RAM mount on dashboard

[Konrad]

I've been thinking about mounting a RAM ball on the dashboard directly over the central speedometer of my 2006 GL1800, for the purpose of holding a GPS.

1. Has anyone done this?
2. Do you think the dashboard is strong enough to hold the mount? (with a lightweight Garmin 1390T.)
3. How would you do it?
4. Or is it a bad idea?

TIA for all advice!

 

[Calman]

I had thought about doing the same with my 82 GL1100 but had concerns about vibration cracking the ABS dashboard. This was even after considering using diamond-plate on the backside of the dashto increase the rigidity and sturdiness of the mount. I ended up buying a waterproof GPS case ($22.00) that mounts on the handlebar and am very satified with the results.

 

[jim peacock]

Put it on the handlebar that way if you ever decide to get rid of the bike you will not have a big ugly spot there.
:wave4::wave4::wave4:

 

[adaptolife]

Snarley had a RAM ball mount on the handlebar when I bought her. I have camera and cupholder that can attach to it. I don't use it often, but am happy that it is there. Have used their fishing rod holders, and quality is outstanding.

 

[Konrad]

I had thought about doing the same with my 82 GL1100 but had concerns about vibration cracking the ABS dashboard. This was even after considering using diamond-plate on the backside of the dashto increase the rigidity and sturdiness of the mount. I ended up buying a waterproof GPS case ($22.00) that mounts on the handlebar and am very satified with the results.

The GPS is quite lightweight. And ABS is tough stuff. Do you really think its vibrations could crack an ABS dashboard?

I have RAM mounts on each handlebar but want to get the GPS centrally mounted and higher. The built-in Honda GPS is somewhat disappointing in useability.

 

[Konrad]

Put it on the handlebar that way if you ever decide to get rid of the bike you will not have a big ugly spot there.
:wave4::wave4::wave4:

If I ever sold the bike the RAM mount would stay!

 

[mpolissky]

Konrad,

I've tried mounting my Zumo 550 on handlebars, but did not like it. Look at the new location that I really like. IMO, it's not only easily accessible, but looks the best. Hope it helps:

View attachment 4666

I've been thinking about mounting a RAM ball on the dashboard directly over the central speedometer of my 2006 GL1800, for the purpose of holding a GPS.

1. Has anyone done this?
2. Do you think the dashboard is strong enough to hold the mount? (with a lightweight Garmin 1390T.)
3. How would you do it?
4. Or is it a bad idea?

TIA for all advice!

 

[jim peacock]

Mpolissky,what in the world all do you have up there?

 

[Mgammon]

I have seen the ABS crack over time .. Best mount for GPS is on right handlebar using the hand brake mounting nuts .. Works great .. Run your power wired down the inside of the handlebar and then hook it up to a switched power source ..

 

[mpolissky]

Mpolissky,what in the world all do you have up there?

Jim, as long as I still remember what it's all used for, I think I'm good...ThumbUp

• Radar detector
• Handheld CB MIC
• Zumo 550
• Camera quick release mount
• Cup Holder

Do you recommend anything else? :laugh:

 

[Gorilla]

Michael can you see the speedo? WOW are you equipped

 

[mpolissky]

Michael can you see the speedo? WOW are you equipped

Absolutely, I see the instrument cluster perfectly...nothing is on the way at all. Besides, who wants to look at the speedo when you have a Zumo, which is much more accurate...ThumbUp

Here is the view from multiple angles:
View attachment 4681 View attachment 4679 View attachment 4680

 

[Konrad]

Konrad,

I've tried mounting my Zumo 550 on handlebars, but did not like it. Look at the new location that I really like. IMO, it's not only easily accessible, but looks the best. Hope it helps:

View attachment 4666

That's a good idea but I'm trying to avoid looking down - that's why I want it directly above the speedometer dial.

 

[burny1970]

I bought my mount from RAM, and it is actually for the dash of a small airplane. It fits great on the dash of my 1800, and I made up small pieces of metal strips where the mounting screws tighten down, so as not to damage the dash. Works great !

 

[Konrad]

I bought my mount from RAM, and it is actually for the dash of a small airplane. It fits great on the dash of my 1800, and I made up small pieces of metal strips where the mounting screws tighten down, so as not to damage the dash. Works great !

I am VERY interested in seeing your setup! Could you please snap and post a picture or two? Thanks.