GPS speedometer replacement

so the speedo on my 81 maxim 650 is slow. cost to fix is $125 + $25 shipping.

looking at used speedometers on ebay are about the same price. but then i have to screw around with bringing the odometer UP to match what i have. as they all are lower miles.

i've also looked at replacement speedos. PRETTY PRICEY
i've also looked at gps. PRETTY PRICEY. better alternative as far as installation goes though.

does anyone have any suggestions or know of anything that is relatively cheaper?

if worse comes to worse. i will have to hook up a 12 volt cigarette plug and use my cell phone with the cigarette charger. i'm due for an upgrade so i could use my blackberry. but i don't know how long that would last though. as the screen would have to stay on. and haven't found any decent programs to use for gps yet. i have one that works decent but it requires opening up the browser and going to a home page first. not a viable option when the phone gets shut off.


and don't get me started on D.O.T. regulations. the requirement is a properly operating speedometer. regulations don't state what kind of a speedometer. or what type. just as long as one is equipped and properly operating.

as of right now. i don't have a properly operating speedometer. odometer works just fine. speed don't.

 

You might want to consider looking at the classifieds at www.bmwlt.com I picked up an OLD BMW/Garmin GPS (model StreetPilot III) for $25 + shipping. It's clunky to use, especially at finding addresses on the fly, but the speed/distance/average speed/Time not moving etc. is flawless. BTW It's 100% waterproof which is a nice bonus!

I got mine with several power/speaker cables, a 2007 map disk and all the manuals and packaging. The guy I bought it from paid over $900 for it 3 years ago. He upgraded to a newer version.

There are a number of different mounting options. I used a RAM mount that mounted over the front brake master cylinder on my BMW. They also make a very nifty waterproof case should you decide to use an automotive GPS. I like the RAM mount because it is very flexible, quick and easy on/off and is a quality product.

Good luck and if you are looking for an accurate speedometer GPS is the way to go.

Loren

 

Is yours a "canned" unit or can you get directly at "the guts?"

The stock mechanical speedos can be resurrected; and changing the odo is a piece of cake if you can get at it.

Here's what's in there, but access can require surgery depending on how yours are configured-- I can't quite tell from the fiche.

http://xjbikes.com/Forums/viewtopic/t=15303.html

 

how about a bicycle speedometer from a place like this
or walmart, some even have heart rate monitors for those corners with gravel

 

A guy on here did a really cool GPS mod. Check it out. Hope it helps.

http://xjbikes.com/Forums/viewtopic/t=21580.html