➕I did receive this product for free from Chigee and I do earn commissions if you use my links when buying ➕I did NOT accept payment from Chigee for this video ➕My comprehensive motorcycle navigation video is coming out soon - stay tuned. ✔Chigee AIO-5 Play for BMW: collabs.shop/4rmr1m ✔Chigee Main Page: tinyurl.com/486mm38k ➕I also use and recommend the Carpuride tablets, a lower cost option that provides android auto and apple carplay for motorcycles: tinyurl.com/bdmjxacc (note, they do not offer wonderwheel/control integration for BMW, so if you have a BMW, get the Chigee...) ➕SUPPORT➕ [I may receive commissions which are invested back into the channel] ⚡ Patreon: www.patreon.com/bigrockmedia ⚡ Rocky Mountain ATV/MC: bit.ly/33kgRIz ⚡ Revzilla: imp.i104546.net/6bxxXN ⚡ Mosko Moto: moskomoto.com/bigrockmoto ⚡ Pacific Powersports (Motoz Tires, Barkbusters): pacificpowersports.com/ USE CODE BRM2024 ⚡ 3D Cycle Parts: www.3dcycleparts.com/?aff=3 ⚡ Taco Moto : tacomoto.co/?ref=fi6gv640 ⚡ Cyclops Adventure Sports: tinyurl.com/2kaknpfn ⚡ Denali Lighting: tinyurl.com/9746het9 ⚡ Amazon: amzn.to/3viGZ0A ⚡ Merchandise: big-rock-moto.myspreadshop.com/
Hey Ian. I've had my 1300 GS since April and this is one of the first units I installed on the bike. There's two things I must have on my motorcycle. Apple CarPlay and dash cams. This thing is a game changer! I had to get really creative with the wiring so there was no wire showing but once it was done I plugged it into my can smart to power it up no cutting no splicing. The wonder wheel dongle was not available at the time for the 1300 so I passed on it. There's really nothing else you need and as far as losing signal out in the wild, just make sure you download all of your maps and it won't be a problem.
i have just used mine for the first time on sunday and agree its very small and i know it is just a phone mirroring device but i lost signal for a large portion of my ride so had no maps, it also put a drain on my phone battery so my thinking is go back to using my phone on the quadlock and my garmin XT that has got me all over europe. (Expensive device to copy my phone when i already have a phone and a garmin lol ).
I've been a Garmin loyalist for 20 years. Not because I'm a total Garmin-or-nothing fanboy, but rather because there really hasn't been anything better. Now I have an XT2 and I feel like they're going backwards - harder to use for routing, still no Carplay and even the music app no longer allows you to search within playlists. It is SO refreshing that there is finally a better alternative. I can use Rever for routing, Carplay for Waze and the music app for music. Done. Unless Garmin gets their act together, for the first time I will eagerly jump to Chigee. Great review!
I bought xt2 before my almost 4k km trip. When i was in romanian forest at 8 p.m. Garmin just freeze. There was no GSM range, we lost our way, Perfect timing. No working for next 4 days, and on the 5th after power on, start working again. I am trying hard to learn how to use it, but its difficult, everything is not intuitive. And the worst - working speed, its horrible. So i am using Garmin to change music, and navigate on my phone....
About to fit my Chigee AIO Play today to my Himalayan 450. Been using MyRoute app for a couple of years on phone and via CarPlay on Goldwing, instead of a Garmin XT . Great review , Ian, as always . Looking forward to trying it out in the Picos mountains in northern Spain next month .
Agree totally, xt2 is lacking so many features that should be std in 2024. The xt2 feels like a step back removing bluetooth transfer feature, plus garmin constantly changing their software yet never getting it right! Mate has a chigee just wish the screen went to the edge of the unit.
Super happy to see you got to review one of the these units! I've been considering one but wanted to see a review from a channel that I trust who is willing to go into the details that matter. Thanks for providing such great information before I drop hundreds of dollars without knowing what I'm getting into
It is obvious Chigee decided to send this free to every influencer under the sun. (NOTE: I trust you more than most) It is the darling of the youtubes right now - I am going to take a wait and see approach. Need some non-influencer non-preorder stage real world - long term lasting info before I will jump on the bandwagon. I do like, on the surface, the features - especially the BMW wheel integration.
OK but what I like about the Garmin is exactly what you don't like about it - I want an always on satnav which also displays up to date speed and road hazard info. Google Maps just doesn't do this stuff as well. Then there is the vastly better route planning you get with the XT2. When I turn on my bike - bam, the Garmin is working, no need to open an app. Further the Garmin is weatherproof, has glove sensitive touchscreen. I've tried using a phone running android as a dedicated navigator - the Garmin now lives on my adventure bike, locked in with a touratech lock. Another thing I really like is being able to download satellite terrain imagery - I love being able to see the wider terrain as I ride through it.
Also the POI like fuelstops along the route is pretty good on the Garmin, I am yet to find software that does this aswell (The BMW App is also good at this).
@@BigRockMotoI agree. Same for me. I just did the MABDR on my 2016 GS and only used GAIA on my iPhone. It worked perfectly!!! I used my Garmin V as my speedo, temp, clock and fuel gauge. This unit integrates all of that!!
This is what I have been wanting this for YEARS for my '19 R1250RT. A turn-key Android auto unit that integrates with my bike. I just pre-ordered one. $25 discount if you order now 😊 Thanks for posting this video!
Thank you for being so transparent about your exact affiliation with the brands mentioned, it is something I think we all appreciate about your journalism.
Yep. Hearing lots of praise for this from many TH-cam biking channels. The fact that there's also a version which plugs straight into the BMW cradle is a huge plus.
Just bought one. I initially bought the BMW Connected Ride for my new GS. It was a struggle every time I used it…very frustrating. When you had anything less than 5G, it was essentially useless. My plan is to add a Garmin GLO 2 for GPS reception and I should have a GPS device with all the functions of my Apple phone.
When doing your comparisons of navigation units keep in mind that Garmin units do not require cell coverage for maps. With android based units mapping information may be downloading from your phone requiring cellular coverage. Many of the areas we ride in do not have cell coverage.
I always download offline maps to my navigation apps, not a problem for me. Have tested it this way. Just requires download before going out of service areas.
@@BigRockMoto true you can do that, probably my biggest issue is that I am not a android fan, I wish apple would produce a hardened iOS device. In my jeep I use both Apple car play and Garmin thread. There is no cellular coverage where I live, Surprise Valley, Modoc County Ca. You will almost drive past my house if you do the North California BDR.
SO true on the 6" screen sweet spot. I had the light on my 1250 and the screen needed to be bigger. I will wait for the 6" screen if they roll one out.
Great review, but I do disagree on something. I use a Zumo XT2, and I have to say, what you've listed as negatives, I think are positives. I want a discrete GPS unit - not something that I have to connect to my phone. The fact that I can use it to control the music that's playing on my phone is a plus; I don't need any more than basic controls for that. I'm not sure what you mean by the maps looking outdated...they look like pretty much any other mapping/gps app. It also has a great feature - when I'm going on long rides, along with navigating to my endpoint, it will show me the next 3 towns that I'll be coming up on (I'm in Australia, so the amount of towns are far fewer), how long until I get to those towns, and what's available there (fuel, food, etc). It is pricey, but I imagine it'll last forever, it's well designed, and solid as a brick.
@@BigRockMotothanks for the content 👍 Just following up on the previous commenters discreet GPS point. I’m also in Australia and often ride in places with little to no phone reception. I’m curious if you can comment on how well the Chigee GPS navigation works when you’re out adventuring?
So I decided to return this one and get the regular AIO-5 play with their CGRC LIN dongle. That way I can move the CHIgee unit to another motorcycle and still get wonderwheel integration when I move it back on the BMw. It would be USB powered and not dependent on BMw GPS prep. If they had a removable GPS prep attachment at the back that would be perfect.
@@maxwegner6787they now have a dongle called CGRC LIN. Look in accessories. It is supposed to work with the standard AIO-5 Play. That is the most flexible combination and the total cost is the same as the BMW version which only works with the GPS prep mount.
For these devices, it really comes down to your own needs and requirements. As a frequent traveler, I found it most convenient to have a robust, smartphone independent navigation solution on my BMW. After 3 software and 1 hardware update (in my case), Im really happy with the CRN from BMW. it just works great, and does what I need. Solutions that depend on your smartphone require charging it, pairing needs to work, and when something fails you have to stop and pull out your phone to check what the issue is (current experience with beeline moto 2 for my wife's bike).
Hello Ian - the only significant GPS you don't seem to have tried or mentioned is the BMW Connected Ride Navigator - which is a good unit in my view. I like the fact it is completely independent from my phone, has all the maps present (so doesn't need a data connection) and it's easy to load routes via the companion app. Might be worth comparing this to the Chigee ?
The thing I told a BMW rep at the parking lot near the top of Mount Blue sky, “the fact that my Africa twin pops up with a notification that my blood sugar is high, low, rising or dropping fast is why I went with it.” I wanted a bmw more than anything, I started on a g310gs, I rode a new f850 gs and only begrudgingly tried the twin. It makes me so disappointed that they will not improve this system. It’s like the old proprietary car phone stuff from the 90s and 2000s
Very neat unit. However, if you have to plug in your phone to keep it charged you might as well just use it for everything, and keep the Navigator VI as backup gps.
I just ordered one for my 2023 1250 GSA! I currently use the BMW rideconnect and it's ok but not as good as google maps so I basically use the cradle for wireless charging and display but it's not fun fumbling around changing things on my phone while riding. Also, I have to pick which way to connect my Cardo because the Cardo can't have all functions with your phone and all the apps. This is nice! Granted a GPS unit doesn't rely on phone connection and that's an advantage in remote areas. Good thing I kept by old BMW Navigator V from the RT I traded in and can always use that as a backup if in a remote area.
My main issue with devices like this is not actually with the devices but the developers of the apps I use. I am using Calimoto and intending to go for DMD2 for future offroad riding. Both apps do not support android auto, so the only ways to go are either my smartphone or the dmd2 phone/tablet or similar products. And since I have a water and dust proof case for my phone, I currently do not see any reason to change to anything different. Would be different if I were to use android auto compatible apps.
The Carpuride has a 6" screen version with dual cameras that was aimed at the Chigee. I think that the 7" Carpuride screen is a bit too large, but the W603 model is more of 16:9 format that fits the dash better without interfering with the windscreen.
Oh, it has reached also you, Ian! After your review of the F900GS, it is already few month in my garage. Some month ago I was looking for best tablet option (Garmin is too slow, no carplay, gpx file import must be done from pc ext) for navigation on the new bike and then suddenly came across this Chigee wonder. That definitely looked like the thing I need. Needed to wait a bit in back list, but now its somewhere on the way and cannot wait to test it.
I ordered my Lite on Kickstarter with a huge discount right after Spites review. My ATAS had a blown TFT and non e available. Got the Chigee, next day Honda had extended their warranty on TFTs 10 years. Now have both working. Still use Android Auto on TFT because of controls. But the dashcams are handy as well as TPMS. If I get an second bike I'll probably move it
Thanks for doing the research. I have been looking for a better device for my BMW. I own an older GS and its instrument panel is a bit lackluster. Already have one on the way. Thanks again and I enjoy your videos.
Why are all Chigee reviewers avoid testing it with Android Auto? Since Chigee does not support Voice Control with AA using a Bluetooth headset. ( Chigee says they are working on it)
I was thinking about replacing my nav6 that I bought used, with something with CarPlay because Waze is just better for navigation (having me use motorcycle only lanes in Milan, for example) and for speed trap warnings. I like the garmin because it works even when the phone doesn’t, but that’s it. It’s even slow to render the upcoming map, so sometimes it’s like “oh there’s a bend here, surprise”. I was about to purchase a chegee or how it’s written but I was bummed there was no wonderwheel compatibility, this should be the best option. Your video timing was spot on :) Still kinda pricey for a no name Chinese product imho, but it’s not excessive. I’ll check if there’s local sellers Amazon included, that would honor the warranty tho (not a fan of the “send it back to China for repairs”).
Not sure that I entirely understand what the Chigee product is. However, all of the solutions mentioned assume contiguous internet. I have a pretty good provider on my cell phone, but internet is not universally available. It's been some time ago, i.e. internet coverage (USA) has vastly improved), but the first major trip I took without maps and with a cell phone relying on Google Map, I discovered that I was SOL when internet was not available. Fortunately, I still had a Garmin as backup. Satellite GPS coverage will beat anything that depends on an internet signal, for a long time to come. Now, if Chigee can provide an internet signal via Satellite, thereby connecting Android Auto or Apple-play via Sat signal, that might be ideal.
Going through Black Forest with a mate and his Android auto lost signal BUT, my Garmin working off GPS worked fine. So, think I'll stick with Garmin. Also, I can plan routes on Kurviger and GPX them onto my Garmin
I wish you guys test the products that you promoting for few months !!!! The reason is that a lot of products such as this don’t last more then a. Year , and when there problems with the product the support or warranty are none existent!!! Also I suggest before you promoting this products please test the support that you get when things go wrong !!!!
Really interesting product. It comes a year late for me, since I switched to BMW Nav VI to Zümo XT2. The Zümo is not perfect and I think it has its flaws, but I find it many times better than the Nav VI. The problem I can see with the AIO-5 is the battery life/health of the smartphone. GPS usage is what drains the battery the fastest, no question there. Also, by using the smartphone as navigation device on a regular basis affects quite significantly the battery health (current capacity of the battery compared when it was new). Other than that, it would be really cool to have a device which you can decide what App to use according on what you want to do...
I have the Chigee AI05 on my Vstrom and I love it. Yes its expensive but its solid. I use Gaia GPS for offroading. I keep phone either in my ram mount or in my pack.
Unfortunately I made the mistake and bought the BMW CONNECTED RIDE NAVIGATOR. And as u say it's limited to Navigate, music, only. So I'm very interested in A10-5 play for BMW. However I will wait and see if thy bring out the 6 inch screen first. Thanks for video very informative as always.
Hi Ian. I have the Carpuride version for BMW, and it connects directly to the BMW original cradle. However, the Carpuride, the Chigee, and other Android Auto/CarPlay systems have a terrible limitation for me: they do not have integrated GPS. Unfortunately, there are a lot of shadow regions where there's no cell coverage - and I'm not even talking about the wilderness, but several long stretches of highway in Brazil and many other South American countries.
FYI, With Google maps and other mapping software out there, you can download the maps of the areas you want to travel on your phone. So if you ever lose cell service, your map software will still work.
Actually: the AIO-5 Lite is NOT the non-BMW version. It's a similar but different product. The non-BMW version is just AIO-5 Play (without the "for BMW"). It still needs more wiring than the BMW version and has the inconvenient that it doesn't have a cradle so you need to leave it permanently installed.
So many software/hardware updates coming down the road for this and it seems everyone on YT is reviewing it. I think I'll wait a year and continue with my XT.
Garmin can and should make an Apple CarPlay gps device. The chigee is nice, but it doesn’t replace a dedicated gps. After traveling throughout US and Canada, the phone gps apps just don’t work well in remote areas, even with offline maps, you don’t get the same level of detail as the garmin gps.any rural roads don’t even show up on google maps but they are on the garmin.
I totally agree - while riding through South America I was completely reliant on my (Garmin) GPS in remote areas - it’s vital to have a plan B if one system fails
@@martyllanos73 What do you mean by live mapping? I thought dedicated GPS units basically used offline maps as well (albeit high resolution ones). Maps are stored offline on the device, only the GPS tracking is live. I find Gaia's offline maps to be quite detailed, from my limited experience, enough that any small dirt roads will show up as well. I downloaded half the US for my upcoming TAT run in a couple of weeks, which resulted in over 10GB of data. Zooming in on the map, it seems to be going to the smallest tracks there are out there, I see no difference with the full online map.
I still use paper maps lol. I think I do that because I miss my dad and his maps. I’ll do step-by-step navi from my phone in my jacket into my Cardo just to listen. But that’s only if I’m in an unfamiliar place. But yeah, I’m in my 40s and looking at all these maps and it’s a nice break to pull over, stretch, and verify stuff. I get the attraction to these setups though, for sure.
Be aware: for 2023 750 GS users. My BMW dedicated Chigee is not compatible out of the box with your wonder wheel. The support of Chegee advised me to…” Additionally, we have encountered a new situation where, for some models that should be perfectly compatible, the TFT icon does not appear in the top right corner after installation, and the wonder wheel cannot control the CHIGEE main unit. To resolve this issue, you need to visit the BMW dealership to activate the official BMW (0272 pre-installed navigation unit) data package/TFT factory navigation mount software package. After activation, TFT and NAV can be switched normally. Still not work. Hope to be just a isolate case. For me, is just a half fun to use it.
Nice one Ian, I was going to get this, but just outta my price range, so I went with the Carpuride 502 for my Vstrom 800DE. But a very nice display all the same 😊
I try the same way - just using older Iphone 12 Mini - but currently 2 issues - in bright sun, the display is weak - so update of phone shoulod help - but the bigger issue is overheating (even in German summer)
Hello Ian! Thank you so much for these reviews. It is an actual eye opener.I have a question for all devices: how is the battery draining on the phone? I am curious if this actually protects the battery of the phone or not.
To your point about the size of the unit ---- how disappointed will buyers be when they realize the Chigee screen is just 5" measured diagonally and the display doesn't come out to the edges of the unit? I would guess that most smart phones have displays that are 6 or 7 inches. When I compared it to my Google Pixel 7, a 5" screen seems tiny. Functionally, it seems great, but they really dropped the ball on the screen size. If you need your phone to remain on for the Chigee to work, how are you keeping your phone charged? I know running Google maps plus music on my phone may result in a dead phone on long rides unless it is charging. So with Chigee it seems I'll also need a mount for my phone and charging cable, right? So the only thing I've gained is wonder wheel functionality but on a much smaller screen?
Coolness 👍🏼 I suggest reviewing the generic version too. More applicable to a wider range of riders. Lot of bikes have a bar to mount a nav and that’s it. How do you install on a bike like that? You know a bike that doesn’t cost $30k 😁
I think they made the Chigee in 5" size since that's the size of the BMW Navigators, and that's the size which best fits the original BMW cradle! If it was bigger I believe there would have been a risk of partly coverage of the bike's dash...
Connected Ride is my choice no need for my phone in the handlerbars anymore so i don’t ruin my camera. Don’t need CarPlay to distract me and i want the most expensive product with the best warranty so i can exchange it as i please if it fails from vibrations or the elements. Paying $500 essentially for a projector and what i imagine not a rigorous tested product
$500 for just carplay/auto tablet is absolutely fucking wild, for that price I'd expect full tablet that I can install android apps (incl google maps alternatives) and not need to connect my phone to
What is the difference between this and a GPS....don't I want a GPS to navigate when I'm out of cell service range off road.... since this unit is just interfacing with my phone i will always be able to use the apps with it... but what's going to happen about navigation when we have no cell service
Most phone GPS apps can download maps to use offline, this is a non-issue. I'm using a phone as GPS unit (with a quadlock mount) and have tested OsmAnd, Gaia and Google Maps in areas with no cell service. They just work.
The BMW connected ride navigator could be competitive if they didn’t charge double what anyone else does. It’s like they don’t actually want people to buy them
I installed Chigee lite with cameras and wonder wheel Bluetooth module. Have a GSA but the play wasn’t out when I got it. Is there any advantage to replacing with the Play version? Wonder wheel more responsive? Screen size similar? Thanks
I learned a hard lesson as to why a dedicated GPS vs Phone is a must. When riding remote good luck with a phone. I was at the top of a mountain when I discovered my gas gauge failed. I needed to find a gas station.....no such luck with my phone. I was lucky enough to limp into a gas station that was 100 miles away not knowing if I was gonna run dry the entire 100 miles. I will always have a Garmin or some sort of real GPS no matter what. I prefer to use Chubby buttons to control my phone. Am I wrong but is this not just the same if you used your phone....seems redundant? When I had a GS I bought that special Phone cradle and could do anything this Chigee can do it seems? So the selling point would be that you might crash and damage your phone? Seems like that would apply to any device.
Soo it is kind of useless without a phone? That sucks, I'd rather get the Garmin which is useful by itself. Yes, chigee is cheaper but you have to add the phone and data plan costs. That is the same pain point I have with my africa twin, everything is ok until you get to the point where there is no cell phone signal, it is basically useless. Also your phone can get very hot and run out of battery pretty fast, specially if you connect it wirelessly.
Hi, can you tell me if the touch screen works in the rain, that is my problem with most phones. Only my old rugged gear phone won't get ghost input in the rain. Also the DMD does not work in the rain.
So, this device is a mirror display for the phone? What happens when the phone loses the cell network, as often happens in the mountains - no google or Apple Maps, waze, etc? Nice display, but I’ll stick with Garmin for nav.
Really looking forward to the comprehensive review coming for all these different devices. Close to just purchasing a Zumo XT2, but curious if the other options are actually reliable alternatives.
What makes the BMW one "special" over the universal one is the BMW integration (wonderwheel, connection method, etc). Are you curious as you have compatible BMW AND want to use the the BMW-specific one on a second (or more) bike?
Do you primarily use Gaia for turn by turn directions? I've been looking for a navigation app with Android Auto support that will give me turn by turn of GPX tracks/routes but Gaia always seems wonky and never works smoothly. Am I just doing it wrong?
This sounds all well and good if you are going places you have a good cell connection. But I’m going to tour Southern Africa so I need something that does GPS even when I have no signal.
Thank for the review! A technical note: have you considered using a sort of backdrop light for this filming setup? It looks very "cut" now with a dark background!
This product looks promising. Enough so that I will be selling my Garmin XT2. However, do you have any input on firmware and software updates and if it's as easy as updating ones phone?
What about us non bmw people, but we have a Garmin already. Is there an adapter similar to what Bmw has where I can just hook it into my already garmin cradle?
If you're in remote areas, mountain roads or trails, the gps will still pull a signal. I've been on state routes in south east Ohio and lost phone signal, but gps continued working.
Does anyone know if this Chigee will work independent of the BMW interface with the bike. The reason I ask is because I have a cradle for my NAV V6 connected to my classic Airhead and utilize the NAV 6 for navigation.
Hi, thanks for the review and effort. Followed plenty of your content in the past. Currently hooked on the CRF450. Is it possible to install DMD on the AI05? I'm not concerned about controllers. Once I get going I just follow breadcrumb style.
So my question is when it’s connected to your phone does the volume when you switch your bike on, go to CarPlay or does it automatically pick up the phones volume to transmit it to the headset. Carpuride kept switching it back to its own sound so you had to go into the phone every time to reallocate it to the phone/headset.
➕I did receive this product for free from Chigee and I do earn commissions if you use my links when buying
➕I did NOT accept payment from Chigee for this video
➕My comprehensive motorcycle navigation video is coming out soon - stay tuned.
✔Chigee AIO-5 Play for BMW: collabs.shop/4rmr1m
✔Chigee Main Page: tinyurl.com/486mm38k
➕I also use and recommend the Carpuride tablets, a lower cost option that provides android auto and apple carplay for motorcycles: tinyurl.com/bdmjxacc
(note, they do not offer wonderwheel/control integration for BMW, so if you have a BMW, get the Chigee...)
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Hey Ian. I've had my 1300 GS since April and this is one of the first units I installed on the bike. There's two things I must have on my motorcycle. Apple CarPlay and dash cams. This thing is a game changer! I had to get really creative with the wiring so there was no wire showing but once it was done I plugged it into my can smart to power it up no cutting no splicing. The wonder wheel dongle was not available at the time for the 1300 so I passed on it. There's really nothing else you need and as far as losing signal out in the wild, just make sure you download all of your maps and it won't be a problem.
Can this unit still navigate if your phone loses signal/data?
@@lovecycling193 i have the same question
This is exactly what I’ve been waiting for but might wait for 6” screen before buying. Great video!
I have one, and you’re right. The screen is tiny.
i have just used mine for the first time on sunday and agree its very small and i know it is just a phone mirroring device but i lost signal for a large portion of my ride so had no maps, it also put a drain on my phone battery so my thinking is go back to using my phone on the quadlock and my garmin XT that has got me all over europe. (Expensive device to copy my phone when i already have a phone and a garmin lol ).
I've been a Garmin loyalist for 20 years. Not because I'm a total Garmin-or-nothing fanboy, but rather because there really hasn't been anything better. Now I have an XT2 and I feel like they're going backwards - harder to use for routing, still no Carplay and even the music app no longer allows you to search within playlists. It is SO refreshing that there is finally a better alternative. I can use Rever for routing, Carplay for Waze and the music app for music. Done. Unless Garmin gets their act together, for the first time I will eagerly jump to Chigee. Great review!
agreed, garmin missed their chance, too late now!
I bought xt2 before my almost 4k km trip. When i was in romanian forest at 8 p.m. Garmin just freeze. There was no GSM range, we lost our way, Perfect timing. No working for next 4 days, and on the 5th after power on, start working again. I am trying hard to learn how to use it, but its difficult, everything is not intuitive. And the worst - working speed, its horrible. So i am using Garmin to change music, and navigate on my phone....
Sad, because Garmin is the only US brand.
About to fit my Chigee AIO Play today to my Himalayan 450. Been using MyRoute app for a couple of years on phone and via CarPlay on Goldwing, instead of a Garmin XT .
Great review , Ian, as always . Looking forward to trying it out in the Picos mountains in northern Spain next month .
Agree totally, xt2 is lacking so many features that should be std in 2024. The xt2 feels like a step back removing bluetooth transfer feature, plus garmin constantly changing their software yet never getting it right! Mate has a chigee just wish the screen went to the edge of the unit.
Super happy to see you got to review one of the these units! I've been considering one but wanted to see a review from a channel that I trust who is willing to go into the details that matter. Thanks for providing such great information before I drop hundreds of dollars without knowing what I'm getting into
Glad I could help!
It is obvious Chigee decided to send this free to every influencer under the sun. (NOTE: I trust you more than most) It is the darling of the youtubes right now - I am going to take a wait and see approach. Need some non-influencer non-preorder stage real world - long term lasting info before I will jump on the bandwagon. I do like, on the surface, the features - especially the BMW wheel integration.
yeah looks like everyone but paying customers have their unit, i ordered mine a month ago
OK but what I like about the Garmin is exactly what you don't like about it - I want an always on satnav which also displays up to date speed and road hazard info. Google Maps just doesn't do this stuff as well. Then there is the vastly better route planning you get with the XT2. When I turn on my bike - bam, the Garmin is working, no need to open an app. Further the Garmin is weatherproof, has glove sensitive touchscreen. I've tried using a phone running android as a dedicated navigator - the Garmin now lives on my adventure bike, locked in with a touratech lock. Another thing I really like is being able to download satellite terrain imagery - I love being able to see the wider terrain as I ride through it.
Also the POI like fuelstops along the route is pretty good on the Garmin, I am yet to find software that does this aswell (The BMW App is also good at this).
Those are some great points. I've found using Gaia or similar fixes some of those issues for me.
@@BigRockMotoI agree. Same for me. I just did the MABDR on my 2016 GS and only used GAIA on my iPhone. It worked perfectly!!! I used my Garmin V as my speedo, temp, clock and fuel gauge. This unit integrates all of that!!
Agree! At les least with Garmin your ride is not fu**ed up if you forget your phone at home
@@rjsalamehsure, add another subscription cost to the mix
This is what I have been wanting this for YEARS for my '19 R1250RT. A turn-key Android auto unit that integrates with my bike. I just pre-ordered one. $25 discount if you order now 😊 Thanks for posting this video!
Thank you for being so transparent about your exact affiliation with the brands mentioned, it is something I think we all appreciate about your journalism.
I try my best, thanks
Yep. Hearing lots of praise for this from many TH-cam biking channels.
The fact that there's also a version which plugs straight into the BMW cradle is a huge plus.
Just bought one. I initially bought the BMW Connected Ride for my new GS. It was a struggle every time I used it…very frustrating. When you had anything less than 5G, it was essentially useless. My plan is to add a Garmin GLO 2 for GPS reception and I should have a GPS device with all the functions of my Apple phone.
Bmw should have made their instrument cluster like this with Android auto & apple car play with touch screen, it would have been a game changer
They just don't get it
Right, exactly what Honda did to their own motorcycles
When doing your comparisons of navigation units keep in mind that Garmin units do not require cell coverage for maps. With android based units mapping information may be downloading from your phone requiring cellular coverage. Many of the areas we ride in do not have cell coverage.
I always download offline maps to my navigation apps, not a problem for me. Have tested it this way. Just requires download before going out of service areas.
@@BigRockMoto true you can do that, probably my biggest issue is that I am not a android fan, I wish apple would produce a hardened iOS device. In my jeep I use both Apple car play and Garmin thread. There is no cellular coverage where I live, Surprise Valley, Modoc County Ca. You will almost drive past my house if you do the North California BDR.
SO true on the 6" screen sweet spot. I had the light on my 1250 and the screen needed to be bigger. I will wait for the 6" screen if they roll one out.
Super helpful, Ian! Thank you! (and good haircut, buddy!)
Great review, but I do disagree on something. I use a Zumo XT2, and I have to say, what you've listed as negatives, I think are positives. I want a discrete GPS unit - not something that I have to connect to my phone. The fact that I can use it to control the music that's playing on my phone is a plus; I don't need any more than basic controls for that. I'm not sure what you mean by the maps looking outdated...they look like pretty much any other mapping/gps app. It also has a great feature - when I'm going on long rides, along with navigating to my endpoint, it will show me the next 3 towns that I'll be coming up on (I'm in Australia, so the amount of towns are far fewer), how long until I get to those towns, and what's available there (fuel, food, etc). It is pricey, but I imagine it'll last forever, it's well designed, and solid as a brick.
great points, I still have my XT2 I will keep around for the same reasons
@@BigRockMotothanks for the content 👍
Just following up on the previous commenters discreet GPS point. I’m also in Australia and often ride in places with little to no phone reception. I’m curious if you can comment on how well the Chigee GPS navigation works when you’re out adventuring?
"chief fun officcer" . that's a job I could totally get on board with!
So I decided to return this one and get the regular AIO-5 play with their CGRC LIN dongle. That way I can move the CHIgee unit to another motorcycle and still get wonderwheel integration when I move it back on the BMw. It would be USB powered and not dependent on BMw GPS prep. If they had a removable GPS prep attachment at the back that would be perfect.
How can you still use the wonderwheel? I am planning to buy the universal one for exactly the same reason.
@@maxwegner6787they now have a dongle called CGRC LIN. Look in accessories. It is supposed to work with the standard AIO-5 Play. That is the most flexible combination and the total cost is the same as the BMW version which only works with the GPS prep mount.
For these devices, it really comes down to your own needs and requirements. As a frequent traveler, I found it most convenient to have a robust, smartphone independent navigation solution on my BMW. After 3 software and 1 hardware update (in my case), Im really happy with the CRN from BMW. it just works great, and does what I need. Solutions that depend on your smartphone require charging it, pairing needs to work, and when something fails you have to stop and pull out your phone to check what the issue is (current experience with beeline moto 2 for my wife's bike).
awesome info, thanks for sharing
Hello Ian - the only significant GPS you don't seem to have tried or mentioned is the BMW Connected Ride Navigator - which is a good unit in my view. I like the fact it is completely independent from my phone, has all the maps present (so doesn't need a data connection) and it's easy to load routes via the companion app. Might be worth comparing this to the Chigee ?
The thing I told a BMW rep at the parking lot near the top of Mount Blue sky, “the fact that my Africa twin pops up with a notification that my blood sugar is high, low, rising or dropping fast is why I went with it.” I wanted a bmw more than anything, I started on a g310gs, I rode a new f850 gs and only begrudgingly tried the twin. It makes me so disappointed that they will not improve this system. It’s like the old proprietary car phone stuff from the 90s and 2000s
Very neat unit. However, if you have to plug in your phone to keep it charged you might as well just use it for everything, and keep the Navigator VI as backup gps.
Except your phone isn't integrated with your wonder wheel.
I just ordered one for my 2023 1250 GSA! I currently use the BMW rideconnect and it's ok but not as good as google maps so I basically use the cradle for wireless charging and display but it's not fun fumbling around changing things on my phone while riding. Also, I have to pick which way to connect my Cardo because the Cardo can't have all functions with your phone and all the apps. This is nice! Granted a GPS unit doesn't rely on phone connection and that's an advantage in remote areas. Good thing I kept by old BMW Navigator V from the RT I traded in and can always use that as a backup if in a remote area.
My main issue with devices like this is not actually with the devices but the developers of the apps I use. I am using Calimoto and intending to go for DMD2 for future offroad riding. Both apps do not support android auto, so the only ways to go are either my smartphone or the dmd2 phone/tablet or similar products. And since I have a water and dust proof case for my phone, I currently do not see any reason to change to anything different. Would be different if I were to use android auto compatible apps.
The Carpuride has a 6" screen version with dual cameras that was aimed at the Chigee. I think that the 7" Carpuride screen is a bit too large, but the W603 model is more of 16:9 format that fits the dash better without interfering with the windscreen.
Greetings from Australia 🇦🇺 and thank you for the 10% - just ordered 🙏
Oh, it has reached also you, Ian! After your review of the F900GS, it is already few month in my garage. Some month ago I was looking for best tablet option (Garmin is too slow, no carplay, gpx file import must be done from pc ext) for navigation on the new bike and then suddenly came across this Chigee wonder. That definitely looked like the thing I need. Needed to wait a bit in back list, but now its somewhere on the way and cannot wait to test it.
having apple car play is so key to enjoyment.....thankfully Africa twin is already built in. Maps, communication, music etc..
Great Video. I will order one for my 1300GS tomorrow using your link of course
Awesome, thank you!
I ordered my Lite on Kickstarter with a huge discount right after Spites review. My ATAS had a blown TFT and non e available. Got the Chigee, next day Honda had extended their warranty on TFTs 10 years. Now have both working. Still use Android Auto on TFT because of controls. But the dashcams are handy as well as TPMS. If I get an second bike I'll probably move it
Thanks for doing the research. I have been looking for a better device for my BMW. I own an older GS and its instrument panel is a bit lackluster. Already have one on the way. Thanks again and I enjoy your videos.
Still come of the best video reviews out there!
As Wil Smith would say, “You gettin’ Chigee wit it”! Fresh Prince of Big Rock. 😁
Why are all Chigee reviewers avoid testing it with Android Auto? Since Chigee does not support Voice Control with AA using a Bluetooth headset. ( Chigee says they are working on it)
I was thinking about replacing my nav6 that I bought used, with something with CarPlay because Waze is just better for navigation (having me use motorcycle only lanes in Milan, for example) and for speed trap warnings. I like the garmin because it works even when the phone doesn’t, but that’s it. It’s even slow to render the upcoming map, so sometimes it’s like “oh there’s a bend here, surprise”.
I was about to purchase a chegee or how it’s written but I was bummed there was no wonderwheel compatibility, this should be the best option. Your video timing was spot on :)
Still kinda pricey for a no name Chinese product imho, but it’s not excessive.
I’ll check if there’s local sellers Amazon included, that would honor the warranty tho (not a fan of the “send it back to China for repairs”).
Very interesting that bmw even allows a 3rd party noname company to integrate with their bikes like that.
Not sure that I entirely understand what the Chigee product is. However, all of the solutions mentioned assume contiguous internet. I have a pretty good provider on my cell phone, but internet is not universally available. It's been some time ago, i.e. internet coverage (USA) has vastly improved), but the first major trip I took without maps and with a cell phone relying on Google Map, I discovered that I was SOL when internet was not available. Fortunately, I still had a Garmin as backup. Satellite GPS coverage will beat anything that depends on an internet signal, for a long time to come. Now, if Chigee can provide an internet signal via Satellite, thereby connecting Android Auto or Apple-play via Sat signal, that might be ideal.
You don't need internet. Download maps to your phone first. It works good.
Thanks for t he straight forward review......going shopping!!!
I wasn't planing on spending any money tonight.... oh well, so much for that idea. 😂
Really nice product. Think ill save my money and continue to use my BMW cradle since it does the same thing
Going through Black Forest with a mate and his Android auto lost signal BUT, my Garmin working off GPS worked fine. So, think I'll stick with Garmin. Also, I can plan routes on Kurviger and GPX them onto my Garmin
I wish you guys test the products that you promoting for few months !!!! The reason is that a lot of products such as this don’t last more then a. Year , and when there problems with the product the support or warranty are none existent!!!
Also I suggest before you promoting this products please test the support that you get when things go wrong !!!!
Thanks for the content, ordered one through your link :)
Really interesting product. It comes a year late for me, since I switched to BMW Nav VI to Zümo XT2. The Zümo is not perfect and I think it has its flaws, but I find it many times better than the Nav VI. The problem I can see with the AIO-5 is the battery life/health of the smartphone. GPS usage is what drains the battery the fastest, no question there. Also, by using the smartphone as navigation device on a regular basis affects quite significantly the battery health (current capacity of the battery compared when it was new). Other than that, it would be really cool to have a device which you can decide what App to use according on what you want to do...
I have the Chigee AI05 on my Vstrom and I love it. Yes its expensive but its solid. I use Gaia GPS for offroading. I keep phone either in my ram mount or in my pack.
Unfortunately I made the mistake and bought the BMW CONNECTED RIDE NAVIGATOR.
And as u say it's limited to Navigate, music, only.
So I'm very interested in A10-5 play for BMW.
However I will wait and see if thy bring out the 6 inch screen first.
Thanks for video very informative as always.
There are also reports of phones dying (mainly the camera module, I think) because the cradle doesn't have enough vibration dampening.
@@russwright He didn't buy the cradle, he bought the GPS. Me too! I am thinking about selling it so I can get this thing.
Hi Ian. I have the Carpuride version for BMW, and it connects directly to the BMW original cradle. However, the Carpuride, the Chigee, and other Android Auto/CarPlay systems have a terrible limitation for me: they do not have integrated GPS. Unfortunately, there are a lot of shadow regions where there's no cell coverage - and I'm not even talking about the wilderness, but several long stretches of highway in Brazil and many other South American countries.
This is exactly what I’ve been wondering. Do satellite based navigation apps work without cell reception as well as dedicated nav units?
FYI, With Google maps and other mapping software out there, you can download the maps of the areas you want to travel on your phone. So if you ever lose cell service, your map software will still work.
Actually: the AIO-5 Lite is NOT the non-BMW version. It's a similar but different product. The non-BMW version is just AIO-5 Play (without the "for BMW"). It still needs more wiring than the BMW version and has the inconvenient that it doesn't have a cradle so you need to leave it permanently installed.
true
So many software/hardware updates coming down the road for this and it seems everyone on YT is reviewing it. I think I'll wait a year and continue with my XT.
Site note: the BMW Nav could read error codes. And was in that regard very helpful.
Garmin can and should make an Apple CarPlay gps device.
The chigee is nice, but it doesn’t replace a dedicated gps. After traveling throughout US and Canada, the phone gps apps just don’t work well in remote areas, even with offline maps, you don’t get the same level of detail as the garmin gps.any rural roads don’t even show up on google maps but they are on the garmin.
Thanks for sharing. I love Gaia or Onyx for off road nav, here in the USA. Works great without cell service. I only use google maps in urban areas.
I totally agree - while riding through South America I was completely reliant on my (Garmin) GPS in remote areas - it’s vital to have a plan B if one system fails
Just download maps?
@@VizziMoto nope. Like I stated. Offline maps don’t offer the same detail as live mapping from a dedicated gps like a garmin.
@@martyllanos73 What do you mean by live mapping?
I thought dedicated GPS units basically used offline maps as well (albeit high resolution ones). Maps are stored offline on the device, only the GPS tracking is live.
I find Gaia's offline maps to be quite detailed, from my limited experience, enough that any small dirt roads will show up as well. I downloaded half the US for my upcoming TAT run in a couple of weeks, which resulted in over 10GB of data. Zooming in on the map, it seems to be going to the smallest tracks there are out there, I see no difference with the full online map.
I have the lite version on my gsa 1250. Its BEAUTIFUL.
I love it but my old eyes need a bigger screen...Apple car play on a iPad mini screen size for the win!
I still use paper maps lol. I think I do that because I miss my dad and his maps. I’ll do step-by-step navi from my phone in my jacket into my Cardo just to listen. But that’s only if I’m in an unfamiliar place. But yeah, I’m in my 40s and looking at all these maps and it’s a nice break to pull over, stretch, and verify stuff.
I get the attraction to these setups though, for sure.
i always use paper maps as well, love them
Be aware: for 2023 750 GS users. My BMW dedicated Chigee is not compatible out of the box with your wonder wheel. The support of Chegee advised me to…”
Additionally, we have encountered a new situation where, for some models that should be perfectly compatible, the TFT icon does not appear in the top right corner after installation, and the wonder wheel cannot control the CHIGEE main unit.
To resolve this issue, you need to visit the BMW dealership to activate the official BMW (0272 pre-installed navigation unit) data package/TFT factory navigation mount software package. After activation, TFT and NAV can be switched normally.
Still not work. Hope to be just a isolate case. For me, is just a half fun to use it.
Nice one Ian, I was going to get this, but just outta my price range, so I went with the Carpuride 502 for my Vstrom 800DE. But a very nice display all the same
😊
Good choice!
I'll wait for 6 inches. For now I'll stick with Carpuride. Thanks for the video.
Thats what she said
On my GS I am using an old Samsung Note with a phone cradle. Works great.
I try the same way - just using older Iphone 12 Mini - but currently 2 issues - in bright sun, the display is weak - so update of phone shoulod help - but the bigger issue is overheating (even in German summer)
Hello Ian! Thank you so much for these reviews. It is an actual eye opener.I have a question for all devices: how is the battery draining on the phone? I am curious if this actually protects the battery of the phone or not.
To your point about the size of the unit ---- how disappointed will buyers be when they realize the Chigee screen is just 5" measured diagonally and the display doesn't come out to the edges of the unit? I would guess that most smart phones have displays that are 6 or 7 inches. When I compared it to my Google Pixel 7, a 5" screen seems tiny. Functionally, it seems great, but they really dropped the ball on the screen size.
If you need your phone to remain on for the Chigee to work, how are you keeping your phone charged? I know running Google maps plus music on my phone may result in a dead phone on long rides unless it is charging. So with Chigee it seems I'll also need a mount for my phone and charging cable, right? So the only thing I've gained is wonder wheel functionality but on a much smaller screen?
Great review 👍 - promising, but fairly expensive (still early days, rather wait for 6’’ format)!
Thanks Ian, great content.
Glad you enjoyed it
Coolness 👍🏼 I suggest reviewing the generic version too. More applicable to a wider range of riders. Lot of bikes have a bar to mount a nav and that’s it. How do you install on a bike like that? You know a bike that doesn’t cost $30k 😁
I think they made the Chigee in 5" size since that's the size of the BMW Navigators, and that's the size which best fits the original BMW cradle!
If it was bigger I believe there would have been a risk of partly coverage of the bike's dash...
my XT2 with 6 inch screen fits great on my GS
@@BigRockMoto Yes, I know. I guess I was thinking about the review of the 7" Carpuride I watched on TH-cam since that was almost too big...
Exactly, sir👍
I have a 2013 K1600GTL. Which unit will fit in place of my garmin nav and will it work with the wonder wheel?
nice! thanks for doing this
Connected Ride is my choice no need for my phone in the handlerbars anymore so i don’t ruin my camera. Don’t need CarPlay to distract me and i want the most expensive product with the best warranty so i can exchange it as i please if it fails from vibrations or the elements. Paying $500 essentially for a projector and what i imagine not a rigorous tested product
$500 for just carplay/auto tablet is absolutely fucking wild, for that price I'd expect full tablet that I can install android apps (incl google maps alternatives) and not need to connect my phone to
It’s for BMW, this motorcycle not for pure people
Poor
More distractions while riding? What possibly can go wrong …..
Can you please make a video comparing AIO-5 against BMW connected ride navigator.
What is the difference between this and a GPS....don't I want a GPS to navigate when I'm out of cell service range off road.... since this unit is just interfacing with my phone i will always be able to use the apps with it... but what's going to happen about navigation when we have no cell service
Most phone GPS apps can download maps to use offline, this is a non-issue. I'm using a phone as GPS unit (with a quadlock mount) and have tested OsmAnd, Gaia and Google Maps in areas with no cell service. They just work.
The BMW connected ride navigator could be competitive if they didn’t charge double what anyone else does. It’s like they don’t actually want people to buy them
I installed Chigee lite with cameras and wonder wheel Bluetooth module. Have a GSA but the play wasn’t out when I got it. Is there any advantage to replacing with the Play version? Wonder wheel more responsive? Screen size similar? Thanks
I learned a hard lesson as to why a dedicated GPS vs Phone is a must. When riding remote good luck with a phone. I was at the top of a mountain when I discovered my gas gauge failed. I needed to find a gas station.....no such luck with my phone. I was lucky enough to limp into a gas station that was 100 miles away not knowing if I was gonna run dry the entire 100 miles. I will always have a Garmin or some sort of real GPS no matter what. I prefer to use Chubby buttons to control my phone. Am I wrong but is this not just the same if you used your phone....seems redundant? When I had a GS I bought that special Phone cradle and could do anything this Chigee can do it seems? So the selling point would be that you might crash and damage your phone? Seems like that would apply to any device.
Do you think this will fit in a K1600, where the Garmin/BMW Nav V/VI goes? It seems to be made as a direct replacement.
Soo it is kind of useless without a phone? That sucks, I'd rather get the Garmin which is useful by itself.
Yes, chigee is cheaper but you have to add the phone and data plan costs.
That is the same pain point I have with my africa twin, everything is ok until you get to the point where there is no cell phone signal, it is basically useless. Also your phone can get very hot and run out of battery pretty fast, specially if you connect it wirelessly.
Sounds like it is perfect for BMW. I checked universal - not as good on price/features, imho there are better solutions for non bmw riders.
Hey!
Great video and great content
Do you know if its compatible with a 2007 GSA?
Thx for the video,Ian. Do you prefer the Chigee unit over the Carpuride?
Hi, can you tell me if the touch screen works in the rain, that is my problem with most phones. Only my old rugged gear phone won't get ghost input in the rain. Also the DMD does not work in the rain.
So, this device is a mirror display for the phone? What happens when the phone loses the cell network, as often happens in the mountains - no google or Apple Maps, waze, etc? Nice display, but I’ll stick with Garmin for nav.
A Chinese company I've never heard of before vs. Garmin makes for an easy decision: Garmin every time.
Really looking forward to the comprehensive review coming for all these different devices. Close to just purchasing a Zumo XT2, but curious if the other options are actually reliable alternatives.
Take a close look at Carpuride, great value if you want to use apps from your phone, android auto etc. I prefer that to Garmin.
Is there an adapter to use the beemer one on my other bike? I can’t believe it took this long for this to get invented it’s the best thing ever.
What makes the BMW one "special" over the universal one is the BMW integration (wonderwheel, connection method, etc). Are you curious as you have compatible BMW AND want to use the the BMW-specific one on a second (or more) bike?
I went for the carpuride. The chigee is too small and now still twice the price of the carpuride. I don’t need the integration with the winder wheel
Please tell the difference with the carpuride w702B except the wonder wheel function. And don’t forget to tell the price difference
Do you primarily use Gaia for turn by turn directions? I've been looking for a navigation app with Android Auto support that will give me turn by turn of GPX tracks/routes but Gaia always seems wonky and never works smoothly. Am I just doing it wrong?
This sounds all well and good if you are going places you have a good cell connection. But I’m going to tour Southern Africa so I need something that does GPS even when I have no signal.
Can't you download your maps before hand?
Thank for the review! A technical note: have you considered using a sort of backdrop light for this filming setup? It looks very "cut" now with a dark background!
This product looks promising. Enough so that I will be selling my Garmin XT2.
However, do you have any input on firmware and software updates and if it's as easy as updating ones phone?
What about us non bmw people, but we have a Garmin already. Is there an adapter similar to what Bmw has where I can just hook it into my already garmin cradle?
If you're in remote areas, mountain roads or trails, the gps will still pull a signal. I've been on state routes in south east Ohio and lost phone signal, but gps continued working.
Does anyone know if this Chigee will work independent of the BMW interface with the bike. The reason I ask is because I have a cradle for my NAV V6 connected to my classic Airhead and utilize the NAV 6 for navigation.
recomended navigation application for android Auto that works with GPX routs imported and motorcycle preference routing?
I would check out the Innovv N1 pro for comparison
I’m ordered it for my BMW about two weeks ago. Waiting when coming.
Hi, thanks for the review and effort. Followed plenty of your content in the past. Currently hooked on the CRF450.
Is it possible to install DMD on the AI05? I'm not concerned about controllers. Once I get going I just follow breadcrumb style.
what about the GPS working whit no phone connection. you still have it or you loose it?
So my question is when it’s connected to your phone does the volume when you switch your bike on, go to CarPlay or does it automatically pick up the phones volume to transmit it to the headset. Carpuride kept switching it back to its own sound so you had to go into the phone every time to reallocate it to the phone/headset.
I'm hearing that Chigee doesn't support voice commands when using Android Auto. What have you heard?
Garmin doesn't need cell coverage, will work where a phone won't.
You can download your route to your phone before you leave. You won't need any cell coverage.