I've decided i need a GPS and after looking at a few of the Garmin ones i'm more confused than i was before!
Basically, i'm tired of always having to set up bike computers and with a 3 week Alps trip planned for the summer, i think it's time to get a GPS as we'd like to know exactly how many metres we climb/descend as well using it for all the riding we do at home. I often plan routes before a ride using OS maps but getting the map out can be a pain. Having a unit that can do every thing a bike computer can but more so seems ideal.
Which unit should i be looking at? The ability to record favorite loops as well as upload planned routes is a must but i'm guessing most units do this?
Thanks in advance.
Do you do anything else apart form biking, and do you care about the HRM-type stuff the dedicated bike ones do?
I have an eTrex Vista Hcx, which is a general outdoorsy one, and it will do all the nav stuff, takes AA batteries and will show maps (although this is actually not that useful, at least not without a real map to reference- maybe some of the more recent mapping ones are better in this respect though). You can get a handlebar mount for it.
For me AAs is a big plus if you plan on being out for more than a day, and I think they're relatively cheap these days.
Sorry, should have been more specific. It'll be used mostly for biking, we do walk alot too but don't mind using maps for that.
I mentioned Garmin as i can get them through work.
You need a Garmin Edge 800 unit.
There are 2 you should look for the Trail package which is the unit with 1-50k os mapping.
Or the Enduro bundle package which has a HRM and speed cadence sensor as well as the mapping.
I'm in the same boat - looking for a first GPS and knowing bugger all about them. Mostly for biking, but navigation only - not interested in HRM and cadence features. After a lot of reading, Extrex Legend seems to fit the bill. Anyone using one?
Just looked up the Edge 800. Looks perfect especially as it's available with just the OS mapping, as i'm also not interested in the Cadence/HRM stuff either.
For just biking the Edge units are well designed. The 705 is a solid piece of proven kit, more recent are the 500 (roadies) and 800 (touchscreen). The 800 is the next development from the 705, not everyone is convinced about touchscreen and MTB, the other thing to watch is Garmin's switch to using FIT files rather than TCX. If you're wanting to use digital mapping then TrackLogs just released FIT file compatibility yesterday. [url= http://www.tracklogs.co.uk/home/tracklogs-beta-release-supports-garmin-edges.html ]TrackLogs with the Edge 500/800[/url]
If you are more into navigation than bike training then the eTrex models are still doing the rounds, albeit with colour and other extra storage options these days. The Legend is always a good bet for an eTrex. Newer than that are the Dakota and Oregons which are touchscreen replacements. Using an Oregon at the weekend and it's a nicely designed interface. A bit weighty and thick for bar mounting perhaps.
I have just purchased a memory map gps i am very happy with it i got the 2800.
I went into 'pedal on' my local store and they have me a run down on the diferent manufactures.
it does every thing i need only shame was i had to buy a bike mount seperate at 20 pound i thought that was alot of dough.
hoping its going to open up a whole heap of missed local ish riding.
I use an Oregon. Fits neatly on the bars, uses AA batteries which (lithium non-rechargeable)last 12 hours or so. Good for walking too. I think the memory map one has an integral battery which can be an issue oin a long day out.
I used it for the C2C last year and it was excellent, so much easier than a paper map.