New here and just starting this Dual sport thing after a long hiatus off a bike. I’d like some input regarding GPS’s – opinions, experiences and recommendations for off road models. I’m not new to GPS’s so I don’t need a “entry model.” I see Garmin's are pretty popular - eTrex, MAP60 and 76 models. Has anyone used the Oregon or Colorado Models? I like the small size and big(?) display but worried about the touch screen. Thanks for the help.
Jeff

 

Lots of info here:
http://www.advrider.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=37
Enjoy!

 

not that we're ignoring ya!

But that's like asking "which bike should I buy ?"

Personally I don't like touch-screen except for in-car units. Screens too small, add gloves, piloting the bike etc. If you don't mind stopping, taking off your gloves, carefully touching the proper area of the screen ... then go for it.

What most people overlook (IMO) is that the quality of the mapping software can make or break your "GPS experience" ... and from that standpoint Garmin sucks. The software they bundle with their units is crap. Sure you can "upgrade" the software, just give them more $$$.

TOPO USA (which came with my DeLorme gps) beats the snot out what came with my friends Garmin. I was truly unimpressed given the price of his Garmin vs. the DeLorme. Maybe Garmin's "Zumo" model (for motorcycles) is a better deal.

 

I use a Garmin GPSMap 60cs. It has been a very good GPS unit since when I got it. Thou now with the newer model that has a expandable memory card, it just got better.

As for setting it up. On the trails, I leave it on the map display and focas more on not running into any trees.

 

I just got a Etrex vista hcx. ( the best etrex model) I love it. Got the RAM mounting system too... First riding season for it.

 

Depends what you're looking for but the Zumo is hard to beat.



Comes with everything you need.

 

I guess the questions is bit broad. Everyone I know use eTrexs or 60's. Mostly because DS ride promotors provide Tracks in Garmin format. I'm looking for info on other models. Info is hard to come by as most Store personel are useless. I've heard the Garmin software sucks.

Neil - Can the Zumo do off road (topo maps) and download tracks?

Thanks
Jeff

 

Welcome to the forums. I have the Garmin eTrex Legend CX Color model. I have it mounted to the bars of my motorcycle, with the quick release. Funny you should mention GPS, Saturday my son and I went out to do some geocaching. I've been doing it for a couple of years now, only found 16 caches so far, but I've been trying to get him interested in it, my cousin has close to 500 finds. Anyway here's a picture of mine.




And on the bike.



Just upgraded the software lats night, its got a 1 gig card, wondering if it will take a 4 gig card since my old Blackberry has one in it.

 

Oh and bonus about Garmin, it works great with the Geocaching website for instant waypoint and Geocaching downloads.

http://www.geocaching.com/

 

Yep, it does/can.
I have Aus Topo and Contours loaded.
But very few of the tracks I ride are contained in this sofware.
All the gazetted roads and tracks are but thats it.

There are probably better off road GPS options but the Zumo does enough for me.
I don't go to the trouble of pre-programming a route as such but I often set a few way points, switch it to off road mode, and take what tracks I find to get from one way point to the next.

Plus, as you can see, I did away with all the stock idiot lights and dials.
I really like this set up.