I have a 2008 with Navigation. I think it works great but the maps for my area are so out dated. Streets that are 3 years old at the time I bought my bike were not on the maps.
I I know I have the most currant version the 4.3 version 8.0.
I would like to update the maps only. Can anyone Help.

Thanks Rich

I also have a 2008 Wing with Navi. Maps seem to be outdated. I
checked with Honda America, and they were nice folks, butcould not help me with this problem. Hope someone has an answer?.
Also, anyone know how to disable the thing that will not let you use the GPS while moving? It would be nice to check out gas stops without stopping everytime.

I don't know if anyone has posted any instructions to this thread yet, but here is what I have regarding the update for the Honda NAVI.

NOTE: These instructions are for the 2006-08 NAVI only and will get you as current as you can be. Any further updates will require updating your NAVI hardware or trading for a newer GW. The 2009 and newer GWs use the NT compression algorithm and you should be able to update your maps with the NT version of the sofware. I haven't tried this, so don't ask if the same process applies; I don't know.

JEK


UPDATING HONDA NAVI (US Version)

Updating your map set and firmware on the US Honda NAVI is a cumbersome, but manageable process. Just follow the recipe below:

Save yourself a lot of grief—READ and UNDERSTAND the entire process before starting. It will take you less than 5 minutes to read this entire instruction and will save you hours of aggravation later. =)

What You Need

2GB Compact Flash (CF) memory card (you can use the one in your NAVI)
CF Card Reader for your PC (many printers have card readers built in)
Latest Honda NAVI Firmware (as of Dec 08, V4.31), filename “gupdate.gcd”
Garmin “City Navigator North America 2009” I used PN: 010-10474-00 (https://buy.garmin.com/shop/shop.do?pID=8465)
NOTE: You must use the “non-NT” version of the software. If the title of the software includes the letters “NT,” it WILL NOT work with the Honda NAVI.
Your Honda NAVI “Unit ID” (see “Get Your Unit ID” below)
Your Honda NAVI “Serial Number” (see “Get Your Serial Number” below)
Patience and strict adherence to the instructions below.
How to Perform the Update

FIRMWARE ======================================

1. Backup Your Honda NAVI CF Card. Just put your CF card in the reader hooked to your PC and copy the files from the Honda NAVI CF to a backup directory on your PC (put them in a folder titled “\GARMIN”). You can treat the Honda NAVI CF just like a disk drive.

2. Put a New CF in your Card Reader. Create a “\GARMIN” directory on the new CF Card. You can use your existing card, but make sure you back up your existing files (Step 1 above) before deleting them from the old CF Card. If you’re using your existing card, ensure you leave the \GARMIN directory on the CF Card and put all your downloaded updates into this directory.

3. Copy the New Firmware onto the CF Card. Copy the new Firmware file (“gupdate.gcd”) into the \GARMIN directory on the CF Card. It has the same name as the old one, so keep your new copy separate from your original Honda NAVI backup. If you need a copy of the latest update, I’m sure you know one Gold Wing Pilot who has this version; ask around.

4. Load Your New Firmware to Your Honda NAVI.
a. Power up your Gold Wing by turning the key to ACC, but DON’T PRESS the Enter button.

b. Insert your newly uploaded CF card with Firmware only (no map update) into your Honda NAVI.

c. Let the new software load up; the process is automatic—be patient and DON’T TURN THE POWER OFF until you confirm the GPS system reboots.

5. Verify Your Firmware Loaded Properly. You should verify the Firmware version by hitting “Menu” then “Setup/Info” then “Info/System” and you will see the Firmware version installed and the Unit ID. If it doesn’t match the version you were expecting, you have a problem. Carefully follow the process again.

MAPS ======================================

1. Update Your Firmware Version. If you need to, update your Firmware first, using the process above.

2. Get Your Unit ID. Turn your Gold Wing key to the “ACC” position and let the NAVI start. Then, hit “Menu” then “Setup/Info” then “Info/System” and you will see your Firmware version installed and the Unit ID. Write down both numbers.

3. Get Your Serial Number.

a. Disassembly. If you’re comfortable with disassembling your NAVI hardware, you’ll need to remove the NAVI system to get to the “Serial Number” on the unit. This number is different than the Unit ID.

b. Calling Garmin. See http://www.garmin.com/garmin/cms/site/us/support/supportcontact
for the contact info. Ask them for a cross reference to your NAVI Serial Number via the “Unit ID” determined in Step 1. Just give them the Unit ID and they should be able to give you your NAVI’s registered Serial Number. If the NAVI has been replaced (warranty or other) since manufacture, you’ll have to use Step 3a.

4. Backup Your Honda NAVI CF Card. Just put your CF card in the reader hooked to your PC and copy the files from the Honda NAVI CF to a backup directory on your PC (put them in a folder titled “\GARMIN”). You can treat the Honda NAVI CF just like a disk drive.

5. Put a New CF in your Card Reader. You can use your existing card, but make sure you back up your existing files (Step 4) before deleting them from the card.

6. Install Software to your PC. Install your City Navigator North America 2009 to your PC, including unlocking your maps.

7. Configure your Software.

a. The first “pull down” should read: “City Navigator North America 2009”

b. The second “pull down” should read: “1000 mi” Ensure you can see the entire map graphic.

c. Use the “Map Select Tool,” the one that looks like a polygon, next to the “Magnifying Glass,” and select the entire map set. Select the entire set by dragging your held-down cursor over the entire map graphic from upper left to lower right. The individual map regions will turn pink.

d. Click the “Maps” tab at the left and you’ll see each map listed in the info section of the tab. At the bottom, it will also tell you how large the set is in MB (1024MB = 1GB). Don’t exceed the capacity of your CF Card.

8. Transfer the Map Set to the New CF. If you’re using your existing card, MAKE SURE YOU HAVE A BACKUP and delete the files from the CF card before attempting to load new files to your existing CF card. Note: THIS PROCESS CAN TAKE A FEW HOURS; BE PATIENT.

9. Load Your New Data to Your Honda NAVI. Insert your newly uploaded CF card into your Honda NAVI. Turn your key to ACC and let the new software load up; the process is automatic.

10. Enjoy Your Updated Maps!

I have 2 Garmin hand held (etrex & 60csx) can I load my way points from all over the U.S. that I have aquired without changing any data.I have a 2008 wing with navi Thanks Johnny 5

Does anyone know if the compact flash card in the 08 and earlier models can be updated with the SD version from the 09's? I have a PC with all the card slots and it seems like it might be easy to just copy the 09 SD and write it to a compact flash card. The software and maps are on the card so it should work. I am going to get a spare compact card to try it on. Will post results. I have an 09 card but as you know I can't put it in my 08.

Does anyone know if the compact flash card in the 08 and earlier models can be updated with the SD version from the 09's? I have a PC with all the card slots and it seems like it might be easy to just copy the 09 SD and write it to a compact flash card. The software and maps are on the card so it should work. I am going to get a spare compact card to try it on. Will post results. I have an 09 card but as you know I can't put it in my 08.


The 2009 and 2008 NAVIs are different hardware and use differt software compression algorithms. The only way to update the 2008s and earliers is to get a copy of the non-NT version of CityNavigator 2009 and update using the process on the "Updating the Honda NAVI" thread.

Would be nice if your solution would work, but it's different software and won't work. Thanks Honda and Garmin for orphaning the early adopters.

Jim,

Great post thanks. Unfortunately, I already ordered the new 2009 CF card from Garmin!

If I am reading your post correctly, since I have 4.31 of the software already loaded on my CF card, I can just download the latests maps from Garmin and not pay the extra fee for the card? ($119 lifetime v. $169/card?)

Is there anyway to download pre-defined trips as well?

I'm bummed as I have a 550 on my other bike and miss that functionality.

Tom

Jim,

Great post thanks. Unfortunately, I already ordered the new 2009 CF card from Garmin!

If I am reading your post correctly, since I have 4.31 of the software already loaded on my CF card, I can just download the latests maps from Garmin and not pay the extra fee for the card? ($119 lifetime v. $169/card?)

Is there anyway to download pre-defined trips as well?

I'm bummed as I have a 550 on my other bike and miss that functionality.

Tom

Tom:

It would be a real treat to have the same functionality of the 550 on the NAVI, especially the touch screen.

I also have a Zumo550 on mounted on my Lev3 Wing and use it for detailed navigation; I use the onboard NAVI for the "big picture" and don't use it for point-to-point navigation, unless I'm too lazy to put the Zumo in it's mount before I leave the garage. :)

Just mount your Zumo on the Wing and consider the NAVI a "free accessory" you got when you bought the ABS model.

Good Luck!

Jim,

Great post thanks. Unfortunately, I already ordered the new 2009 CF card from Garmin!

If I am reading your post correctly, since I have 4.31 of the software already loaded on my CF card, I can just download the latests maps from Garmin and not pay the extra fee for the card? ($119 lifetime v. $169/card?)

Is there anyway to download pre-defined trips as well?

I'm bummed as I have a 550 on my other bike and miss that functionality.

Tom


Tom:

There is no way currently to download pre-planned trips from your MapSource application to the NAVI on the 2006-08 models.

As I said, you're best option is to mount your Zumo on your Wing. :)

JIM

Just purchased the CF card for my 08 from Garmin. 149 bucks plus is steep but cheaper than it was a few months ago. To make it worth while I think I will make a few copies for a couple friends. Garmin isn't supporting it any more so no harm right?

Just purchased the CF card for my 08 from Garmin. 149 bucks plus is steep but cheaper than it was a few months ago. To make it worth while I think I will make a few copies for a couple friends. Garmin isn't supporting it any more so no harm right?

Canuck: I'll be coming out to Sun City sometime in March. Make an extra copy.

Canuck: I'll be coming out to Sun City sometime in March. Make an extra copy.

March is nice. When will you be here? Our Chapter has a breakfast meeting the third Saturday of the month. Open invite to visit. Also will be away on a ride 6th and 7th of March. Later.

I have an 09 GL1800AL with Navi. According to the Garmin site it should have an SD card but when I removed it it is a CF card. Are the CF and SD cards the same size with different software?:confused::confused:

No they are not the same size. The 08 card is close to 2 inches square. The 09 card is smaller. Maybe an inch and much thinner. If you have the larger Compact Flash card your system is not supposed to be in an 09.

Garmin is now supporting updates for 06-08 Nav systems. New updates are to be published every August time frame:
https://buy.garmin.com/shop/shop.do?pID=10750&ra=true#versionTab

Great work Jim! Snuffy, the SD cards and the CF cards are not interchangeable. I got the Cdn upgrade CF card and have found out what's wrong with my Navi now. When I popped the card out, one of the connector pins pulled out a bit, and the new card being inserted bent the pin so it doesn't allow the card to make full contact, hence no map info at all. I'm currently working with a tech at Honda to resolve my issue (should be covered by warranty) but there's no Garmin service depot in Canada yet. Downside if I have to sent the card unit back for replacement it knocks out the stereo/intercom and Navi as they're all hooked together. If anyone swaps out their cards (either SD or CF) BE CAREFUL of those pins! I'll post as soon as the techs have a solution.
Daryl

I downloaded my CF original files and save it in a new folder. I then connected my 2010 Garmin navi 285wt portable hand held and downloaded it. I pull the 3 files that the CF card had on it from my hand held and downloaded this to the flash card. I put this back in the wing and I will see how it function on the road and let you all know about it!

I agree Ghost. I'd rather save my money for a new Zumo instead of pouring money into the no longer supported '08 Nav system. It works well for me now and when it gets too far outdated, then I'll make the switch.

I have seen someone from another forum with instructions on how to use your nav on the move but don't remember where.........I know they run a wire from the trunk unit to the front fairing...........

HisST

What is the difference when you have a new 2009 Goldwing??

What is the difference when you have a new 2009 Goldwing??

Different than what? An older Nav or the type card it takes or ?
Here again is the link to the updates for all Wings w/Nav and the version available:
https://buy.garmin.com/shop/shop.do?pID=10750&ra=true#versionTab
Garmin is claiming new updates will be issued every August

The 2009 Nav includes XM weather capability. Hope that answers your question.

Not totally sure about the US models, but there should be an update available for the '09's. Yours has an SD card vs. my Cdn model CF card. Garmin isn't real helpful with the Navi units, they try and push you off to Honda, but Honda contracted it all out to Garmin. Kind of a pass the buck snafoo. I'm posting more on my update install on the Cdn version.

I want to thank everyone that contributed to this thread. I have a 2006 wing with nav and have now updated the firmwear to 4.31 and the maps to CNNA Ver 9. Special thanks to Quinton Grubbs for the new maps

You might want to check out this Garmin Address also. It has the Original and Updated versions of City Navigator and Map Data listed by model year. Looks like all updates will be Ver.9 of City Navigator and 2008 maps. Price is $149 .

https://buy.garmin.com/shop/shop.do?pID=10750

I posted this before, but here it is again:


From: Quinton Grubbs <q.grubbs@cox.net>

I sell a 2GB SD card with Garmin's City Navigator North America NT 2011.20 (US, Canada & Mexico) pre-programmed unlocked for the 2009-2010 GL1800 for $39.99+$1.75 shipping=$41.74

I ship daily via USPS with Delivery Confirmation. I guarantee the maps/card, if dissatisfied return for a full refund.

I know he also does the older card, if you e-mail him he will tell you what you need to do. He sells a card, not uploading..

I WAS LOOKING AT MY GPS SOFTWARE AND IT IS A nt VERSION ON THE 2010 sorry about the caps I get so excited around this Goldwing stuff.

Hi,

Do you happen to know if this would apply to my '09 Goldwing's NAV system as well or might it have a different Firmware/Software version?

Thanks,

Greg

I don't know if anyone has posted any instructions to this thread yet, but here is what I have regarding the update for the Honda NAVI.

NOTE: These instructions are for the 2006-08 NAVI only and will get you as current as you can be. Any further updates will require updating your NAVI hardware or trading for a newer GW. The 2009 and newer GWs use the NT compression algorithm and you should be able to update your maps with the NT version of the sofware. I haven't tried this, so don't ask if the same process applies; I don't know.

JEK


UPDATING HONDA NAVI (US Version)

Updating your map set and firmware on the US Honda NAVI is a cumbersome, but manageable process. Just follow the recipe below:

Save yourself a lot of grief—READ and UNDERSTAND the entire process before starting. It will take you less than 5 minutes to read this entire instruction and will save you hours of aggravation later. =)

What You Need

2GB Compact Flash (CF) memory card (you can use the one in your NAVI)
CF Card Reader for your PC (many printers have card readers built in)
Latest Honda NAVI Firmware (as of Dec 08, V4.31), filename “gupdate.gcd”
Garmin “City Navigator North America 2009” I used PN: 010-10474-00 (https://buy.garmin.com/shop/shop.do?pID=8465)
NOTE: You must use the “non-NT” version of the software. If the title of the software includes the letters “NT,” it WILL NOT work with the Honda NAVI.
Your Honda NAVI “Unit ID” (see “Get Your Unit ID” below)
Your Honda NAVI “Serial Number” (see “Get Your Serial Number” below)
Patience and strict adherence to the instructions below.
How to Perform the Update

FIRMWARE ======================================

1. Backup Your Honda NAVI CF Card. Just put your CF card in the reader hooked to your PC and copy the files from the Honda NAVI CF to a backup directory on your PC (put them in a folder titled “\GARMIN”). You can treat the Honda NAVI CF just like a disk drive.

2. Put a New CF in your Card Reader. Create a “\GARMIN” directory on the new CF Card. You can use your existing card, but make sure you back up your existing files (Step 1 above) before deleting them from the old CF Card. If you’re using your existing card, ensure you leave the \GARMIN directory on the CF Card and put all your downloaded updates into this directory.

3. Copy the New Firmware onto the CF Card. Copy the new Firmware file (“gupdate.gcd”) into the \GARMIN directory on the CF Card. It has the same name as the old one, so keep your new copy separate from your original Honda NAVI backup. If you need a copy of the latest update, I’m sure you know one Gold Wing Pilot who has this version; ask around.

4. Load Your New Firmware to Your Honda NAVI.
a. Power up your Gold Wing by turning the key to ACC, but DON’T PRESS the Enter button.

b. Insert your newly uploaded CF card with Firmware only (no map update) into your Honda NAVI.

c. Let the new software load up; the process is automatic—be patient and DON’T TURN THE POWER OFF until you confirm the GPS system reboots.

5. Verify Your Firmware Loaded Properly. You should verify the Firmware version by hitting “Menu” then “Setup/Info” then “Info/System” and you will see the Firmware version installed and the Unit ID. If it doesn’t match the version you were expecting, you have a problem. Carefully follow the process again.

MAPS ======================================

1. Update Your Firmware Version. If you need to, update your Firmware first, using the process above.

2. Get Your Unit ID. Turn your Gold Wing key to the “ACC” position and let the NAVI start. Then, hit “Menu” then “Setup/Info” then “Info/System” and you will see your Firmware version installed and the Unit ID. Write down both numbers.

3. Get Your Serial Number.

a. Disassembly. If you’re comfortable with disassembling your NAVI hardware, you’ll need to remove the NAVI system to get to the “Serial Number” on the unit. This number is different than the Unit ID.

b. Calling Garmin. See http://www.garmin.com/garmin/cms/site/us/support/supportcontact
for the contact info. Ask them for a cross reference to your NAVI Serial Number via the “Unit ID” determined in Step 1. Just give them the Unit ID and they should be able to give you your NAVI’s registered Serial Number. If the NAVI has been replaced (warranty or other) since manufacture, you’ll have to use Step 3a.

4. Backup Your Honda NAVI CF Card. Just put your CF card in the reader hooked to your PC and copy the files from the Honda NAVI CF to a backup directory on your PC (put them in a folder titled “\GARMIN”). You can treat the Honda NAVI CF just like a disk drive.

5. Put a New CF in your Card Reader. You can use your existing card, but make sure you back up your existing files (Step 4) before deleting them from the card.

6. Install Software to your PC. Install your City Navigator North America 2009 to your PC, including unlocking your maps.

7. Configure your Software.

a. The first “pull down” should read: “City Navigator North America 2009”

b. The second “pull down” should read: “1000 mi” Ensure you can see the entire map graphic.

c. Use the “Map Select Tool,” the one that looks like a polygon, next to the “Magnifying Glass,” and select the entire map set. Select the entire set by dragging your held-down cursor over the entire map graphic from upper left to lower right. The individual map regions will turn pink.

d. Click the “Maps” tab at the left and you’ll see each map listed in the info section of the tab. At the bottom, it will also tell you how large the set is in MB (1024MB = 1GB). Don’t exceed the capacity of your CF Card.

8. Transfer the Map Set to the New CF. If you’re using your existing card, MAKE SURE YOU HAVE A BACKUP and delete the files from the CF card before attempting to load new files to your existing CF card. Note: THIS PROCESS CAN TAKE A FEW HOURS; BE PATIENT.

9. Load Your New Data to Your Honda NAVI. Insert your newly uploaded CF card into your Honda NAVI. Turn your key to ACC and let the new software load up; the process is automatic.

10. Enjoy Your Updated Maps!

Does Honda sell upgrades for the GPS hardware to the latest and greatest 2012 version? How much?

yep right around $26000.00 US:):):)

Druid - You're breakin' my heart !

Keep chucklin' mate, you get a free bike with the upgrade!!!:D

I see a couple of impulsive and witty responses about upgrading the actual navigation unit itself, but has anyone tried to, or do you have first hand tech experience in installing a whole new navigation unit with 2012 technology into a 2008 Wing? The control panel and screen look identical from the 2008 to the 2012 models (from what I can see in the pictures)... thanks.

I see a couple of impulsive and witty responses about upgrading the actual navigation unit itself, but has anyone tried to, or do you have first hand tech experience in installing a whole new navigation unit with 2012 technology into a 2008 Wing? The control panel and screen look identical from the 2008 to the 2012 models (from what I can see in the pictures)... thanks.

I can see your point but do you have a source where you can purchase the entire system because as I see it that is what you will have to install and then only on Nav model gl 1800's Then the 2012 Technology is not that current It would be much cheaper just to intergrate a zumo that will work better anyway and won't lock you out while moving.

Druid, I currently ride a 2008 Navi model, so that is why I was thinking maybe just upgrading the GPS unit itself.....? I would think you can buy them from any Honda dealer (not confirmed). It just kind of stinks to think that you would have the navi in the dash, and then have to have yet another piece of equipment mounted on the bars. Your point about the lockout is VERY valid, and frankly ticks me off.... I guess I understand why, but when you make a minor route adjustment because you saw something interesting and want to pause your navigation, you either STOP or listen to that nag in your headset!

knowing Honda there are going to be some parts you are not going to be able to buy or change. Then you still have to deal with the system and having to either do all of your programming before you leave home or always have a PC with you or available with internet so you can program additional routes. The factory unit is still not up to snuff.

I just ordered my new 2011 updated SD card from a Q Grubs for $45. I will let you all know how it goes.....

I just ordered my new 2011 updated SD card from a Q Grubs for $45. I will let you all know how it goes.....

Yeah, keep us posted, Chris.:D

From what I understand, the US and CAN versions of the Wings are different, esp. in the NAVI models. I checked a 2010 Wing out last week, and it has the CF version NAV system. What I'm not sure about (yet) is what version software is on the Compact Flash card (NT maps or standard).

It seems Honda is putting the older nav units into the new Canadian models. I'm guessing, of course, that Honda had older Garmin nav units still in stock and are putting them in the new Canadian Gold Wings. If I'm wrong, someone please correct me on this.

Great work Jim! Snuffy, the SD cards and the CF cards are not interchangeable...If anyone swaps out their cards (either SD or CF) BE CAREFUL of those pins! I'll post as soon as the techs have a solution.
Daryl

Budoka, did you get this issue resolved? Couldn't find an update...

By the way, the CF cards (compact flash) are large (2" square apprx) and is inserted into a receptacle with tiny pins. The smaller SD cards (secure digital) have large copper contacts on one end, which slide over the mating contacts. They are much easier to insert into the slot and there is little worry about damaging the contacts. The big thing is to never force the card... as with most computer stuff, being gentle is paramount. Those tiny pins that fit into the CF cards are easily bent. I have both in my camera, and I always 'wiggle' the CF card a bit as I push it in... gently! :)

Yes gto I did get it resolved rather quickly, and I did post my findings afterward, I just forget where. One of the pins actually pulled out of the card slot and I had to have the slot/receptacle replaced and Honda covered it under warranty.
What I found was the data base is far more complete now, and the display has much more detail. Funcionality is about the same, just more info available. Was it worth it? To me yes, but I felt the Navi was pretty shabby before so anything was an improvement over what it was.
Why Hoda uses different cards here vs the US I can't really answer, and Garmin won't pony up anything (I've spoken with them directly) on the matter.
My wife drives and Acura RL and my upgraded bike system is actually better than hers if you don't factor in the ability to change her settings on the move, functions pretty much identical to the bike. She bought an upgrade for her car that did basically nothing and coughed out $500 for it:(

Sorry Ron, I missed part of your question. As to the SD vs. the CF cards in the US and Cdn models, I think the Cdn units always came with the CF cards and the SD cards in the US. I don't think it's a case of 'dumping' old tech into the Canadian models. It could be as much a problem with not enough updating of the local road and info data for Canada. All the GPS systems (North American anyway) are US based and controlled, so we're not going to be the first on the list for added updated bases.
As to the software being NT or otherwise I really don't know (even my reps don't seem to know either), and as to the 2012 I haven't heard if they are the same upgrades on both sides of the border or not. Same old story, Honda says contact Garmin; Garmin says it's a Honda thing. The only difference I found is that whenI asked Garmin about assistance, I wasn't greeted very warmly, but the Honda person I spoke to was at least sympathetic, if not able to help me.
I recently spoke to Garmin about a couple of my aviation units (both have land maps and info data bases that are older) as to wherther I'd get any use out of them in Ireland later this month, and was treated very courteously and satisfied with the response I got. My guess is the two entities have some axes to grind.

Just a quick note to tell all you with 09-10 Wings with the Factory GPS, that I updated mine to 2010 maps and all for $45. It was painless, just remove the old SD card and put the new card in...turn on your nav...and it works as advertised. So you really do not have to spend over a hundred dollars to upgrade your late model nav system. (the nav system the Honda people never did their homework on until it was too late. Very much like their installation of the XM junk antenna behind all the metal in the fairing......
PM me and I will pass his e-mail off to those who want to save some money. I am not connected with him in any way, so I make nothing, just passing on the savings I found to my brothers and sisters on the Goldwing forum.

...As to the SD vs. the CF cards in the US and Cdn models, I think the Cdn units always came with the CF cards and the SD cards in the US. I don't think it's a case of 'dumping' old tech into the Canadian models.

The US models didn't always have SD cards. I have an '06 US model with the CF card... which leads me to believe that the Canadian models with CF cards are "old stock". I'll have to check a CF card from a new Canadian model to determine what type of software they are using. I would be willing to bet that it's not the NT version. Funny that no one 'knows...'

...not enough updating of the local road and info data for Canada. All the GPS systems (North American anyway) are US based and controlled, so we're not going to be the first on the list for added updated bases.

I believe Garmin updates their North American maps regardless of any updates specifically for Canada. The NA maps are US + Mexico + Canada... and are updated as a set. I believe it has more to do with the technology used than whether or not maps are regularly updated.

...As to the software being NT or otherwise I really don't know (even my reps don't seem to know either), and as to the 2012 I haven't heard if they are the same upgrades on both sides of the border or not.

:confused: This I really don't understand. Some one with a NAVI option has to know which version he uses for updating his maps...

I'll have to dig into this a bit deeper...:cool:

I just spoke to a Garmin rep and he's 95% certain th system uses Garmin Map, not NT. Most of the Honda automotive systems (cars suv's etc) use NT though. He also said that there was another update in the works, but no release date as yet. I just checked my online service manual for the 2012 models and they are all SD cards for both US and Canada, but no mention of the map base.

PM me and I will pass his e-mail off to those who want to save some money. I am not connected with him in any way, so I make nothing, just passing on the savings I found to my brothers and sisters on the Goldwing forum.
__________________
pm semt

PM me and I will pass his e-mail off to those who want to save some money. I am not connected with him in any way, so I make nothing, just passing on the savings I found to my brothers and sisters on the Goldwing forum.
__________________
pm semt

Iam sure Quinton would not mind his email on this site it is in this thread already
From: Quinton Grubbs <q.grubbs@cox.net>

I sell a 2GB SD card with Garmin's City Navigator North America NT 2011.20 (US, Canada & Mexico) pre-programmed unlocked for the 2009-2010 GL1800 for $39.99+$1.75 shipping=$41.74

I ship daily via USPS with Delivery Confirmation. I guarantee the maps/card, if dissatisfied return for a full refund.

HI EVERYONE! I'm a newbie Goldwinger and LOVE IT! I purchased a 2010 1800 in July and have 5,000 glorious miles on it already! She's so happy to have me as her new owner! (Previous owner only put 2,000 on her! Such a shame!)

I have a Zumo 550 and a Lifetime Garmin update card. Are these instructions below good for that or do I need to do something different? I plan to still use the Zumo since I'm not going to be pulling over every time I wanna see what's ahead to eat or to fuel up (unless someone has the trick to disable the safety mode!!)

Thanks for any help on this! Once I tackle this upgrade, I'll be asking more questions I'm sure!:)



I don't know if anyone has posted any instructions to this thread yet, but here is what I have regarding the update for the Honda NAVI.

NOTE: These instructions are for the 2006-08 NAVI only and will get you as current as you can be. Any further updates will require updating your NAVI hardware or trading for a newer GW. The 2009 and newer GWs use the NT compression algorithm and you should be able to update your maps with the NT version of the sofware. I haven't tried this, so don't ask if the same process applies; I don't know.

JEK


UPDATING HONDA NAVI (US Version)

Updating your map set and firmware on the US Honda NAVI is a cumbersome, but manageable process. Just follow the recipe below:

Save yourself a lot of grief—READ and UNDERSTAND the entire process before starting. It will take you less than 5 minutes to read this entire instruction and will save you hours of aggravation later. =)

What You Need

2GB Compact Flash (CF) memory card (you can use the one in your NAVI)
CF Card Reader for your PC (many printers have card readers built in)
Latest Honda NAVI Firmware (as of Dec 08, V4.31), filename “gupdate.gcd”
Garmin “City Navigator North America 2009” I used PN: 010-10474-00 (https://buy.garmin.com/shop/shop.do?pID=8465)
NOTE: You must use the “non-NT” version of the software. If the title of the software includes the letters “NT,” it WILL NOT work with the Honda NAVI.
Your Honda NAVI “Unit ID” (see “Get Your Unit ID” below)
Your Honda NAVI “Serial Number” (see “Get Your Serial Number” below)
Patience and strict adherence to the instructions below.
How to Perform the Update

FIRMWARE ======================================

1. Backup Your Honda NAVI CF Card. Just put your CF card in the reader hooked to your PC and copy the files from the Honda NAVI CF to a backup directory on your PC (put them in a folder titled “\GARMIN”). You can treat the Honda NAVI CF just like a disk drive.

2. Put a New CF in your Card Reader. Create a “\GARMIN” directory on the new CF Card. You can use your existing card, but make sure you back up your existing files (Step 1 above) before deleting them from the old CF Card. If you’re using your existing card, ensure you leave the \GARMIN directory on the CF Card and put all your downloaded updates into this directory.

3. Copy the New Firmware onto the CF Card. Copy the new Firmware file (“gupdate.gcd”) into the \GARMIN directory on the CF Card. It has the same name as the old one, so keep your new copy separate from your original Honda NAVI backup. If you need a copy of the latest update, I’m sure you know one Gold Wing Pilot who has this version; ask around.

4. Load Your New Firmware to Your Honda NAVI.
a. Power up your Gold Wing by turning the key to ACC, but DON’T PRESS the Enter button.

b. Insert your newly uploaded CF card with Firmware only (no map update) into your Honda NAVI.

c. Let the new software load up; the process is automatic—be patient and DON’T TURN THE POWER OFF until you confirm the GPS system reboots.

5. Verify Your Firmware Loaded Properly. You should verify the Firmware version by hitting “Menu” then “Setup/Info” then “Info/System” and you will see the Firmware version installed and the Unit ID. If it doesn’t match the version you were expecting, you have a problem. Carefully follow the process again.

MAPS ======================================

1. Update Your Firmware Version. If you need to, update your Firmware first, using the process above.

2. Get Your Unit ID. Turn your Gold Wing key to the “ACC” position and let the NAVI start. Then, hit “Menu” then “Setup/Info” then “Info/System” and you will see your Firmware version installed and the Unit ID. Write down both numbers.

3. Get Your Serial Number.

a. Disassembly. If you’re comfortable with disassembling your NAVI hardware, you’ll need to remove the NAVI system to get to the “Serial Number” on the unit. This number is different than the Unit ID.

b. Calling Garmin. See http://www.garmin.com/garmin/cms/site/us/support/supportcontact
for the contact info. Ask them for a cross reference to your NAVI Serial Number via the “Unit ID” determined in Step 1. Just give them the Unit ID and they should be able to give you your NAVI’s registered Serial Number. If the NAVI has been replaced (warranty or other) since manufacture, you’ll have to use Step 3a.

4. Backup Your Honda NAVI CF Card. Just put your CF card in the reader hooked to your PC and copy the files from the Honda NAVI CF to a backup directory on your PC (put them in a folder titled “\GARMIN”). You can treat the Honda NAVI CF just like a disk drive.

5. Put a New CF in your Card Reader. You can use your existing card, but make sure you back up your existing files (Step 4) before deleting them from the card.

6. Install Software to your PC. Install your City Navigator North America 2009 to your PC, including unlocking your maps.

7. Configure your Software.

a. The first “pull down” should read: “City Navigator North America 2009”

b. The second “pull down” should read: “1000 mi” Ensure you can see the entire map graphic.

c. Use the “Map Select Tool,” the one that looks like a polygon, next to the “Magnifying Glass,” and select the entire map set. Select the entire set by dragging your held-down cursor over the entire map graphic from upper left to lower right. The individual map regions will turn pink.

d. Click the “Maps” tab at the left and you’ll see each map listed in the info section of the tab. At the bottom, it will also tell you how large the set is in MB (1024MB = 1GB). Don’t exceed the capacity of your CF Card.

8. Transfer the Map Set to the New CF. If you’re using your existing card, MAKE SURE YOU HAVE A BACKUP and delete the files from the CF card before attempting to load new files to your existing CF card. Note: THIS PROCESS CAN TAKE A FEW HOURS; BE PATIENT.

9. Load Your New Data to Your Honda NAVI. Insert your newly uploaded CF card into your Honda NAVI. Turn your key to ACC and let the new software load up; the process is automatic.

10. Enjoy Your Updated Maps!