Quadlock Handlebar GPS Navigation with and old Android Pixel

I had just gotten a KTM 500 dual sport bike, and was looking for a GPS navigation unit to mount on the handlebars. I came across a post recommending to use an old burner phone rather than purchasing a $300-600 Garmin. Luckily I had an old Pixel 3a lying around.

After some research I found out that Quadlock did not support Pixel 3a phones, and I would need to use the universal adapter. I decided to give it a shot, and ordered the following parts:

• Motorcycle Handlebar Mount – https://www.quadlockcase.com/products/motorcycle-mount
• Universal MAG Adapter – https://www.quadlockcase.com/products/universal-adapter?variant=42044192391339
• Vibration Dampener – https://www.quadlockcase.com/products/vibration-dampener?variant=32819777372235

The Case

The adapter is said to work best with select materials, including Polycarbonate. I found a cheap Otterbox case on Amazon made of this material: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00Z7T8010

Sticking the Adapter to the Case

I followed a YouTube video posted by Quadlock with instructions on how to install the adapter to the back of my Otterbox case.

Assembling the Mount

Of course I skipped the directions and paid the price – this took me a couple tries to assemble. First connect the dampener (if you’re using one) to the mount.

After tightening down the damper, then add the rest of the mount (head that connects into the back of the phone).

Adding the Mount to the Handlebars of the KTM

Moving the mount over to the KTM was no trouble at all. Surprisingly the moto handlebars were skinnier than the mountain bike’s, and I needed to add one of the spacers included with the mount.

First Ride with the KTM and GPS Nav

I used the Gaia GPS app to preload some routes and download maps. The app and navigation worked great aside from most of the planned routes being gated off and closed 🙂 I eventually stumbled upon a nice little loop around an old vineyard. Can’t wait to get out again!