Sygic has launched a dedicated motorcycle mode for its GPS navigation app, bringing specialized routing and ride-specific data to Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The feature, available as a one-time purchase for 49.99 euros, allows riders to project navigation directly onto factory-fitted or aftermarket motorcycle displays, bypassing the need to mount a smartphone on the handlebars.
Specialized Routing for Two-Wheeled Travel
Standard navigation apps like Google Maps and Waze are primarily optimized for four-wheeled vehicles, often prioritizing the fastest route via highways. According to Sygic, their new motorcycle mode differentiates itself by calculating routes specifically for two-wheeled travel. This includes algorithms designed to identify scenic routes and twisty roads that prioritize the motorcycling experience over mere efficiency.
The interface is built to minimize rider distraction. Key data points, such as real-time elevation, the nearest gas stations, and weather updates, are projected onto the dashboard. To improve safety, the system displays speed limits in a prominent, easy-to-read format and utilizes a pulsating visual cue for navigation warnings. This design choice ensures that riders spend less time looking at their screens and more time focusing on the road.
Unlike many modern navigation services that rely on recurring monthly subscriptions, Sygic offers this motorcycle functionality as a one-time purchase, providing lifetime access to the module after the initial payment.
Expanding the Ecosystem of Smart Motorcycles
The integration of Android Auto and Apple CarPlay into motorcycles is no longer limited to high-end touring bikes. While models like the Honda Gold Wing, Africa Twin, NT1100, and various Harley-Davidson touring motorcycles come equipped with these systems from the factory, the aftermarket sector is expanding rapidly. Riders can now install third-party displays that support these platforms, effectively bringing modern connectivity to older or budget-friendly bikes.
Sygic confirms that its motorcycle mode is compatible with these aftermarket devices, provided they run Android Auto or Apple CarPlay. Once the module is installed, riders can manage their routes directly from the motorcycle’s dashboard. While complex route planning—such as selecting specific winding road preferences—must be configured on a smartphone beforehand, the core navigation experience remains seamless once the bike is in motion.
Future Trends in Motorized Navigation
The move by third-party developers like Sygic signals a shift in how riders interact with their vehicles. As automotive platforms become more open to specialized extensions, the reliance on generic, car-centric mapping software is likely to decrease.
Pro Tip: Before heading out, configure your route preferences on your smartphone using the Sygic app. Once your route is set, you can leave your phone in your jacket pocket and rely entirely on the bike’s dashboard display.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Sygic motorcycle mode free?
No, the motorcycle mode is a paid module for the Sygic GPS Navigation app, priced at a one-time fee of 49.99 euros.
Do I need a specific motorcycle to use this feature?
You need a motorcycle equipped with either a factory-installed Android Auto/Apple CarPlay display or a compatible aftermarket unit that supports these platforms.
Can I use this without a phone mount?
Yes. Because the navigation is projected onto your motorcycle’s dashboard display, you do not need to mount your phone to your handlebars.
Does it require an internet connection?
Have you upgraded your bike with an Android Auto or CarPlay display? Share your experiences with motorcycle-specific navigation in the comments below, or sign up for our newsletter for more tech updates for riders.
