are used well visible in the surrounding environment to provide driving directions. No more indecision about which lane to stay thanks to visualization Bird's Eye which offers a detailed overview of motorway junctions from top to bottom; plus the PhotoReal function, which displays motorway junctions and exits in a realistic, almost photographic way, including the surrounding landscape, and the Dynamic Lane Assistant, which works with the support of an animated model. I omit the obvious, and here very complete, standard navigation indications, such as speed, estimated arrival times, etc... to talk about the integrated trip computer, which has a fuel level indicator, which allows you to know the distance you can travel before having to stop for refueling.

In addition to classic route planning, a call mode is also available Round trip, which plans a circular route and takes the user back to the starting point simply on the basis of the time available or the kilometers they want to travel: you ask, he thinks and carries out. The option Panoramic Routes is available among the itinerary modes, to which another has been added: with the TracBack function it will be possible to retrace the path taken in reverse to savor the scenarios discovered or the best roads that have already been travelled. How many of us will have thought about it during our travels and asked ourselves: "Who knows what it will be like to do it backwards?"

Zumo 590LM is at the service of the motorcyclist... but also of the motorbike! Mileage, services, oil changes, filter replacements and spark plugs - the zūmo 590LM makes it easy to keep track of it all, through the intervention history register, with which it is possible to memorize the date, mileage and type of interventions carried out.

Aesthetically the robust design, tested to resist vibrations and drops, and with a structure resistant to fuel splashes, UV rays and bad weather (certified protection: IPX7). The zūmo 590LM is powered by a rechargeable, removable battery and, in addition to the motorcycle mount, the package includes a suction cup mount and an automotive power cable. It will be available from mid-April 2014 at a price. price of 649 €. A couple of options: compatibility with the tire pressure detection sensor, and possibility of connection with the Garmin VIRB Action Camera.