Gps

[mikejparillo]

Was wondering if anyone has much experience with any of the GPS systems out there was going to get one,Probably a Garmin 205 but I am open to suggestions or advice.Will be used mostly to keep from turning a 2 hour fun ride into a 5 hour torture session.

[Scott O]

I think I'm the exception to the rule, but I haven't had much success using a GPS on the bike. I tend to lose the signal all the time. Some other people here though have put together some unbelievable maps w/the GPS.

[Ridge Wrecker]

Mike,

I've had varying success with my GPS unit. In some areas it works very well and in other areas it loses it's signal frequently. I have the basic Garmin ETrex, the cheapest one you can get ($100). I'm not sure how much the one you're looking at costs. Don't expect your track logs to be 100% accurate. If I ride over the same place twice I get two different track logs. From what I've heard from other people, this happens with many GPS units. On the other hand, if you get some decent software you can clean up your maps and actually make it look pretty good. I use National Geographic TOPO! software.

If you're interested in seeing a map I've been working on, PM me your email address and I'll send you the JPEG file.

[pilotdave64]

Mike,

I use a Garmin GPS V which is no longer sold. I wanted something that was small, relatively cheap (just in case I destroyed it doing an endo) yet still had routing capability so I could use it in the car. If the 205 is anything like the GPSV, it should be quite durable. I've landed the bike directly on it (yes an endo) and used it on my road bike where it undergoes severe shaking on our lovely massachusetts roads. It keeps the signal pretty well depending on leaf cover and sattellite position.

Is that the Garmin 205 Edge you're looking at? If it's a biking-specific unit it might have the battery vibration problem solved. The main issue I had with my unit was that the battery power would cut out momentarily due to vibration and it would shut down. I discovered a product called Penetrox which is a paste you put on the terminals that prevents oxidation and conducts electricity. Problem solved.

[digger]

My impression is that the Forerunner and Edge models are good for training and performance logging, but less useful for downloading to a mapping application like Topo or Terrain Navigator, or for routefinding. It is worth noting that there is a significant improvement in reception in marginal signal locations with the newer models that have the SiRFstarIII chip. Both 205s have this I think. Worth a look at http://www.motionbased.com/ to check out the companion software.

[mikejparillo]

Thanks I appreciate the help it seems the 205 is the one im going to go for the higher end ones are too much money to crash with.Plus im not much into seeing how slow my cadence is or seeing that my heart rate is maxxed out going up a small hill.:D

[If_Rider]

I discovered a product called Penetrox which is a paste you put on the terminals that prevents oxidation and conducts electricity. Problem solved.

Dave,

Is there a local (MA) source for Penetrox? I found it on the net but would prefer to pick it up.

Thanks and sorry for the thread hijack.

Mike

[pilotdave64]

Mike,

I ordered it online. I don't know of any place local (Western MA) but it seems like there should be some amateur radio/electronics store that would have it.



Dave,

Is there a local (MA) source for Penetrox? I found it on the net but would prefer to pick it up.

Thanks and sorry for the thread hijack.

Mike

[Low Speed Endos]

Maybe you don't need something like Penetrox. In my Garmin GPSMap60, I solved the problem of the unit shutting down with a decidedly low-tech solution.

I start by taping the two batteries together with a small piece of electrical tape. Next, I place a small piece of handlebar tape inside the battery compartment between the cover and the batteries. The idea is to keep the batteries from moving around.

Since doing this I no longer have any problems with the GPS receiver shutting down due to vibration.

Steve