Originally Posted by
gsms
So what is so important about having GPS capability? Other than Strava, MapMyRide, or other similar apps?
A few points spring to mind:
- WIth GPS, especially with the Edge 800, the route can be downloaded onto your computer, and you can follow it on a map. This allows for more route adventurism, without the downside of getting off track, and losing stoker confidence.
- Uploading to programs such as Strava provides a record of your rides, to which you can refer. Otherwise, your rides are written in water, as soon as you are done they are gone.
- Cycling in general, and tandem riding in particular, is a gregarious activity. With your rides uploaded to Strava you become more aware of the cyclists, and tandem riders, around you. It facilitates the social side of cycling.
- GPS, and uploads such as to Strava, allows for competition, both against yourself and with others. Once you see where you rank on a segment, it provides interest to your cycling to climb higher on the segment.