Need GPS advice

phenrichs · 11-30-2009, 09:05 AM

I have a couple questions about GPS.

1> I know the Garmin Nuvi 500 & 550 are listed waterproof. Does anyone else make a waterproof model?

2> Someone mentioned once that they had a GPS that came with route planniing software and that someone at home could log in and track your progress on the route, which one was that?

3> I see that magellan makes one that has AAA options. I am a AAA member but would like to hear from anyone that has used this. Is it worth it?

I know that many have a non waterproof gps unit and just put a bag or something over it. I figure if it rains too much I will probably be pulling over anyway but I need to know before I shop. I will be using this to go to the national rally.

dhomoney · 11-30-2009, 02:31 PM

I have the TomTom Rider2 and love that GPS. I don't have experience with the others listed, but my TomTom worked like a champ for over 2000 miles back in August.

**Jared** · 11-30-2009, 04:03 PM

I believe the TomTom were for sale at Walmart's black friday for $59! I'm sure you'd have to get a mount etc, but still not a bad deal.

towering · 11-30-2009, 04:07 PM

I use a garmin 765 and you can syncronize it with the harley web page map planner. Just plan out your trip on the harley site and transfer it to your garmin

billz410 · 11-30-2009, 06:07 PM

Paul-

What in the world makes you think your wife is going to let you get far enough away from the house that you'll even need a GPS? HMMMM???

Sorry- couldn't resist!

**glwilson** · 11-30-2009, 08:28 PM

OP,

Whatever you do... DO NOT BUY A MAGELLAN!!!!!! I have one and know first hand. Don't ask -- just don't buy one -- period. The AAA feature is useless so you wouldn't be interested in that feature either.

Garmin is the most compatible with routing software (online and offline software).

The ability to pre-program routes into a GPS unit is an important feature for me.

Regarding someone tracking you... not sure you're going to want to pay for a unit that would have that feature. You're likely far better off with just a more basic unit.

One feature you may want to have (and I'll certainly make sure I get one with it) is the ability to "record" a trip. In other words... there is a setting that will begin to record a trip you are on so you can save it for another time when you might want to take the same ride again. Very handy to have.

Regarding "water-proof"... not a big issue in my opinion. Their technically isn't a unit the is "water-proof". They are "water-resistant" -- a big difference. Besides, if you mount it behind your windshield your unit will not get wet. Mine doesn't and never has -- and it isn't water-resistant at all. Also... like you said, if you are in that much rain you'll likely pull over. Otherwise put a plastic bag over it.

Anyway... Garmin will be the one you want to go with.

phenrichs · 12-01-2009, 09:13 AM

Thanks Greg. I have seen alot of sales for the Garmin 205 and 250 but I haven't heard any reviews for any models other than the 550 so I was a bit apprehensive to just go buy one.

flavor · 12-01-2009, 09:17 AM

Software and hardware issues with a Garmin 450. I know people that have TOM TOM units, one in particulal has the tom tom rider and zumo 450. He prefers the tom tom as well.

Absolutely terrible consumer cooperation from Garmin as well.................

I commented on my experience with Garmin after my June 8500 mile trip this past summer.

kudzufarmer · 12-01-2009, 10:03 AM

I have the Garmin 765T and it has worked well for me......it also has the MP3 player function as well that I use also

phenrichs · 12-01-2009, 10:24 AM

Oooh I never thought of the MP3 player function that would eliminate me having to add second power outlet. I could leave the ipod at home. Thanks.

Todd · 12-01-2009, 11:07 AM

I went with the Garmin 450. I looked at it this way: I dont have to worry about water/moisture/vibration. The others might do just fine and probably would, but I dont have the extra worry. I also don't need bluetooth and got it on ebay for around $400 which included mounts for the bike, power cord, storage case, and I even got the mount to use it in the car for that.

Also, I always used earbuds and a cheaper mp3 player for music....the sound out of this is much superior to my little mp3 player...so I got maps and entertainment in one.

I had to call Garmin when I bought it (mine was used from a dealer on ebay) and they were extremely responsive helping me get the unit un-registered from the previous owner and registered to me. They even called the previous owner while I was waiting on the phone to verify that he sold it.

No issues with the unit. I dont use the mapping software for the computer that came with it.

**Top Cat** · 12-01-2009, 01:30 PM

I have a Garmin Zumo 550. It does more stuff than I even care to use. Never had a problem with Garmin service, I have called twice. They were very helpful. My unit came with everything Todd's came with. It is also bluetooth. I can plan my routes on the Mapsource program that came with it and transfer to the gps. It is also compatible with the Harley trip planning website.
Map source is a pain to learn , at least it was for me. Your intelligence may vary. ;)
May be more than you want to spend, $600+.
I buy the best I can afford. There is one Garmin higher up the price scale but the only difference between that and mine is lane assist. I didn't figure I needed that since the units tell you which direction you have to turn next and I just get in that lane.

**Cajunrider** · 12-01-2009, 01:45 PM

Zumo 550 on sale for $529. Link is below.

http://www.deltacamera.com/SearchRes...x=0&Search.y=0

qdog · 12-01-2009, 03:31 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by OP

I have a couple questions about GPS.

2> Someone mentioned once that they had a GPS that came with route planniing software and that someone at home could log in and track your progress on the route, which one was that?

For real-time GPS tracking, I suggest the SPOT 2 ( http://www.findmespot.com/en/ ) which has just been released. I've used it for about a week and my wife likes the idea of tracking me on my rides (she's making sure I stay out of trouble).

Not only can you be tracked, but if you have an emergency, you can call for help through the SPOT 2. This is especially helpful when you're out of cell phone coverage.

If you would like to see my ride from today or for any future rides I might do, just go to: http://tinyurl.com/myspotmap

Quinton

flavor · 12-01-2009, 04:08 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Cajunrider

Zumo 550 on sale for $529. Link is below.

http://www.deltacamera.com/SearchRes...x=0&Search.y=0

Don't do it..........................

Check the other GPS blog I brought back to the surface.

11-30-2009, 09:05 AM	#1
phenrichs Sr. Member Join Date: Jun 2008 Location: Sioux Falls, SD Posts: 2,498	Need GPS advice I have a couple questions about GPS. 1> I know the Garmin Nuvi 500 & 550 are listed waterproof. Does anyone else make a waterproof model? 2> Someone mentioned once that they had a GPS that came with route planniing software and that someone at home could log in and track your progress on the route, which one was that? 3> I see that magellan makes one that has AAA options. I am a AAA member but would like to hear from anyone that has used this. Is it worth it? I know that many have a non waterproof gps unit and just put a bag or something over it. I figure if it rains too much I will probably be pulling over anyway but I need to know before I shop. I will be using this to go to the national rally. Login or Register to Remove Ads
	0

11-30-2009, 02:31 PM	#2
dhomoney Advanced Member Join Date: Oct 2008 Location: Lake Tenkiller, OK Posts: 737	Need GPS advice I have the TomTom Rider2 and love that GPS. I don't have experience with the others listed, but my TomTom worked like a champ for over 2000 miles back in August.
	0

11-30-2009, 04:03 PM	#3
Jared Join Date: Mar 2009 Location: Greeley, Colorado Posts: 6,772	Need GPS advice I believe the TomTom were for sale at Walmart's black friday for $59! I'm sure you'd have to get a mount etc, but still not a bad deal. __________________ Jared VBA #1051 (Former President)
	0

11-30-2009, 04:07 PM	#4
towering Member Join Date: Oct 2007 Location: Lexington S.C Posts: 366	Need GPS advice I use a garmin 765 and you can syncronize it with the harley web page map planner. Just plan out your trip on the harley site and transfer it to your garmin
	0

11-30-2009, 06:07 PM	#5
billz410 Advanced Member Join Date: Nov 2008 Location: Dodgeville, WI COLD!!! Posts: 550	Need GPS advice Paul- What in the world makes you think your wife is going to let you get far enough away from the house that you'll even need a GPS? HMMMM??? Sorry- couldn't resist! Login or Register to Remove Ads
	0

11-30-2009, 08:28 PM	#6
glwilson Join Date: Jul 2008 Location: North Central Illinois Posts: 8,575	Need GPS advice OP, Whatever you do... DO NOT BUY A MAGELLAN!!!!!! I have one and know first hand. Don't ask -- just don't buy one -- period. The AAA feature is useless so you wouldn't be interested in that feature either. Garmin is the most compatible with routing software (online and offline software). The ability to pre-program routes into a GPS unit is an important feature for me. Regarding someone tracking you... not sure you're going to want to pay for a unit that would have that feature. You're likely far better off with just a more basic unit. One feature you may want to have (and I'll certainly make sure I get one with it) is the ability to "record" a trip. In other words... there is a setting that will begin to record a trip you are on so you can save it for another time when you might want to take the same ride again. Very handy to have. Regarding "water-proof"... not a big issue in my opinion. Their technically isn't a unit the is "water-proof". They are "water-resistant" -- a big difference. Besides, if you mount it behind your windshield your unit will not get wet. Mine doesn't and never has -- and it isn't water-resistant at all. Also... like you said, if you are in that much rain you'll likely pull over. Otherwise put a plastic bag over it. Anyway... Garmin will be the one you want to go with. __________________ "During times of universal deceit, telling the truth becomes a revolutionary act." "You can have your own opinion, but not your own facts." *Former VBA NCR Assist Regional Leader* Formerly: 2004 1500FI Bronze Nomad: 2009 & 2014 HD Ultra Current Rides: 2017 HD Ultra Limited & 2011 Can Am Spyder RTS-SE Attended: VBA National Rallies 2009, 2011, 2015; VBA/NCR Regional Rally 2010, 12, 14, 16 and several rides throughout with regional members. VBA Member #652 HOG Member #3935417
	0

12-01-2009, 09:13 AM	#7
phenrichs Sr. Member Join Date: Jun 2008 Location: Sioux Falls, SD Posts: 2,498	Need GPS advice Thanks Greg. I have seen alot of sales for the Garmin 205 and 250 but I haven't heard any reviews for any models other than the 550 so I was a bit apprehensive to just go buy one.
	0

12-01-2009, 09:17 AM	#8
flavor Sr. Member Join Date: Apr 2008 Location: RI Posts: 1,351	Need GPS advice Software and hardware issues with a Garmin 450. I know people that have TOM TOM units, one in particulal has the tom tom rider and zumo 450. He prefers the tom tom as well. Absolutely terrible consumer cooperation from Garmin as well................. I commented on my experience with Garmin after my June 8500 mile trip this past summer.
	0

12-01-2009, 10:03 AM	#9
kudzufarmer Member Join Date: Jul 2009 Posts: 358	Need GPS advice I have the Garmin 765T and it has worked well for me......it also has the MP3 player function as well that I use also
	0

12-01-2009, 10:24 AM	#10
phenrichs Sr. Member Join Date: Jun 2008 Location: Sioux Falls, SD Posts: 2,498	Need GPS advice Oooh I never thought of the MP3 player function that would eliminate me having to add second power outlet. I could leave the ipod at home. Thanks.
	0

12-01-2009, 11:07 AM	#11
Todd Top Contributor Join Date: Aug 2007 Location: Greensboro, NC Posts: 5,915	Need GPS advice I went with the Garmin 450. I looked at it this way: I dont have to worry about water/moisture/vibration. The others might do just fine and probably would, but I dont have the extra worry. I also don't need bluetooth and got it on ebay for around $400 which included mounts for the bike, power cord, storage case, and I even got the mount to use it in the car for that. Also, I always used earbuds and a cheaper mp3 player for music....the sound out of this is much superior to my little mp3 player...so I got maps and entertainment in one. I had to call Garmin when I bought it (mine was used from a dealer on ebay) and they were extremely responsive helping me get the unit un-registered from the previous owner and registered to me. They even called the previous owner while I was waiting on the phone to verify that he sold it. No issues with the unit. I dont use the mapping software for the computer that came with it. __________________ Todd Frazier VBA #0003 VBA National Leader-USA Operations/Garage Moderator - RETIRED 2006 Black Nomad since she was born Greensboro, NC
	0

12-01-2009, 01:30 PM	#12
Top Cat Join Date: Jul 2007 Location: Peoples Republic of New York State Posts: 15,154	Need GPS advice I have a Garmin Zumo 550. It does more stuff than I even care to use. Never had a problem with Garmin service, I have called twice. They were very helpful. My unit came with everything Todd's came with. It is also bluetooth. I can plan my routes on the Mapsource program that came with it and transfer to the gps. It is also compatible with the Harley trip planning website. Map source is a pain to learn , at least it was for me. Your intelligence may vary. ;) May be more than you want to spend, $600+. I buy the best I can afford. There is one Garmin higher up the price scale but the only difference between that and mine is lane assist. I didn't figure I needed that since the units tell you which direction you have to turn next and I just get in that lane. __________________ Tim "TC" Conley VBA #9 2011 Victory Kingpin mine 2013 Victory Boardwalk -hers [LEFT][COLOR=#000000] [SIZE=4]
	0

12-01-2009, 01:45 PM	#13
Cajunrider Join Date: Apr 2008 Location: (SE Louisiana) Posts: 8,340	Need GPS advice Zumo 550 on sale for $529. Link is below. http://www.deltacamera.com/SearchRes...x=0&Search.y=0 __________________ 2016 Electra Glide Ultra Limited CVO Palladium Silver / Phantom Blue 110 cu in SE 2012 Electra Glide Ultra Limited (Traded 6/22/16) Tequila Sunrise / HD Orange Vance & Hines true dual headers Rinehart 4" slip ons Screamin Eagle Super Tuner Screamin Eagle Stage 1 intake Dyno tuned H.O.G.# 4514015 2007 Nomad 1600 (Traded 6/23/12) VBA #482
	0

Similar Threads
Thread	Thread Starter	Forum	Replies	Last Post
Need some Advice...	clayton	Vulcan Nomad/Vaquero/Voyager	36	01-31-2010 02:44 PM
GPS ADVICE	flightdoc	1500 & 1600 Nomad	19	02-19-2009 12:34 PM
Need some TV advice	phenrichs	Off-Topic	11	02-10-2009 02:15 AM
I need advice again	beezer	1500 & 1600 Nomad	29	08-03-2008 07:43 PM
need advice?	chmorro	Vulcan Nomad/Vaquero/Voyager	5	08-31-2007 08:09 PM