In the past, long-distance riding would involve a lot of stops, mainly because the rider would need to ask for road directions from the locals, especially in far-flung areas. Then a few years ago, standalone GPS navigation devices have become available, but not without their limitations.

With the advent of the smartphone, standalone GPS navigation devices have become obsolete, not only because smartphones can also be used as a navigation tool, but they're also more affordable and can do a lot of things than the regular GPS device.

With this in mind, BMW Motorrad introduces the ConnectedRide Cradle.

BMW ditches Garmin for mobile phone cradle image

The ConnectedRide Cradle serves not only as a simple cradle for comfortably using the smartphone as a satnav while riding. In addition, the navigation map and vehicle data such as lean angle, acceleration, deceleration, and much more can be displayed via the BMW Motorrad Connected App using the Multi-Controller.

Thanks to individually adjustable side clamps, the ConnectedRide Cradle is suitable for many different smartphone sizes and charges the smartphone inductively according to the Qi standard with a maximum of 7.5 W or wired via a USB-C connection with a maximum of 7.5 W (1.5 A at 5 V). An LED charging indicator (can be switched off) provides information about the phone’s charging status.

For security, the ConnectedRide Cradle can be locked to the motorcycle’s holder, if the holder supports this.

The ConnectedRide Cradle can also be used on older BMW Motorrad models (e.g. BMW R 1200 GS K50) and fits all BMW Motorrad models equipped with the optional equipment "Preparation for navigation system (option 272)" - as well as models equipped with Multi-Controller and the option of retrofitting the navigation preparation via the BMW Motorrad workshop system (except R 1200 RT, R 1250 RT, K 1600 models). On older motorcycles without a TFT instrument cluster, operation is possible via the control element of the "Preparation for navigation unit SA 272". The prerequisite for displaying vehicle data is "On-board computer Pro (option 221)".

The ConnectedRide Cradle cannot be used with the Navigator 4-Button Mount Cradle.

In order to be able to fully use the functions described, the BMW Motorrad Connected App version 4.0 or higher must be used. BMW Motorrad recommends that you always install the latest updates to ensure proper functioning.

A Bluetooth connection is required to enable the app to be controlled via the motorcycle’s navigation preparation control element. The smartphone must be equipped with Bluetooth Low Energy version 4.2 at least in order to comply with the security requirements (LE Secure Connections) for the connection. Smartphones with older Bluetooth versions are therefore not supported.

Bluetooth pairing takes place within the BMW Motorrad Connected App and is only required once during initial setup.

Compatible smartphones

Most modern smartphones are compatible with the ConnectedRide Cradle. These include, but are not limited to, iPhone 7 to 13, most Samsung and Huawei mobile phones.