GPS mapping and GPS units you use

[Waihou Thumper]

did ya get outbid mate

It went for a ridiculous price....$430! :no:
Finding a shipper to NZ on Ebay is difficult, only want to ship in the USA most of them...But as luck would have it -
I have bought one off Ebay for $195 NZD, includes a 1Gb sd card too...Shipping will add another $50-60, so still ahead of the game.
As I have the Ram mount, the diamond plate, the cables to hard wire, should be a worthwhile attachment to the aprilia.

Further to this, the guy cancelled the transaction stating he wouldn't ship to NZ even though the add stated he would....:Oops: from him.

[NordieBoy]

Is this still available Nordie?


I'll have a look today and see...

[dino3310]

http://www.trademe.co.nz/electronics-photography/gps/automotive/auction-640746349.htm

[dino3310]

anyone had the Megellan Explorist 500 and can give a quick yeah it was shit or a yeah its great:D

[Waihou Thumper]

anyone had the Megellan Explorist 500 and can give a quick yeah it was shit or a yeah its great:D


http://www.gpsinformation.net/waas/Mag3-D/eXplorist.html

Valuable information here mate - Small Geocaching Units

[dino3310]

cheers mate, my main concern is the gps sensitivity under tree canopy and in steepgullies as a lot of guts nstuff in the kaimanawas cause my lesser megellan to fail miserably.

so what did you buy?

[Waihou Thumper]

so what did you buy?

Well, looks like I won a GPS on ebay, I think it is a 60c....Nice price too.
But, I might flick it off because I have a cunning plan...Sell it to you when it arrives :)
As the old eyesight gets worse, I need bigger screen and more permanent GPS mount arrangement. I am hard wiring
Garmin Streepilot 2610/2720 to both bikes.....
I have done some research and these units have all of the same functions as the handhelds have now. I am in the process of getting a few things to make it work.
Old school GPS for old school bikes...:)
IPX rated too, so waterproof units...

http://gpsinformation.net/sp26xx/sp2610rev.html

[dino3310]

i just want one for my hunting, dont mind getting lost on the bike :laugh:

[Waihou Thumper]

i just want one for my hunting, dont mind getting lost on the bike :laugh:

Then all you need is the Garmin 60, tracks for you and retraces, has all of the bells and whistles and more importantly huge battery longevity. When you get back, load it into Mapsource, save tracks and use again and again.

[dino3310]

Then all you need is the Garmin 60, tracks for you and retraces, has all of the bells and whistles and more importantly huge battery longevity. When you get back, load it into Mapsource, save tracks and use again and again.


the doc guys and some of our guys use the 62s and they get into some pretty random spots and have no probs with signal. plus with the topo its a lot easier getting out with a kill on your back rather than using the compass and walking up and over shite gutts and gullies where as the topo you can plot around and look for easier routes

[Waihou Thumper]

Sold the GPS this morning. I listed it on Trade Me 0800 and it sold by 0930 :)
Garmin GPS 60. It was in stunning condition.

[dino3310]

Sold the GPS this morning. I listed it on Trade Me 0800 and it sold by 0930 :)
Garmin GPS 60. It was in stunning condition.

i made a sale this morning too:2thumbsup now i can bid more on that 60cx;)

[dino3310]

Got it:woohoo:

[Waihou Thumper]

Got it:woohoo:

Nice one mate. Good price too!

[dino3310]

Nice one mate. Good price too!

i was just lucky that other fella withdrew his bid:laugh:

[Waihou Thumper]

i was just lucky that other fella withdrew his bid:laugh:

Nice guy that fella. :)

[dino3310]

basic megallen in awesome condition http://www.trademe.co.nz/Browse/Listing.aspx?id=644546659

[That looks like fun]

Send me a micro sd card Dino and I will fill it with (very good) topo maps and send it back to ya!

[dino3310]

Send me a micro sd card Dino and I will fill it with (very good) topo maps and send it back to ya!

:woohoo::love::drinkup:

[Waihou Thumper]

:woohoo::love::drinkup:

and if you send one to me I will load 2013 maps of NZ and Australia for ya!
Just in case you see a goat on State Highway 26 :)

[Waihou Thumper]

Send me a micro sd card Dino and I will fill it with (very good) topo maps and send it back to ya!

I would be keen :) are they TUANZ?

[That looks like fun]

I would be keen :) are they TUANZ?

Never been in the ring with Tua and dont intend to :girlfight:

What you talking bout Willis? :blink:

[Waihou Thumper]

Never been in the ring with Tua and dont intend to :girlfight:

What you talking bout Willis? :blink:

Disregard, belay the last matey :)

[Waihou Thumper]

Dino
Just downloaded the overlay Topo and installed to Mapsource.
Great looking maps here, routeable also, these will look great on your GPS units.
I have V4 Australia and New Zealand Topo also. For the Montana 650 they work well.
Because of the sheer size, both maps will need a sd card. One os over 600Mb, the other is over 2Gb.
Try them out mate, they will work well, either maps on your 60Cx. :)

[dino3310]

:woohoo: arrived this arvo:Punk:
bit harder to look at than the big ole paper topo but a whole lot more convenient:Punk:

the first thing i noticed was when i turned it on inside is that it picked up a satellite... INSIDE :gob: friggen awesome

[That looks like fun]

Enough detail in those maps for ya mate :banana:

[dino3310]

Enough detail in those maps for ya mate :banana:

Nope they dont show me where the Deer are:angry:

naa all good mate:2thumbsup

[That looks like fun]

Zoom in rurrly rurrly close, the deer are the brown spots. :shifty:

[dino3310]

bit of an update now ive used this 60CX a few times..................

Friggen awesome

absolutely loving it, even used it in the car around town and the topo gives me the basic street stuff:2thumbsup, gotta save for a bike mount now. Battery life is sweet, im getting about two 5 hour days with the screen light on and still a bar left. found one weak spot in a very steep narrow rock lined gutt with heavy canopy today but still got 2D:sweatdrop.

[Waihou Thumper]

Clearance items of the Oregon 450, the 62s, and the Garmin GPSMap62.....
Really good prices...
Landed in NZ for under $250, brand new!
Pay with Paypal and the item doesn't show in your postbox, the eBay protection programme will give you a refund.
Piece of mind there, for sure. I have had an item arrive and it was broken, eBay promptly refunded straight back into my bank, so that was good.

I have seen the 60 Csx, Cx and the Cs go for ridiculous prices here in NZ and they are good, but the new GPS units are bloody brilliant! :) :eek5:


Check this link out guys....

http://www.ebay.com/itm/291027691325?ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1438.l2649

[dino3310]

Faaaaaark thats cheap:facepalm:

[Box'a'bits]

Note the traders details & how many trades the dude has done? :msn-wink:

[dino3310]

Note the traders details & how many trades the dude has done? :msn-wink:

its ol linglimm from china

[doc]

Just stumbled upon this thread.
I have 62s and would like to know what software I need to download my marks to a topo map and print it for my trips ? I do"Armed trampin" so when I look at them when I eventually get out of the "Geographically embarrassed" situation I can see where I was.
I'm using Freshmaps only got the North Island at the moment. Using the EasyGPS software but it only show my waypoints on Google earth not my tracks and not in map form.

[Waihou Thumper]

its ol linglimm from china


I asked him some questions, he replied.
All he said was shipping will be....and I have to get in stock etc. :brick:
Nothing to do with what I asked?
I wanted to know whether it was retail box, whether it was a 62 or 62 s as there were two differing photos.
Looks like he will sell all. Anyway, it is still button orientated, like the predecessors.

On another note, Garmin 450 free delivery from USA, reputable seller, not refurbished, brand new retail packaging etc.
$183 NZD, that is a spectacular price. It has all of the things that more expensive units have, 850Mb internal storage, sd card can be used as well
AND it is touchscreen.....Handy for us older buggers, where the 60Csx had fiddly little buttons (not good with gloves) :)

Think I might get me one for the other bike, then go to GPS City for the RAM mount which is about $20 landed in NZ....:2thumbsup

[Waihou Thumper]

Just stumbled upon this thread.
I have 62s and would like to know what software I need to download my marks to a topo map and print it for my trips ? I do"Armed trampin" so when I look at them when I eventually get out of the "Geographically embarrassed" situation I can see where I was.
I'm using Freshmaps only got the North Island at the moment. Using the EasyGPS software but it only show my waypoints on Google earth not my tracks and not in map form.

Sorry, dunno....Try Nordie, he likes to play with things like that.

[Waihou Thumper]

Faaaaaark thats cheap:facepalm:

Just received mail from eBay....It was a scam apparently.
He sold four of them, but the buyers won't lose out.
Like the mantra says.....
If it seems too good to be true, you are gonna get ripped off :)

[NordieBoy]

Just stumbled upon this thread.
I have 62s and would like to know what software I need to download my marks to a topo map and print it for my trips ? I do"Armed trampin" so when I look at them when I eventually get out of the "Geographically embarrassed" situation I can see where I was.
I'm using Freshmaps only got the North Island at the moment. Using the EasyGPS software but it only show my waypoints on Google earth not my tracks and not in map form.

Garmin Basecamp and the Open GPS routeable maps and topo's

[RDJ]

Mea culpa. Mea culpa. Mea maxima culpa. What was I thinking? I will keep this short.

I have 3 bike Zumos (1 450 and 2 550s) plus a hand-held Montana. Zumos set up for different countries (US/Mexico/Canada and NZ/Australia). Have not updated since 2011 for the New Zealand map. Went online and bought lifetime upgrades, with the device connected, Garmin software recognized the device and offered me the lifetime upgrades. Paid $199.

Unable to download any upgrade. Hmmm. 4 days, 3 support emails, 3 phone calls and about 50 minutes on hold later... Garmin's only response is (and yes I would have known this if I had researched this online before buying) "even though you can buy map upgrades through our software with your old device connected, we don't sell upgrades for your old unit. You must buy a new unit and then you can buy our upgrades (for the new unit)".

Shorter version: Garmin have adopted Obamacare's website design, customer service and lying approach.

In summary, no legacy support, and no damn given about the customer. Disappointed but not surprised... caveat emptor.

As my Garmin devices die I shall replace with something else. This time I will do my research :-)

[Waihou Thumper]

Mea culpa. Mea culpa. Mea maxima culpa. What was I thinking? I will keep this short.

I have 3 bike Zumos (1 450 and 2 550s) plus a hand-held Montana. Zumos set up for different countries (US/Mexico/Canada and NZ/Australia). Have not updated since 2011 for the New Zealand map. Went online and bought lifetime upgrades, with the device connected, Garmin software recognized the device and offered me the lifetime upgrades. Paid $199.

Unable to download any upgrade. Hmmm. 4 days, 3 support emails, 3 phone calls and about 50 minutes on hold later... Garmin's only response is (and yes I would have known this if I had researched this online before buying) "even though you can buy map upgrades through our software with your old device connected, we don't sell upgrades for your old unit. You must buy a new unit and then you can buy our upgrades (for the new unit)".

Shorter version: Garmin have adopted Obamacare's website design, customer service and lying approach.

In summary, no legacy support, and no damn given about the customer. Disappointed but not surprised... caveat emptor.

As my Garmin devices die I shall replace with something else. This time I will do my research :-)

Why update with Garmin, use opensource, far better and more up to date, surely?
But I am sure you already know that by now right?
I too have a Garmin Montana 650t, nice units.

[Gremlin]

Why update with Garmin, use opensource, far better and more up to date, surely?
But I am sure you already know that by now right?
What the Thumper said. I buy the units, but never the maps.

NZ has the nzopengps.org open source maps, and a damn sight more accurate than Garmin maps. Released weekly usually, as well.

Update the firmware on the Zumo 550 from Garmin, but the maps, open source all the way. Got a 550 lying around somewhere I should probably flick off, as a deal on a 660 was too good to ignore...

[Waihou Thumper]

Anyone want one for a Motorbike?
Have a mint one here, cheap as chips...were over $1000! Only thing is, they don't have a battery capability. Fix that with hard wiring to battery, so never turns off unless YOU turn it off.
No drain to the battery, minimal.
I have one, RAM mounts can be sourced. Maps can be loaded via CF Card...
They will take NZ maps and are rout-able...
Thinking of using one as a back up....

[dino3310]

what handlebar mount do you fellas recommend for the garmin 60cx, i bought a cheaper one but its a bit tinnie for my liking so i dont trust it and aint gonna use it

[Waihou Thumper]

what handlebar mount do you fellas recommend for the garmin 60cx, i bought a cheaper one but its a bit tinnie for my liking so i dont trust it and aint gonna use it

Dino, check out GPSCity. Cheap postage too...:)

http://www.gpscity.com/ram-mount-garmin-60csx-astro-cradle-ram-hol-ga12u.html

As long as you have the belt clip knob, this will fit all of the 60 series. You then have to get an arm, and a ball mount. Robust, strong and won't budge.
Over time you will get little rub marks on the unit, no big deal though...
I have three of these at home along with a 60Cx, and two 60CS units....
The units came with mounts so now I got about four...:)
I still prefer the Montana though....

[NordieBoy]

Any RAM mount.

[dino3310]

Dino, check out GPSCity. Cheap postage too...:)

http://www.gpscity.com/ram-mount-garmin-60csx-astro-cradle-ram-hol-ga12u.html

As long as you have the belt clip knob, this will fit all of the 60 series. You then have to get an arm, and a ball mount. Robust, strong and won't budge.
Over time you will get little rub marks on the unit, no big deal though...
I have three of these at home along with a 60Cx, and two 60CS units....
The units came with mounts so now I got about four...:)
I still prefer the Montana though....

looks like you might have a spare:rolleyes:

[Waihou Thumper]

looks like you might have a spare:rolleyes:

Yep, possibly two...PM me and let's discuss :)

[Woodman]

Just got my first GPS, now signed up for a lot of technology angst:brick:

first issue, is it came with a windscreen sucker type holder and a belt clip carribena thingy which both are useless on a bike. Whats the best way to mount it on the bike? Not real fond of having it on the handlebar sticking up like some have.


Its a Garmin 62s

[Transalper]

Buy the RAM mount cradle for it and bolt that to whatever you want or buy more RAM parts to set up their full system how ever it may be configured to suit your needs.
If not on the handlebars then where do you have the space to position it clear of everything and viewable.
Try isolate it from Vibration a bit.

[NordieBoy]

Yep, the RAM mounts are falling-off-proof.

[Woodman]

Yep, the RAM mounts are falling-off-proof.

We will see about that. Where do you get them in Nelson?

[NordieBoy]

We will see about that. Where do you get them in Nelson?

Well, it just so happens...

[Woodman]

Well, it just so happens...

Aaaah the emporium, pm me your phone number, and how much you want for them/it and I will try to get round for a look sometime this weekend.

[NordieBoy]

It just so happens, that I don't have any :D


If, however, you got the Garmin Oregon from Cashies in Richmond, I have several spare mounts for them...

[Woodman]

Cannot download anything from Garmin or mapsource.

The computer goes through the downloading process and then tells me it has deleted it because it has a virus. Tried turning firewall off, no good. Tried swearing a lot, no good.

Why can't things be straight forward like a toaster? just an appliance after all.

Help

[JATZ]

Cannot download anything from Garmin or mapsource.

The computer goes through the downloading process and then tells me it has deleted it because it has a virus. Tried turning firewall off, no good. Tried swearing a lot, no good.

Why can't things be straight forward like a toaster? just an appliance after all.

Help

Throw the thing away. It's the devils work :mad:

Some of the best rides are had when your lost :D

[Box'a'bits]

Cannot download anything from Garmin or mapsource.
Mapsource is no longer supported. It has been superceded by Basecamp. Try downloading that, then try again. http://www8.garmin.com/support/download_details.jsp?id=4435 (http://www8.garmin.com/support/download_details.jsp?id=4435) :wacko: Many of us are using Opengps http://www.nzopengps.org/public/Latest_Global_Indexing_Mapsets/ (http://www.nzopengps.org/public/Latest_Global_Indexing_Mapsets/)

[NordieBoy]

Cannot download anything from Garmin or mapsource.

The computer goes through the downloading process and then tells me it has deleted it because it has a virus. Tried turning firewall off, no good. Tried swearing a lot, no good.

Why can't things be straight forward like a toaster? just an appliance after all.

Help

What antivirus?

[Woodman]

What antivirus?

Mcafee on this laptop and nothing on the other one, maybe windows something???. Same happens on both laptops, gets to the end of the download, then runs a security scan and deletes the download.

[Waihou Thumper]

I bought a few over the last few years and wanted to outfit the bikes and the vehicles....

Hi there, I have a few of these available.
All are really brand new, without boxes. I can include Mapsource CD and lanyards and USB cables and NZ maps, North and South Islands.
Great GPS units, flawless condition on screens and units.
PM me if you are interested....:)
Offers around $195 each plus postage.......for the 60Cs

I have also a GPSMap 62, new unit.......1.7Gb memory. If you are interested in this - $310, free postage. Loaded with NZ maps, NI and SI Topo.

I have also a Garmin GPS Map 60Cx......New unit, with all maps included and a 1Gb memory card....$285, I will include a ram cradle for the unit.

If you want any details please PM me and I will get back. I have four units ready to go, just get the RAM mounts and navigate!

I can provide Topo maps of the USA, I have a couple that are brand new CD's, some are opened but can be used still as they have the licence number etc.
Just ask me and I can sort out something....

[dino3310]

good prices matey:Punk:

[Waihou Thumper]

good prices matey:Punk:

Yep.....ono as well...:)
If there are no takers I will put some sweet packages with photographs on Trade Me...

[Woodman]

Fixed it, had to restore my laptop comletely. Amazing how much better brains work with several Steinlagers.

merry xmas.

[NordieBoy]

Fixed it, had to restore my laptop comletely. Amazing how much better brains work with several Steinlagers.

merry xmas.
"Just had to do a complete restore".
I get a shiver like someone walking over my grave when I hear those words...

[Waihou Thumper]

I bought a few over the last few years and wanted to outfit the bikes and the vehicles....

Hi there, I have a few of these available.
All are really brand new, without boxes. I can include Mapsource CD and lanyards and USB cables and NZ maps, North and South Islands.
Great GPS units, flawless condition on screens and units.
PM me if you are interested....:)
Offers around $195 each plus postage.......for the 60Cs

I have also a GPSMap 62, new unit.......1.7Gb memory. If you are interested in this - $310, free postage. Loaded with NZ maps, NI and SI Topo.

I have also a Garmin GPS Map 60Cx......New unit, with all maps included and a 1Gb memory card....$285, I will include a ram cradle for the unit.

If you want any details please PM me and I will get back. I have four units ready to go, just get the RAM mounts and navigate!

I can provide Topo maps of the USA, I have a couple that are brand new CD's, some are opened but can be used still as they have the licence number etc.
Just ask me and I can sort out something....

Well two sold on Trade me within hours of advertising.....Two left :)
What a great advertising medium, get out amongst the masses!

[Waihou Thumper]

https://buy.garmin.com/en-GB/GB/on-the-road/discontinued/streetpilot-iii/prod158.html

The cradle is still available, the only negative I see is the Garmin specific memory cartridges required ad they are expensive...
If you are lucky you could pick up a unit with one installed, then you can use it here in NZ. I like the look of them, big, bulky and robust!
You'd need to hard wire it though, the 6 batteries it needs doesn't make it track friendly....Has all of the functions required, just a good old school GPS unit.

Review can be found here http://gpsinformation.net/spiii/sp3review.htm

[Waihou Thumper]

good prices matey:Punk:


Well two sold on Trade me within hours of advertising.....Two left :)
What a great advertising medium, get out amongst the masses!


Another one sold this morning, one left...:)
Maybe they are too cheap? :niceone:

[dino3310]

and ya call me a trade me whore:laugh:

[Waihou Thumper]

and ya call me a trade me whore:laugh:

Gotta sell them mate! No good sitting on the shelf...Petrol money :)

[Waihou Thumper]

I have hardwired the Garmin Montana 650t to both bikes now. The Garmin mount is superb! it even comes with a nice tooled spanner for securing the unit to the cradle to prevent theft.
The only thing is once turned off it still charges the lithium battery from the bike battery. That means either wiring it directly to something from the ignition of just removing it at the end of the day which is of course preferable.
I actually think that this GPS unit is better than the Zumo 550/650 for bikes. It does more and it is also a handheld. I like the fact it can be portrait or landscape whichever way you mount it, it adjusts automatically for you. :)

[Old bones]

Can I ask where you purchased your Montana 650t ?

Cheers John

[pomgolian]

Got my 650T from GPS city in Auckland bloody awesome the more you use it the more things you find, John Tigerpig told me about setting up profiles which i have done as well, if you google it or search ADVrider there is a great thread on setting it up, basically you have as many icons on the screen with diferent settings for each type - so trail riding = topo maps, direct routing, diferent dashboard. Car driving = road routing with lower quality maps, diferent dashboard, and mountain biking just coz i could with topo and a couple of diferent options.

[Old bones]

Thanks for that Pomgolian!

John

[Waihou Thumper]

Can I ask where you purchased your Montana 650t ?

Cheers John

From these guys..They were the cheapest I found, loaded with the maps required and two year warranty.

http://gps-newzealand.com/index.php?route=product/category&path=57

[Transalper]

Can I ask where you purchased your Montana 650t ?

Cheers John

In the SI I'd go to this guy (who I have bought my last 2 GPS's from)... especially if you are happy with the open maps and topo.
www.kiwigps.co.nz/product.php?id_product=211 (http://www.kiwigps.co.nz/product.php?id_product=211) $920 incl.
It looks like a great GPS, a good upgrade from the 62s but almost twice the price of the 62s. I like the idea of the bigger screen and touch screen, not sure how thick glove friendly it is but then it's probably better to stop to use the controls so taking a glove off wouldn't a big deal to me anyway.
Unfortunately right now Tony at kiwigps is out of stock of the Montana 650T but more is on the way.

[Waihou Thumper]

I like the idea of the bigger screen and touch screen, not sure how thick glove friendly it is but then it's probably better to stop to use the controls so taking a glove off wouldn't a big deal to me anyway.

​No different to the Zumo 550/650 in that respect. The screen responds well and the coating on the screen holds up well in direct sunlight unlike the others. If you set up the screens correctly, the issue of flicking through to find the right page is now redundant.

[Old bones]

Thanks for your replies Waihou T and Transalper.

As it is pissing down hear I shall check out these sites and decide what I need and price I'm prepared to pay.

Happy New Year all

John

[BMWST?]

i think i wwould prefer the 600,i already have camera,and would prolly put on open gps maps.But only the 650 seems to be avaiable here?

[Old bones]

Hi Waihou T

I cannot message yet but if you could pm me your number I will ring you.

Thanks

John

[Waihou Thumper]

Hi Waihou T

I cannot message yet but if you could pm me your number I will ring you.

Thanks

John

Thanks John, PM Sent.

[Waihou Thumper]

http://www.rammount.com/Portals/0/Skins/NationalProducts/pdf/gps.pdf

This has all of them, nice catalogue.

[Waihou Thumper]

i think i wwould prefer the 600,i already have camera,and would prolly put on open gps maps.But only the 650 seems to be avaiable here?


FYI..Good price too.

http://www.valuebasket.co.nz/en_NZ/mainproduct/view/11993-AA-NA?AF=PMNZ

[Waihou Thumper]

I sold one at $215.99 and the other has reached $166.00 It finishes tonight. Get in quick if you want a good new GPS.
Happy to let it go at that as reserve has been reached.

[Woodman]

Just went out for my first ride with my new GPS.

Best way to make an enjoyable experience a pain in the ass if you ask me.:mad: Fucken infuriating piece of shit............

[Waihou Thumper]

Just went out for my first ride with my new GPS.

Best way to make an enjoyable experience a pain in the ass if you ask me.:mad: Fucken infuriating piece of shit............

What went wrong? Make a list...:)
Patience Grasshopper.....:brick:

[Woodman]

What went wrong? Make a list...:)
Patience Grasshopper.....:brick:

Upon reflection there are two issues.

1 I am now not sure what the point of it is.

2 I am not sure how to operate it.

3 I have not read any instructions.

4 Any technology that is harder to use than an electric jug is poorly designed in my opinion.

5 Too much work and not enough Woodman time does not make a good headspace for learning new shit.

6 I just ran out of Steinlager.

[Waihou Thumper]

Upon reflection there are two issues.

1 I am now not sure what the point of it is. To go out and get frikkin lost!

2 I am not sure how to operate it. Let the sky guide you.....

3 I have not read any instructions. Just play with it...(gps, not....) The more you use it the better it feels...:)

4 Any technology that is harder to use than an electric jug is poorly designed in my opinion. That is why we have Maps as well I suppose, for those that are tech challenged...

5 Too much work and not enough Woodman time does not make a good headspace for learning new shit. See a shrink!

6 I just ran out of Steinlager. Here-in lies your problem....Back to point 1.

[Waihou Thumper]

https://buy.garmin.com/en-GB/GB/on-the-road/discontinued/streetpilot-iii/prod158.html

The cradle is still available, the only negative I see is the Garmin specific memory cartridges required and they are expensive...
If you are lucky you could pick up a unit with one installed, then you can use it here in NZ. I like the look of them, big, bulky and robust!
You'd need to hard wire it though, the 6 batteries it needs doesn't make it track friendly....Has all of the functions required, just a good old school GPS unit.

Review can be found here http://gpsinformation.net/spiii/sp3review.htm

No?...Maybe not?

[NordieBoy]

Only 2 issues?

You're half way there then!

[Waihou Thumper]

Aren't they great little units.....Small, compact, loaded with extras and does everything the big guns do as well!
Load in a 1Gb SD card and load NZ Maps, or load Topo with a bigger SD Card....Bloody good, I say....
Love the size and the battery life is astounding! :)
Nordie, you use one of these don't you?

[NordieBoy]

Oregon 300 is my main GPS. Backed up by a Garmin Foretrex and my phone...

[Waihou Thumper]

eTrex Vista HCx - One arrived for me yesterday...Bought it off eBay, nice and cheap.
It is brand new, opened the box and found the batteries still inside, and looks like from day 1.....:facepalm:
Guess what the state of the terminals were like and the battery compartment itself?.....
I e-mailed the guy, stated the fact that although new, didn't you look at the interior of the GPS and check the condition? Hmm, he says....
Anyhow, :) He refunded me the full amount and said keep it! So, I have a GPS that will work off power and USB okay but the battery compartment is stuffed!

Part 2...
Found a guy in Russia who deals with GPS units, 100% feedback, but cannot speak English, nor me Ruskie! I need Colebatch :)
I sourced the part, watched a you tube video on how to dismantle it, suffice to say, the guy has shipped it literally 10 minutes after me paying for it.....:)

Part 3....
So, now I need a Torx T2 or T3,4,5? it is bloody small. I have to remove the USB power, the SD card power and transplant the new unit when it arrives.....
Total cost....Hmmm, bloody cheap for a brand new eTrex Cx. $12.50 for a tool kit with multi T, hex, philips etc....$30 Kiwi for the battery rear compartment. So, the GPS has cost me approx $60 all up.....:) Nice!

Something to be said for eBay, Paypal, and the nice guys from Russia! :niceone:

[Waihou Thumper]

Before it gets listed on Trade Me...

Everything you need for your motorbike, and vehicle.
Mounts included for two bikes, car mounts included, original box etc etc...
Maps, both Topo, NZ route able etc. Micro SD Card - 4Gb

Set up profiles for biking, driving, tramping etc. Great, if not the best unit, esp for us older blokes on bikes!

I think there is four mounts, these cost plenty!.....so plenty of scope there :)
it is all there and will ship at buyers cost or you can come over and pick up.
I am getting out of riding altogether....
I bought this just a couple of months ago from PB Technologies, so this has a NZ warranty if you require it.
To be honest though, I have had loads of GPS units and they have been awesome. Most issues are user inflicted :)

$805 includes everything you need, just mount it and ride/drive away...

http://www.trademe.co.nz/Browse/Listing.aspx?id=712030567

0272672340.....anytime.
Thanks Mark

[Waihou Thumper]

I have two of these units.
Both in very good condition, one is new condition!
the other has a couple of very minute blemishes, but not noticeable when the screen is on.

I will include the RAM cradles for the unit, the 12 v cables with the Gilsson plug for each of the unit and one I think even has the
12 v accessory for the cigarette lighter.

http://www.trademe.co.nz/Browse/Listing.aspx?id=711811375

http://www.trademe.co.nz/Browse/Listing.aspx?id=711812490

Giving up riding, so these units are now redundant to my use.

[gpcustom]

Just got my new gps it's a Garmin zumo 390lm and I also got a nz Aussie Toppo map.
Havnt used it yet but love the ram mounts also on the tenere I have put it in the centre of my bars as with the tenere the dash cluster is up really high so works well

[Waihou Thumper]

Just won one of these on eBay....
$70 kiwi...:)

Now, that is a deal....I know Eddie has a earlier model?
The specs say that I got a deal. GPS city has the mount for $10 kiwi....approx.
Guys....why spend hundreds on a gps when if you do some homework, you can get a perfect functional device,
a few dollars on the mounts (cheaper than NZ by far..)
And find your way home...:)

[Eddieb]

Just won one of these on eBay....
$70 kiwi...:)

Now, that is a deal....I know Eddie has a earlier model?
The specs say that I got a deal. GPS city has the mount for $10 kiwi....approx.
Guys....why spend hundreds on a gps when if you do some homework, you can get a perfect functional device,
a few dollars on the mounts (cheaper than NZ by far..)
And find your way home...:)



I have the Colorado 300, not sure what the difference is, just pre-installed maps or more? It's done everything I've wanted and my only gripe was the external power is no good for riding. The wind catches the cable and the connection drops.

On a kinda related but different subject. Where can I buy those eneloop batteries off the shelf, Dick Smith, harvey norman?

[Waihou Thumper]

Best place is PB Tech, cheapest too. ​

[Ribit]

I'm looking for digital maps of NZ roads that show gravel/sealed roads so i plan trips through the back roads.
Google maps doesnt specifically show them. -ive tried zooming in on satelitte view and it can be difficult to figure out if a road is gravel by looking at it like this. this therefore makes planning very slow.

Anyones Gps show gravel/sealed roads?

[Underground]

Just won one of these on eBay....
$70 kiwi...:)

Now, that is a deal....I know Eddie has a earlier model?
The specs say that I got a deal. GPS city has the mount for $10 kiwi....approx.
Guys....why spend hundreds on a gps when if you do some homework, you can get a perfect functional device,
a few dollars on the mounts (cheaper than NZ by far..)
And find your way home...:)



Want to sell it??

[Waihou Thumper]

Want to sell it??

Yes, could manage that....
Are you interested? PM me...(it is still in transit at present) :)
I have a 4Gb card ready to insert with NZ/Aus Topo maps, all that will be required are the
Ram mount cradles and Ram mount for the bike to ride and navigate. USB would be handy as well, maybe hard wire it if
you wanted or use eneloops, it is a bit of a battery whore, so a couple of spares would be handy also.
Big screen though, so that's a bonus...

[Eddieb]

I'm looking for digital maps of NZ roads that show gravel/sealed roads so i plan trips through the back roads.
Google maps doesnt specifically show them. -ive tried zooming in on satelitte view and it can be difficult to figure out if a road is gravel by looking at it like this. this therefore makes planning very slow.

Anyones Gps show gravel/sealed roads?

Here are a few http://www.adventureridingnz.co.nz/gps-tracks-rides/north-island-tracks/

[Ribit]

Thank you for the link. -but...
i'm actually trying to avoid gravel roads so looking for maps that show sealed and unsealed differently. I realize this is probably the wrong section of the Forum...

[Waihou Thumper]

Thank you for the link. -but...
i'm actually trying to avoid gravel roads so looking for maps that show sealed and unsealed differently. I realize this is probably the wrong section of the Forum...

Use a map book, they are probably the best for delineating prior and during your ride...
Just have a coffee and plan ahead....
If you are really worried about it, that is the best option, surely..:)
When I ride I make every opportunity to avoid the tar seal...in your case it might be better to rely on
the good ole' fashion way...
On a GPS....Don't really care as long as it isn't a dead end...:)

[oneblackflag]

Thank you for the link. -but...
i'm actually trying to avoid gravel roads so looking for maps that show sealed and unsealed differently. I realize this is probably the wrong section of the Forum...

Give this a try if ur using an android device. Shows seal and gravel etc so you could plan your route. https://www.google.co.nz/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&ei=H25PU5SKHcrVkwWww4HYBA&url=https://play.google.com/store/apps/details%3Fid%3Dcom.atlogis.nzmaps.free&cd=4&ved=0CDgQFjAD&usg=AFQjCNF7w29OKjWzYz-n8ssa8rxb8eUilw&sig2=jyrah38cE9izymtLNR_l4g

[Ribit]

That looks good.
Cheers Oneblackflag.....

[10bikekid]

Give this a try if ur using an android device. Shows seal and gravel etc so you could plan your route. https://www.google.co.nz/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&ei=H25PU5SKHcrVkwWww4HYBA&url=https://play.google.com/store/apps/details%3Fid%3Dcom.atlogis.nzmaps.free&cd=4&ved=0CDgQFjAD&usg=AFQjCNF7w29OKjWzYz-n8ssa8rxb8eUilw&sig2=jyrah38cE9izymtLNR_l4g

Cool, just need to get a waterproof holder for my phone now :cool:

[oneblackflag]

Cool, just need to get a waterproof holder for my phone now :cool:

Yea works pretty bloody good... Few dollars for the full version to download the topo info and use offline etc:yes:

[BMWST?]

Thank you for the link. -but...
i'm actually trying to avoid gravel roads so looking for maps that show sealed and unsealed differently. I realize this is probably the wrong section of the Forum...

Steet view shows gravel,and the trucks often stop when the road turns to gravel

[pomgolian]

Garmin 62s half price this weekend only online at www.gpscity.com not sure how it stacks with freight and conversion, ive used them a bit always good service.


Garmin 62s
Only $199.95


Just in time for the beginning of the outdoor season, the Garmin 62s is our staff pick for the best GPS on sale this Memorial Day! The 62s is the king of outdoor GPS devices, and now at $200 off, it's easier than ever to own.

Get this deal while it lasts -- it disappears on Monday!


$399.95
$199.95

[Waihou Thumper]

Garmin 62s half price this weekend only online at www.gpscity.com (http://www.gpscity.com) not sure how it stacks with freight and conversion, ive used them a bit always good service.


Garmin 62s
Only $199.95


Just in time for the beginning of the outdoor season, the Garmin 62s is our staff pick for the best GPS on sale this Memorial Day! The 62s is the king of outdoor GPS devices, and now at $200 off, it's easier than ever to own.

Get this deal while it lasts -- it disappears on Monday!


$399.95
$199.95


yep, I got that in the mail also....
$283-85 approx with the $42.00 Priority Mail shipping....
No duty either, so it is a good price should you want one.....
I have been using GPS City for a few years now, and they are good, albeit slow with the shipping. But worth the wait and the shipping prices are real, price for postage here includes insurance if lost, so understandable...

OR use the free shipping option and ship to Portland Oregon using You Shop....
That may well end up cheaper because of the volumetric size of the package. :)

[NordieBoy]

I just got myself a Garmin 910xt to replace my 401.

[Logmaker]

yep, I got that in the mail also....
$283-85 approx with the $42.00 Priority Mail shipping....
No duty either, so it is a good price should you want one.....
I have been using GPS City for a few years now, and they are good, albeit slow with the shipping. But worth the wait and the shipping prices are real, price for postage here includes insurance if lost, so understandable...

OR use the free shipping option and ship to Portland Oregon using You Shop....
That may well end up cheaper because of the volumetric size of the package. :)

Hi there WT is $283-85 in NZ dollars & seeing it closes on Monday do you think i would to late to order? Many thanks .

[Waihou Thumper]

Hi there WT is $283-85 in NZ dollars & seeing it closes on Monday do you think i would to late to order? Many thanks .

Well the site is still advertising, and yes the prices I quoted are approximate but in NZD...
Place an order if you are interested mate, considering there are some on Trade Me for over 450 NZD....

[R650R]

No no no I will not buy anymore blingy add ons.... does look like a bargain tho :)
Been thinking about a SPOT (PLB bit big for mtb) see they have good price on those too but you have to pay a subscription???

[NordieBoy]

My Spot goes on all my 2-wheeled rides with me...

[pomgolian]

Bling bling i bought a spot last year out of the US which was far cheaper than here as its good peace of mind when out on the bike or walking up rivers fishing which can be pretty remote at times - as much as i try and stick to a planned route which i leave at home i end up somewhere totally different :yes: The subscription is a small price to pay for its worth me thinks.

[Gremlin]

Sounds interesting, been thinking I need one of those thingys, sposed to help you not get lost aye :confused:
Yup :yes:

Then you know exactly where you are... except it may not be where you expected to be :confused:

[Simons]

just ordered the spot gen 3, with shipping $230nz. the us amount for shipping was $40us, bit expensive for such a small package, but still cheaper overall.
is it easy to get annual subs?

[NordieBoy]

just ordered the spot gen 3, with shipping $230nz. the us amount for shipping was $40us, bit expensive for such a small package, but still cheaper overall.
is it easy to get annual subs?

Subs are all done online via Spot's website.

I've now got 2 spare Gen 2 Spot's for sale...

[Kaituna]

Anyone used or have a Garmin 590lm?
Thinking about getting one.

[Oscar]

Anyone used or have a Garmin 590lm?
Thinking about getting one.

Looks pretty flash.
I have a Montana 650t

[NordieBoy]

Anyone used or have a Garmin 590lm?
Thinking about getting one.

Nice, but $800us rrp!

[Cary]

Anyone got an Aussie map set I could use/borrow for a Zumo 550? Queensland mainly. Tried the Aussie open map thing, too tricky for me.....

Bought a Oz map set(off T.me) for last trip & worked great but now it won't load onto gps.....

Cheers.

UPDATE: ended up updating to Aus/NZ map set thru Garmin, working ok. Test loaded some Oz tracks and looking good.

[Crim]

Hi, anyone know where I can get a 4 pin Garmin power cord (to 2 pole plug)
Thanks Crim

[BMWST?]

Hi, anyone know where I can get a 4 pin Garmin power cord (to 2 pole plug)
Thanks Crim
http://www.kiwigps.co.nz/

[Crim]

http://www.kiwigps.co.nz/

yeah thanks for that, been and seen Tony, super helpful guy and now sorted, Thanks

[BMWST?]

yeah thanks for that, been and seen Tony, super helpful guy and now sorted, Thanks
He sorted my brother for a gps and maps,and I have sought advice from him too,as you say very helpful.

[Waihou Thumper]

For the bike, car or whatever...
Put a bit of silicon around the frame or stick it inside a condom, works well on the bike..:) Or use it for the cage...
I have a 255W, 260W, 200W and a small 200 Nuvi, all with maps 2015 Navteq Aus and NZ, latest maps!

$75 each, but the 200 Nuvi, just $45...Nice and cheap.
PM me if you want, first in first served...All work, no issues.

[pete376403]

For the bike, car or whatever...
Put a bit of silicon around the frame or stick it inside a condom, works well on the bike..:) Or use it for the cage...
I have a 255W, 260W, 200W and a small 200 Nuvi, all with maps 2015 Navteq Aus and NZ, latest maps!

$75 each, but the 200 Nuvi, just $45...Nice and cheap.
PM me if you want, first in first served...All work, no issues.


PM sent.....

[Waihou Thumper]

I have available a few of these units. These are rugged bulletproof GPS, perfect for the outdoors on motorcycles...
New maps loaded, old school SD cards and the rare GPS data cards.
I can include power cables, 12v cable, and mounts for the dash.
For two models I have Touratech mounts for these...

The Garmin 2820 - Bluetooth, Mp3, etc etc...I have mount for this and cables. Not cheap this unit but bloody awesome!
The Garmin Streetpilot III, I have three of these. One has a little darker screen, but the other two, near perfect.
The Touratech mount comes with one, the others, no mounts...
Cables included etc....I can provide manuals and information on use if required...
They work, both on battery and power.

PM me for details. Offers considered of course, but I do have a price in mind for the units with Touratech mounts! :)

Thanks. Mark 0272672340

305604 305605 305606 305607 305608
Streetpilot III, I have three Streetpilot III with Touratech mount Touratech mount for 2820 and others Streetpilot 2620, I have two Streetpilot 2820, one unit only.


I can load maps for you, but the latest are on cards anyway, ready to go. I have tested these, they are good, a little slow in refreshing maps but that is to be expected with older technology. Think of this, maps are still used that are old, you can still navigate with charts that are old, but you still have the ability to get new maps as in these cases. USB cables for uploading routes etc you will provide, standard USB or mini USB. These work in Mapsource as well. The data stored is smaller but enough for both islands of NZ. I bet a few of you still have the old style SD cards somewhere as well, these are perfect for this, however the Streetpilot III have those elusive very expensive Garmin Cartridge cards for memory. Two out of three units has these.

Just let me know which ones or ones you want and we can have a chat about prices and shipping etc.
Cheers! :)

[Waihou Thumper]

Keeping in style and era...
I have tried these out and loaded with maps, so all good.

306583 306582

Touratech mounts included, cables and data cards. The first one is bluetooth and Mp3 enabled etc...

[Waihou Thumper]

http://www.trademe.co.nz/Browse/Listing.aspx?id=835587576

If interested PM me...

[pete376403]

I'm looking for a GPS for the DB1k, and realising the Garmin Nuvi I have is not suited to loading a supplied track ( unless I'm doing sometihng wrong) I've been searching trademe, EBay, and even cash converters and so far what I'm finding is that reasonably up to date Garmin handhelds of any sort are pretty expensive. F'rinstance cash converters have a GPS62 that they want $45 MORE than it sold for new.
OTOH, brand new Magellans are pretty reasonably priced.

SO will Magellans load and correctly display garmin GPX files as supplied for the Dusty. Any other bad things about Magellan?

[Transalper]

....OTOH, brand new Magellans are pretty reasonably priced.

SO will Magellans load and correctly display garmin GPX files as supplied for the Dusty. Any other bad things about Magellan?

A new Garmin eTrex 20 with NZ Open Project Topo Maps for $295 (http://www.kiwigps.co.nz/mapping-handheld/201-garmin-etrex-20.html) would be small but effective. Second thing to look at would be a good mount, direct to handlebar isn't so good because of vibrations which is why a lot of us use RAM mounts. I have previously taped an older Garmin Etrex Legend HCx to my cross bar pad, good until I wanted to walk away with it or swap the batterys. It is correct that the older Garmins have track point limitations that are an issue with the current DB file format of navigating Tracks (not Routes) containing around 2000 points.

If you look at other brands you should look in to what they do for maps, updates etc.
To know whether the particular Magellan you are looking at can handle the DB1k track files you would need to tell us which model Magellan you are looking at so we can look it up.

[pete376403]

adventurerindingnz.co.nz has a link to gps_nation on Ebay. Factory refurbished Garmin Colorado 300 $US95 Looks ok.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Garmin-Colorado-300-Handheld-Trail-GPS-010-00622-31-Authorized-Garmin-Dealer/191491433184?_trksid=p2047675.c100011.m1850&_trkparms=aid%3D222007%26algo%3DSIC.MBE%26ao%3D1%2 6asc%3D28794%26meid%3Db16f07a1ece3490ba34bc9d70b63 ade5%26pid%3D100011%26rk%3D1%26rkt%3D10%26sd%3D181 624865751

[Waihou Thumper]

adventurerindingnz.co.nz has a link to gps_nation on Ebay. Factory refurbished Garmin Colorado 300 $US95 Looks ok.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Garmin-Colorado-300-Handheld-Trail-GPS-010-00622-31-Authorized-Garmin-Dealer/191491433184?_trksid=p2047675.c100011.m1850&_trkparms=aid%3D222007%26algo%3DSIC.MBE%26ao%3D1%2 6asc%3D28794%26meid%3Db16f07a1ece3490ba34bc9d70b63 ade5%26pid%3D100011%26rk%3D1%26rkt%3D10%26sd%3D181 624865751

I saw these the other day when browsing
At less than $175 NZD....:)
You cannot go wrong with these. These are officially refurbished and are new or as good as. The only difference is the white box!
Garmin still offer a warranty but I would say only the USA would be valid. If anything goes wrong you would have to probably ship it back for repairs.
The cradles are available, they have bigger screen, loads of internal memory 384 Mb and will accept SD cards too.
At $95 plus approx $30 shipping to your door, I would consider, yep!
The bigger screen is the advantage here and it does take some time to get used to the options using the wheel, but overall they are a good GPS.
They copped a bit of flack with screens locking, software glitches but they are now stable and that's primarily the reason why they didn't sell many as the 60Cx etc came onto the market and it was flooded with
60, 60c, 60Cx, 60CSx etc.....
There are better now, Oregon series but for that price and what you require it for it will work fine.

[pete376403]

The Colorado turned up today - it's a pretty lil thang. Assuming I can work out how to use it. I have loaded the NZ Open Source maps and I have been sent the .gpx files from one of the previous Dusties, - they have been loaded onto an SD card that is now in the GPS.

What do I need to do now to be able to view the dusty track or is there more to it than that?

[Eddieb]

The Colorado turned up today - it's a pretty lil thang. Assuming I can work out how to use it. I have loaded the NZ Open Source maps and I have been sent the .gpx files from one of the previous Dusties, - they have been loaded onto an SD card that is now in the GPS.

What do I need to do now to be able to view the dusty track or is there more to it than that?

Go to Where to (Magnifying Glass) in the menu, select tracks, select your track.

[Logmaker]

Go to Where to (Magnifying Glass) in the menu, select tracks, select your track.

Took delivery of a Garmin 62st a couple of days ago , a little disappointed with product i think , plugged the external power lead sweet f all happened , stuck some AA batteries in it & it went but not for long , battery saver ON , backlight on for 15secs @ half strength , just eats batterys up , it even drags them down when device is switched OFF . Tried a number of times to get hold of a human being at Navi Technology in Auckland but to no avail , no bloody sales service whatsoever , grabbed the money & still running , sent email ,no reply !!!

Beware ladies & gentlemen , i think i may be toast ! If any inmates can give me some advice or help me make this device work like i think it should i would be most appreciative , many thanks in advance .

[Howie]

Took delivery of a Garmin 62st a couple of days ago , a little disappointed with product i think , plugged the external power lead sweet f all happened , stuck some AA batteries in it & it went but not for long , battery saver ON , backlight on for 15secs @ half strength , just eats batterys up , it even drags them down when device is switched OFF . Tried a number of times to get hold of a human being at Navi Technology in Auckland but to no avail , no bloody sales service whatsoever , grabbed the money & still running , sent email ,no reply !!!

Beware ladies & gentlemen , i think i may be toast ! If any inmates can give me some advice or help me make this device work like i think it should i would be most appreciative , many thanks in advance .

1, I assume by power lead you mean the USB lead that came with the GPS? if so it is not a power lead but allows you to connect to the gps via your PC using Basecamp or Mapsource to load tracks etc, or as a USB device. to power the GPS you need a different lead that is wired slightly differently.

2, Did a manual come with the unit if not one can be downloaded/ viewed here. http://www.gpscity.com/pdfs/manuals/62S-EN-MANUAL.pdf

It should also be available at the Garmin.com site, but the link to the Manuals seems broken at the moment.

3, Although I don't have the 62s/st model from experience I would expect good alkaline batteries to last about 8 hours use.The battery saver and backlight settings can be changed directions are in the manual. Have you fitted the Micro SD card that may have come with the unit and contains a set of Maps?

Hope this helps a bit.

[NordieBoy]

1, I assume by power lead you mean the USB lead that came with the GPS? if so it is not a power lead but allows you to connect to the gps via your PC using Basecamp or Mapsource to load tracks etc, or as a USB device. to power the GPS you need a different lead that is wired slightly differently.

Both cables will (usually) power the unit, the special cable just makes the unit think it's not connected to a computer.

Easy test is to see if it does so with no batteries in.

[Eddieb]

No idea if the 62 is the same as my Colorado but in mine there is a setting somewhere for what sort of batteries you are using in it, Ni-CAD, NimH etc, if mine is on the wrong setting for the type of batteries I'm using the batteries last bugger all.

[pete376403]

Eddie, you mentioned a Colorado - I got one recently (for the DB1K) - what sort of mounting do you have & where from?

[Logmaker]

1, I assume by power lead you mean the USB lead that came with the GPS? if so it is not a power lead but allows you to connect to the gps via your PC using Basecamp or Mapsource to load tracks etc, or as a USB device. to power the GPS you need a different lead that is wired slightly differently.

2, Did a manual come with the unit if not one can be downloaded/ viewed here. http://www.gpscity.com/pdfs/manuals/62S-EN-MANUAL.pdf

It should also be available at the Garmin.com site, but the link to the Manuals seems broken at the moment.

3, Although I don't have the 62s/st model from experience I would expect good alkaline batteries to last about 8 hours use.The battery saver and backlight settings can be changed directions are in the manual. Have you fitted the Micro SD card that may have come with the unit and contains a set of Maps?

Hope this helps a bit.
Many thanks to you all for advice , the cable appears to only for downloads etc, what i fail to understand why it drags power when device is switched off , any thoughts?

[Logmaker]

No idea if the 62 is the same as my Colorado but in mine there is a setting somewhere for what sort of batteries you are using in it, Ni-CAD, NimH etc, if mine is on the wrong setting for the type of batteries I'm using the batteries last bugger all.

Many thanks to all for comments , the cable with USB plugs appear to be only for down or uploading , what i fail to understand is why device drags down batteries when device is turned OFF , any ideas ??

[Eddieb]

Eddie, you mentioned a Colorado - I got one recently (for the DB1K) - what sort of mounting do you have & where from?

I'm using a RAM mount but I can't specifically remember where I got it from now sorry. I think it from the US.

[flashg]

Eddie, you mentioned a Colorado - I got one recently (for the DB1K) - what sort of mounting do you have & where from?


Try www.ja-gps.com.au its where i got the ram mounts for my Garmin Montana, great to deal with. Good prices i thought

[pete376403]

Try www.ja-gps.com.au its where i got the ram mounts for my Garmin Montana, great to deal with. Good prices i thought
Perfect. $17 plus whatever goes between the mount and the bars. thanks. http://www.ja-gps.com.au/RAM/ram-hol-ga27u/

[flashg]

Perfect. $17 plus whatever goes between the mount and the bars. thanks. http://www.ja-gps.com.au/RAM/ram-hol-ga27u/


I spent $78 and got all the bits i needed. One postage

[Waihou Thumper]

Perfect. $17 plus whatever goes between the mount and the bars. thanks. http://www.ja-gps.com.au/RAM/ram-hol-ga27u/



http://www.rammount.com/files/pdf/universal.pdf (http://www.rammount.com/files/pdf/universal.pdf)

This will help.....
Find and build what you require...

I recommend gpscity.....
whatever you choose just don't buy RAM here in NZ, it is too expensive! Someone is milking it.

[dino3310]

I'm using a RAM mount but I can't specifically remember where I got it from now sorry. I think it from the US.

waihou mark hooked me up on ebay wayyyyyyy cheaper than NZ

[Logmaker]

http://www.rammount.com/files/pdf/universal.pdf (http://www.rammount.com/files/pdf/universal.pdf)

This will help.....
Find and build what you require...

I recommend gpscity.....
whatever you choose just don't buy RAM here in NZ, it is too expensive! Someone is milking it.

Hi there WT , Woodman told me to contact you regards the Garmin 62s that i cant seem to master ,why would it be dragging batteries down when the device is switched OFF , rechargeable batteries last about 1hr or so ?? any ideas . Thanks.

[Waihou Thumper]

Hi there WT , Woodman told me to contact you regards the Garmin 62s that i cant seem to master ,why would it be dragging batteries down when the device is switched OFF , rechargeable batteries last about 1hr or so ?? any ideas . Thanks.

Never heard of this issue, it does seem weird?
I would say that it is broke! mate....:weep:
I have NEVER had a GPS (and I have had a few) that use batteries when off?
Perhaps try normal alkaline, then try NiMh, then try the super duper eneloops and see if there is a pattern?

Just for your information take a look at this quote...

I have a 62s. Battery Save mode on. Backlight set to 100% (anything else is hard for me to see in daylight), with a 2 minute timeout. I was traveling and caching the other day. I had loaded a set of PowerEx 2700 NiMH batteries which I had just purchased, and run through a breakin cycle and then topped off with a slow charge on my new Maha MH-C9000 charger. They lasted 4 hours before the GPSr winked out (without warning). Replaced them with a set of new Eneloops (also just charged) and got only 3 hours. I am beginning to think I have a defective GPSr.

More bells and whistles on the 62s compared to the 60Csx and other 60 series. These were and still are the best by far IMHO apart from the Montana 650 I have now.
Never the less, when either turned off or connected to the USB for use on the computer it shouldn't use battery power..
In fact, when batteries are out of the device, you can still use it from the usb and load/transfer data etc.
For it to drain so fast suggests an issue, especially using the NiMH and others such as eneloops.
The settings disabling/enabling etc aren't going to be such a large factor. With your symptoms, it points to a fault, surely?
I can get over 16 hours at full backlight, on and off etc with a basic 60Cx or CSx

[Logmaker]

Never heard of this issue, it does seem weird?
I would say that it is broke! mate....:weep:
I have NEVER had a GPS (and I have had a few) that use batteries when off?
Perhaps try normal alkaline, then try NiMh, then try the super duper eneloops and see if there is a pattern?

Just for your information take a look at this quote...

I have a 62s. Battery Save mode on. Backlight set to 100% (anything else is hard for me to see in daylight), with a 2 minute timeout. I was traveling and caching the other day. I had loaded a set of PowerEx 2700 NiMH batteries which I had just purchased, and run through a breakin cycle and then topped off with a slow charge on my new Maha MH-C9000 charger. They lasted 4 hours before the GPSr winked out (without warning). Replaced them with a set of new Eneloops (also just charged) and got only 3 hours. I am beginning to think I have a defective GPSr.

More bells and whistles on the 62s compared to the 60Csx and other 60 series. These were and still are the best by far IMHO apart from the Montana 650 I have now.
Never the less, when either turned off or connected to the USB for use on the computer it shouldn't use battery power..
In fact, when batteries are out of the device, you can still use it from the usb and load/transfer data etc.
For it to drain so fast suggests an issue, especially using the NiMH and others such as eneloops.
The settings disabling/enabling etc aren't going to be such a large factor. With your symptoms, it points to a fault, surely?
I can get over 16 hours at full backlight, on and off etc with a basic 60Cx or CSx

Many thanks for your comments , have tried ph & email Auckland but get no replys , so might have to get a bit of aggro going.

[Transalper]

I get a good solid 12 plus hours (think it's actually longer but been a while since I took that much notice) on my 62s with backlight permanently on and using the rechargeable 1900 mAh Sanyo eneloops.
Does not drain while turned off.

[Logmaker]

I get a good solid 12 plus hours (think it's actually longer but been a while since I took that much notice) on my 62s with backlight permanently on and using the rechargeable 1900 mAh Sanyo eneloops.
Does not drain while turned off.

Many thanks TA , am using new Energiser 2300mAh batteries , have sent another e/m to Navi Technology Group Auckland to ask for a replacement device & where to send this one back , Thought i was doing the right thing buying in NZ , but i am not so sure about that now!!

[Transalper]

Many thanks TA , am using new Energiser 2300mAh batteries , have sent another e/m to Navi Technology Group Auckland to ask for a replacement device & where to send this one back , Thought i was doing the right thing buying in NZ , but i am not so sure about that now!!

Sanyo Eneloops are much better quality than the Energiser, though is sounds like your problem may be bigger than that. From what I've seen having played with both the 1900mAh Eneloop lasts longer than the higher rated Energisers.
You could try a set of non rechargable Energiser Lithium ones, they are said to be pretty good. If they die fast then definately looking at the GPS sideways.

I get my GPS's in NZ from Tony at Kiwi Gps here in ChCh. Can not recomend him highly enough, fantastic after sales support, loaded the free Open NZ maps for me and gave me a good solid lesson in getting started for free.
His website shop really doesn't do him justace, he stocks more than he has listed and that includes RAM mounting stuff.
www.kiwigps.co.nz
(http://www.kiwigps.co.nz/)

[RMOTO]

Here is an article on RemoteMoto about rechargeable batteries for GPS units:

Rechargeable Batteries for GPS units (http://www.remotemoto.com/articles/rechargeable-batteries/)

[RMOTO]

This is the NZ distributor for MAHA, nice chap, good service

http://www.recharged.co.nz/

[ducatijim]

I got a bit of surplus electronix for sale :

http://www.trademe.co.nz/electronics-photography/gps/automotive/auction-852621890.htm

http://www.trademe.co.nz/electronics-photography/gps/automotive/auction-852623505.htm

Have a look, see what you think.

[pete376403]

Sanyo Eneloops are much better quality than the Energiser, though is sounds like your problem may be bigger than that. From what I've seen having played with both the 1900mAh Eneloop lasts longer than the higher rated Energisers.
You could try a set of non rechargable Energiser Lithium ones, they are said to be pretty good. If they die fast then definately looking at the GPS sideways.[/URL]

Sanyo was bought by Panasonic (at least the battery part, maybe more) so they are Panasonic Eneloops now

Quote "Panasonic Eneloop (4th generation)[edit]

Comparison between new Panasonic Eneloops and the Sanyo AA Eneloops
Following the acquisition of Sanyo by Panasonic, a fourth generation was introduced in April 2013 which states Panasonic instead of Eneloop on the label in some countries. The technological change is that the number of recharges was increased. The new model numbers are BK-3MCCE for AA and BK-4MCCE for the AAA models and they can be recharged up to 2100 times."

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eneloop

[Logmaker]

This is the NZ distributor for MAHA, nice chap, good service

http://www.recharged.co.nz/

Hi Josh , Many thanks for your links , have written all info down so will get a charger & new batteries , will see how that works in GPS .

[Logmaker]

Sanyo was bought by Panasonic (at least the battery part, maybe more) so they are Panasonic Eneloops now

Quote "Panasonic Eneloop (4th generation)[edit]

Comparison between new Panasonic Eneloops and the Sanyo AA Eneloops
Following the acquisition of Sanyo by Panasonic, a fourth generation was introduced in April 2013 which states Panasonic instead of Eneloop on the label in some countries. The technological change is that the number of recharges was increased. The new model numbers are BK-3MCCE for AA and BK-4MCCE for the AAA models and they can be recharged up to 2100 times."

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eneloop

Hi Pete376403 , Many thanks to you for info , where does one buy the above batteries??

[Logmaker]

Sanyo Eneloops are much better quality than the Energiser, though is sounds like your problem may be bigger than that. From what I've seen having played with both the 1900mAh Eneloop lasts longer than the higher rated Energisers.
You could try a set of non rechargable Energiser Lithium ones, they are said to be pretty good. If they die fast then definately looking at the GPS sideways.

I get my GPS's in NZ from Tony at Kiwi Gps here in ChCh. Can not recomend him highly enough, fantastic after sales support, loaded the free Open NZ maps for me and gave me a good solid lesson in getting started for free.
His website shop really doesn't do him justace, he stocks more than he has listed and that includes RAM mounting stuff.
www.kiwigps.co.nz
(http://www.kiwigps.co.nz/)

Many thanks TA , had a look @ web site - interesting , as you can see with other posts a lot of help has been forthcoming . Cheers .

[pete376403]

Lots more on Eneloops
http://www.candlepowerforums.com/vb/showthread.php?364607-Overview-All-eneloop-batteries-2005-2015

[TangoCharlie]

GPS Batteries

I use various Garmin GPS Units extensively at work for long periods of time.
They NEED good quality Lithium Batteries and if used will last many many times longer than any other type of battery.

On my DR650, I have however wired the Garmin to the bike battery...


VMX Steve

[Logmaker]

GPS Batteries

I use various Garmin GPS Units extensively at work for long periods of time.
They NEED good quality Lithium Batteries and if used will last many many times longer than any other type of battery.

On my DR650, I have however wired the Garmin to the bike battery...


VMX Steve

OK what brand of lithium batteries do you use ? .I have got new Maha powerex NiMH rechargeables

[Logmaker]

OK what brand of lithium batteries do you use ? .I have got new Maha powerex NiMH rechargeables

WARNING!!! Be warned do not have anything to do with a company NAVI TECHNOLOGY GROUP who purport to be AUTHORISED GARMIN Wholesaler & Dealers . They take your money & run never to be heard from again . Google them & see the raft of ripoffs they have executed.

[Waihou Thumper]

WARNING!!! Be warned do not have anything to do with a company NAVI TECHNOLOGY GROUP who purport to be AUTHORISED GARMIN Wholesaler & Dealers . They take your money & run never to be heard from again . Google them & see the raft of ripoffs they have executed.

Funny you say that. I bought a Garmin Montana a couple of years ago from these guys.
It arrived in good time and I am still using it. I was suspicious though that it did arrive from overseas but on a good note, there was no duty as it didn't breach the threshold limits. I guess at the end of the day, these companies and value basket etc, don't deserve out trade....

[Waihou Thumper]

New refurbuished item from Garmin.
Includes everything, RAM mount, cradle, bar mount etc....
USB cable, maps loaded and Mapsource CD unopened.

$290 .......postage $6.50.
PM me if you want it guys...
Hasn't been used, just sitting here waiting for a bike....:)

[gavinharriss]

I just use my phone with a good topo map app installed...

Windows Phones: NZ Topo Map app (http://www.windowsphone.com/en-nz/store/app/nz-topo-map/b861ab51-a68d-456f-9ae4-cbed66736b36)

Android Phones: New Zealand Topo Maps Pro (https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.atlogis.nzmaps) / New Zealand Topo Maps Free (https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.atlogis.nzmaps.free&hl=en)

There's apps available for iPhones as well, but the big advantage of Android and Windows Phones is that you can turn on airplane mode and still have GPS working - saves battery life no-end as the phone isn't constantly trying to find a cell phone tower signal when in the wop wops.

[gpcustom]

If anyone is interested I have a Garmin zumo 590lm motorcycle gps. fitted with a off-road topo NZ Australia map has a car mount and handle bar ram mount all wiring books and box has had little use

[Night Falcon]

what's the latest greatest GPS peeps?

Main options appear to be ...

Tomtom rider 400 - seems to have an annoyingly slow processor and throuble loading gpx files....which you have to do cost tomtoms map software is below par

Garmin, 590lm or nuvi 500 if you want to keep the price down

Cellphone on a cradle with a gps app....appealing as I already have a phone? they say...they will handle vibration with the right mount?

what's you guys using?

[flashg]

Garman Montana 650. 5 megapixal camera, touch screen (with gloves). Eyesight not as good as it used to be, but I can read the Montana. Mounted in a ram mount, also have it wired which keeps its lithium battery charged, can also use AA batteries if you want. Its waterproof for when you and the bike go under. Google is your friend for more information.

[pomgolian]

Garman Montana 650. 5 megapixal camera, touch screen (with gloves). Eyesight not as good as it used to be, but I can read the Montana. Mounted in a ram mount, also have it wired which keeps its lithium battery charged, can also use AA batteries if you want. Its waterproof for when you and the bike go under. Google is your friend for more information.

+1 Montana set mine up with several profiles (thanks to tigerpig) which you can customise for different routing like turn by turn on the road or off road so it follows a line or walking point to point (point to point)

Show ya tomorrow

[vegeman]

what's the latest greatest GPS peeps?

Main options appear to be ...

Tomtom rider 400 - seems to have an annoyingly slow processor and throuble loading gpx files....which you have to do cost tomtoms map software is below par

Garmin, 590lm or nuvi 500 if you want to keep the price down

Cellphone on a cradle with a gps app....appealing as I already have a phone? they say...they will handle vibration with the right mount?

what's you guys using?

hey NF

just been going through this palava myself, as my old trusty garmin 60csx has bit the dust, so was looking for bigger screen, and better gpx management. Smartphones are really good at those options but on one trip I did break my smartphone on the 42 traverse, and then was buggered with no phone or gps. I now don't want to have my communicagoin device as my primary gps as well. In saying that, I have now secured another smartphone for the GPS

I managed to get a sony z3 which had a sim card fault, so the value of it was low. Yet it makes a good gps. The z3 is waterproof, big screen, has a glove friendly setting, has SD card etc. I have now cache heaps of maps so it works offline. I wifi to my Samsung s7 if I need to get more maps etc.

I did a 800k test ride in the weekend, welliy-karapoti, turakina, 42-traverse, kuratau...and back, and it did well. I think the software selection options are good, but at times I miss a real bike centric GPS app, and real buttons that I can push. The smartphone market for gps is perfect for adventuring yet....but I think its alright.

I also found a waterproof wireless Qi charger that I hotglued to ram x mount to charge the S7 as well...that setup works real good as no plugs to charge the phone while riding...cool as bro

[Night Falcon]

hey NF

just been going through this palava myself, as my old trusty garmin 60csx has bit the dust, so was looking for bigger screen, and better gpx management. Smartphones are really good at those options but on one trip I did break my smartphone on the 42 traverse, and then was buggered with no phone or gps. I now don't want to have my communicagoin device as my primary gps as well. In saying that, I have now secured another smartphone for the GPS

I managed to get a sony z3 which had a sim card fault, so the value of it was low. Yet it makes a good gps. The z3 is waterproof, big screen, has a glove friendly setting, has SD card etc. I have now cache heaps of maps so it works offline. I wifi to my Samsung s7 if I need to get more maps etc.

I did a 800k test ride in the weekend, welliy-karapoti, turakina, 42-traverse, kuratau...and back, and it did well. I think the software selection options are good, but at times I miss a real bike centric GPS app, and real buttons that I can push. The smartphone market for gps is perfect for adventuring yet....but I think its alright.

I also found a waterproof wireless Qi charger that I hotglued to ram x mount to charge the S7 as well...that setup works real good as no plugs to charge the phone while riding...cool as bro

a dedicated gps phone is a great idea. One burning question....do they have the same coverage as a GPS? I'm with Vodafone and sometimes find reception a little hard to come by. GPS systems use satellites as opposed to cell towers so coverage is way better. Or do the GPS apps fix that?

[Gremlin]

a dedicated gps phone is a great idea. One burning question....do they have the same coverage as a GPS? I'm with Vodafone and sometimes find reception a little hard to come by. GPS systems use satellites as opposed to cell towers so coverage is way better. Or do the GPS apps fix that?
Depends on the mobile. Some use assisted GPS, which uses mobile reception, others are happy with true GPS. You normally find out properly when in the middle of nowhere.

I'd stay with Garmin due to open source maps, an Android/iOS that can handle the img files. It also depends what you want from the GPS. More off road biased the Montana is better, but if you want Music library, multi-bluetooth, mobile handling that sorta kit a Zumo (590 is EOL, I think the 595 is the next one) is perhaps more suitable.

I wouldn't bother with a mobile. Batteries give you enough grief with regular usage, and on the bike running GPS you need to give it a really good charging feed otherwise the charge may not even match the drain. They're not going to like the rutted roads either, what will you do re thunderstorms?

[Night Falcon]

Depends on the mobile. Some use assisted GPS, which uses mobile reception, others are happy with true GPS. You normally find out properly when in the middle of nowhere.

I'd stay with Garmin due to open source maps, an Android/iOS that can handle the img files. It also depends what you want from the GPS. More off road biased the Montana is better, but if you want Music library, multi-bluetooth, mobile handling that sorta kit a Zumo (590 is EOL, I think the 595 is the next one) is perhaps more suitable.

I wouldn't bother with a mobile. Batteries give you enough grief with regular usage, and on the bike running GPS you need to give it a really good charging feed otherwise the charge may not even match the drain. They're not going to like the rutted roads either, what will you do re thunderstorms?

Verly interesting. Kempy has leant me his Montana for a week to see if I like it so will see how it goes. It seems to have some quite good features but I'm really only interested in a GPS which can take gpx files. I have Garmin Mapsource which is a great route planning app, so staying with Garmin makes good sense. Don't need all the other stuff.

It will have to be car friendly so provided it does what I think it will the next step will be getting a good deal on one....initial inquires have a $1,000. RRP

I'm comparing it to my old Zumo 550 which was good but very basic.....I can get lost in a map shop so I definitely need a gps!

[Gremlin]

Zumos, while expensive do come with all the mounts, car, motorcycle etc, so that is certainly a cost to consider.

However, the Zumo 660 was the last to work with Mapsource. The 590 and on use Garmin Basecamp, which I don't really get along with.

[Night Falcon]

so you don't think the Montana will work with a Mapsource created gpx file? That might be a problem as I've got loads of them <_<

[BMWST?]

if you want to know Montana......go here (http://advrider.com/index.php?threads/garmin-montana.688775/) Be warned there is a LOT of info there! associated threads etc abound

[Gremlin]

so you don't think the Montana will work with a Mapsource created gpx file? That might be a problem as I've got loads of them <_<
You can create stuff in Mapsource, save, then drag into Basecamp and send to the GPS, it's just with a 660 and Mapsource you connect, send files direct etc. You can't send direct from Mapsource to a 590.

I like Mapsource being basic. I have a folder for every ride/event, save all documents, pictures, video and GPS files together while Basecamp wants to create a library of everything in one place. Instead I still create everything in Mapsource and then copy what I need into Basecamp to send to the 590, but then I'm using both the 590 and 660 on the BMW... dual GPS has it's uses ;)

[vegeman]

a dedicated gps phone is a great idea. One burning question....do they have the same coverage as a GPS? I'm with Vodafone and sometimes find reception a little hard to come by. GPS systems use satellites as opposed to cell towers so coverage is way better. Or do the GPS apps fix that?

Yes, they have full GPS coverage (American's version), as well as the newer phones support GLOSNASS (Russians GPS) and the Chinese BieDou at the same time. So They probably have more support than a Garmin. I run several GPS apps and one of them on my Android is GPS status. This shows the number of satellites it see's as well as who are the providers.

[vegeman]

Hey,
I also just used a cool service. I used google maps to find a route using the cycle mode, which gives you more off-road options. I then tool the google maps URL and pasted that into http://mapstogpx.com which then returns you a GPX file to load into your GPS of choice.

The nice thing again about phone based, is that its Internet connected, so getting the GPX file into the Androids map was a peice of piss.

As for storing all your files, I keep them on Dropbox, so I can get them from any device.

[pomgolian]

so you don't think the Montana will work with a Mapsource created gpx file? That might be a problem as I've got loads of them <_<

Just basecamp which isn't great but functional, you could save all your files to your PC then import them into basecamp into new files you create so all still there.

Sometimes you just gotta move with the times as with all these things they eventually drop support so you have no choice anyway.

That paper road we looked at didn't go over the railway line, as we pulled out I noticed a track which google earth confirmed was the entrance so there's another trip.

[Transalper]

so you don't think the Montana will work with a Mapsource created gpx file? That might be a problem as I've got loads of them <_<

Yes it will accept .gpx files that were created with mapsource but you will not be able to use Mapsource to transfer it to the Montana, there are two other was to do it though.
1 use the Basecamp program to do the transfer (file does not have to be created with Basecamp, you can import it to Basecamp from where ever you have saved it on the computer then do the transfer, no conversion necessary)
2 or you could just do the transfer as if the Montana was a usb drive without using any programs.

Basecamp is a better program, many more cool gpx editing features than mapsource but yes does take some extra learning and has some annoying (usless to me) extras too.

[drbandit]

Can anyone tell me why the latest garmin maps are missing lots of roads we like to ride? I have to load old maps into my garmin gps. is it because of campervans going down the wrong road?? If I want to use a new device with the latest maps they don't include all the old roads we ride..
Cheers.

[Gremlin]

Can anyone tell me why the latest garmin maps are missing lots of roads we like to ride? I have to load old maps into my garmin gps. is it because of campervans going down the wrong road?? If I want to use a new device with the latest maps they don't include all the old roads we ride..
Cheers.
I don't bother using Garmin maps. Use the NZOpenGPS project maps. Any errors are simply notified and the mappers correct.

[FLUB]

I don't bother using Garmin maps. Use the NZOpenGPS project maps. Any errors are simply notified and the mappers correct.
I second that. Their maps are superb and even include roadworks diversions. They're updated every Friday but I find that updating every couple of months is enough. Garmin maps (or any other official gps map) are at least 6 months old when they are released.

Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk

[RDJ]

RIP the faithful Zumo 550... & Hail (moderately but not fulsomely) the Zumo 595LM.

A brief update after I retired my US-focused Zumo 550 after 38,000 miles and many years on four continents.

On the plus side; it was very reliable and very bike-oriented and definitely weather-proof (unscathed in serious rain in Singapore, Thailand, the US, you name it).

On the minus side, nothing bad until the Garmin smurfs refused to update its maps and other non-OEM solutions were dysfunctional. Then, navigation started to suck.

The last few years I have annually updated with a Garmin map SD card but in the end analysis, the 550 was no longer up to it.

I still use a backup Zumo 550 in NZ with a NZ-based SD map. But right now I am on an extended assignment in the US and planning to ride from LA to Daytona in a month; so I bought a Zumo 595LM (with tire pressure monitor units).

Plus: fast start-up, finds satellites very quickly; visibly minutes faster than the 550. Reliable tire pressure monitoring. Waaaay much better screen than the 550 even in Arizona sunlight. A more responsive screen with gloves on. Traffic and map updates have proven their worth last weekend on a fast PHX-LA-PHX ride. As good fuel monitoring as the 550 but much better POIs. Finding gas stations is more reliable by far. Finding a hotel at the end of a riding day is much easier by far. Definitely better screen sensitivity with the same gloves.

Minus: the price. Jeez! USD990 with the tire monitors. And, still a screen that washes out in 'High Noon' sunlight. Limited screen real estate by comparison with automobile-centric Garmin units.

I do not use (do not like) en-route voice prompts so I cannot tell you how connecting to a smartphone works.

That said; overall: actually, a worthwhile upgrade. No regrets.

[Scubbo]

anyone used one of these devices or similar? thinking it could come in handy with lack of cell signal in most places to update the worried pregnant wife back home ---

https://www.findmespot.com/en/

[RDJ]

Have carried one consistently for years in the US, Asia, assorted Trashcanistans.

On the plus side, really good for seeing where you have been in the US... And as you said, providing visual updates to family at home. Internationally, satellite service compatibility sucks.

On the minus side, not good of the "beaten track". Signal's frequently lost and canyons, ravines, valleys etc. That doesn't matter if you're tracking your progress as when signal resumes tracking resumes... But it would matter if you came to grief in one of those locations. IMO, YMMV.

[Scubbo]

i've found the places I go, google maps still works on my phone just no cell signal to transmit a message --- reckon in these situations it'd work? (thanks for the info too RDJ!)

[RDJ]

Hey Scubbo, I believe the short answer to your question is 'yes'.

To be fair to the SPOT people, I should clarify that SPOT can pick up a signal where there are simply no cell towers; so if you're out in the middle of the desert for example - riding through places like Utah - the SPOT unit will reliably track you through secondary roads when the only cell towers are beside the slab, if you had to rely on cellphone signals.

But, SPOT is extremely dependent (like most sat technology) on a clear line of sight to the sky. Places where I noticed it simply fails, have been as diverse as riding through the Everglades, canyon-carving up into the hills from Pacific Coast Highway near Malibu, getting helicoptered low-down near the Colorado in the Grand Canyon, riding through heavily forested Oregon and so forth.

See here for their advisory on getting signals https://www.findmespot.com/downloads/SPOT3_User_Guide.pdf
(pages 2&3).

And you do get excellent results when you have clear line-of-sight. Hope that helps.

[NordieBoy]

Riding in the valleys around Nelson and I might get 3 track points successfully out in a 3 hour ride.
The chances of it facing north every 10min for a good length of time are almost nil.

Stop for a drink/food however and that gives it a much better chance.

[Scubbo]

Thanks guys, I just need a method to submit "I'm Ok" message every now and then out of cell reception so sounds like it should do what I'm after

[CRM]

I have been using a Tomtom app on my iphone and more recently google maps but thought I'd try a dedicated GPS so bought a Garmin Oregon 600 second hand and I'm trying to figure out where to get a good mount for putting it on my bike. I have a ram mount but would rather mount it on the crossbar above the speedo. I tried Noel Leeming to see if they have the cradle but don't stock.Any ideas?

I did get a micro SD card and managed to download the latest Open GPS map onto the card and get that working - so far so good. All a bit new to me but I'm keen to use for road navigation in general plus finding and recording tracks. The Oregon runs on batteries but if you do plug in via the USB does that take over and preserve the batteries?

[pete376403]

I have been using a Tomtom app on my iphone and more recently google maps but thought I'd try a dedicated GPS so bought a Garmin Oregon 600 second hand and I'm trying to figure out where to get a good mount for putting it on my bike. I have a ram mount but would rather mount it on the crossbar above the speedo. I tried Noel Leeming to see if they have the cradle but don't stock.Any ideas?

I did get a micro SD card and managed to download the latest Open GPS map onto the card and get that working - so far so good. All a bit new to me but I'm keen to use for road navigation in general plus finding and recording tracks. The Oregon runs on batteries but if you do plug in via the USB does that take over and preserve the batteries?

I have a Garmin Colorado and the USB power does preserve the batteries, but it doesn't charge them. AFAIK the higher end Garmins will charge the batteries via usb.
I use a RAM mount but I've also got a tether attached to the bars - just in case.

[MikeJ]

Hi, you can buy a ram cradle for your Oregon 600 via trademe or gadgetguys. You may want to consider chucking the stock bars and replacing them with alloy fat bars. You will need adapters to hold the oversized bars. The stock bars will bend even in the slightest tip over. Without the crossbar you can then mount the ram cradle onto a metal plate that bolts onto either 2 or 4 bolts that hold the bars. If you dont want to change the bars then using the cradle and various arms and balls you will still be able to get the cradle close to the crossbar either in landscape or portrait configuration. Using a straight USB connector isnt advisable. Most fail from the constant vibrations from wind, engine, handlebar turning and the road. The connection can be made completely fail proof by using the Garmin "USB bare wire power cable 010-11131-10" It has a right angle plug that can be held in place without vibrating (using tape or dense sponge etc) Dont be tempted to use a cheaper Chinese clone USB power source. The genuine Garmin one is the best. Wire it directly to the battery with a switch or plug. Just remember to switch off if not using the bike for some weeks.
I`am assuming you have downloaded the Open GPS Auto routing as well as the maps.
Once you start recording tracks get into the habit of deleting your "current track" at the start of each track then "saving" at the end before moving on or turning off the GPS. If you dont save and then turn off the GPS then turn it on again in some other location it will automatically join the tracks together with a line. Its easy to delete via Mapsource but it can get tedious and time consuming if you have lots of tracks recorded.

[CRM]

Hi, you can buy a ram cradle for your Oregon 600 via trademe or gadgetguys. You may want to consider chucking the stock bars and replacing them with alloy fat bars. You will need adapters to hold the oversized bars. The stock bars will bend even in the slightest tip over. Without the crossbar you can then mount the ram cradle onto a metal plate that bolts onto either 2 or 4 bolts that hold the bars. If you dont want to change the bars then using the cradle and various arms and balls you will still be able to get the cradle close to the crossbar either in landscape or portrait configuration. Using a straight USB connector isnt advisable. Most fail from the constant vibrations from wind, engine, handlebar turning and the road. The connection can be made completely fail proof by using the Garmin "USB bare wire power cable 010-11131-10" It has a right angle plug that can be held in place without vibrating (using tape or dense sponge etc) Dont be tempted to use a cheaper Chinese clone USB power source. The genuine Garmin one is the best. Wire it directly to the battery with a switch or plug. Just remember to switch off if not using the bike for some weeks.
I`am assuming you have downloaded the Open GPS Auto routing as well as the maps.
Once you start recording tracks get into the habit of deleting your "current track" at the start of each track then "saving" at the end before moving on or turning off the GPS. If you dont save and then turn off the GPS then turn it on again in some other location it will automatically join the tracks together with a line. Its easy to delete via Mapsource but it can get tedious and time consuming if you have lots of tracks recorded.

Cool thanks for the info. I have a RAM mount that I use an aquabox on to hold my cellphone - been using this for navigation, but I like to keep that there so I can see if I get any messages or calls when I'm riding. My idea is to mount the Oregon on the bar above the speedo that hold the screen on the CRF250 rally, so looking for something that will go straight on there. This kind of thing: http://www.thegadgetguys.co.nz/index.php?route=product/product&path=59&product_id=1196&limit=25.

I'm still playing with the download getting familiar with how it works. I downloaded the one that says: Cross-Platform (Windows / Mac / Linux etc) gmapsupp.img - works with Nuvi / Zumo and most other Garmin GPS 'x' series with SD or micro SD storage Does not require Garmin MapSource

Do I need to download auto routing as well? Can't seem to see that in downloads.

And yes I probably will replace the bars but the next priority is the seat - not made for 5-6 hours days on the road :/

[JATZ]

Congratulations on choosing an awsome GPS. I've had mine for a couple of years now. Still working well. I have the nzopen maps, most of Aus (free ones) and nz/Aus topo maps currently installed
The link for the mount goes to a bicycle mount (?) Do yourself a favour and get a ram mount, either from motomox or try mapworld in Chch. My unit was mounted portrait style on the bars just below the gauges on the beemer, currently just the cradle is screwed to the dash on the drz400. I use a genuine garmin 12v supply and its hardly ever given trouble, worth the investment and cheaper than masses of battery's in the long run
You don't need to "download" auto routing. The GPS does it automatically. But only up to 50 way points. If using more, such as the RemoteMoto routes or advnz routes, turn navigation to off road. The line doesn't follow the road but goes straight from point to point. Easy when you get the hang of it.

[pete376403]

I've got Basecamp installed on an iMac and have imported tracks from the Garmin (colorado) ok. One of the Basecamp options is to "view current map area in Google Earth".
Google Earth Pro is installed but even if it is open, selecting the option in Basecamp to view results in "Google Earth could not be opened".
Plenty of hits for Windows PCs and how to fix this (usually but running regsrvr32 from command prompt), nothing for Mac. Any ideas?

[bobjac]

I've got Basecamp installed on an iMac and have imported tracks from the Garmin (colorado) ok. One of the Basecamp options is to "view current map area in Google Earth".
Google Earth Pro is installed but even if it is open, selecting the option in Basecamp to view results in "Google Earth could not be opened".
Plenty of hits for Windows PCs and how to fix this (usually but running regsrvr32 from command prompt), nothing for Mac. Any ideas?

had same problem , download older version of google earth . new version does not support basecamp [works ok on my mac]

[pete376403]

had same problem , download older version of google earth . new version does not support basecamp [works ok on my mac]

Hey thanks, that worked. I'm a Mac noob after years of PC, things are quite a bit different.