What is the best GPS for cyclist?

[newbiker]

I'm looking for buying a GPS that can track my performance when biking, but can also be used in a car and on a boat. Which one should I buy? I'm thinking Garmin GPSmap 60 CSx model. However, I like the fitness feature of the Garmin Forerunner 305HR that allow you to measure and download heart rate and speed. Does the GPSmap 60CSx have ability to tracking your performance like the Forerunner 305HR+ does?

Your responses/feedback are welcomed and greatly appreciated.

[FredHiltz]

The 60CSx is an excellent choice, IMO. Yes, it records all the fitness data that the Forerunner does except for heart rate. You'd need one of the many stand-alone HR monitors in addition. Many PC programs can analyze the recorded track log and report the usual fitness numbers, most more completely than the Forerunner by itself.

The Forerunner is very specialized and good at its intended use, but not at all the best for auto and boat: no maps! Plan to buy the nautical charts and highway maps that load into the 60CSx. They are not cheap unless you think of the cost per state or per mile of shoreline .

I use the older 60CS (looks the same, but less memory and less sensitivity) and find it excellent for biking and hiking, adequate for auto.

The 76CSx is almost identical internally but has a larger case that floats; it is advertised for nautical use. Both units meet the same waterproof spec: IPX7. Unfortunately for cycling, Garmin's handlebar mount positions the 76CSx where many peoples' knees hit it. One can mitigate that by buying another brand of mount or a handlebar extension, but both add weight.

As you might guess, this is a popular topic here. Browse the group for more opinions. Also, the General Discussion group has a thread "Not finding the ideal GPS for cycling" starting Jan 4, 2006 that is relevant.

Fred

[newbiker]

Excellent!!! thank you very much for your prompt response. I'm leaning toward to the 60CSx more than the 60 CS mainly because of its rating. Again, thanks for the info.

[valygrl]

In case you haven't purchased yet, this item is currently on sale at REI as of today 8/27

http://www.rei.com/product/735607?cm_re=lp*lp*garmin

[newbiker]

Thank you for the info. I bought it about a month ago from Amazon for $342. Not bad huh.

[cyclopaedic]

Check out the new Edge 605 or 705

This message was edited by cyclopaedic on 8-31-07 @ 9:57 AM

[geegee]

I got the Garmin eTrex Vista HCx which basically does the same in a
smaller and lighter format. The simplified buttons are great for one-
hand
operation. It's less than $300.

In my opinion, the Vista HCx is the best GPS for bicycle touring at this
time. It uses 2 regular AA bateries, which last 25 hours per charge,
which
means if you took a couple sets of spare and a lightweight charger, you
could tide a good week before a charge-up session

While the Edge 605 and 705 which are bike-specific
and now do mapping, the special batteries require you to charge it
almost every night.

[ironspoke]

Geeg,

I'm a total novice with my GPS but I have the exact model you do. What mapping software do you utilize? I'm interested in creating maps for posting on a web page. I already purchased the Delorme Topo maps as they were suggested by the REI sales person (my GPS was actually featured on the box the software was packaged in). I know its just a matter of learning this stuff.

[geegee]

I just use the MapSource software. It just takes a bit of mucking around to
get the hang of it. You could subscribe to Google Earth to do some
awesome mapping, too.

I like using the Topo versions of maps over the MetroGuide or City
Navigator as well. Amenities are not that hard to find on my own and the
Topos seem to include quite a few trails that the other maps don't cover,
and it's easier to judge the hilly routes.

[edmilkman]

hi,
I just bought a DeLorme PN-20 handheld gps. I don't have experience with any other brands; just stayed with DeLorme since I have been using their map software for several years. E-mail me if you have any questions about it. Rode with it on a 2 1/2 day mini-tour after Thanksgiving and was pleased, although didn't know till I called tech support that I had to transfer pre-made routes onto internal memory instead of the SD card.
ALSO, the best general purpose mounting bar for your gadgets, and to give your wrists and hands a break is an aerobar ! I tried to put my gps on lower left bar next to my wireless Cateye on the lower right, but gps interfered with Cateye signal, so I had to put gps on the tip of the aerobar (using the DeLorme bike mount). Now I just put headlamp on the lower bar and everything works fine. Ask if you would like to see a pic of my setup.

This message was edited by edmilkman on 11-26-07 @ 10:02 AM

[cheitzmann]

I bought the Garmin 60CSX a while ago (great REI sale price plus rebate) and I love it. Bought a bracket for the bike handlbars and it's perfect. I bought City Navigator so I could get all those small roads as well as Topo 2007 which is nice cuz you can see elevations as you ride. I have to admit I have nothing to compare this to, but it's been fabulous. And it's great for car travel too. My 2 cents.

[magilla]

Has anyone used the Earthmate GPS PN-20 from Delorme?  

[edmilkman]

Magilla,

Look at my post two above yours and you will see I have had a DeLorme PN-20 since Thanksgiving. What do you want to know about it? I have never used anything else, so I couldn't compare it to other brands. I ordered it with the Topo software for my laptop. I have had no need to download any extra USGS quads or sat images, although for hiking the extra detail might be helpful.
Edwin