Bikers have not always been very well catered for in the satnav market, but Tom Tom’s new Rider device is about to change all that.

The new machine has been created based on feedback from biker communities. Among its biker friendly features is a 4.3in screen that can be used easily while wearing gloves. It also gives the rider the ability to choose the type of route – such as the most direct, or the most scenic route. It also allows motorcyclists to select a personalised tour.

Users can search, create and edit routes on a PC or other device, which can be uploaded to the Rider device. The software that enables this is called ‘Tyre’. By harnessing Bluetooth technology, users can also share their routes with others who use the Rider system – ideal for group bike rides.

The satnav’s audio instructions can also be delivered to the helmet using Bluetooth, ensuring that the rider can concentrate fully on the road.

Rider users are permitted to download at least four map updates throughout the year, which ensures riders are aware of alterations to the road network, and know about new attractions or points of interest.

This new Rider system will no doubt be of great interest to many or our motorbike breakdown cover customers. Since many motorcyclists use their bike for recreational purposes, the ‘scenic route’ option may well be a big hit – especially since taking a longer route is not such a big issue on a bike, which usually offers far better fuel consumption than a car.