Becker Sat Nav Advice???
 

Folks

I'm looking for a decent sat nav for European bike travel. I only use roads so I don't need off-road features or capability.
I want something different from Garmin and Tom Tom even though I know these can be bought reasonably cheap online and I have seen these German-made Becker units on the web.

Does anyone have one?
Are they a good unit?
What are they like for reliability and accuracy?
Do they have the typical excellent German build quality?

They seem to be reasonably priced although price is not the only consideration for me. I am looking for robust quality, accuracy and reliability first and foremost. I particularly liked the Crocodile model (I think it's a Z100) and it's 3D view. But I'll only buy one if they are worth having. I have read lots about them online from places trying to sell them (and of course they say they're great) but I haven't yet found any direct comments from people who have used them.

Any views from anyone who has one or has used one would be greatly appreciated.

Chris :D

I'm after a new sat nav as well so I did a google search on Becker sat nav review and came up with some.
The main point they say is that the maps are at least a couple of years out of date and they can't be updated.

Hi Anton

I think that problem may have been relevant with the older Beckers but the new Z series models have up to date maps and can be updated OK I think.

Chris

I'll reconsider then!

Why do you want something different from Garmin or TomTom? These units are popular for a reason.

Tim
Yes, you are right about TomTom and Garmin. I have a Garmin Nuvi but I just want something different I suppose. Plus, mine isn't waterproof and I won't pay £300+ for a proper bike unit. I think they're crazy money. I happened upon these Becker units on some website and they look quite good to me. Being German built I also thought they might have the usual robust and reliable build quality to match. Hence the reason for asking if anyone had one before parting with money. I have a tendency to buy in haste then repent at leisure!!

Chris

Becker..
 

Hi I've just got back from a trip to Germany where I met a German rider using a Becker sat nav. He raved about it, he had the new crocodile unit and assisted me to get to a camp site in a small rural town. He did have trouble finding a street but I do think he was rushing a bit!

I think for value and specs it seems like a great unit...:thumbup1:

also this may be useful..
 

NEW - Motorcycle GPS: Becker Z100 Crocodile - Other GPS Hardware and Software

found this on a Triumph forum, pretty thorough review!