Considering semi-permanent fairing mount

[HuntWhenever]

I just got a Zumo XT and I am thinking about fabricating a semi-permanent mount on my fairing (FXRT fairing on a Harley Softail). Basic concept as of now is to use the Zumo XT mount and power cable, then make a hood/frame around the unit (probably 3D printed).

For those who have had this GPS unit for a while...any possible issues with having the unit out in the weather and elements on a semi-permanent bases?

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[colirv]

As regards the weather, I've had no problems, but you may get replies from those that have. My concern would be whether the fairing would provide a solid enough mount.

[simoncrewe]

I just got a Zumo XT and I am thinking about fabricating a semi-permanent mount on my fairing (FXRT fairing on a Harley Softail). Basic concept as of now is to use the Zumo XT mount and power cable, then make a hood/frame around the unit (probably 3D printed).

For those who have had this GPS unit for a while...any possible issues with having the unit out in the weather and elements on a semi-permanent bases?


20210507.jpg

I would not about the mount being out in the open, it comes with a rubber cap to cover the power lead & you can get a 3 d printed cap to cover the entire mount.
As the other person pointed out, the mounting position needs to be substantial to avoid vibration/blurring of the screen.

[HuntWhenever]

Good points on the vibration of the fairing. I had not considered that. I checked by feeling the fairing with cruise control on while going down the interstate. It wasn't too bad, but enough to make me consider alternatives.

The fairing mounts to a steel frame on the front of the bike. There are less vibrations on this frame. This may make a good mount point. (Black frame in middle of image below )

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[cr0100]

The only issue I've experienced with the Zumo "out in the open" on a couple of week-long trips is ... if the rain is coming down VERY heavy (like: downpour), sometimes the water hitting the screen can be interpreted as a finger press. Other than that, I've had mine mounted just above the center stem on my FJR for about a year now. It's protected from wind-blast just by virtue of being behind the windscreen, but it's been rained on for DAYS at a time (no fun riding) with absolutely no issues.

I'd say: Mount it where you're able to see it and interact with it best, and don't worry about the weather.

[HuntWhenever]

My plans to fabricate a nice mount fell through as work schedules flood my time. I ended up making a quick-'n-dirty aluminum bracket from bent 2"x1/8" flatstock. I put a RAM ball over top part of the bracket just to cover up some of the blan aluminum. A locking mount from Touratech took care of the rest. I few road tests today show that the position, visibility, and legibility are all good.

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