Electronics, Lighting, & Gadgets - GPS System for light touring holiday

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TotalNoob
02-18-09, 02:41 PM
Hi all, first post. Very newbie post too...I need a GPS system that will help my make routes and guide me when I am lost in North France (Normandy/Brittany). I am going there for a fortnight with friends to ride by we don't know routes and were just going to use a GPS to help us around.

I have looked at old threads but can't find anything up-to-date. What is an ideal system that will also work when needs be in England? I wouldn't want to spend more than £250 and don't want accessories that I won't use. I think a car GPS is the best option as it would be cheapest and I would be happy to keep it in my backpack and get it out when needed potentially?

All comments/advice/links welcome and much needed. I am not very technologically savvy!

ROJA
02-18-09, 03:10 PM
The Garmin Edge 705 would be great for you, but might be too expensive.

I can think of three problems with car-type GPSs:
1. mounting
2. power (designed to run on DC from your cigarette lighter)
3. not waterproof

You could probably solve all these with some creativity.

Another option would be a handheld GPS designed for hiking, etc. It would solve problems 1-3 above, but it might not have base maps (do some have this option?).

In the case of any nav system, do not leave your maps at home. You will still find them very helpful for longer-range route planning, the bigger picture, etc.

Have a great trip!
paulrad9
02-18-09, 08:25 PM
Check out the eTrex from Garmin as they are more popular with the touring and randonneur riders.

You can get the local maps from Garmin (City Navigator Europe?) but there are options such as those from CloudMade (http://downloads.cloudmade.com/europe/france#breadcrumbs)

Unknown Cyclist
02-18-09, 08:37 PM
Buy this one:

http://image.ebuyer.com/UK/P0146672_C0000071_P0000000.jpg

Navigo 3.5" Sat Nav V2 (http://www.ebuyer.com/product/146672)

Read the reviews for info on updating the maps and software.

If you spend £50 you get free shipping so buy a case for it at the same time.

The built-in rechargeable Li-ion 1500 mAh battery is charged via USB or the supplied car lead.

Buy a mains to usb adaptor so you can charge it in the evenings or charge it from a dynohub or from an external battery pack.

:thumb: