TomTom Rider 400 Car and Motorcycle Mounts

We look at Mounts for a BMW R1200RT MotorcycleAfter many years, TomTom has refreshed their successful line of motorcycle GPS devices with the recent introduction of the TomTom Rider 400.  The GPS features lifetime map updates and traffic.  It features a 4.3 inch screen.  The battery life of 6 hours is very good as most are typically topped out at three hours.  The included cradle has a hardwire cable integrated within which means that you should be careful not to damage the cable.  The back of the cradle has the industry standard AMPS pattern which is a 4-hole pattern supported by a lot of mount manufacturers.

We applaud TomTom’s decision to partner with RAM for the motorcycle mount.  There are three core components to the mount.  We will discuss each in detail and talk about some options as it pertains to swapping them out for different parts.

Round AMPS Adapter – This part is made of metal and has a series of holes that, among other patterns, has that 4-hole AMPS pattern that fits the back of the TomTom Rider 400 cradle.  Don’t lose the screws whatever you do because if you ever need to replace this part, it doesn’t come with screws.

Short Arm – This is the part in the middle of the mount that connects the two balls.  Loosen it by turning the flywheel in the middle.  This arm is 1.75 inches long from end-to-end.  This is the shortest arm RAM makes.  I find most motorcycle owners prefer the longer RAM 3-inch standard sized arm.  This is also available in an extra long 6″ version which I always thought was a little too high off the bars for motorcycle use but there might be some applications that require the longer arm.  It’s a matter of preference.

Handlebar and Clutch Base – this is a versatile attachment that will fit most motorcycles assuming you have the real estate available to accommodate your GPS.  The handlebar u-bolt fits up to 1.25 inch diameters.  The clutch part will fit most Harley-Davidson and Honda models. The clutch option is especially popular for the Goldwing series.  The handlebar option is easy to install with a wrench or pliers.  The clutch is a little more difficult as you will replace the factory bolts that hold your clutch with the ones that RAM is including.  Be sure to read the instructions from RAM thoroughly before proceeding on this project and if you don’t feel comfortable with the install, turn it over to a qualified mechanic.

The most common replacement will be the handlebar and clutch base.  This is because while it might fit the majority of motorcycles out there, there are some where you may wish to place it elsewhere.  The most popular replacement component is likely the RAM Fork Stem Base. This part is designed to fit into the cylindrical bore wall of fork stems and will work with stems that measure from 12 -20mm and 28mm or .5” – 1.10” at various intervals.  Larger holes may require the addition of some duct tape for added thickness.  Installation requires a screwdriver and is not as easy as the handlebar option so be sure that you are comfortable working on your bike or think about having a professional to do this.

Another popular base is the RAM Motorcycle Base with 11mm Hole.  This part is often attached to the mirror frame, the main brand of bike for this option is BMW but it can be used on other brands as well, you just need to measure the hole.  This part can fit well on many handlebar pinch bolts with a washer (base is 5mm thick).

If you would care to use your TomTom Rider in the car, TomTom has a solution.  The TomTom Rider 400 Car Mount comes with a suction cup, GPS attachment and car charger kit.  The charger comes with dual USB ports so that you can also charge your phone with a second cable.