GPS mounting question

[Ken]

Hello everyone!

I've recently installed MCL risers and the free RAM ball that Larry throws in with them.

I have also ordered this Garmin Quest from gpscity.com with RAM Motorcycle GPS Mount (http://www.gpscity.com/item-garmin-quest-motorcycle-gps/questmb.htm)

My question is, do I need any additional mounting hardware to install this little gem? It seems like I'm set, but I've never owned a GPS before or used a RAM mounting system so I'm double checking now since the GPS is in transit. Thanks in advance!

[Mellow]

it states it ships with:

Quest GPS Receiver
City Select CD USA v6.0
USB PC Cable
Quest A/C Charger 110 VAC
Quest Suction Mount with 12V DC Power/Speaker
Quick Reference Guide
Owners Manual
AND
RAM U-Bolt Mount with Quest Cradle

It's hard to tell what that is... The cradle is there... and it should have a ball on the back of it, you'll have a ball on the risers, now only the arm as Rob pointed out...

this is a u-bolt ram mount but that is what you'll already have on the risers:
http://www.gpscity.com/g/3/s/ramb231steel.jpg

In thier Ram mounts section this is what they call their Quest Ram mount so I'm assuming this is what you'll get, in which case you're set..
http://www.gpscity.com/g/4/l/ramb149ga15.jpg

[Keith_UK]

Hi Ken

I've just bought (about 1 month ago) a Garmin 2610 and mounted it in a similar way to what you are proposing. That is to say, I have Heli-Bar risers c/w the 1" RAM Ball Mount which threads into the middle of the top plate of the riser. This seems to be almost a mirror set-up to your MCL fitment.

You appear to be getting all the mounting kit you need, as indicated in the picture taken from your gpscity.com advert link. You can, however, dispense with the U-Bolt Rail Base, as the bottom of the RAM Mounting Arm will clamp right over the 1" RAM ball as supplied by MC Larry with your bar risers.

I am left wondering about the audio connection though? Do you have an Autocom or Starcom communication system installed within your STeed, which in turn should mean that you have head-set speakers fitted inside your helmet(s)?

I say this because I'm not quite certain how much use the supplied 12-volt DC Power/Speaker will be to you. This seems to be just a typical cigar-lighter plug with a mini speaker attachment; probably okay for the car, but not much use on your STeed.

In summary, I think you have all you need to mount your Quest GPS. The trick will be working out how to hear the GPS's voice prompts properly. The best conduit for these voice prompts would be via an Autocom or Starcom wired straight to a pair of helmet speakers. This may mean also buying a separate audio cable. If it comes to this, then let me know and I'll steer you towards a few suppliers - Note: compatible Garmin audio cables are widely available, especially in the States.

I still consider myself a novice with all the technicalities of GPS systems, but my 2610 is now fully integrated with my ST's Autocom system and works perfectly - it's a brilliant accessory. I'm sure you will get (eventually, one way or another) as much pleasure from your Quest.

Ride safe

KEITH (UK)

[Ken]

Thanks gents! Seems as though gpscity has taken of me, and I'll be able to get this baby mounted right away. Can't wait to go on my first all-day ride and try to get lost :)

Great point, Keith. My power outlet is in the bottom of my right compartment, which will render the audio completely useless. It's also part of the reason I went with the Quest rather than the 2610 - internal rechargeable lithium battery. As you offered, if you could point me in the direction of vendors with accessories to resolve this issue, I'd be very appreciative. Thanks!

[Keith_UK]

Ken - the first US supplier that springs-to-mind is CycoActive Inc. Their home URL is: http://www.cycoactive.com

Without wanting to exaggerate[!?] - You'll find about a ZILLION different tips and ideas about GPS mounting and wiring hook-ups at this site.

Good luck and ride safe.

KEITH (UK)

[VF1000R]

FREE Ram BALL ????

His Site says it don't come with one. I had to Order mine. :( wassup ????