Garmin has announced the new Zūmo XT3 GPS unit designed for motorcycle use. The XT3 is available with either a 4.7- or 6-inch glove-compatible touchscreen. Garmin tells us the unit is built to handle handlebar vibration, rough terrain, and poor weather.
The Garmin Zūmo XT3 meets MIL-STD-810 drop standards and carries an IPX7 water-resistance rating, the same as the XT2. According to Garmin’s Tech Support Hotline, the XT3 can use the same mounting/power bracket as the XT2, making installation a breeze for XT2 owners.
The Garmin Zūmo XT3 arrives preloaded with street maps and high-definition topographic maps. Location-specific satellite imagery can be downloaded directly to the device. An optional Outdoor Maps+ subscription adds additional off-road and adventure-focused map content with turn-by-turn guidance.
Routes can be created on the device or through Garmin’s Tread smartphone app. The XT3 supports importing GPX, KML, and KMZ files. A compass-only mode provides simple direction and distance guidance without a mapped route. If you ride in wide open spaces such as the Mojave Desert, this guidance feature can be very useful.
Garmin includes its Adventurous Routing feature, which prioritizes curvier or hillier roads when planning routes. The device also highlights popular motorcycle routes shared by other users.
A new addition is a live lean-angle display. The XT3 also logs g-force and maximum speed.
Ride summaries are available in the Tread app. Group tracking is supported through the Tread app when paired with a compatible smartphone.
For track use, Garmin offers an optional Performance Package subscription. With an active plan, the XT3 can record 0–60 mph times, 1/8-mile, and 1/4-mile times, and lap data. The subscription costs $10 per month or $100 per year.
The XT3 can also integrate with other Garmin accessories, including the Garmin Zūmo R1 rearview radar and select inReach satellite communicators. Accessories are sold separately.
The XT3 adds lean-angle tracking, track-day telemetry, expanded mapping, and ride group visibility options to Garmin’s motorcycle GPS lineup. Our upcoming full review will determine how well those features translate to real-life riding.
The 4.7-inch Garmin Zūmo XT3 is priced at $500, while the 6-inch version runs $600 and includes a larger handlebar-mount kit. The XT3 is due to be released this week.
