Mounting a GPS - Sixth Generation VFR's

Hey all!

Today I bought a gps mount hoping to mount it to my tank. I'm trying to mount it on the flat surface of the tank just in front of the stickers. But I can't get it to stick! If I remove the stickers do you think I'll have better luck? Has anybody attempted this? The only place I can get it to stick and not interfere with the handlebars is the tachometer! :tongue:

I was originally thinking of getting a RAM mount but those are $50-75 plus shipping. This mount was only $25 and I can use it in the car. It's very sturdy and should hold up.

Does anybody have tips or suggestions for mounting a gps/phone on a 6th gen?

Thanks!

I have a RAM mount, and I think it's worth it. I am able to quickly switch it from bike to bike (like today to the F3). Zumo 550, by the way. Which I really like.

IMO this is one of those times when spending a little more money now will save you money in the long run. About the first time that suction cup lets go at 70 mph and you have to replace the GPS, that more expensive RAM mount will be worth it. :smile:

I have the RAM mount and mounted it using the two tank securing bolts at the front of the tank. YM(ounting)MV. :smile:

...the first time that suction cup lets go at 70 mph...

Haha yeah... My original plan was to tether the mount and the GPS to something so it doesn't go flying off. On my ninja the mount works beautifully; on the VFR... not so much.

I have the RAM mount and mounted it using the two tank securing bolts at the front of the tank.

When I put the VFR into the mount selector it chose the U bolt option. RAM Suggested configuration Which mount/bracket is used in conjunction with the two tank screws?


edit: second quote & question
Edited by DesignGoggles, 18 March 2012 - 04:58 PM.

Yes you can use the stock tank bolts just becareful you don't strip the bolt holes. The correct thing to do is grab a bolt 5-8mm longer.

Sreach the forum your see lots of pictures of guys doing it.

Here are three RAM options.

Center Tank mount, Left grip and clip ons.

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As another option, I have had good luck in two different applications with a Techmount solution for GPS. The quality of materials is quite good.

http://www.techmount...product_id=139

Here are three RAM options.

Center Tank mount, Left grip and clip ons.

Funny you should chime in. I was just looking at another thread where you posted a picture of your setup.


Regarding the three options...

• Clutch reservoir
  
  • In the other thread you mentioned this wasn't the best option for a GPS. Is that still your opinion? Alternatively, if you were to mount a camera would you get a good forward-facing view? If I'm going to mount a camera and gps (at separate times) I figure this may be a viable solution.
• Handlebar screw
  
  • This option appears to be the least invasive mounting option. The positioning seems to be roughly the same as the tank screw option. Would this option be too low for a camera?
• Tank screws
  
  • This looks to be the cleanest but according to the old thread I may need to drill the mount holes a bit. This location also doesn't seem suitable for a forward-facing camera. Correct?

Also,
I saw mention of a "powerlet." After a little googling I found the VFR powerlet. The plug doesn't look very deep, will I need a special adapter of sorts for my cigarette socket power adapters? Also, it doesn't look very water-resistant when being used. Is there any concern using the powerlet in the rain? Is there a more protected option?

I have been running a GPS and Camera for many years. A couple of years ago I added a SPOT. My" current" thinking is to put the Zumo on the left bars the camera on the center mount and my SPOT II on the right clipon. The SPOT manual says the GPS and SPOT should be separated and I also find that as I have added a bigger (more crap) tank bag that I now prefer the GPS on the Port side.

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Now .....my question is where the heck am I going to put a RD???????????????????

The powerlet kit fits right in its slot with no special adapter and I have never had any issues with water. I have an adapter for cigar plugs.

Despite living in San Diego I do find water on tour.
[image: Posted Image]

[image: Posted Image]

Regarding cameras on a VFR .....I have a thread on still cameras "Shot from the Bars" which talks about my experiences. If shooting still shots get a WP camera not just because it is waterproof but also as they do not have an exterior mechanical zoom lens which eats bugs!!!!