Tired of the BMW Navigator? Here Are Smarter GPS Navigation Solutions for Your GS!
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The DMD Ecosystem – Flexibility Meets Off-Road Power
If you're riding a BMW GS and feel like the stock Navigator is no longer cutting it, you're not alone. In terms of price-performance, the DMD-T865X clearly outshines the BMW Navigator, offering more features, freedom, and control for a more attractive price.
At the heart of the DMD setup is the rugged Android-based DMD-T865X tablet, developed specifically for motorcycle use. Paired with the DMD2 app, it transforms into a powerful navigation and cockpit system.
Key Benefits of the DMD Setup:
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Ultra-rugged, weatherproof Android tablet
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Offline navigation for on-road and off-road
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Real-time OBD2 data display (e.g., with OBD M1 Scanner)
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Fully customizable dashboard
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Compatible with apps like Kurviger, Locus Map, Gaia GPS, and DMD Roadbook (drivemodedashboard.com)
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Fully autonomous use without phone tethering – thanks to offline maps and a powerful internal system
Remote Controllers or SilverFox: Handlebar Control Made Easy
The DMD system can be controlled using DMD Remote Controllers (versions 1, 2 or 3) or high-end alternatives like the SilverFox Home One+ or C1 Controller. These high-quality units are compact, stylish, and easy to install on your handlebar.
Seamless GS Integration: BMW Wonder Wheel + Carpe Iter BMW Control
One of the most elegant solutions for GS riders is using the Carpe Iter BMW Control Kit. It enables direct control of the DMD2 app via the stock BMW Wonder Wheel. Additionally, the Carpe Iter BMW Control Hub is available as a standalone component – perfect for modular setups or later upgrades. A sleek button strip wraps neatly around the throttle housing for extra control without visual clutter.
Why the DMD System Excels
One major strength of the DMD-T865X is that it operates entirely offline and independently from any smartphone or mobile network. With preloaded offline maps and a high-performance interface, it's built for remote travel.
It also features a high-precision internal GPS module, offering stable positioning even in challenging terrain – a clear advantage over most smartphones.
The DMD2 software allows deep personalization, whether you want a clean nav interface, a digital roadbook, or real-time engine data. Combined with the tablet's rugged build, the DMD setup is easily one of the most capable motorcycle navigation systems available today.
The Chigee Ecosystem – All-in-One with Off-Road Trade-Offs
The Chigee AIO 6 is an all-in-one solution designed for modern motorcycles. It combines navigation, media control, camera, dash display, and connectivity in one neat unit mounted to your bike (chigee.com).
Advantages of the Chigee System:
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Simple plug & play installation
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Integrated dash cam and ride display
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Notifications, music, and call display
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Partial BMW Wonder Wheel support
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Compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
Off-Road Navigation Apps That Work with Android Auto / CarPlay
If you're using the Chigee AIO 6 and want off-road navigation, here are some apps that support Android Auto or Apple CarPlay:
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onX Offroad – offline maps, trails, turn-by-turn routing (onxmaps.com)
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OsmAnd – open-source offline maps and route planning (osmand.net)
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Locus Map – outdoor and topo maps, Android Auto supported (locusmap.app)
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HERE WeGo – offline routing, supports both Android Auto and CarPlay (here.com)
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Mapy.cz – fully offline with auto platform compatibility (mapy.cz)
Off-Road Limitations
The Chigee AIO 6 is great for road touring and light gravel use. However, it lacks the off-road flexibility of the DMD setup. Since Chigee relies on smartphone-based CarPlay/Android Auto, navigation depends entirely on your phone – meaning increased battery drain and limited app selection.
While the device runs Android, installing advanced off-road apps like Gaia GPS, Locus Map, or Kurviger outside of Android Auto is not natively supported or is significantly limited.
Conclusion
If you're mostly riding paved roads and want a sleek, all-in-one dash system, the Chigee AIO 6 is a strong option. But if you're a GS rider with off-road ambition and demand maximum app freedom, hardware durability, and true autonomy, the DMD setup is the smarter choice.