For navigating pavement I've yet to see the need for a GPS, but more and more I am liking the idea of heading out into the national forests on dirt, and I can see the usefulness of the GPS. Buying up a bunch of topo or green trails maps that could be out of date and only cover small areas seems like a hassle.
Originally Posted by
chiroptile
That's all fine until you hit a river coming down the shore, and have to learn the hard way that the nearest bike-friendly crossing is about 15 miles inland.. Especially when you are headed for a time-sensitive destination. In some cases it's way more time and energy effecient to have everything in the palm of your hand. Not just directions, but also live weather maps, tent-friendly camp grounds, sporting goods stores, motels in your area.. Street views and satellite imagery to actually show you traffic density and shoulder width on a given road to help pick the safest route if you have to adjust along the way.. Not knocking orientation skills, or anything.. Or paper maps.. Just.. I guess there are many facets to cyclotouring..
Dyno hub with the Dahon biologic reecharge looks like the way to go if $$ isn't an option**