Originally Posted by
black.damon
I recently bought a LHT and I'm gearing up to do more touring (I've only done a couple of over-nighters so far).
Anyway, I've been biking for fitness regularly for the last year or so, and I've been using a wireless Bontrager mileage computer. It's been somewhat erratic and recently quit working altogether, so I'm looking to replace it.
The thing is, I've also been considering the usefullness of some kind of GPS unit, or an equivalent set up on an iphone or android mobile device.
My question is this: Can I take care of mileage tracking, average speed, etc.. AND my navigation on one device? In other words, if I buy an android, or a nice GPS in a month or two will it make a new mileage computer redundant?
Smart phones are quite ubiquitous now, they have neato features yet though I upgraded my 3G Verizon phone to 4G it still has problems with connection reliability. Even in populated areas with plenty of towers. Garmin e-trex GPS never had those issues though small screen was sometimes tough to read. Garmin & other GPS could be better at following pre-programmed routes yet
AFAIK smart phones are no better there. Garmin once saved my butt after getting temporarily lost after long hot day of riding yet stupid "smart" phones often fail at local car navigation. GPS devices can be turned off when not needed for long battery life...sure smart phones also but most folks like to stay in constant contact. Using GPS/navi features on smart phones drains battery quick. If you don't want to buy a new phone I'd say get a decent GPS device & use it along with a new bike computer. Basic cycloputers are very cheap with ultra-long battery life--I don't have one with a nifty altimeter yet that's only a luxe option. So IMHO having all 3 is nice (plus even some paper maps) yet if I was choosing between a smart GPS phone vs a dedicated GPS device + simple phone I'd choose the latter. GPS navis don't have problems connecting in open areas even if you're out in the country.