almost perfect-ish
I really like this mount, that it's not perfect isn't exactly Vanache's doing, but also some bits could be improved, imho.
On the plus side, it's lightweight and well built. I like that way the joints articulate and tighten / lock in. The threads do loosened (after one 100mi ride), though. Not enough to wobble, but it wasn't tight when I got back home. I'd love to see an upgrade to how the joints tighten to using cam locks for both joints as that would allow me to easily adjust the position on the fly (see below). In fact, I'd purchase that if you made it available. -)
And a couple of minor complaints: the knob on the upper joint isn't anywhere near the same fit & finish as the rest of the mount. The plastic feels cheap, esp next to the rest of the mount, and the seams from molding weren't cleaned up, just kinda rough. Also, It would have been nice if it came with the screws to mount into the bike. The OEM screws won't fit as they have collars that don't fit the mount's base, Not a huge deal to go get ss screws & washers, but also don't think I should have had to do that, and the ss doesn't look as clean.
So, here's the limitation, and this may be a limitation of all mounts for this bike / GPS combo, (DMD2 T865x), which I'll admit is somewhat large. And note that when I got my 890 ADV, the dealer fit it with the R screen (which I like) but just noting cause this may not be an issue with the taller S screen.
The top of the windscreen is so close to where the top of the GPS's mount (the powered DMD2 mount) is, that getting enough angle to read while standing is difficult. I tried another one before, also well made, but I couldn't read it when standing. When I saw the Vanache mount, I thought the lower joint would let me position it forward enough that I could get a decent angle from the second joint. It does, but then it covers the OEM display, which once on trail is whatever, but not great for the highway getting there or general daily use when the GPS isn't on my bike. Re-angled, it positions it nicely straight up but vertical, so out of the way of the display, but not viewable when standing. It's possible to go back and forth, but kinda a hassle as is. Cam locks as mentioned above would make this easier esp. at a trailhead.
That's it. Didn't meant to write this much, but oh well and hope this helps.
Dave
