Customised Motorcycle Satnav Mount

I wasn't satisfied with the awkward and 'clunky' looks of manufactured satnav mounting kits, and though they are very flexible to cover a large range of bikes, I thought that I could do better! Luckily, I found a pair of unused pre-threaded bolt holes under the front edge of my top yoke, otherwise this would not have been so straightforward. So half the problem is finding a suitable method of attachment. Let's get on with my first instructable...

Step 1: Raw Materials

Here are most of the bits that you need. I spent £3 on the metal offcuts, and having them cut to outline shape by a local metal suppliers. Sizes in this case were a sheet of 4mm aluminium plate, 100mm x 50mm, and a 50mm length of 25mm diameter alloy tubing, with a good wall thickness for putting a thread in. A couple of M5 bolts and washers completes the package. You obviously also need the satnav cradle - mine is the standard Garmin cradle for a bicycle or non-powered motorcycle application.
You will require a selection of metal-shaping tools; I used some hand-held electric tools and common hand tools for shaping work. Band saws, pillar drills and mills would improve speed and accuracy, but are not necessary.

Step 2: Making the Mount

Drill the mounting holes first to get everything in the correct position. Check by offering up pieces into position at crucial points in the proceedings. Check the pictures for additional detail.

Step 3: The Final Fitting

All that is required is to fit the mount and the satnav clip. Job done!

Comments

[PKM]

Wow... coincidence. I just got a satnav and have been thinking about ways to add it to my bike- at the moment it goes in a jacket pocket and I listen to the reassuring voice saying "after 100 yards, turn left" through headphones under my helmet- suboptimal (and possibly slightly illegal).

Living in the UK, though, and commuting on the bike means I have to worry about rain so it's probably going to be an enclosed mount, and I don't think my 125 chicken chaser has as much space to play with as your Duke. Watch this space, I guess.

[trick cyclist]

Hi PKM, I juts hope that this inspires you to think about the best solution for you. I have to say that if you are happy to do without the visuals, your version is a very elegant way of doing it, and gives your satnav the best security too.

[trick cyclist]

I guess the final thing to do would be to buy the Garmin cable to fit to the bike power supply, so that you would not have to worry about recharging separately. I will get round to it sometime.