Phone/GPS/Oven Timer/Phone

[Tazz]

Was looking at a GPS but thought I might as well look at upgrading to a waterproof phone (or a phone in a waterproof case) and have an all in one kind of thing.

Anyone got an recommendations on what phone to get/what they use? I've been looking at SONY XPERIA Z's but not sure about the whole built in battery.
Are there apps that make reliable GPS's out of phones (compared to the 'only good on the road' google stuff) or are they just not worth messing with for that use? (I know the major pitfall it having to take your glove off to adjust anything on it).

[FJRider]

Doesn't require batteries ... and most tank bags have a pre-installed holder for it ... ;)

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/511CBKbF%2BtL._SY344_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg

[Howie]

Could try this if you have an android phone http://www.adventureridingnz.co.nz/gps-tracks-rides/using-garmin-gps-maps-on-an-android-device-for-free/ eddieb runs that site if you want more info. Now for the disclaimer I personally run a separate GPS so have no idea how well it works.

[Tazz]

Could try this if you have an android phone http://www.adventureridingnz.co.nz/gps-tracks-rides/using-garmin-gps-maps-on-an-android-device-for-free/ eddieb runs that site if you want more info. Now for the disclaimer I personally run a separate GPS so have no idea how well it works.

Would you consider using a phone instead if your GPS broke or do you prefer having it separate?

Will check out that software. Cheers man.


Doesn't require batteries ... and most tank bags have a pre-installed holder for it ... ;)



Why use a modern fandangled Atlas when I can just use the map Ooglug drew on our cave wall with snail shells?

Welcome to the future. Here we can plan a trip on a GPS in a few mins, send a pre plotted track on private land in a few seconds via email instead of sitting down with your out of date Atlas and compass to do it all manually ;)

Thanks for the thought though.

[dino3310]

one of my neighbors used the galaxy S4 with life proof case before that he used the iphone, i almost went the same way but my main use was for hunting and so the battery life would have been to short and it would be an expensive fixer if i should break it in the rough stuff.
i found the GPS60cx the bees knees and my old samsung rugger the best for what im using them for.

although i have thought when one day i do my big south island trip it will be with andriod type of phone so i can power it off the bike as well as set up bluetooth so i can navigate and use the phone whilst riding

[Howie]

Would you consider using a phone instead if your GPS broke or do you prefer having it separate?

Will check out that software. Cheers man.


Thanks for the thought though.

I prefer separate, but then I'm not up on all the things that you can use your "mobile phone" for these days. my kids just brought me a Samsung Android phone for my birthday, so guess I'm going to have to learn how to load it up with apps etc soon.

I tend to also carry Kiwimaps "250 rural road series maps" http://www.kiwimaps.com/range.html for the areas I intend exploring as they have all the rural roads named and give a broad overview of the area.

I find carrying map books a pain as they are large, heavy, and each map doesn't cover a large area if the scale is anygood.

[oneblackflag]

Have a look at 'NZ maps free' on google play.... Good topo map, can do most if not all a GPS unit can if you pay bugger all for the full version.:yes: https://www.google.co.nz/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&ei=qNT2UpmQNqquiQfriIDYDQ&url=https://play.google.com/store/apps/details%3Fid%3Dcom.atlogis.nzmaps.free%26hl%3Den&cd=2&ved=0CDMQFjAB&usg=AFQjCNHXjkIS8urxBz8UC7zXNGGaXBtzYA

[Waihou Thumper]

Always will be for me. Turn it off and use it when required to make calls. :)
The GPS is a navigational aid, have it hard wired to the bike, remove it at the end of the day, stow it away....
Turn on your phone whilst sipping that brew, it will have full battery cos it hasn't spent all frikken day trying to search for a signal and routes whilst riding.....

Nice to have a swiss army phone but....as long as I can make a call, that's all I need.
I also have a Samsung S4 and a Galaxy Note II, both are phones first and foremost but, nice to have the back up.
As for the software for GPS, not too shabby, but give me Garmin any day ON a gps...:)

[Waihou Thumper]

Doesn't require batteries ... and most tank bags have a pre-installed holder for it ... ;)



Put my glasses on and it was still out of focus....Phew! Thought I needed the +3.0 there....was about to head out to the red shed and buy some. :)

[Tazz]

one of my neighbors used the galaxy S4 with life proof case

Hmm, just looking into one of those now as well. Seems to be better in a lot of ways other than relying on the case to be waterproof.


I find carrying map books a pain as they are large, heavy, and each map doesn't cover a large area if the scale is anygood.

I'm with ya. All good in the car to lug that crap around but why would you on a bike these days. The specific maps isn't a bad idea if that's what you're used to though. Same deal as tramping really.

Will ponder it over but the phone route with a wireless charging pad once I get the bike set up for it looks like it could be a good idea. I understand people liking to keep things separate, but with how far tech has come with phones it just seems a bit redundant to do so (other than the not being able to adjust things with your glove on, but then again, how often do you need to do that and there are those pen things you can use instead.)

[Waipukbiker]

I use a "Sena" Bluetooth coms unit in my Helmet, Easy to fit in, My phone is a Samsung Ace 3 and I can get spoken directions while Im riding from the GPS in the phone (Google maps only) Handy in a strange city. I can also make and receive phone calls while riding, for ex, tap one button on the helmet unit, Say "Call Home" and its dialing. If I am listening to music from the phone, any incoming call cuts the music off and just tap the same button to receive the call. Ive also set it up so I just say "Call cops" and it dials Star555 , great for dobbing in dickhead car drivers, Ive also used that twice to report rock falls in the Manawatu Gorge, Both times the duty cop has said I hope you are not driving at the moment, I said hell no, Im not that silly. Im doing about 80 KPH on a motor bike, Silence for a few seconds thinking I was being a smart arse then its explanation time.

[JATZ]

Get a GPS :yes:

I'm like mr Thumper, use the phone for calls/txts and music, and I use a GPS for getting lost :blink:

If you want "old school" forget the map book posted earlier and get one of these http://i412.photobucket.com/albums/pp201/ztaj/PB252CoverEd6_zps08b1ea9e.jpg

Much more detailed

[wynw]

I've got the sony z1, does everything i need it to do and more. Only issue with it or the s4 is the size, but saying that it still fits in my pocket. I went with the Z1 for its ip rating and durability for work. Battery wise if more is needed you can always get a piggyback off ebay or aliexpress for $30ish.

[clint640]

I've got an Xperia Active. Small (like I wanted) but it's been good. I've got the free Outdoor Atlas app on it which works ok for topomaps & gps duties, can record/upload tracks & waypoints. Rosie has a 62s for proper nav however so I haven't used the Xperia bolted to the bike as yet. Sat reception under trees definitely isn't as good as the Garmin.

If use on the bike is the main issue for batt life just wire in a usb charger.

The 'Dual Sport Maps' app is apparently quite good for mixing road/offroad nav on an Android ph.

Cheers
Clint

[awa355]

Doesn't require batteries ... and most tank bags have a pre-installed holder for it ... ;)



I agree. If travelling off road, then maybe a GPS is worth having, but for public roads, If an unknown part of the province is my route, I'll take a copy of the section of a roadmap. Takes 2 minutes to scan, and folds up to nothing. Lighter than a mapbook. Dosen't go flat and I can read it anywhere. Plenty of roadmaps have the minor roads named, Years ago, I learnt to read, quite a useful skill really:gob:

As for using BT on a ride, I ride to enter a world where everything is okay, not to drag family, work etc along.

Not what the OP was asking about, but my rant for the day.

[Tazz]

On road is fine. Just glance at google maps before I leave and wing it. Works for me.

You know, you see an interesting looking spot up the hill but you're 4 hours into a 10 minute trip that was just to get milk, eggs and a perm, you don't have time to look that day so you just check the route to see where the hell you actually were when you get home and sort out getting back there.
That is mainly what I want a GPS for, map books are no good to me, not interested, but thanks all the same ;)

Interesting comment about the trees Clint. Definitely a bigger problem than taking your gloves off if you can't even pick up satellites. Wish you could 'test drive' phones for a day before you bought em.

Regarding headsets and the like, it is the same deal as listening to music. You don't HAVE to have it on all the time, just when you want too. And if you can't focus on riding with all this gadgetry on your bike, that's fine too, but there are plenty of people who can and enjoy using it :)

Thanks for all the feedback. Will chew it over.

[FJRider]

If an unknown part of the province is my route, I'll take a copy of the section of a roadmap. Takes 2 minutes to scan, and folds up to nothing. Lighter than a mapbook. Dosen't go flat and I can read it anywhere. Plenty of roadmaps have the minor roads named, Years ago, I learnt to read, quite a useful skill really:gob:

As for using BT on a ride, I ride to enter a world where everything is okay, not to drag family, work etc along.

Not what the OP was asking about, but my rant for the day.

Over the years I have collected maps from various areas I've traveled ... the "Old School" Lands and Survey maps (or similar) ... inch to the mile. Off road or following trails and vehicle (goat) tracks ... not much changes over the 20 or 30 years since they were printed. Hills/valleys/rivers wont move far ... and you can be pretty precise as to knowing your exact location.

Scanned and copied portions of the particular bits you need are easy to carry .. and highlight the important bits you need to remember. Actual maps can be carried .. but for the most part ... stay secure (dry) in your pack. A bit of time doing a close study of a map of the area you're going to go thru ... makes it easy to navigate when you actually get there. A series of "checkpoints" you need to find to confirm you are still on your intended route.

On the open road highways ... I still carry the map books. But more to confirm km's to the next gas station .... or to show other riders where they are or point out where good/bad portions of their intended route are ... or good alternative routes. (For ME or others)

We are lucky in New Zealand with the quality of signposting ... if you take the time to read them.

[Waihou Thumper]

and highlight the important bits you need to remember. A bit of time doing a close study of a map of the area you're going to go thru ... makes it easy to navigate when you actually get there. A series of "checkpoints" you need to find to confirm you are still on your intended route.



Sound advice for adventure riders using route sheets and a gps....:) Not to rely on it. Mind you, getting lost is the best bit!

[FJRider]

Sound advice for adventure riders using route sheets and a gps....:) Not to rely on it. Mind you, getting lost is the best bit!

Funny how everybody wants Adventure with NO risk. (to life, limb, or sanity)

I found a motorcyclist in the Nevis valley "Lost" once and unsure how to get out (his GPS had died) ... and the main route road still clearly visible. To turn off the main "road" was always obvious you were turning of the main route.

[kiwi cowboy]

Funny how everybody wants Adventure with NO risk. (to life, limb, or sanity)

I found a motorcyclist in the Nevis valley "Lost" once and unsure how to get out (his GPS had died) ... and the main route road still clearly visible. To turn off the main "road" was always obvious you were turning of the main route.

don't lie to us :brick: you were that motorcyclist:yes::yes:

[FJRider]

don't lie to us :brick: you were that motorcyclist:yes::yes:

Actually ... I was walking ... :laugh:

[kiwi cowboy]

Actually ... I was walking ... :laugh:

:confused::confused::confused::eek::eek::eek::eek: :eek::laugh::laugh::laugh::laugh::laugh::laugh::la ugh::thud::msn-wink:

[clint640]

I agree. If travelling off road.. .

...kind of implied given this is the Dual Purpose section of the forum... :rolleyes:

I started using dad's GPS for nav back when they cost $$$$ & only gave you a grid reference to transfer to your paper map. They were awesome for exploring & adventuring then & are awesomer now. Not relying on it totally - goes without saying, for more adventurous trips I always take topomap & compass, AA paper maps are great for planning & nav where there is a road.

If you have a smartphone I reckon you're nuts not to get some decent mapping apps on it & learn how to use them, it's cheap or free! For those with a proper gps it gives you a layer of redundancy in a device you were carrying anyway, for those with only paper maps it gives you another level of accuracy & detail.

Cheers
Clint

[Oscar]

So my old GPS gave up the ghost (it seemed to be suffering from demetia).

Where would I source a replacement?
I was thinking of a Garmin Montana 650T (or maybe you guys had a better idea).

[pomgolian]

Buy a GPS - phone software and hardware is still not there as they are meant for mainstream and not for taking off the grid, before buying a GPS i tried many apps mainly for iphone which didnt come close to a decent GPS for nearly everything but especially route plotting, also the phones are hard to read in sunlight compared to modern GPS units, iphones also shut down when in sun light too long as they overheat especially in a hard case. Growing up as like Clint i used a a GPS with coordinates only coupled with a good map was enough so i now carry maps as well as the GPS either topo or a small atlas, phone in the bag for when you stop with coverage.

Go for a Montana great unit you can set up with profiles for different uses, i probably wouldnt go for the 650T again as maps you can download and the camera is really just a novelty, although the 650T is the only unit brought to NZ get a 600 out of the states and save some $$$$$ :brick:

Now if they made a Garmin GPS with a phone at a reasonable price that would be the way to go

[dmoo1790]

I have used my iPhone 3GS fairly successfully, e.g., on the DB1K. I specifically didn't want to buy/carry another device but a proper GPS would do a better job. Problems with the phone: Screen too small and hard to see in bright sunlight, cannot operate it with gloves on, waterproof case required. I used a RAM Aquabox but had to modify it to prevent the phone overheating. The phone is powered via a 12V USB adapter so battery life is not an issue. In fact battery life is improved because the phone is always on charge from the bike while you're riding. The app I used is Galileo Offline Maps which has lots of neat features including importing topo maps, GPS tracks and recording GPS tracks.

[R650R]

I find 'Smart' phones kill their batteries pretty quick when GPS or using apps, then when you need to actually make a call on it your buggered.
I'm a diehard paper map person too, but I will use google earth and LINZ topo to scout a trip beforehand.
My favourite trick now is to just stick the appropriate map pages on my scanner and print off a copy or print out from LINZ TIFF downloads.
Also smart phones are so easy to damage, crack that screen and you cant do nothing. Found that out when mine chewed on carboot edge...
Would like a fancy GPS but just cant justify the cost, same for high end smartphones.

[Tazz]

So I thought I had made my mind up on the phone but now I just don't know again haha.

You're essentially riding a generator, battery is not an issue... With some tinkering you could probably bring a small microwave bush with you. I only mentioned the removable one being a plus as I like being able to pull mine right out when I travel (on planes and shiz, just a personal thing). Probably should have made that clear. Also on snow trips its nice being able to warm it up before you turn your phone on, so it actually turns on :D All minor things.

I think I am just going to have a gander on trademe and see what pops up. I need a new phone anyway but $400/$500 is my limit (it has been $50 every year until now haha) so I should be able to get an $800/$1000 phone secondhand for that.

GPS, I'll just see what is out there for a price I am happy with. If I can find one with a music player or something (if they exist) Could be a good bet (multi function ftw).

[pampa]

my 1c, I have sony xpheria z and battery is pretty good can last two days, as well as being water and dust proof.

In terms of the maps you can get the topo maps loaded so don't need to be online at all (tried it myself and worked fine). For the NZ topo for OruxMaps (which is a free app you can get from google play) go to https://sites.google.com/site/iroruxmapsnz/

IMHO having a single device saves of multiple cables to charge them, possible different types of memory and also many gadgets to look after.

[Tazz]

my 1c, I have sony xpheria z and battery is pretty good can last two days, as well as being water and dust proof.

In terms of the maps you can get the topo maps loaded so don't need to be online at all (tried it myself and worked fine). For the NZ topo for OruxMaps (which is a free app you can get from google play) go to https://sites.google.com/site/iroruxmapsnz/

IMHO having a single device saves of multiple cables to charge them, possible different types of memory and also many gadgets to look after.

Cheers for your input mate.

I have had a bit of a look but haven't found anything in regards to using the WAMS or LINZ AIC maps offline (or being able to use their layering) so you know exactly where public land starts and ends? There are quite a few places around here illegally gated off, and after checking with the culprits (who might have somewhat legitimate reasons to do so) it's handy to know exactly where you can and can't go if push comes to shove =)

[pampa]

for that I used tracks from other inmates. For instance the tracks like the ones EddieB, etc posts on http://www.adventureguide.co.nz. One thing to consider tho is that the topo maps do have the tracks albeit without saying whether they're biker friendly or not ...

[oneblackflag]

for that I used tracks from other inmates. For instance the tracks like the ones EddieB, etc posts on http://www.adventureguide.co.nz. One thing to consider tho is that the topo maps do have the tracks albeit without saying whether they're biker friendly or not ...

+1 I've just shelled out the $9 for the app I posted earlier, downloaded the whole North Island then imported EddieB's maps from adventureridingnz.co.nz.

Kudos for the work Ed has done on the site, looking good now.

[Tazz]

They are good/awesome sites, and really useful, but it is a nice feeling to discover your own tracks and spots as well ;)

[pampa]

They are good/awesome sites, and really useful, but it is a nice feeling to discover your own tracks and spots as well ;)

no argue there, the topo maps should be good enough for that :sweatdrop

[Underground]

I just bought one of these http://www.motoparts-online.com/apps/webstore/products/show/3868611 (AU$) it does lots of things, music,movies,books,photos etc, seems well built and easy to use....but its confusing the fuck out of me trying to load my TT2000 routes on to it from Garmin basecamp but I think it wants a micro sd shoved up it so Ill get an 8 gig one in town tomorrow.
Let you know how it performs after the weekend.

[Waihou Thumper]

I just bought one of these http://www.motoparts-online.com/apps/webstore/products/show/3868611 (AU$) it does lots of things, music,movies,books,photos etc, seems well built and easy to use....but its confusing the fuck out of me trying to load my TT2000 routes on to it from Garmin basecamp but I think it wants a micro sd shoved up it so Ill get an 8 gig one in town tomorrow.
Let you know how it performs after the weekend.

Wonder if it will accept routes? wonder if it is compatible? Garmin basecamp and mapsource might not recognise (will not) the gps, however once you load routes to the sd card and insert it up the arse of said gps, you might be lucky....Good luck...:sweatdrop

[Tazz]

no argue there, the topo maps should be good enough for that :sweatdrop

They don't show public land though. Topo all good if the landowners are bike friendly though =)

[Kenb]

http://www.webbikeworld.com/gps/nexus-7-gps/using-a-tablet-as-a-gps.htm

[oneblackflag]

They don't show public land though. Topo all good if the landowners are bike friendly though =)

Would love to get a layer showing that on my topo map. What do you usually use for this info?

[Tazz]

Would love to get a layer showing that on my topo map. What do you usually use for this info?

Someone did a reverse job on the LINZ setup I think to get the different layering. Might have been on the hunting and fishing forum? For some reason they won't just hand it out to people (although it is there for everyone to use anyway :brick:)

http://data.linz.govt.nz/

http://wams.org.nz/wams_desktop/index.aspx

I usually use the WAMS one and then just double check that it matches the LINZ one in case there has been changes they haven't updated. They should both tell you the same info all the time =)

[dmoo1790]

http://www.webbikeworld.com/gps/nexus-7-gps/using-a-tablet-as-a-gps.htm

Indeed. 3 pluses I can see compared to my iPhone: Big screen, touch works even with gloves on and apparently has a real GPS, not just A-GPS. If I was weighing a dedicated GPS against a phone/tablet I would give this a very serious look.

[Tazz]

Well just as I decided I was going to go with a Garmin I won an auction on an Xperia Z with an auto bid I placed a few days earlier. It went for a lot less than I was expecting so I still have some room left in the budget to get a GPS as well if need be.

I have a waterproof 12v lighter plug with USB charging socket on the way from dealextreme (along with some LED spotties because I'm just not attracting enough months as it is :rolleyes:) so I'll post up how it all works out incase anyone is interested in the future. I have gone with the USB charger for now just in case it doesn't suit otherwise I will be getting a wireless charging pad to mount it too and some of those cheap bluetooth headphones.

Also just thought of another resource:

http://www.tramper.co.nz/

Really good for finding huts. DOC has upped their game and has a new map (well new to me) on their site too but I don't find it as easy to use yet as the tramper.co.nz one, which also has private huts and contact details for them.

[Tazz]

Indeed. 3 pluses I can see compared to my iPhone: Big screen, touch works even with gloves on and apparently has a real GPS, not just A-GPS. If I was weighing a dedicated GPS against a phone/tablet I would give this a very serious look.

I quite like the sound of the Nexus 5 after reading all that (bit smaller so would work as a phone a bit better (also CDMA)). I'll probably get one in 4 years when it's out of date :laugh:

Personally though I think that 7's screen takes up a bit to much real estate but in a country where there are tracks darting off left right and center it would be just the ticket to keep you on route easily.

[Oscar]

I quite like the sound of the Nexus 5 after reading all that (bit smaller so would work as a phone a bit better (also CDMA)). I'll probably get one in 4 years when it's out of date :laugh:

Personally though I think that 7's screen takes up a bit to much real estate but in a country where there are tracks darting off left right and center it would be just the ticket to keep you on route easily.

I prefer Nexus 6..

http://content7.flixster.com/question/59/85/42/5985421_std.jpg

[flashg]

After just doing DB1K and always following others with GPS i thought maybe i should get one. The Garmin 600 @ $455.00 has everything but camera. Garman 650 @ $661.30 nz has 5mp camera which will tag photos on your files. Not cheap best to start saving. Birthday not till October bugger
PS these are best prices i found on ebay just now

[flashg]

Getting older and eyes are shit now for reading. Don't wanna be putting glasses on and off all the time that's why i was looking at larger screen of 600 or 650 and was recommended. Cheers

[Transalper]

Getting older and eyes are shit now for reading. Don't wanna be putting glasses on and off all the time that's why i was looking at larger screen of 600 or 650 and was recommended. Cheers

Are they Oregons or Montanas you're looking at, I think both have a 600 and 650 version.
I checked with pouakai, he's using the Montana 650t.
There are differences between all of them and buying from overseas sites looses the backup of local support, GPS's being one of those things some people find they do need to return for repair or replacement with manufacturing defects.

[flashg]

I was wondering about that TA they both Montana's like you told me. I best start saving then. I found Chris's easy to read

[Tazz]

Got the DRs battery sorted.

http://content5.videojug.com/3d/3d6fa816-f80b-d4cd-5ae7-ff0008ce7736/how-to-make-a-potato-battery.WidePlayer.jpg?v2

[Padmei]

Jeez they're making 2 potato batteries now? Technology is just going too fast nowadays

[Woodman]

Jeez they're making 2 potato batteries now? Technology is just going too fast nowadays

Thought that technology would stop at one potato, now two potato, then 3 potato , more..


Anyway, Used my new garmin 62s on the dusty and it was fantastic. Converted.

[Tazz]

Woulda, coulda, shoulda been three, but a mans gotta eat!

Still eyeing a 62s but the bank account is blowing its rape whistle :(

[That looks like fun]

Woulda, coulda, shoulda been three, but a mans gotta eat!

Still eyeing a 62s but the bank account is blowing its rape whistle :(

Send me ya sd card and I will send it back with topo's on it :hug:
Ask Deeano if they are any good :woohoo:

[NordieBoy]

This should be the free Topo maps...
http://www.nzopengps.org/public/DOC_NZOGPS/20100115_FREE_NZOGPS_DOC_SRTM_Setup.exe

[That looks like fun]

This should be the free Topo maps...
http://www.nzopengps.org/public/DOC_NZOGPS/20100115_FREE_NZOGPS_DOC_SRTM_Setup.exe

My ones are gooder :Punk:

[flashg]

I just got my Garman Montana 650 GPS. Call it a birthday present. I will need to learn how to use it as i have no idea and i need it for DB1K that i just signed up for.

[Waihou Thumper]

I just got my Garman Montana 650 GPS. Call it a birthday present. I will need to learn how to use it as i have no idea and i need it for DB1K that i just signed up for.

You got time, ride the bike and learn.....nothing better than fiddling and riding....although fiddling and not riding will make ya go blind..:)

[pete376403]

Downloaded Basecamp last night and had a look - looks like a fair bit to learn, and there's only 85 days till the dusty...

[flashg]

You got time, ride the bike and learn.....nothing better than fiddling and riding....although fiddling and not riding will make ya go blind..:)



Might have been a bit much fiddling when i was younger my eyes are shit now (close up) or maybe its old age. Anyhow that's why i got the montana so i can see it.

[flashg]

[QUOTE= there's only 85 days till the dusty...[/QUOTE]


Oh shit now we are counting

[flashg]

and there's only 85 days till the dusty...


Oh shit now we are counting down

[vegeman]

Downloaded Basecamp last night and had a look - looks like a fair bit to learn, and there's only 85 days till the dusty...


Basecamp and other apps have a lot of extra crap in there to make the app seem more powerful but in reality...you only need a few things. For The dusty, they'll make available the latest files available. (If you need last years, I'll post it up so you can get it).

All GPS's are based around Maps, Waypoints, Tracks and Routes. Maps are a given now, but it wasn't that long GPS only gave you the location information and then you had to work that out back to a real topo map.

Waypoints are the markers that provide the important fixed locations for you to navigate to. General waypoints are normally provided along with maps (huts, fuel), but they are the thing that most people create themselves or ask for, especially to get those waypoints such as the " Spot X"thing. ie how best buddy, can you send me that spot for the...fish etc

Waypoints are also required to give you something to search, save and store on...they are the main thing that you don't want to lose and once you get a collection of these...basecamp helps you save them as well plus other things...ie rename them, move them,

Routes use waypoints as their thing to make a trip....but its not critical to do in basecamp. OFten you can just search on your GPS for a waypoint, and the GPS should be able to work out how to get there.

Finally Tracks are different...these are the breadcrumb marks that was left during a GPS's operation. These are really useful, as it show where you have been...and gives you the finer detail or granularity of your track.

So for dusty butt...they give you the route, the track, and waypoints. Most guys will use the track...as its the thing that absolutely shows you were you need to go...as its the actual record of where they went. As a tip, is when you get their track., is to change the colour so that its different from your own track so when you are making your one, and its now overlapping their one...you can see the difference.

Hopefully this helps

[vegeman]

Downloaded Basecamp last night and had a look - looks like a fair bit to learn, and there's only 85 days till the dusty...


Basecamp and other apps have a lot of extra crap in there to make the app seem more powerful but in reality...you only need a few things. For The dusty, they'll make available the latest files available. (If you need last years, I'll post it up so you can get it).

All GPS's are based around Maps, Waypoints, Tracks and Routes. Maps are a given now, but it wasn't that long GPS only gave you the location information and then you had to work that out back to a real topo map.

Waypoints are the markers that provide the important fixed locations for you to navigate to. General waypoints are normally provided along with maps (huts, fuel), but they are the thing that most people create themselves or ask for, especially to get those waypoints such as the " Spot X"thing. ie how best buddy, can you send me that spot for the...fish etc

Waypoints are also required to give you something to search, save and store on...they are the main thing that you don't want to lose and once you get a collection of these...basecamp helps you save them as well plus other things...ie rename them, move them,

Routes use waypoints as their thing to make a trip....but its not critical to do in basecamp. OFten you can just search on your GPS for a waypoint, and the GPS should be able to work out how to get there.

Finally Tracks are different...these are the breadcrumb marks that was left during a GPS's operation. These are really useful, as it show where you have been...and gives you the finer detail or granularity of your track.

So for dusty butt...they give you the route, the track, and waypoints. Most guys will use the track...as its the thing that absolutely shows you were you need to go...as its the actual record of where they went. As a tip, is when you get their track., is to change the colour so that its different from your own track so when you are making your one, and its now overlapping their one...you can see the difference.

Hopefully this helps

[vegeman]

I've already got a garmin 60csx, and an iPhone..but am going to go for the Z3 once Vodafone make them available. I really do want a phone based GPS now.
I did notice that the garmin 60csx could accept the full db1k track, due to limitations (file was getting truncated) but downloading to a montana worked fine. I just think my gps is old as it was the very first one, and I've had it for nearly 8 or so years.


The Z3 is waterproof to IPX8...so that's are good as any GPS
I want the big screen as it's just better to have more real estate...while the garmin has been great, my eyes need more.
Z3 is bright, and even has a glove friendly mode. I do like the real buttons on a GPS but will have to cope
Having a android based GPS means its far easier to store and manage muitple GPX files, maps etc plus it has massive SD card support
They also have one of the best cameras in a phone.

I'm riding to the Britton adenvutre run far south safari in Jan and hoping to test it out on a big trip...before my bigger trip to America mid next year.

As for backup to the Z3...I have a delorme Explorer...which at least gives me a basic GPS, and basic communications should the phone pack up, but because its a satellite based communicator I get all the eprib functions as well.

V

[Waihou Thumper]

The Z3 is waterproof to IPX8...
V

IP68 certified - dust proof and water resistant over 1 meter and 30 minutes

:) Nice.....no excuse for dunking the bike now aye!

[Big Dog]

I have tried putting hod on the bars, I prefer a discrete voice over Bluetooth from either a phone or gps in my pocket or bag.
I would never rely entirely on either.
If I was going somewhere there was no realistic expectation of someone to ask for directions or a long way / time between gas stations I would carry a physical map. Or the very least a separate device.
This is based on the failure rate possible with electronics.

I have never had the batteries go flat on a map.
I have never had a screen crack on a map.
I have never had a map freeze on me and prevent me from looking at the next panel.

I think we have all had that horror moment when our smart device was suddenly stupid, would you want that to be 2 hours after you last saw evidence of humans or a hint of where to get more gas from?

I don't have the road atlas types, if I did that would be more for planning sessions, the small foldable local map
Is what you want. Fits in your pocket easily. Important if you are suddenly and unceremoniously separated from your ride.

On public roads I rarely carry a map and live mostly by memory, instinct and pioneering spirit. Carry phone with GPS just in case.


Stupid phone / Tapatalk, apologies in advance.

[Big Dog]

Mind you. Possibly some of the reason I don't have bike specific GPS is $$$$$


Stupid phone / Tapatalk, apologies in advance.