GPS/satnav.

[Irezumi aka Reuben]

Right, I am after a GPS/satnav type device that has at least a road map function. I need something that is small and has a long bettery life as I will be using it whilst cycling as well as on my motorbikes. I will be going round France next year on my DRZ so it will be via backroads only.

I have seen the Garmin GPSMAP range as a guide to what I'm after. Does anyone have any reccomendations and experience of something suitable for this?

[dodger]

IMO it's far better to have a device for both bikes.

I cycle on the road a lot [at least 400 miles a week] and I have a Garmin Edge 705. I don't use it for its sat-nav function but it does everything you need if cycling recreationally /competitively and links up with my powermeter plus if needed it has the added function of sat-nav. I have tried using it in a car a few times but the screen is too small to be of any use.

I also have a TomTom Rider for my motorbike, works flawlessly and can be powered from the bikes battery, for those long days riding. However, it's far too big and heavy to be used on a bicycle as is every other motor vehicle sat-nav.

I know it adds cost by having 2 devices but there are too many drawbacks from using 1 device.
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My Bikes: Piaggio NRG| Aprilia RS 125| Suzuki GSX-R 600|Yamaha Fazer Ducati 848
Europe 2008

[EuropeanNC30R...]

How do you find the time to cycle 400 miles a week, are you a pro-racer or something?

[SlimRick]

Take a look at some of the older Garmin GPS models. The GPS V runs for 24hrs on battery, has mapping and you can get handlebar mounts etc. for them. The only drawback is that it isn't a colour screen, and the internal memory is only enough for about 3/4 of the UK. If you need to load other areas, then you will need to delete some of the existing ones. Doesn't really cause problems unless you run into unexpected trips to the other side of the UK. They're waterproof too, and good for walking as well as in vehicles.

[Irezumi aka Reuben]

Thanks for the advice. I really am just after something with a basic road map function and a long bettery function. Being in B/W isnt an issue nor is not having a cycling specific one as I no longer take cycling too seriously so I just pedal, no cadence etc for me anymore. I do need something that I can upload a whole foreign country on to though.

[dodger]