GARMIN GPS Installation

[BSTWAY]

I'm looking to score a manufacturer refurbished GARMIN 2720 off of ebay. Here's what's in the box:

StreetPilot 2720
Preloaded City Navigator® NT for North America
MapSource® City Navigator North America NT
Portable non-skid mount (friction mount)
Dash mount
Alphanumeric remote control
Vehicle power cable with external speaker
AC power adapter
USB cable
Protective cover
Owner's manual
Quick reference guide

If I get a RAM mount will that be all I need to hook it up or do I need the GARMIN kit which appears to have additional wiring? Additionally, for those of you who only rely on visual off of the screen navigation, do you find it distracting to use this (any) unit without the audio feature?

[Sunbeemer]

Yes, anything that distracts your attention from the environment around you could result in a problem. That said, it depends on your environment...out in the wide open west it's less of a problem than say, trying to navigate in downtown Los Angeles... Common sense in its use is recommended.

[Ves]

I only use the audio only... I'm use to a woman whispering sweet nothings... I mean direction in my ear... Seriously... I don't want to be taking my eyes of the road if I don't have to...

[R4R&R]

I have a 2720 and love it, but it can't replace a paper map. I had to buy the RAM arm, RAM ball mount (for the handlebars), and the Garmin mount kit, all from GPS CITY. I'm looking now, but don't see the mount I purchased. Mine has the power option, and a locking tab to secure it a little more than just clipping in.

[KHaynes]

Mount the GPS as high as you can so you don't need to tilt your head down to see.
Be safe... Get the audio connected as it will save you from constantly checking the progress of your approaches.

[rdsmith3]

Mount the GPS as high as you can so you don't need to tilt your head down to see.
Be safe... Get the audio connected as it will save you from constantly checking the progress of your approaches.

+1 on what Keith said. I have a Garmin Zumo and it comes with a short RAM mount that works fine for me. I have mine mounted close to the center, fairly high up so that I do not have to really move my head to see it. I just have to glance down.

Also, the text to speech directions are great. It tells me, for example, to turn right on Maple Avenue in 0.1 miles.

[nelljones]

I have a 2730 mounted in the center with a RAM mount and a 1 3/4" stem, but I want it as low as I can make it and still see it over a tankbag (I'm 5'4"). Put it up too high and I can't see the instrument cluster. As it is now, I have to lean forward to see the ABS light. I like Jill's directions because they announce the upcoming turn before it's visible on the screen. I am always looking all around so down for a second isn't a problem. I did, however, have to invest in progressive lense glasses so I could read quickly at that distance.

Has anyone noticed that the advance warning for turns is different on each model? The SPIII and the 2610 gave turn warnings much farther ahead than the 2720/2730.