- Although the Garmin 550 Zumo comes with both an automotive mount as well as a motorcycle mount, its motorcycle-friendly design sets it apart. The controls are designed for motorcycles, with buttons on the left side and a touch screen that works even if you're wearing gloves. In addition, the Garmin 550 is waterproof and durable, having been vibration-tested and built out of fuel-resistant plastic.
- The 550 Zumo has a screen size of 2.8 inches by 2.1 inches and weighs just 10.6 ounces. It has a waterproof rating of IPX 7, meaning it can withstand being dropped in up to a meter of water for up to 30 minutes. The Garmin 550 has a removable lithium battery that can be re-charged. The battery life on the lithium battery is up to four hours, depending on usage. It comes preloaded with maps and has a slot to accept SD data cards.
- The Garmin 550 Zumo features a 20-channel GPS receiver for greater accuracy. The maps preloaded on the Garmin 550 have voice prompts for directions, and it also speaks the street names. In addition, it can sort multiple routes to find the most direct route and allows users to select the fastest route or shortest distance. It also has rerouting technology. The Garmin 550 comes preloaded with points of interest, such as gas stations or ATMs, and users can add additional points of interest.
- The Garmin 550 comes with Bluetooth wireless technology so you can listen to turn-by-turn directions and make calls via your Bluetooth headset or helmet. If there is a point of interest along the way, such as a motel you need to call, you can use your GPS to place a call to that destination.
- Optional extra services include an XM subscription that will give you weather and traffic updates, as well as allow you to listen to the radio. If you already have a traffic receiver, you might be able to simply get TMC traffic alerts if your receiver is compatible with the Garmin Zumo.
