Garmin Zumo XT, XT2 & XT3 Mounts: Every Mounting Option Covered

The Garmin Zumo XT, Zumo XT2, and Zumo XT3 are built for motorcycle use, but the best mounting location depends on your bike, available handlebar space, and how permanent you want the installation to be. This Garmin Zumo XT mount guide covers handlebar, fork stem, brake and clutch reservoir, mirror, locking, and automotive options for the XT, XT2, and XT3.

For the broader mounting principles behind any motorcycle GPS installation, see our guide on how to mount a motorcycle GPS.

One important point before choosing a mount: the Zumo XT, XT2, and XT3 use model-specific cradles. You cannot simply snap an XT2 or XT3 into an original XT cradle.

The good news is that the motorcycle-side mounting hardware is much more reusable. The Garmin cradles use the familiar AMPS mounting ecosystem, so bases, arms, and adapters from RAM Mounts and other manufacturers can often remain in place even when the GPS itself is upgraded.

1. Garmin / RAM Handlebar Mount

The standard Garmin motorcycle setup is still the easiest solution for most riders. It uses the familiar RAM-style ball-and-socket arrangement, giving you a wide range of adjustment for screen angle, height, and position.

The major advantage is modularity. The motorcycle-side base and arm are not permanently tied to one Zumo generation. If you later move from an XT to an XT2 or XT3, much of the mounting hardware may remain useful even though the GPS cradle itself changes.

A handlebar installation also makes it easy to reposition the GPS if you later add a phone mount, heated-grip controller, action camera, or another accessory.

For most motorcycles, this is where I would start unless you already know you want the GPS somewhere other than the handlebar.

2. BRCOVAN Fork Stem Mount

A fork stem mount is one of the cleanest alternatives when you want to keep the handlebars open.

The BRCOVAN base installs in the opening at the top of the fork stem and outputs a standard B-size 1-inch ball. From there, you can use a compatible double-socket arm and AMPS plate to connect the Garmin cradle.

The GPS ends up much closer to the motorcycle’s centerline than it would with a conventional handlebar clamp. That can provide a more natural viewing position on sport, sport-touring, and some adventure motorcycles.

Another advantage is that you may already own the rest of the mounting hardware. If your existing Garmin setup uses a compatible arm and AMPS plate, moving the GPS from the handlebar to the fork stem may require only the new base.

3. Tackform Mirror Mount

A mirror mount is another way to keep the center of the handlebar uncluttered.

The Tackform mount uses the motorcycle’s existing mirror mounting point. Its through-hole design allows the mirror and GPS mounting base to share the attachment location instead of forcing you to remove the mirror.

This can work particularly well on BMW GS and similar adventure bikes where the mirror bolt provides a convenient line of sight without putting the GPS directly in front of the instrument cluster.

Tackform uses a 20mm ball rather than the 1-inch B-size system used by RAM and BRCOVAN, so use compatible Tackform 20 Series components between the base and AMPS adapter.

4. TUSITA Brake and Clutch Reservoir Mount

The TUSITA brake and clutch reservoir mount is a good alternative when you want the Zumo near the controls without wrapping another clamp around the handlebar.

Instead, the base attaches at the brake or clutch reservoir mounting location. This frees up handlebar space and can make the GPS installation look more integrated with the motorcycle.

This particular kit includes a short B-size double-socket arm, which is useful because you do not have to purchase the arm separately. Connect it to the appropriate AMPS-side hardware for your Garmin cradle and you have a compact mounting arrangement.

This style of installation is especially useful when the handlebar is already crowded with phone mounts, switches, heated-grip controls, cameras, or other accessories.

The standard Garmin cradle holds the GPS securely while you’re riding, but it is not a keyed anti-theft system. If you regularly leave the Zumo attached while stopping for fuel, food, or other short breaks, a locking mount can make more sense.

5. MotoPumps Locking Security Mount

MotoPumps is the locking option I like here because one product family covers the Zumo XT, XT2, and XT3 instead of forcing us into several model-specific recommendations.

The security hardware works around the Garmin cradle and prevents normal access to the release mechanism without the key. That makes it useful for riders who want to leave the GPS installed during short stops rather than removing it every time they walk away from the bike.

MotoPumps offers security components for riders who already have mounting hardware as well as more complete mounting configurations.

A locking mount is still not a reason to leave an expensive GPS unattended indefinitely, but it adds a meaningful deterrent for normal stops during a ride.

Touratech also makes locking mounts for Garmin Zumo models, but compatibility varies by Zumo generation and XT3 screen size. Check exact model fitment if you prefer a Touratech setup.

The Zumo XT and XT2 can also serve as dedicated car GPS units. Garmin offers model-specific automotive mounting hardware that combines the appropriate cradle with a windshield suction mount and vehicle power connection.

6. Garmin Automotive Mount Kit

The automotive kits for the Zumo XT and XT2 turn the motorcycle GPS into a conventional windshield-mounted navigation unit for car use.

Be sure to buy the kit for your exact Zumo. The cradles are model-specific, so an XT automotive setup should not be treated as interchangeable with an XT2 kit.

The original Zumo XT automotive cradle also uses Garmin’s common 17mm ball connection, giving you additional mounting possibilities if you prefer a compatible dash, vent, or cup holder base instead of the supplied windshield suction mount.

7. Cup Holder Mount for Car Use

If you do not want a suction cup attached to the windshield, a cup holder mount is another practical option for the original Zumo XT automotive cradle.

Look for a mount that provides the correct Garmin-compatible 17mm ball. The XT automotive cradle can then attach to the cup holder mount instead of the factory windshield base.

The main tradeoff is position. Cup holder mounts place the GPS lower in the vehicle, so visibility will depend heavily on the layout of your center console.

Are Garmin Zumo XT, XT2 and XT3 mounts interchangeable?

Not completely. Each Zumo generation uses its own cradle, so you cannot simply move an XT2 or XT3 into an original XT cradle.

However, much of the motorcycle-side mounting system can be reused. A compatible base, ball, double-socket arm, and AMPS adapter may work across multiple Zumo generations.

Can I use my old Zumo mount with an XT, XT2 or XT3?

Parts of it may be reusable.

If your existing installation uses a RAM-style base and arm, those components may still work with the newer Zumo once the correct model-specific cradle and adapter are installed.

If you’re upgrading from a 390LM, 395LM, or 396LMT-S, see our Zumo 390LM, 395LM, and 396LMT-S mount guide.

What is the AMPS mounting pattern?

AMPS is a standardized mounting-hole pattern widely used on GPS cradles, device holders, and mounting plates.

Its widespread use is what allows Garmin hardware to work with mounting components from RAM Mounts, BRCOVAN, MotoPumps, and many other manufacturers.

For more information, see our full guide to the AMPS mounting pattern.

What is the best Garmin Zumo mount for a BMW GS?

BMW GS owners have several good options depending on the model and existing accessories.

The Tackform mirror mount keeps the GPS away from the main handlebar area, while a suitable center-mounted system can place the GPS closer to the rider’s natural line of sight.

For additional BMW-specific ideas, see our BMW motorcycle mount guide.

Can I mount a Zumo using the brake or clutch reservoir?

Yes, if the reservoir hardware and available space on your motorcycle are compatible.

The TUSITA reservoir mount featured above attaches using the brake or clutch reservoir mounting location and includes a short B-size double-socket arm. It is a useful option when you want to preserve handlebar space.

Does the Garmin Zumo lock to the motorcycle?

The standard Garmin cradle retains the GPS while riding but is not a keyed anti-theft system.

For additional security, an aftermarket solution such as the MotoPumps locking mount restricts access to the Garmin cradle release.

Does the MotoPumps lock fit the Zumo XT3?

Yes. MotoPumps lists its security mounting system for the Zumo XT, XT2, and XT3.

As with any locking system, check clearance around your existing arm, AMPS hardware, and nearby motorcycle components before ordering.

Is there a Garmin Zumo XT3 automotive mount kit?

No. As of September 29, 2026, Garmin states that the Zumo XT3 does not have an automotive mount kit.

The XT3 owner’s manual includes instructions describing vehicle mounting, which can make this confusing, but Garmin’s current support information specifically notes that an XT3 automotive mount kit is not available.

Can I use a Zumo XT or XT2 in a car?

Yes. Garmin offers dedicated automotive mounting hardware for the Zumo XT and XT2.

Make sure you purchase the kit for your exact Zumo model because the automotive cradles are not interchangeable.

For most riders, the Garmin/RAM handlebar system remains the easiest place to start. If you want the GPS centered and away from crowded handlebars, the BRCOVAN fork stem base is a strong alternative.

The Tackform makes sense when a mirror mounting location works well on your motorcycle, while the TUSITA reservoir mount gives you another clean option near the controls without wrapping another clamp around the handlebar.

If theft resistance matters, the MotoPumps locking system is the dedicated security option in this guide.

The most important thing to remember when changing Zumo models is that the motorcycle-side mounting hardware and the GPS cradle are two different parts of the system. Much of the mounting hardware can follow you to a newer Zumo. The cradle needs to match the GPS.

Be sure to visit our Motorcycle GPS Mounts Hub for more GPS mounting options.

Looking for another motorcycle? Browse our Motorcycle Mount Hub for additional guides by brand and model.