The Garmin zūmo 396 LMT-S is a robust motorcycle GPS navigator designed to meet the demands of riders seeking reliable navigation across various conditions. Its build quality is commendable, featuring a sturdy construction that withstands daily exposure to sun, extreme heat, cold, and rain. The device comes with a high-quality mount equipped with a quick disconnect feature, ensuring both security and convenience during rides.
The zūmo 396 boasts a 4.3-inch glove-friendly touchscreen display with a resolution of 480 x 272 pixels. The device's physical dimensions are 4.94 inches in width, 3.38 inches in height, and 0.98 inches in depth, weighing approximately 8.5 ounces (241.1 grams). These dimensions make it compact yet adequately sized for motorcycle use. The screen is designed to be sunlight-readable, enhancing visibility during daytime rides.
In terms of performance, the zūmo 396 offers features like Garmin Adventurous Routing™, which helps riders find curvy or hilly roads while limiting major highways. However, entering destinations can require more effort due to the keyboard layout and smaller screen size. This might be a minor inconvenience for some users, but overall, the system remains user-friendly and efficient.
The device's battery life is fair, providing up to 4 hours on a single charge, which is suitable for shorter trips but may necessitate external power for extended rides. Over approximately 25,000 miles of use on a police motorcycle, the unit has maintained its performance, functioning as well as it did when brand new. This durability speaks volumes about its long-term reliability.
One notable issue is the occasional Wi-Fi connectivity problem experienced over 16 months of use. While this could be specific to the unit in question, it's worth mentioning for potential buyers who rely on Wi-Fi for updates and connectivity features. Despite this minor drawback, the Garmin zūmo 396 LMT-S remains a solid choice for motorcyclists seeking a dependable and durable GPS navigator.
As of this writing, the manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) for the Garmin zūmo 396 LMT-S is $249. Amazon Affiliate link