Adventure riding is about exploring beyond the pavement. One day you might be cruising down the highway, and the next you're climbing rocky trails or crossing gravel roads in the middle of nowhere. In these situations, reliable navigation becomes just as important as the motorcycle itself. That's why choosing the right motorcycle phone mount is essential for every adventure rider.
Unlike street motorcycles, ADV and rally bikes are designed to handle rough terrain, long-distance touring, and unpredictable conditions. They also feature a unique cockpit layout that often includes a crossbar, making it the perfect place to mount your phone. In this guide, we'll explore why crossbar mounts are the preferred choice for adventure motorcycles, what features matter most, and how the GRxplore MT71 helps riders stay focused on every journey.
Why Every Adventure Rider Needs a Reliable Motorcycle Phone Mount
Adventure riding is unpredictable. Your route can change quickly because of weather, road closures, or an unexpected trail that looks too tempting to ignore. Having a dependable motorcycle phone mount allows you to adapt without constantly stopping to check directions.
More importantly, a secure mount keeps your smartphone stable while you focus on navigating challenging terrain. Before looking at why crossbars are such a popular mounting location, let's understand what adventure riders really need from a phone mount.
Reliable Navigation Wherever You Ride
Adventure motorcycles are built for long-distance travel, and many riders rely on navigation apps throughout the day. Whether you're following a planned GPX route, searching for the nearest fuel station, or finding a campsite before sunset, your phone becomes an important riding tool.
A properly positioned motorcycle smartphone mount keeps your screen within your natural line of sight. Instead of reaching into your pocket or stopping every few miles, you can quickly glance at your route and continue riding with confidence.
Built for Changing Riding Conditions
Unlike daily commuting, adventure riding exposes your motorcycle to gravel roads, loose dirt, potholes, mud, and uneven trails. These constantly changing conditions demand a motorcycle phone holder that stays secure without affecting your ability to control the bike.
A quality mounting system should reduce unnecessary movement, provide dependable locking, and remain easy to use even when wearing riding gloves. These features become especially valuable when you're hundreds of miles from home and relying on your phone to guide the way.
Why a Crossbar Motorcycle Phone Mount Is Ideal for Adventure Bikes
Adventure motorcycles are designed differently from sportbikes and commuters. Many ADV and rally models include a crossbar above the instrument cluster, creating a natural location for mounting navigation devices. That's one of the main reasons a crossbar motorcycle phone mount has become the preferred choice for experienced adventure riders.
Better Visibility While Standing on the Pegs
One of the biggest differences between road riding and off-road riding is body position. When riding over rough terrain, it's common to stand on the foot pegs for better balance and control.
A crossbar-mounted motorcycle phone mount places your smartphone higher than many traditional mounting locations. This keeps navigation easier to see whether you're seated on the highway or standing while tackling rocky trails. Instead of looking down toward the handlebars, your eyes stay closer to the road ahead.
Keeps the Cockpit Organized
Adventure motorcycles often carry additional accessories such as GPS units, USB chargers, auxiliary lights, and communication systems. Space around the handlebars can disappear quickly.
By using the crossbar, you free up valuable handlebar space while keeping your cockpit neat and organized. This cleaner layout also reduces the chances of your phone interfering with controls or blocking important information on the instrument display.
Designed for Rough Terrain
Off-road riding places much greater demands on your equipment than everyday commuting. Constant bumps, vibrations, and sudden impacts can quickly expose the weaknesses of a poorly designed mount.
A crossbar mounting position provides a stable foundation while keeping your phone securely within reach. When combined with a durable locking mechanism and vibration control, it creates a dependable setup for riders who enjoy exploring beyond paved roads.
What Makes the GRxplore MT71 a Great Motorcycle Phone Mount for Adventure Riding?
Now that we've covered why crossbar mounts are so popular among adventure riders, let's look at what makes the GRxplore MT71 a dependable choice. Designed for the demands of long-distance touring and off-road exploration, it combines premium materials, secure locking, and flexible adjustment in one compact package.
Quick Access Without Slowing You Down
Adventure riding often includes frequent stops to check maps, take photos, or enjoy the scenery. A mounting system that takes several steps to release your phone can quickly become frustrating.
The MT71 features GRxplore's 1-second quick-release system, allowing you to attach or remove your phone with one hand. The lever-linked release mechanism is easy to operate, making it simple to grab your phone during fuel stops, lunch breaks, or trailside photo opportunities.
To make installation even more convenient, the mount uses N54 high-performance magnets to guide your phone into position. Once aligned, a simple twist engages the mechanical locking tabs, creating a secure connection that's built for demanding rides.
Built for Challenging Terrain
Adventure motorcycles are expected to tackle everything from smooth highways to rocky backroads. That's why durability is one of the MT71's biggest strengths.
The mount is constructed from CNC-machined aluminum and PA66, creating a strong yet lightweight design that can handle the demands of everyday adventure riding. It also includes a metal vibration-dampening system, helping reduce vibration transferred to your phone when riding across rough surfaces.
This combination provides added confidence whether you're riding gravel roads, forest trails, or long stretches of broken pavement.
Flexible Viewing on Every Ride
Every adventure rider has a different cockpit setup. Some use tank bags, while others add GPS units or rally accessories. The MT71 is designed to adapt to these different configurations.
It supports 360-degree rotation along with up to 140 degrees of vertical adjustment, making it easy to position your phone exactly where it's most comfortable to view. Whether you prefer portrait or landscape mode, changing the screen orientation only takes a few seconds.
The MT71 fits 12 mm, 16 mm, 19 mm, and 22 mm crossbars, making it compatible with many popular adventure and rally motorcycles.
Why Adventure Riders Prefer Crossbar Mounts Over Other Options
Every mounting position has its advantages, but crossbar mounts continue to be the preferred choice for many ADV riders because they complement the unique design of adventure motorcycles.
More Comfortable for Long-Distance Navigation
Adventure rides often last several hours or even multiple days. During these longer trips, repeatedly looking down toward the handlebars can become tiring.
A crossbar motorcycle phone mount places your phone closer to eye level, making it easier to follow directions with a quick glance. This more natural viewing position helps reduce distractions while improving overall riding comfort.
Leaves Room for Other Accessories
Many adventure riders customize their motorcycles with auxiliary lights, action camera mounts, USB chargers, and communication systems. Handlebar space can become crowded very quickly.
Using the crossbar instead keeps your handlebars free while creating a more organized cockpit. It also gives each accessory its own dedicated space, making everything easier to access throughout the ride.
A Better Match for Adventure Bikes
Unlike standard motorcycles, many adventure bikes are already equipped with crossbars specifically intended for accessories and navigation equipment. Taking advantage of this existing mounting point creates a cleaner installation that feels like part of the motorcycle rather than an afterthought.
For riders who spend weekends exploring backroads or planning cross-country adventures, a motorcycle phone mount for adventure bikes mounted on the crossbar offers an excellent combination of visibility, convenience, and stability.
Is the MT71 the Right Motorcycle Phone Mount for You?
If your motorcycle features a 12 mm, 16 mm, 19 mm, or 22 mm crossbar, the MT71 is designed to provide a secure and practical mounting solution. It's particularly well suited for riders who rely on smartphone navigation during long-distance touring or off-road exploration.
Before purchasing, remember that the MT71 requires a GRxplore phone case or a universal adhesive adapter to securely attach your smartphone. Once installed, you'll have a dependable mounting system that's ready for everything from weekend adventures to extended road trips.
Whether you're navigating mountain passes, exploring remote trails, or simply enjoying scenic backroads, the MT71 helps keep your phone secure without compromising your riding experience.
Installation Tips Before Your Next Adventure
Installing your motorcycle phone mount correctly is just as important as choosing the right one. A few simple checks before you head out can improve stability, visibility, and overall confidence, especially when your ride includes rough terrain or long distances.
Check Your Crossbar Size First
Before installation, confirm that your motorcycle has a compatible 12 mm, 16 mm, 19 mm, or 22 mm crossbar. The MT71 includes adapter inserts for these common sizes, allowing you to achieve a secure fit without unnecessary movement.
It's also important to remember that the MT71 works with a GRxplore phone case or a universal adhesive adapter. Having the correct accessories before installation ensures your phone locks into place properly and stays secure throughout your ride.
Adjust the Mount Before You Ride
Once the mount is installed, spend a few minutes finding the ideal viewing position. The MT71 supports 360-degree rotation and up to 140 degrees of vertical adjustment, making it easy to position your phone for clear visibility.
Your phone should be easy to glance at without blocking the instrument cluster or distracting you from the trail ahead. Before heading out on a long ride, test the quick-release system several times and take a short ride to confirm everything remains firmly in place.
Common Mistakes Adventure Riders Should Avoid
Even the best motorcycle phone mount won't perform at its best if it's installed incorrectly or used without considering your motorcycle's setup. Avoiding a few common mistakes can help you enjoy a safer and more reliable riding experience.
Mounting the Phone Too Low
Many riders place their phone wherever there's available space, but a low mounting position often requires looking away from the road for longer than necessary. A crossbar mount keeps the screen higher and closer to your natural line of sight, making navigation easier to follow while maintaining better awareness of your surroundings.
Ignoring Fitment Before Buying
Not every adventure motorcycle uses the same crossbar diameter. Before ordering, check that your bike has a 12 mm, 16 mm, 19 mm, or 22 mm crossbar and enough installation space for the mount.
Taking a few minutes to confirm compatibility helps ensure a smooth installation and prevents unnecessary returns.
Choosing Convenience Over Security
Some inexpensive mounts rely only on spring-loaded clamps or basic magnets. While they may seem convenient, they often struggle to keep a phone stable on rough terrain.
The MT71 combines magnetic alignment with a mechanical twist-to-lock system, giving riders added confidence when traveling over gravel roads, rocky trails, or uneven pavement. For adventure riding, a secure locking mechanism is just as important as easy access.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is a crossbar mount better for adventure motorcycles?
A crossbar mount positions your phone higher, making navigation easier to see while seated or standing on the foot pegs. It also keeps the handlebars free for other accessories and creates a cleaner cockpit.
Which motorcycles can use the MT71?
The MT71 fits motorcycles with 12 mm, 16 mm, 19 mm, or 22 mm crossbars. It's compatible with many adventure and rally motorcycles, but you should always verify your crossbar diameter before purchasing.
Can I rotate my phone while it's mounted?
Yes. The MT71 supports 360-degree rotation, allowing you to switch between portrait and landscape orientation depending on your navigation preferences.
Does the MT71 reduce vibration?
Yes. The mount features a metal vibration-dampening system designed to help reduce vibration transferred to your smartphone, making the display easier to read on uneven terrain.
Do I need a special phone case?
Yes. The MT71 requires a GRxplore phone case or a universal adhesive adapter to securely connect your smartphone to the mount.
Conclusion
A dependable motorcycle phone mount is one of the most valuable upgrades you can make for adventure riding. Whether you're following a GPX route through the mountains, exploring forest trails, or setting off on a cross-country tour, having your phone securely mounted makes navigation safer, easier, and more convenient.
The GRxplore MT71 is designed with adventure riders in mind. Its crossbar-specific fitment, premium aluminum and PA66 construction, one-second quick-release system, magnetic alignment, mechanical locking mechanism, vibration dampening, and flexible viewing adjustments make it well suited for both paved roads and off-road adventures.
Every adventure begins with choosing the right gear. If you're not sure whether the MT71 is the best fit for your motorcycle, reach out to the GRxplore team. Share your bike model and riding plans, and they'll be happy to help you choose a mounting solution that's ready for wherever the road or trail takes you.
