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Netnorske
01-14-2012, 05:03 PM
I have been having trouble with HD Ride Planner for a while now. It seems I can't even type into it anymore. I also noticed that the route shown (red line) does not match the roadway exactly as it used to. Is anyone else having this same problem? I use it a lot and it has been a handy tool, but it is really pissing me off lately....>:(. Actually it comes and goes...sometimes it works and sometimes not.

Monkeyman
01-14-2012, 06:15 PM
I can't get it to launch.

ringadingh
01-14-2012, 06:59 PM
Theyve sent out a trailer to pick it up and take it back to the shop.:D

glwilson
01-14-2012, 07:39 PM
Theyve sent out a trailer to pick it up and take it back to the shop.:D

How did I know that comment was coming? :ohno:

Kris, I never did like it... It always seemed to be disfunctional to some degree or other depending on the day.

I use Microsoft street maps (or something like that name) to do mapping. It doesn't lock up like HD's, Google, Mapquest or others.

old curmudgeon
01-14-2012, 11:28 PM
HD Ride Planner:
http://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a2df35b3127cceff49dd4e355e00000030O00AaOWzho3cMW IPbz4C/cC/f%3D0/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/

I've used the Triple A TripTik site in the past with pretty good luck. It seems like you don't have to be a member in order to plan your trip. It'll create a PDF booklet with several segments. And I just found out they have a TripTik app for iPhone and Android too.

cactusjack
01-14-2012, 11:55 PM
I use HD Ride Planner all the time and never had a problem with it.

rickyboy
01-15-2012, 01:23 AM
Operator malfunction I say. :lmao: :lol:

Netnorske
01-15-2012, 01:42 AM
The only reason I prefer it is that I can easily download my routes into my GPS directly from there. I don't know what has happened, but it is just not working like it used to. I will be curious to see if my routes show up okay in my GPS itself. If not, I will have to start loading them by hand...and that is a PIA.

Greg...can you do do that with that Microsoft program you mentioned...load them direct into your GPS...??

glwilson
01-15-2012, 07:52 AM
Yes I am pretty sure with the latest version. It is not that expensive.

I like it because you can plot a million points on it without the software overloading. I don't like staying on the same road for too long if I don't have to, so it works great for me.

Top Cat
01-15-2012, 11:59 AM
Greg and Kris, what kind of GPS do you have?
If they are Garmin what is wrong with using MapSource?

Sin City Stan
01-15-2012, 01:35 PM
MS Streets & Trips $40 A solid piece of software.

http://www.microsoftstore.com/store/msstore/pd/productID.225660300?WT.mc_id=pointitsem_US_Google_ 5-Streets_download&wt.term=download%20streets%20and%20trips&wt.campaign=*5+-+Streets+%26+Trips&wt.content=5FzjRxne&wt.source=google&wt.medium=cpc&WT.srch=1

Top Cat
01-15-2012, 02:07 PM
MS Streets & Trips $40 A solid piece of software.

http://www.microsoftstore.com/store/msstore/pd/productID.225660300?WT.mc_id=pointitsem_US_Google_ 5-Streets_download&wt.term=download%20streets%20and%20trips&wt.campaign=*5+-+Streets+%26+Trips&wt.content=5FzjRxne&wt.source=google&wt.medium=cpc&WT.srch=1

I have the 2008 and 2010 versions but they will not let me download trips to my Zumo 550.

Netnorske
01-15-2012, 03:10 PM
I have the 2008 and 2010 versions but they will not let me download trips to my Zumo 550.

Thats what I have too...Garmin Zumo 550.

Top Cat
01-15-2012, 04:15 PM
Thats what I have too...Garmin Zumo 550.

Then why not use MapSource that came with the Zumo.:???:

Netnorske
01-15-2012, 05:32 PM
Then why not use MapSource that came with the Zumo.:???:

I do sometimes....but its easier to sit at the PC when planning routes...then just plug the GPS into it...:D!

glwilson
01-15-2012, 06:33 PM
I have a fairly new Garmin Zumo 660 (August) and I understand I cannot download to it. That really ticks me off because I thought I could.>:(

Does anyone know if I have this wrong?

TC... I understood Mapsource is difficult to deal with when you customize maps... at least in the way I do. I like to make quite a few adjustments and changes. That is why I do NOT like Google, Mapquest, HD's or any of the others I have tried. They always bog-down or say that you have a limit on the number or waypoints.

With Microsoft's program I can highly customize a long route and not have it fail or overload.

I am still interested in finding out if I have it wrong about downloading to my Zumo 660. That thing was around $600. You would think I could. I know others have less expensive models and can do it...>:(

cnc
01-15-2012, 06:43 PM
I have used Harley trip planner, and have often found it to run slow and freeze up at times. Other than that I liked it. Fish introduced me to Honda planner, and while I have only played with it a bit, for the most part I find it easier to use, and much quicker than the Harley one. I am having a bit of an issue trying to click and drag the highlighted route, but that may be me.

cnc
01-15-2012, 07:01 PM
Greg I would be surprised if you couldn't down load to the 660.
I did do a comparison between the 550 and the 660 zumo, as I just bought the 550 a couple of months back. I did notice that you can only store 20 routes on the 660 but 50 on the 550.

deacon1984
01-15-2012, 08:24 PM
According to the Garmin site, you can plan routes and load them on the Zumo 660:

https://buy.garmin.com/shop/shop.do?pID=15000.


I have a Mac and use a program called BaseCamp. I don't know if it works with PCs, but I like it better than the HD Planner.

glwilson
01-15-2012, 08:43 PM
According to the Garmin site, you can plan routes and load them on the Zumo 660:

https://buy.garmin.com/shop/shop.do?pID=15000.


I have a Mac and use a program called BaseCamp. I don't know if it works with PCs, but I like it better than the HD Planner.



Thanks. It says you can but I'll be damned if I can figure it out. I think I have to have a memory card installed also, which I guess I don't get for nearly $700.

I'll have to work on this some more. One guy told me he can "record" a route he rides and save for a later date. Geez... that would be real nice as a feature also.

Anyway, thanks. I am going to spend some time and try to figure this out while it is cold out!:cheers:

EDIT: Downloaded Basecamp on my Mac; but it doesn't have enough details. To get details you have to purchase it. I'll check it out further to see if what that entails. If it works and downloads to my Garmin then I'll probably get it. They do have a PC version also.

cnc
01-15-2012, 08:51 PM
Greg, I think there are a couple of Garmin forums, maybe a bit of time spent there will be helpful in getting the info.

glwilson
01-15-2012, 08:56 PM
Greg, I think there are a couple of Garmin forums, maybe a bit of time spent there will be helpful in getting the info.

Thanks. I will. But one would think for that kind of money a forum wouldn't be necessary. Their manual should include that information; but it doesn't.>:(

blowndodge
01-15-2012, 09:20 PM
maybe the same guy that builds the harley davidson motorcycles makes the map planner?:lmao:

deacon1984
01-15-2012, 09:22 PM
EDIT: Downloaded Basecamp on my Mac; but it doesn't have enough details. To get details you have to purchase it. I'll check it out further to see if what that entails. If it works and downloads to my Garmin then I'll probably get it. They do have a PC version also.

On the issue of the map details, you may have to upload your map from your unit to BaseCamp. Look at the maps that are installed in the program, and make sure it matches what is on your Garmin.

I never had to pay for BaseCamp or any updates.

glwilson
01-15-2012, 09:49 PM
On the issue of the map details, you may have to upload your map from your unit to BaseCamp. Look at the maps that are installed in the program, and make sure it matches what is on your Garmin.

I never had to pay for BaseCamp or any updates.

Geez... this thing keeps getting more and more complicated. I can't seem to unlock, download, or sync my GPS's maps to Basecamp. I am going to have a Maker's Mark and give a break tonight. I will get it all out tomorrow and give it a try.

Thanks for your help!!:tup::cheers:

petenomad
01-15-2012, 10:26 PM
Greg,
You can download routes to the zumo 660. However, it only understands GPX files. (which is an open standard for GPS data exchange). If you can select this in streets and trips, then you can save directly onto the zumo's internal drive in the GPX folder. Note, that Garmin won't understand the "streets" from another map, just the positions of the waypoints that you add along the way. I did a quick search and it looks like there isn't a way to convert (GPS babel quit supporting S&T in 2007). :shrug:

Basecamp includes a very limited detail map to give you context for places where you don't have detail (this same program is used with rec products that may not have detailed maps). Basecamp can use the map currently installed on your zumo. Plug in the zumo to your computer's USB port. After the zumo disk is mounted, you should see zumo 660 (Unit ID .....) on the left. Look under "Library", there should be a Devices section. Click on either gmapprom or CN North America NT... (but don't select the 3D buildings). You should now be able to zoom in and see detailed streets. Then click on "My Collection" under library. This will enable the "New" toolbar option which will let you create waypoints and routes.

Basecamp learning curve should be less than MapSource. If you plan your route here (do it first in S&T if you like) then just right click on it and select send to: zumo 660. You can start by searching for the points you want to use (Home, hotels, landmarks, etc). Then select and choose File > New Route using selected waypoints. You can then zoom in and use the insert route waypoint tool to select a route section that you want to modify and drop 1 (or more points) on the road you want to ride.

zumo 550/660 record where you have been and also store these records in GPX format. These files can be read from your unit using MapSource, Basecamp, and Google Earth. In Basecamp, select All Data under the zumo 660 and you can see the tracks that say "active log" with a date. You can copy these to your PC fairly easily by creating a new list (for example, call it tracks) under my collection. Then select the tracks you want to copy and right click > Send to "tracks". Right click on one and select Show on Map to see the whole thing on the map or double click to see a listing of all the individual points in the track.

petenomad
01-15-2012, 10:31 PM
On the issue of the map details, you may have to upload your map from your unit to BaseCamp. Look at the maps that are installed in the program, and make sure it matches what is on your Garmin.

I never had to pay for BaseCamp or any updates.

You don't have to upload or unlock it if you simply plug in your unit and access directly from the unit's internal memory.

Top Cat
01-15-2012, 11:18 PM
I do sometimes....but its easier to sit at the PC when planning routes...then just plug the GPS into it...:D!

What?
I don't think we are on the same page here.
I have a program called MapSource that came as a CD with my Zumo.
I downloaded it to my PC and now I sit at my computer and plan the trip then down load the trip to my GPS.

Top Cat
01-15-2012, 11:29 PM
Greg,did you get a program called MapSource with your Garmin? I have to believe you did.
If so, all you have to do is plan your route on the MapSource program then plug your Garmin into your PC and when a screen comes up click transfer to device.
I will admit MapSource is very hard to get the hang of but once you get it ' it is a good program.
I used to plan my trips on MicroSoft Streets and Trips then manually transfer them to MapSource turn by turn but that is way to time consuming.

petenomad
01-15-2012, 11:46 PM
Tim,
MapSource was supplied with both the 550 and 660/665. However, it has never been available for the Mac and most people found it extremely frustrating to learn. It also requires an initial map to be installed on your computer and then updated whenever you update your unit's maps (and these are in different formats, so you can't just copy from PC to unit). As I just posted, with Basecamp, you don't actually need to install maps on your computer.

Basecamp is now available for both platforms and in many ways is easier to use. Specifically, route editing now has specific tools to insert a new point on the route (to force the route to a specific road), move a point, and split the route. Finding POIs is simplified and right up front on a tool bar.

I'm still adjusting to the "library" but this seems similar to iTunes or Windows Media Player - where there is just a collection of data organized how you want it. I think I'll like it fine, once I adapt.

Dave
01-16-2012, 08:23 AM
maybe the same guy that builds the harley davidson motorcycles makes the map planner?:lmao:

Maybe everyone having problems with it should just use Kawasaki's free trip planner.

Dave
01-16-2012, 08:25 AM
Greg,

Here's a handy site: http://www.zumoforums.com

glwilson
01-16-2012, 09:07 AM
Wow... what a bunch of great information!!!:tup:

Peter... thanks for the detailed info. I'll try to do that this afternoon. If I can succeed that is going to be absolutely fantastic for what I do. Also the idea I can record a ride is even better. I often take rides on off-areas and roads, but by the time I get done for the day I sometimes have difficulty remembering all of them. In this way I'll be able to download and review them -- or just keep them as a route.

Dave... thanks for the forum suggestion. I signed-up on it this morning. Also, great come-back to those taking jabs at our HD's. I tried looking the free Kawasaki map-site, but didn't find it. I didn't even find one that they charge for!!! Given all the sport-bikes they sell and those guys' passion for finding great roads and routes... you would think they would have one -- wouldn't you?:D:lmao:

TC... no offense, but I have to believe if you are "nailing" this "downloading" thing... then I have to be able to do it also!!!:D:P I do appreciate your help though, despite my "jabs"!:tup:

cactusjack
01-16-2012, 09:07 AM
Maybe everyone having problems with it should just use Kawasaki's free trip planner.

Good one!! :lmao:

ringadingh
01-16-2012, 09:27 AM
Or use a map...

Netnorske
01-16-2012, 09:47 AM
What?
I don't think we are on the same page here.
I have a program called MapSource that came as a CD with my Zumo.
I downloaded it to my PC and now I sit at my computer and plan the trip then down load the trip to my GPS.

TC,
I thought you were talking about the map built into the Zumo. I didn't get any CD called Mapsource in my Zumo box...WTF??

markclark57
01-16-2012, 10:29 AM
I decided to go low tech on the GPS. My '06 Nomad finally got a power plug this month. So now I can plug in my '08 TomTom GPS. Anything longer than a day trip I take my MacBook along, so side trips get planned on the bigger screen.

The last "Hold" on me getting a passport falls by Feb. 8th. If I get cleared for Canmore I'll back my "system" with a piece of paper full of squiggly lines style map. :yep:

Monkeyman
01-16-2012, 10:33 AM
Piece of paper with everything written down, Google Maps printed out and my phone. That should be enough.

Loafer
01-16-2012, 10:46 AM
Try following the sun...

markclark57
01-16-2012, 10:49 AM
Try following the sun...

That wouldn't work very often for Kris. :lol:

schoeney
01-16-2012, 11:08 AM
Kris,

I love the HD Ride Planner. I have been using it for a couple years and have been downloading into my Garmin. But you are right....nothing but problems lately. Might be that virus I sent you :-) .

I will try to wait it out because I have 47 rides saved that I don't want to re-create. I limit at 47 and keep a few spots open for "new rides". Delete one when I add one.

I also use it for alot of non biking trips too.

Looks like HD is having to take the site in for one their infamous required (and expensive) services. Maybe they should have it shake like hell when you start it up? OK..slight jab at Greg and Scott.

Here I am giving Greg a hard time right after he gave some great input for my brother before he bought his Can Am. Not nice...but you only "meet the nicest people on a Honda"....not a Kawasaki.

schoeney
01-16-2012, 11:30 AM
OH.. I also wanted to say I am going to cross train myself on Google Maps. I see you can send maps/routes to your phone. I have a new Android Phone that has a great GPS (google) that came with it. Better than my 5 year old Garmin.

I will probably start using the phone on my bike trips, one less gadget I need to pack.

But I will need to get a new RAM mount. Maybe I will go with the Garmin Aqua box....anyone have any input on the Ram Aqua box units?

Top Cat
01-16-2012, 11:43 AM
TC,
I thought you were talking about the map built into the Zumo. I didn't get any CD called Mapsource in my Zumo box...WTF??

Kris, here is a pic of the CD that came in the box with my Zumo.
It doesn't say MapSource on it but that is what Garmin calls it when downloaded on my computer.

Top Cat
01-16-2012, 11:46 AM
TC... no offense, but I have to believe if you are "nailing" this "downloading" thing... then I have to be able to do it also!!!:D:P I do appreciate your help though, despite my "jabs"!:tup:

no offense taken >::D
Seriously Greg, see the post I made to Netnorski and let me know if you got a CD like that with your GPS.

Netnorske
01-16-2012, 12:08 PM
Kris, here is a pic of the CD that came in the box with my Zumo.
It doesn't say MapSource on it but that is what Garmin calls it when downloaded on my computer.

Nope...nothing like that came with my Zumo....hhhmmmm.....:???:...

cnc
01-16-2012, 01:55 PM
Kris, I got the cd with my zumo also, but having said that I was able to down load mapsource for free prior to getting the zumo. I don`t remember how, but I did. Maybe look around garmin.

cnc
01-16-2012, 02:05 PM
Here is a link to the Honda trip planner. http://tripplanner.honda.com/

Fish has been creating and sending me route plans on it. It seems simpler than Harley and is compatible with any gps that uses gpx files.

Top Cat
01-16-2012, 02:10 PM
Norm, how do you transfer the maps Fish sends to your Garmin?
I did the first one manually turn by turn:wtf:

cnc
01-16-2012, 02:31 PM
Norm, how do you transfer the maps Fish sends to your Garmin?
I did the first one manually turn by turn:wtf:

I haven`t yet Tim. I received 8 so far from him. I only want to down load the ones we choose as rally routes.

I did fool with the routes he sent though. When the routes are sent to you and you open them they are listed as bookmarks. I think first you need to highlight the route and it will give you the option to save a copy, this will then save it as one of your routes. You can then down load it as per the instructions:


To export a trip from the Honda Trip Planner as a GPX file:
Select the trip you wish to export.
If you’re in the Plan a Trip section, click the link to “Export to GPS”. If you’re in the Browse Trips or My Trips section, click the little arrow to the left of a trip (under the letter). This will expand to show several links including “Export to GPS”. Click this link. You will see a screen that asks which direction you want to export. You can export your regular trip (start to end) or a Reverse Trip (end to start).
If you’re in the My GPS section, hover over a trip and you’ll see two links that say “Export Trip” and “Export Reverse”. Click the desired link.
The trip will be exported as a GPX file. Use your computer to select the desired location for this file. If you like, you can export it directly to your GPS smart card or your portable GPS unit, if these are connected to your computer.

Netnorske
01-16-2012, 03:33 PM
The Honda Ride Planner works great...I did not even know it existed. I don't like that you can't just drag your route to another piece of road like you can in the HD Planner....instead you have to create stops along the exact route you wish to follow. That said, it is very quick and easy to maneuver around in. I already did some routes and downloaded them to my unit...:tup:. Good info....thx!

cnc
01-16-2012, 03:45 PM
The Honda Ride Planner works great...I did not even know it existed. I don't like that you can't just drag your route to another piece of road like you can in the HD Planner....instead you have to create stops along the exact route you wish to follow. That said, it is very quick and easy to maneuver around in. I already did some routes and downloaded them to my unit...:tup:. Good info....thx!

Thank Fish, he turned me on to it. Yes I can't seem to drag the highlighted route either, although it does say you can in the instructions, maybe you have to have a goldwing.:hmm:

glwilson
01-16-2012, 04:33 PM
no offense taken >::D
Seriously Greg, see the post I made to Netnorski and let me know if you got a CD like that with your GPS.

Yes, I received the CD. That was the most agonizing experience I have had in a long time with a computer. It wouldn't load right and then was a real mess. (I had to download something from Garmin that is for Mac's instead of PC's)

I just spent practically the whole day trying to:


"Unlock" the map as I am supposedly required to do.
Update the damned map to which I apparently had no choice because "it" took over the computer and did it itself whether I wanted it or not.
Downloaded Basecamp (which looks like it might work well).
Allowing my GPS to upload map-details onto Basecamp (which finally did happen hours later).


So, as it stands, I have Basecamp up and running and think it should work when I open it again. I am assuming I'll have to have my GPS connected to the computer to get the details again. Not really sure; but will find out soon enough.

I still am not sure about or cannot figure out if this unit "records" trips on its own or if I have to hit a "record" button or something. I think it just keeps record of it up to a certain number of them. Really not sure. I did see some "data" on the GPS when I snooped around all of the buttons it had. All I want it to do for certain is record my route while I am riding it. That is a great feature.

I really appreciate everyone's input about this.:tup: I became all thumbs when trying to figure this out. I still don't think it should be anywhere near that difficult. Heck, I can run some fairly sophisticated programs that didn't seem nearly as difficult as this has been.>:(:cheers:

fish
01-16-2012, 04:41 PM
just came home from a productive day of fishing. Thought I'd see what up on here. Without trying it :hmm: I think if you click on the last location you can drag it to another location. I think. I'll try it this evening.

Top Cat
01-16-2012, 05:56 PM
Greg, I had trouble downloading the CD also.
I ended up having Cindy talk to the Garmin support line and it finally got workin correctly.
Cindy and the support guy were on a first name basis by that time.:lmao:

cnc
01-16-2012, 06:04 PM
Greg, I had trouble downloading the CD also.
I ended up having Cindy talk to the Garmin support line and it finally got workin correctly.
Cindy and the support guy were on a first name basis by that time.:lmao:

Behind every successful woman there stands a confused guy.:lmao::lmao:
I guess I better not talk so fast I never put in the cd, just down loaded the program.:shrug:

glwilson
01-16-2012, 08:24 PM
It the most screwed up thing I have ever seen with software and equipment.

How the heck are people supposed to use these things if it is so difficult? Garmin needs to figure this out and make it more user-friendly for sure.

I'll mess around with it more later though.:cheers:

cnc
01-16-2012, 08:27 PM
It the most screwed up thing I have ever seen with software and equipment.

How the heck are people supposed to use these things if it is so difficult? Garmin needs to figure this out and make it more user-friendly for sure.

I'll mess around with it more later though.:cheers:

I think I see your problem, your drinking to much.:cheers::tehe:

petenomad
01-16-2012, 08:40 PM
So, as it stands, I have Basecamp up and running and think it should work when I open it again. I am assuming I'll have to have my GPS connected to the computer to get the details again. Not really sure; but will find out soon enough.

Yes, you will need it connected, but if you are planning with this, then you are likely going to send it to the unit, which would require a connection anyway.


I still am not sure about or cannot figure out if this unit "records" trips on its own or if I have to hit a "record" button or something. I think it just keeps record of it up to a certain number of them. Really not sure. I did see some "data" on the GPS when I snooped around all of the buttons it had. All I want it to do for certain is record my route while I am riding it. That is a great feature.

It's always on. You can display this on your unit too if you like. From the main menu, Select Tools > Settings > Map (Down arrow) > Trip Log > Show (OK).
This will enable drawing the recorded "trip" (or tracklog) on your map. It is shown in light blue over the map and route lines.

You can also see the current recordings like this: Main Menu > Tools > My Data > Manage Trip Logs > Current Trip Log. From here you can look at most recent 10000 points that have been recorded broken up by the zumo's best guess of rides. (Sometimes this is better than others.) Touch one and you can see it on the map, Save it as a route so you can ride it again (this can take a bit of time), view an elevation profile, or Export this specific track to its own GPX file so you can share it with others.

The zumo also archives your current track log automatically to the GPX\Archive folder. This will create numbered files that contain additional data so that it is not lost when your zumo would start overwriting track points in its internal memory. I will say that there is often a lot of duplicate data in these files, but you generally don't lose anything. You can't view these archives on the unit, but you can on the PC (using your program of choice that can read GPX tracklogs - such as Basecamp/MapSource).

glwilson
01-17-2012, 07:43 AM
Thanks Peter.

I'll check it out tonight to see if I can plan and save a route of mine that I already know.

Good to know the unit records on its own -- although, it would be nice to be able to make the choice of disabling it if you wanted (for times when you haven't had the chance to download the info and before it dumps-out an older file you might want).

I realize it just takes some discipline to connect it fairly often to save the info. I am just a little nervous given the hassles I had yesterday. I do believe I have it figured-out and updated though, so we'll see.

Thanks again!:cheers: (CNC... there's that drink again!!)

Netnorske
01-17-2012, 09:10 AM
It's easier to think of it as moving files between two computers...which is really all you are doing. Your PC will see your Garmin as a device with its own hard drive. If you save files you create in HD/Honda ride planner (.gpx files)...you can save and name them directly to your device, or like I do, save them to a folder on your PC so you have a copy of them. Then I just drag the files (routes) I want from my PC directory to my Garmin directory and drop them in the GPX folder. When you turn on your Garmin, it will detect and ask if you wish to upload your new files...and yes, you do.

dank
01-17-2012, 11:10 AM
Thank you all for reminding me of why I just use a road atlas! :cheers:

Open the map, look where I want to go...and I'm done.

Top Cat
01-17-2012, 12:02 PM
Thank you all for reminding me of why I just use a road atlas! :cheers:

Open the map, look where I want to go...and I'm done.

To each their own.
Once you get the GPS set up and get used to using it it beats maps hands down.
I do carry maps as backup but very seldom need them.

cnc
01-17-2012, 12:17 PM
Thank you all for reminding me of why I just use a road atlas! :cheers:

Open the map, look where I want to go...and I'm done.

Yup that works, but when you are in a strange area on a busy expressway with several interchanges to get on or off of, I hope you have a photographic memory, or a safe place to pull over and check your atlas.

Like Tim says once you get used to a gps, you won't want to be without one.

cactusjack
01-17-2012, 12:59 PM
...and a sundial is just as good as a wristwatch, unless it's dark.

GPS has saved my bacon in unfamiliar surroundings more times than I can count. Try pulling over on I-5 through the San Fernando Valley to read a road map.

Loafer
01-17-2012, 01:00 PM
I like maps, I just can't read them as well as I used to be able to. I think
they are printing them with smaller type.

cactusjack
01-17-2012, 01:27 PM
I like maps, I just can't read them as well as I used to be able to. I think
they are printing them with smaller type.

You just need longer arms.

dank
01-17-2012, 01:39 PM
...and a sundial is just as good as a wristwatch, unless it's dark.

GPS has saved my bacon in unfamiliar surroundings more times than I can count. Try pulling over on I-5 through the San Fernando Valley to read a road map.

Guess you old guys are having more memory problems than I am! So Scott, GPS: Is that Geezer Positioning System? :wave:

Actually I use GPS at work to locate specific research collection sites. However, in the that GPS units have a digitized version of an atlas, your analogy about sundials compared to watches is a bit off the mark. Perhaps you should have compared analog watches with digital watches.

Top Cat
01-17-2012, 01:41 PM
I like maps, I just can't read them as well as I used to be able to. I think
they are printing them with smaller type.

Just get a GPS and mount it on your handlebars.
It will be far enough away that you will be able to see it clearly. :D

Top Cat
01-17-2012, 01:44 PM
Guess you old guys are having more memory problems than I am! So Scott, GPS: Is that Geezer Positioning System? :wave:

Actually I use GPS at work to locate specific research collection sites. However, in the that GPS units have a digitized version of an atlas, your analogy about sundials compared to watches is a bit off the mark. Perhaps you should have compared analog watches with digital watches.


Nope, I think he was right on with his analogy.
Sundial is to watch as map is to GPS.:tup:

cnc
01-17-2012, 01:45 PM
I like maps, I just can't read them as well as I used to be able to. I think
they are printing them with smaller type.

Well they do say the world is getting smaller.:hmm:

blowndodge
01-17-2012, 02:20 PM
You just need longer arms.

I know there's a joke in here somewhere!!?? :hmm:

toy4bob
01-17-2012, 07:46 PM
Thank you all for reminding me of why I just use a road atlas! :cheers:

Open the map, look where I want to go...and I'm done.

Tried it, map blew away when I opened it :)

glwilson
01-17-2012, 09:05 PM
A GPS isn't just for navigating a route per-se; but also for helping you determine what the road looks like ahead of you.

This works well for me because I like taking the most twisted-gnarly roads I can find. The GPS will give me a heads-up as to what to expect out ahead of a blind curve so I can adjust the bike to it.

Of course, for those that ride the slabs or straight-n-narrows... you wouldn't need one for that purpose. You instead need to learn to not be so boring.:wave:

Just saying...:D

Top Cat
01-17-2012, 09:16 PM
Of course, for those that ride the slabs or straight-n-narrows... you wouldn't need one for that purpose. You instead need to learn to not be so boring.:wave:

Just saying...:D

:lmao:

dank
01-18-2012, 09:30 AM
A GPS isn't just for navigating a route per-se; but also for helping you determine what the road looks like ahead of you.

This works well for me because I like taking the most twisted-gnarly roads I can find. The GPS will give me a heads-up as to what to expect out ahead of a blind curve so I can adjust the bike to it.

Of course, for those that ride the slabs or straight-n-narrows... you wouldn't need one for that purpose. You instead need to learn to not be so boring.:wave:

Just saying...:D

Or you more likely means you should get a more capable bike so you don't have to start positioning it three turns ahead of time. :P

cnc
01-18-2012, 09:35 AM
We now return you to our regular programing.

Loafer
01-18-2012, 11:30 AM
The world is getting smaller because we are all getting bigger around our equators.
What would longer arms do for me, make me a better dancer?
"Hey, I didn't step on your feet once that dance"....

glwilson
01-18-2012, 11:44 AM
Or you more likely means you should get a more capable bike so you don't have to start positioning it three turns ahead of time. :P

@ss!!!:P:D

Just joking...:P

Netnorske
01-18-2012, 06:58 PM
Greg is right....it is great for "seeing the road ahead" when on an unfamiliar twisty stretch. I use mine in the same way. By zooming it up close you can tell how tight a curve will be before you start into it...a huge advantage safety-wise. Also...a GPS tells you so much more. Hungry? Find exactly where all the food joints are and what kind of food it is. Need fuel or lodging...ditto. A good GPS is an invaluable tool when traveling, whether it be close to home or in some far off place. I too carry tons of maps...but only as back-ups. It's really nice not to have to remember turns or try to read a map you have in a bag on your tank. Just follow the little purple line and enjoy the scenery along the way. If you are on the fence about buying one, quit being "a cheap bastard" and hook yourself up some great technology...you won't be sorry...:tup:.

fish
01-18-2012, 07:06 PM
On my GPS (Garmin 1490LTM) I changed my icon to a motorcycle. I don't even look at the bikes speedo, I use the speedo on the GPS.

Top Cat
01-18-2012, 07:17 PM
Ditto what Greg, Kris and Lar said.:tup:

glwilson
01-18-2012, 08:37 PM
I suppose not buying a GPS because you can get by with a map is no different than:

Foregoing an electric start for a kick-start...
Springs for suspension instead of shocks...
Carb instead of fuel injection...
Chain instead of shaft-drive... or belt-drive...

...well, hopefully my point has been made.:hmm:

blowndodge
01-18-2012, 08:39 PM
It sure was!!.................ah........ what was your point again Greg? :hmm:

glwilson
01-18-2012, 08:45 PM
:bird:

cnc
01-18-2012, 10:19 PM
I think you forgot stone wheels instead rubber.

minst7877
01-18-2012, 10:36 PM
Go to Garmins website and down load their Base Camp program. It will let you create routes on your computer and I can then load them into my Garmin Nuvi.

DC

http://www8.garmin.com/support/download_details.jsp?id=4435

cactusjack
01-18-2012, 10:53 PM
Go to Garmins website and down load their Base Camp program. It will let you create routes on your computer and I can then load them into my Garmin Nuvi.

DC

http://www8.garmin.com/support/download_details.jsp?id=4435

Why would we create routes so you can load them into your Garmin Nuvi? :D

minst7877
01-18-2012, 11:03 PM
Smart aleck

DC

Top Cat
01-18-2012, 11:23 PM
Why would we create routes so you can load them into your Garmin Nuvi? :D

Maybe he is lost wants us to make a route to get him home.:shrug:

cnc
01-19-2012, 09:23 AM
Maybe he is lost wants us to make a route to get him home.:shrug:

Wouldn't that be like telling him where to go?:tehe:

Loafer
01-19-2012, 11:17 AM
Might be..???

Top Cat
01-19-2012, 12:16 PM
Wouldn't that be like telling him where to go?:tehe:

It wouldn't be the first time someone on here got directions on where to go. :D