Guzzi Multi-Media Platform

[Kev m]

Rather than continue to hijack the V7III thread I thought I'd start a separate thread to discuss the Multi-Media platform that can connect to the bike and can be used for various functions from data-logging trip and bike info to interacting with a phone based NAV system or to be used as an additional dash display.

Though I still haven't used the platform (and I'd be interested to hear from those who have) I did download the app and go through it a bit to see what it offers. The images I've included are all screen shots from my phone.



The main menu offers the following options:

Performance (an extension of the dash display where you can choose up to 5 additional items to be constantly displayed)
Utility Map (a connection to the phone's NAV system).
Trip (display and/or data logging of trip info - I don't think this is route, but bike related info like time, mileage, speeds etc.)
The Nest (a campy one button/one function screen to tell you how far away you are from Mandello at any given moment)
Guide (portable owner's manual for your selected model).

Nothing in this app seems critical - or even particularly useful as they could have made it. For instance in my world I would have preferred to see it datalog EFI system performance, interact with the ECM/dash to reset the service monitor, and maybe display trouble codes. That would have been worth the price of admission.

On the other hand it's got a lot of campy, potentially fun data.

From what it provided I think I would enjoy the Performance screen as it is an extension of the data that is available through the trip odometer but can only be displayed one at a time on the dash. And, as we discussed in the other thread, somewhat maddeningly they've chosen to leave RPM (tachometer) function off the selective odometer display and include it only in this app. That's just dumb (or an attempt to get more people to buy the blue tooth interface module that allows the free app to work).



If I did bother to get this app and set my phone up on a RAM mount I'd probably chose to display RPM, Battery Voltage, Gear selector, Fuel average and Fuel Instant economy. But others might chose from other parameters which include calculated crank hp, crank torque, rear wheel thrust, slip, acceleration, roll angle, and more.



The NAV interaction seems mostly pointless though it does have a single button to quickly show nearest gas stations so that doesn't suck. If I'm reading the APP guide correctly it will automatically display gas stations once your low fuel light comes on, at least that's what it sounded like.


For the completely senior brain dead among us the app includes a "FIND MY BIKE" feature. Yeah - it uses the GPS to show you where the hell you parked it last in case you forgot. LOL.

The APP also gives you quick access to things like the dash RPM warning light setting.

All in all I probably won't spend the money on it, but I like gadgets so I won't say I'm not tempted. And as discussed in the other thread, I would prefer to have a tachometer if it is possible. Considering the cost to add an OEM tachometer alone to some brands this might be no more expensive and offer a little more for the money. But I think I'd be pissed at OEM prices and would certainly prefer to score something from another avenue (Ebay, Amazon etc.).

I should also note that the APP is NOT well reviewed and it looks like it's been glitchey or hasn't connected to some phones etc.

[Kiwi_Roy]

Kev,
      Where does the bluetooth device connect to the ECU/Bike?
http://www.thisoldtractor.com/guzzi007/schematics/2013_V7_Series.gif
I assume it connects to the Canbus or whatever they call the inter device communications.

Update
As Jas67 says it connects to another connector under the seat, we need a different drawing.

[jas67]

The device connects to a grey connector under the seat, near the diagnostics connector.

[Kiwi_Roy]

The device connects to a grey connector under the seat, near the diagnostics connector.

Do you have the device on your bike?

[Thirtyaughtsix]

Is this like a $50 toy or a $300 toy?

[Kev m]

Kev,
      Where does the bluetooth device connect to the ECU/Bike?
http://www.thisoldtractor.com/guzzi007/schematics/2013_V7_Series.gif
I assume it connects to the Canbus or whatever they call the inter device communications.

Update
As Jas67 says it connects to another connector under the seat, we need a different drawing.

I believe it attaches to the connector recently discussed in this thread:

https://wildguzzi.com/forum/index.php?topic=97553.0

It is not on the 2013 Wiring Diagram because it is not applicable until the V7II and later smallblock models (or I believe all Cali 1400 models).

[Kev m]

Is this like a $50 toy or a $300 toy?

Closer to $300 though that might vary slightly by supplier.

https://wildguzzi.com/forum/index.php?topic=99469.60

Fleabay has a multimedia unit for $175. plus $25. for shipping (Italy) and the installation kit for $70. plus $16 in shipping (Ohio via Cadre).  Add a RAM or other mount for your phone...  You get the picture.

From AF1 it would be $195 module

https://www.af1racing.com/store/Scripts/prodView.asp?idproduct=87238&sku=606522M&description=OEM+Aprilia+Multimedia+ECU+2%2E0+-+606522M

plus a $60 install kit

https://www.af1racing.com/store/Scripts/prodView.asp?idProduct=87239

Plus a RAM mount of your choice for the phone, but around another $60

https://www.af1racing.com/store/Scripts/prodView.asp?idproduct=94034&sku=AF1-PU06360063&description=Ram+Mount+w%2F+X+Grip+-+Mirror+Mount+Version

[rocker59]

I don't get it.  But, I'm getting old.

My smartphone is practically useless in direct sunlight, so I wouldn't be able to see the display except in low light conditions.

My smartphone will lose charge quickly if the display is left on for extended periods.  I guess I could connect it to a charger on the bike, but then there is a cable flapping around.

Why not just give us this info on a screen permanently attached to the bike.  A screen which can be viewed in direct sunlight? 

Better yet, why not just give us a nice set of analog gauges and call it day?

[Kev m]

I don't get it.  But, I'm getting old.

My smartphone is practically useless in direct sunlight, so I wouldn't be able to see the display except in low light conditions.

My smartphone will lose charge quickly if the display is left on for extended periods.  I guess I could connect it to a charger on the bike, but then there is a cable flapping around.

Why not just give us this info on a screen permanently attached to the bike.  A screen which can be viewed in direct sunlight? 

Better yet, why not just give us a nice set of analog gauges and call it day?

I'm pretty much with you on all of that.

I would be willing to pay for this IF it had the diagnostic features I mentioned earlier but even then I'd prefer the Tach and some of the other data to display in the dash and not HAVE to use my phone on a RAM mount.

[kirby1923]

IMHO
Anything that diverts your attention while riding from the really important thing is a potential killer.
That is:

Situation awareness (including spatial).

Whats behind you (old fighter pilot habit but useful/important.

Whats coming ahead (as far ahead as you can see).

Traveling at 200 fps++ it only takes a second or two to make a difference.

You gadget guys install and use at you own peril.

I may be a Boomer, but I did manage to get this far!

:-)

[Kev m]

It's a good point Kirb. Even the NAV systems in our Jeeps are potentially distracting. That might be one of the reasons I've avoided installing a NAV or using my phone NAV on a bike to date. Though once in a while I think it could be really helpful.

That said, I don't think I'd use this system for anything more than additional dash inputs - i.e. I'd keep it on performance and have the display available for glancing at (for RPM, voltage, etc.).

I don't think we'll be getting one either way.

[usedtobefast]

Ok, I'll "repost" here  ... I was interested in this ... went looking for people that had it working ... found no one ... found guys that were not happy ... and you can't return it if you don't like it (or it doesn't work).

I'll still a bit interested in this ... but, does anyone have this working?

Seemed the issues were connectivity and not all the features really work. 

[fotoguzzi]

seems like an app like that should be free.. who provides it? after market or the Guzzi co?

I bought the BlueDriver (OBD scanner) app was free.
several of my online cameras cost money but the app was free.
directv app.. free
Apple airport utility, free app..
Honeywell home monitor app free..  etc...

[Kev m]

seems like an app like that should be free.. who provides it? after market or the Guzzi co?

I bought the BlueDriver (OBD scanner) app was free.
several of my online cameras cost money but the app was free.
directv app.. free
Apple airport utility, free app..
Honeywell home monitor app free..  etc...

The APP is indeed free (and it's produced by Guzzi).

But the bike can't communicate with it unless you use an accessory Bluetooth kit for the ECM. That's where the cost lies. Physically making your ECU bluetooth capable.

[twowheeladdict]

I want it, but my phone is provided to me and locked down.

I would need to buy a used daylight readable rugged phone to capture and display the information at an additional $100. 

So, for almost $400 with a RAM mount I'm not sure if it is worth it.

[PJPR01]

IMHO
Anything that diverts your attention while riding from the really important thing is a potential killer.
That is:

Traveling at 200 fps++ it only takes a second or two to make a difference.

:-)

hhmm...if I recall correctly, 60 mph is 88 feet per second, so the above translates to 136mph...at that speed, I don't think messing with gadgets makes sense either..

but at a leisurely 40-60 mph, or at a stop, a useful gadget or two is not hazardous...gps, or volume control carefully mounted and which doesn't require you to take your eyes way off the road or look very far down keeps your head more in position than not...

It's not like zero gadgets is mandatory to be completely safe either...we can operate a car and turn on A/C, radio, fan, heat and use blinkers and windshield wipers just fine...same motor skills, and as long as you consciously don't get distracted for more than a 1/2 second, should be reasonably safe...

Spoken as a youngster...not a Boomer!

All in good humor Mike...I assure you!  :)

[Kiwi_Roy]

I believe it attaches to the connector recently discussed in this thread:

https://wildguzzi.com/forum/index.php?topic=97553.0

It is not on the 2013 Wiring Diagram because it is not applicable until the V7II and later smallblock models (or I believe all Cali 1400 models).

Yess, here it is in a link posted by Guzzi Gal
You can get the wiring diagram for free at http://thisoldtractor.com/mg_manuals/wiring_diagram_v7-iii-e4-stone.pdf

Item (51) Top RH corner. Clearly connected to the CanBus.
CanBus to Bluetooth adapters start around $20
https://www.ebay.ca/i/153339505061?chn=ps&mkevt=1&mkrid=706-89093-2056-0&mkcid=2&dispItem=1
Don't ask, I don't know much about this communication technology.



Can not work with iPhone/iPad
Other than that it looks easy to set up

 
 
 

[jas67]

Do you have the device on your bike?

No, I was curious what the extra connector was for, and researched it.

[jas67]

Better yet, why not just give us a nice set of analog gauges and call it day?

THIS ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

[jas67]

Traveling at 200 fps++ it only takes a second or two to make a difference.

200 fps = 136 MPH.
V7 doesn't go that fast, and even if you're on a bike that does, you definitely should not be going that fast on public roads.   

[canuck750]

My Old fart perspective:

Interactive screens have their place, I just don't think they belong on vehicles in front of drivers, there is far too much distracted driving already.
I have come close to getting into a serious incident messing with the Sat Nav in my car and for the most part don't even bother with it.  I can display the Sat Nav and other functions on the car heads up display but that in itself can be distracting. On a bike I just want a simple speedo and tachometer. The screen on my 1600GTL can tell me more than anything I ever need to know and I find it to be just another distraction and tend to leave it off with the exception of TPM.

[kirby1923]

200 fps = 136 MPH.
V7 doesn't go that fast, and even if you're on a bike that does, you definitely should not be going that fast on public roads.   

Thank everybody for pointing that out!!!

Much appreciated. Typo....??maybe.

And I'll try and to slow down on the public roads.. thanks for the concern.

I'm taking this whole thing way to seriously....

Cheers...
And Good luck out there.

[kirby1923]

hhmm...if I recall correctly, 60 mph is 88 feet per second, so the above translates to 136mph...at that speed, I don't think messing with gadgets makes sense either..

but at a leisurely 40-60 mph, or at a stop, a useful gadget or two is not hazardous...gps, or volume control carefully mounted and which doesn't require you to take your eyes way off the road or look very far down keeps your head more in position than not...

It's not like zero gadgets is mandatory to be completely safe either...we can operate a car and turn on A/C, radio, fan, heat and use blinkers and windshield wipers just fine...same motor skills, and as long as you consciously don't get distracted for more than a 1/2 second, should be reasonably safe...

Spoken as a youngster...not a Boomer!

All in good humor Mike...I assure you!  :)

Yes you recall correctly!

You gadget guys sorta grew up with all this electronic wizardry and find it hard me thinks, doing w/o it.

We old? guys (some of us) will just have to struggle along with our wits and do the best we can with our ancient skills (hard learned ).

We're probably lost half the time, but manage to get where we are going.

I'll say again, I'm taking this subject way too seriously. Need to give that some thought..its really out of my bailiwick...... as it pertains to ground based vehicles.

I regularly travel much faster that 200 FPS...

:-)

[oldbike54]

  I haven't even had a working speedometer or clock in years , they are a distraction , as is this new fangled contraption .

 Dusty

[Chuck in Indiana]

<snapping suspenders> I read an article last week about all the tech stuff you can put in your house. From Alexa, to automatic coffee makers, robot vacuums, mattress that senses your sleep, movements, whether your are hot or cold, and adjusts.. and *much* more. The guy and his girl friend did it all to see what it would be like.
What he found was his house was constantly wanting his attention. Things were constantly needing paired with his phone, etc. I've already had enough of that crap just keeping Dorcia's phone paired to the house phone and car. We have Google Home and a kitchen light. "Uh oh, it seems the kitchen light isn't available right now.." 
This is more of that junk, IMHO. I don't need it, I don't want it. Give me some steam gauges, and I'm good.

[PJPR01]

If it is safe and makes sense to have this many gadgets and gauges in an airplane, how can it be difficult to have one or two on a motorcycle?  😁

[Kev m]

I think there's a time and place for tech. I COULD possibly add one of those NEST thermostats to the house so that when we're away we can turn the temp back up or down on our way home. But really that's about the only use I'd have for it.

My FIL is a definite early adopter of tech - he has a couple of NESTs which I actually find annoying on the auto settings, they seem to turn on and off more often than a traditional thermostat like O2 sensors reacting to an ECU trying to constantly hit a moving target.

Then he added a couple of Alexa's - so you've constantly got music going on downstairs during family gatherings, ok, that's fine. But then you have a constant fight over content and volume. And they are synched in the living room and kitchen and the crowds often differ in what they want to hear. Not to mention the kids get annoying. And really, "Alexa, turn on living room light" is just stupid.

Of course that meant he had to get kitchen appliances that attach to the WIFI too. They are un-necessarily complicated to the point where my MIL has to ask my FIL to preheat the oven - so he pulls out his phone and spends a few minutes futzing with it to get the oven started. You can do it with the panel on the oven, but it's not intuitive. I'm sure I'd get used to it after a while, but really, WHY? How often do I ever need to REMOTE START my friggin oven? I'm not putting a casserole in it in the morning and turning it on from the train on my way home so it's cooked when I walk in the door (of course I work at home so there's that).

I guess a WIFI smoker might be cool - seriously, set it up, put some brisket in it, sit at your desk and check/adjust the temp anytime you want. I guess I could get behind that.

But yeah, I don't NEED too much of this stuff.

Now our cars, I was getting into the tech for a while and I still like a bit of it. I like seeing the tire pressure at all 4 corners at a glance, I like the oil life monitor, heated leather and NAV - no - no - Apple Car Play/Android Auto yeah. Totally get that. Google knows there's an accident ahead, rerouting around it. I'm behind that.

My Wrangler turns on the lights automatically, but that's not as important as turning it OFF auto to me. As a matter of fact I like the auto-off so much that if it's between light and dark and I want the lights on I have a small Aerostich bag in a pocket on the dash that I reach over and flip so it covers the sensor and the lights come on.

Jenn's like - WHY don't you turn the switch on the column? And I'm like "cause then I'd have to turn it OFF again when we park". 

The lights will turn themselves on if I leave the wipers turned on too...

and the Jenn's Grand Cherokee knows if I opened the door, so it moves the driver's seat, changes the radio presets, and changes the auto climate control. Good stuff....


....BUT THEN... it happened.... I realized the damn auto dimmers in her GC never let me turn on the brights when I want to. They keep seeing light reflected somewhere and dim them again. The auto wipers go absolutely maniacal when rain is steady. They might actually stress me out. And if the weather is nice and I roll down the windows and open the sunroof the auto climate control looses its mind.

I'm really glad I decided to NOT order my Wrangler with the auto climate control - I would have never used it in auto mode. I mean I keep the damn top open for months at a time.

I can't imagine lane departure warnings, auto cruise control, auto braking, I think Jenn's next car (and I'm sure she'll buy one with all that crap) is gonna drive me NUTS.

So maybe I'm more a Luddite than I thought.

Or maybe hanging around with you guys is making me more curmudgeonly by the year.   

But I'm not replacing my Jeep doors with ones that have crank down windows anytime soon.

And I still could see using this multi-media platform, if only to add a Tach and Voltmeter all the time, and the rest of that crap occasionally.

If it is safe and makes sense to have this many gadgets and gauges in an airplane, how can it be difficult to have one or two on a motorcycle?  😁

A LOT less cross-traffic for probably 99% of the flight I'd guess.

[kballowe]

My V9 has a USB port on the RH frame neck.

[kirby1923]

If it is safe and makes sense to have this many gadgets and gauges in an airplane, how can it be difficult to have one or two on a motorcycle?  😁

Good question!

All the devices shown in your picture are REQUIRED for the operation of that aircraft.

Light aircraft are quite spartan when it comes to electronics, except maybe a smart phone..who can live w/o that!

I think you do 'cause you can not because it required. So be it, people choose to use the drive thru at McDonalds..they don't need a reason. I would argue that a LCD screen in your face on a moto is  more "unsafe" than safe but....

Its really none of my business if you want to add a couple of devices on your moto to help you navigate or listen to uh..music or news....or monitor the engine vitals.

I feel I'm out of line commenting on the subject.....enjoy your ride!

The difference in aviation is some of this electronic magic is REQUIRED, not optional, and it IS for safety not BECAUSE its safe.

Its a matter of choice isn't it? I choose to go w/o and you chose to with.

Adieu!

[PJPR01]

All excellent points...no disputes on that...and it’s a friendly banter, definitely not an argument!

My point is that the human mind and body is capable of monitoring or receiving many inputs and adjusting or using them safely (independent of whether they are required).  True that some devices do cause more distraction than others and when to use the device is critical taking into account driving conditions...