....I know, unrelated....but I need a little advice since 1)never had a GPS on a bike (or truck for that matter except for current OEM truck GPS) and 2)cruisers don't use sliders , but a little protection probably wouldn't hurt.

1. Going to spring for the Zumo 660, but there's a gigillion mounts out there and precious little space on the handlebars. The Techmounts [www.techmounts.com/products/index.php?pa...etail&product_id=149] have been recommended to me (e.g., handlebar mount pictured)

.....there's a 660-specific flat plate that goes on also. Anyone have experience with Techmounts (didn't see anything on forum search)? Ones (not Techmount) that mount at the handlebar clamp look interesting too, but haven't found one for the VMax yet.

2. Sliders.....looking at the Sato ones....frame sliders look functional to me (i.e., provide real protection), so I'm good with those. Their engine sliders look nice...but are they really protective (and do you need to replace gaskets when you install them)? Same thing goes for the Sato axle sliders and the OTEC rear spindle protectors....really protective?? [e.g., on a low or 0 mph dxxp (don't want to jinx myself here by spelling it out . Going to re-read some excellent Sato thread(s) on the board, but I have a few times and haven't come away convinced one way or another.[EDIT: OK, re-read a few more posts, sold on the engine sliders as well as frame sliders; only question is about the axle/spindle sliders/protectors...thanks for your patience!]

Sorry for the seemingly little questions......info/opinions on the web seem to be all over the place (hey, at least I've decided on a few things

Check out T-rex racing for the sliders as well. They are in Dallas so you can pick the stuff up locally. Okbrown would be a good person to talk to about their sliders he has a lot of their stuff on his bike.

Hi Scott..thanks for the post...didn't realize he had T-Rex stuff....I know he he mentioned he has a lot of OTEC stuff (esp. covers); Vernon has the Sato frame sliders, but AFAIK not the others (all else being equal, I "think" I'd prefer the placement of the Sato's). I did email the folks at T-Rex after reading a few threads here and they do have rear axle sliders for the VMax that I could not find listed on their web pages. Just getting a bit frustrated trying to gather enough info on this little stuff (on this 4m as well as google) so I can move on....if I had my "d'ruthers", I'd just get on and ride and forget about the other stuff!

I've answered your PM Ernie re Sato sliders.

Ernie,

Here are a few options for GPS mounts.

The Techmounts are supposed to be great quality pieces, so that is an option. Don't quote me on this, but I would imagine the back plate of the Zumo would work with the attachment plate that Techmount sells. I see they are currently out of stock, but you could call and ask about mounting options.

A RAM mount system is included that'll work just fine. Video below:


You've got the option of a Touratech locking cradle in Silver or in Black Video below:


You can Frankenstein your own RAM mount system from individual pieces. I wasn't using the stock mirrors, so I had a couple of additional mounting options with the mirror mounts empty. I've found the best prices at GPS City. The link goes directly to the exact RAM gear that's included with the Zumo. There are also some videos you can watch.

I went with a setup from GadgetGuy. Here's a link to photos of my setup . Your post got me off my arse to upload the photos. Everything is kept tight and out of the way. The only complaint would be that the GPS can't swivel, but I haven't had any issues with it other than a little glare with the sun at my back. I haven't taken pictures lately, but now have a place to mount my XM antenna and a Radar/Laser detector, which of course would only be used in case I need to locate a cop quickly.

I've been extemely happy with my T-Rex sliders. Tom, Jimmy and Oscar do excellent work for a more than reasonable price. Keith stopped by there recently and supposedly they're working on another design for the VMax. I'm interested to see what they come up with.

Guess I should answer your question about the axle sliders. Thankfully I haven't needed them since they've been on. I was happy to provide the demo/test fit bike, but unwilling to be the product tester. As far as I know they haven't been put to the test by anyone. Anyone out there been down with these attached?

Shaun

Thanks guys for the help (posts and pm's). Think I've got it covered....for now. Shaun, thanks for the link to the pics.....I went ahead with the Techmount GPS setup for now (was able to get everything....including the 660-specific plate in black....from Dennis Kirk).....I actually had seen the setup you have online, and I think I'll go that way if I start adding other stuff besides the GPS (radar detector, etc.). Looks great in your pics, have a much better idea now of that setup. Decided to hold off on the axle sliders for now (glad you haven't had to "road test" them!) although I may give the rear ones from T-Rex a shot...heck, they're right down the road [and the OTECs for the rear are pretty pricey, though I love their stuff]. PeaDawg, Badger, thanks much for the pm's. And Scott, thanks again!

Before you buy that 660 ($$$) take a look at a refurbished 765T. It has all the options you could want and it will pair with a phone and a set of wireless bluetooth earbuds/headset. It does mp3s and voice direction. I really think they stopped selling it because no one was buying the zummos. I use one with a RAM mount and it has the positive power cord vs the stupid mini USBs. I also bought a $20 power cord and ran it to a relay so the cord is always on teh bike. Just another option to maybe save you some money. Buy it and try it and if it does not work out return it and get the big money Zumo.

Never mind I think my post was too late.