GPS mapping and GPS units you use

[monchopper]

I'm trying to get an idea of what the most popular mapping software being used and what kind of GPS devices people use.

I currently use Memory map along with the Freshmaps Cadastral to find, research and map new routes. Just wonder what other people use. Does anyone know of a product that has the cadastral (basically shows paper roads) and the topo map in one?

[reofix]

great ... still a computer though ... so sometimes dumber than a sack of hammers

[Hitcher]

Use the site search facility to search for such things as Garmin or Tomtom, etc. You'll find that there has been much discussion on this topic before.

Garmin zumo 550 FTW.

[Gremlin]

Zumo 550, Mapsource, NZ Open GPS Maps.... easy

[NordieBoy]

Garmin, MapSource, Open GPS NZ Maps, Google Earth, GPSBabel.

I had a play with a Topo of the Nelson area but was too difficult.

[2much]

The Zumo 550 is old, fat and over priced... check out the Nuvi 550, not perfect, but none of them are. Don't bother with Tomtom

[Hitcher]

The Zumo 550 is old, fat and over priced.

The price is coming down all the time. But I am curious as to your comments about its age and fatness and the issues these appear to be creating for you.

[Finn]

Are there any compact size GPS units that are rechargeable?

P.S. I bought one of the first Navman GPS units that I want to sell if anyone wants to make an offer...

[2much]

The price is coming down all the time. But I am curious as to your comments about its age and fatness and the issues these appear to be creating for you.

It's an old design plain & simple, compare it too any of the current automotive units out there and it's bulky. It's looks like the units of 5-10 years vintage. Perhaps this isn't a problem on a large cruiser/tourer, and if it suits your needs then great.

My personal choice of sportbikes provide less space in the cockpit, therefore the more compact the unit is the better. I also don't like to leave the GPS on the bike (or in the car) and the Nuvi is the size of a wallet, it'll easily fit in your back pocket. The nuvi is designed to be swapped between bike and car (as well as walking, cycling and boating), a feature that I find particularly convenient. All this for €200 cheaper (incl mounting kit) than the Zumo (sorry euro market here but imagine NZ is comparable).

My question to you would be, with the new Nuvi 550 available now, why wouldn't you recommend it over the Zumo at that price? Unless of course you really must have the MP3 player and Bluetooth

[Hitcher]

The zumo 550's size would on most bikes be a non-issue. It should be located where it can be easily seen and used. There's usually no room in a sportsbike "cockpit" for anything, including the OEM instruments, so that consideration is a bit of a non issue. A nice big easy to view screen comes with space considerations, I guess. Also adding to its "bulk" is the weatherproof mounting bracket. The two combined would probably force a sportsbike rider into having to sit on the pillion seat.

The great thing about the zumo compared to nearly everything else is its weather protection (you don't need to wrap it in cling film in case of rain or get some nutty drop-over cover that means you can't use it). Also a big plus is the easy use of its controls with a gloved finger.

[NordieBoy]

The Nuvi 550 does look like a good deal but if I was getting a GPS with money no object then the Zumo would be the one.
MP3 and Bluetooth a big+

I would actually go out and get a 2nd hand Quest though.

[Eddieb]

I have a Garmin Colorado 300 mounted in a RAM mount. It gives a very good amount of screen real estate for a relatively small size, it's fractionally larger than a 60Csx but with probably 40% more screen area and costs about 30% less than a Zumo.

It's waterproof to IpxV7 or whatever the standard is called, does all your routing etc, plus handles off road where the car ones don't tend to so well, and has tons of other features like tide times, area calculations, descent rates, temp etc.

My one problem with it has been a suspect power socket and it's currently with the dealer to get that resolved. I'm not sure if thats a single production run issue or all of them have it. Anecdotally I've heard the first run had a couple of issues like that that have since been resolved.

[Skinny_Birdman]

I'm trying to get an idea of what the most popular mapping software being used and what kind of GPS devices people use.
Just wonder what other people use. Does anyone know of a product that has the cadastral (basically shows paper roads) and the topo map in one?

The ones already mentioned are probably much cheaper, but we use Terraview Platinum at work (just checked, $1000 per annum for a single license :eek:), which has cadastral boundaries, MS260 topo and street maps and lots of other nice layery things, with the option of high-res aerial photography as an add-on($2000). For navigation we use the Garmin 60CSx, which is smallish and light, but probably a bit limited in functionality for most people's tastes.

Cheers
A

[SPman]

For the car , we've got a Navig8r....4.3 inch screen, SD card, bluetooth, earphone jack, plays music, videos, etc etc, - $168 from Harvey Normans, with Australia wide map......and a sodding speed limit alert that tells you to slow down when you're 15k over the limit! Apart from that, it works great -
Mst. likes it, though...we're still figuring out how to adapt it to the bike......

[monchopper]

I have a standard old pocket pc with a Compact Flash GPS that runs memory Map. Am I missing out on anything in regards to the Garmin range?

[2much]

The zumo 550's size would on most bikes be a non-issue. It should be located where it can be easily seen and used. There's usually no room in a sportsbike "cockpit" for anything, including the OEM instruments, so that consideration is a bit of a non issue. A nice big easy to view screen comes with space considerations, I guess. Also adding to its "bulk" is the weatherproof mounting bracket. The two combined would probably force a sportsbike rider into having to sit on the pillion seat.

The great thing about the zumo compared to nearly everything else is its weather protection (you don't need to wrap it in cling film in case of rain or get some nutty drop-over cover that means you can't use it). Also a big plus is the easy use of its controls with a gloved finger.


Well the Nuvi fits quite nicely on the TL without inhibiting the view of the gauges. That consideration may be a non issue if you ride a bus, however for myself and others it is important. Personally I never saw the need to own a GPS in NZ, however in Europe it is almost a necessity. And I don't want that to mean I have to make the sacrifice of riding a sport-tourer.


A nice big easy to view screen comes with space considerations

Come on Hitch, You're getting lazy in your old age. You used to make this fun... They're both the same size screens (3.5") so your aging eyes shouldn't have a problem with the nuvi ;)... And while we're mentioning your lack of homework...

The nuvi 550 is waterproof (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ALDiGADCl9c)... otherwise I wouldn't be recommending it. It is slightly larger than the other nuvis for this reason, however nothing like the Zumo. So as you would say, "so that consideration is a bit of a non issue." Altho it does point back to my comment earlier that the design is aged.

Yes true, the Zumo has nice big fat buttons. But is operating a touch screen that hard? I haven't had a problem with it yet, even with winter gloves. And altho I've never operated a Zumo, I would hazard a guess that you still need to utilise the touch for various functions? So again, another moot point.

Mate, when it's time to replace the Zumo I recommend you check it out, you may be pleasantly surprised.

[2much]

I have a standard old pocket pc with a Compact Flash GPS that runs memory Map. Am I missing out on anything in regards to the Garmin range?

Next time you come over to europe for a trip come by here and borrow mine, you can find out for yourself

[NordieBoy]

I have a standard old pocket pc with a Compact Flash GPS that runs memory Map. Am I missing out on anything in regards to the Garmin range?

Waterproofness.

[CrazyFrog]

I'm selling my Garmin eTrex Legend HCx on TradeMe listed tonight, about a year old, great unit but have just been given a GPSMap 60CSx so the eTrex is going.
Have found it reliable and robust, no grizzles apart from smallish screen. IMO, small is good on the bike, don't want huge gadgets cluttering up my instruments.
I'm using NZ Alpha routing maps on the eTrex, and have NZ topo maps (Freshmaps?)on the 60CSx. I find the less detailed Alpha routing maps easier to read (no contour lines, buildings,etc) and maps still have just about all gravel roads on, a lot of forestry roads as well, and most 4wd routes.

[NighthawkNZ]

I use Garmin Quest, Garmin Mapsourse and the Free NZ Maps

[JATZ]

Right, I'm having some issues with loading routes onto MrsJ's map62 :facepalm:
I have saved the D.B.1000 route (a gpx file) and it appears to have loaded onto the GPS but I can't find it, I can't find anything in the manual about where it may have gone either.
Also.... I can create a route on Mapsource (a gdb file) and transfer it to my 76CS, but try as I, might I can't get the same file into the 62 :(

Any ideas ? Anyone ? chokie fish to the person who solves my problem :D

[Waihou Thumper]

Right, I'm having some issues with loading routes onto MrsJ's map62 :facepalm:
I have saved the D.B.1000 route (a gpx file) and it appears to have loaded onto the GPS but I can't find it, I can't find anything in the manual about where it may have gone either.
Also.... I can create a route on Mapsource (a gdb file) and transfer it to my 76CS, but try as I, might I can't get the same file into the 62 :(

Any ideas ? Anyone ? chokie fish to the person who solves my problem :D

I have the 60csx, I will try and load it now and see if works...I thought it would be in routes right? let you know...

[JATZ]

BTW.... Geocaches load straight in off the website, she's buggered off to find one down the end of our street now :wait:

[Waihou Thumper]

ok Jatz, it worked, loaded onto the GPS fine with the waypoints. BTW, are your routes full? Try downloading them to Mapsource, then save them in a file, load DB1K all four of them, and see if they are there...

[JATZ]

ok Jatz, it worked, loaded onto the GPS fine with the waypoints. BTW, are your routes full? Try downloading them to Mapsource, then save them in a file, load DB1K all four of them, and see if they are there...
Routes should be empty. she only got the thing yesterday and it hasn't left the house before now :facepalm:
My Mapsource won't open the D.B. files, wrong format, they are a gpx, mapsource only acepts gdb ?

[Waihou Thumper]

Routes should be empty. she only got the thing yesterday and it hasn't left the house before now :facepalm:
My Mapsource won't open the D.B. files, wrong format, they are a gpx, mapsource only acepts gdb ?

Naa, I downloaded them straight from the site, opened up in Mapsource fine....I didn't care what suffix was, it linked to Mapsource straight away.
Route 250 V.1, Garmin GPS Database 164 KB
File d/l successful? not corrupt?
If it is successful, Mapsource tells you it has been transferred too....
Sorry mate, not much of a help I suppose you tried all of those things?

[JATZ]

Naa, I downloaded them straight from the site, opened up in Mapsource fine....I didn't care what suffix was, it linked to Mapsource straight away.
Route 250 V.1, Garmin GPS Database 164 KB

Hmmmm :scratch:

All I get is...."db1k-2012-route-250-V1.gpx" is not a valid Mapsource file and could not be opened :mad:

Oh yeah... one more thing.....:brick:

[Waihou Thumper]

Hmmmm :scratch:

All I get is...."db1k-2012-route-250-V1.gpx" is not a valid Mapsource file and could not be opened :mad:

ok, then there is an issue with transfer or associating the files somewhere...Mine doesn't have the .gpx
When you d/l it, just save to my documents and let the comp do the rest. Did you save it as a .gpx?
I don't think there is a need, Mapsource finds it and the icon is associated with it. Was in my case.

[JATZ]

ok, then there is an issue with transfer or associating the files somewhere...Mine doesn't have the .gpx
When you d/l it, just save to my documents and let the comp do the rest. Did you save it as a .gpx?
I don't think there is a need, Mapsource finds it and the icon is associated with it. Was in my case.



Nup... giving up before I smash something :bash:
How big are the route files ? the ones I have downloaded are only 89kb :eek: is that big enough ?

[Transalper]

OK, just seen this thread, I have all the answers and Ryan and I have been making a kind of GPS FAQ video for youtube but I know the Jatz's are dial up peps so may not help much.
PM me your land line number mr Jatz and I'll fix u up.
The GPS Map62s is completely different to the Map60 when it comes to file transfers.

Basecamp is what you really need for the 62s... but I will ask what version of Mapsource you have anyway as it sounds like you may have an old version running?
We are using Mapsource v6.16.2 for Zumos and Etrex legends and the Map60 but Basecamp for the Map62s and probably need that for some of the other newer units too.
BTW Basecamp is a 100Mb download so when stuck on dialup it may be quicker to get someone up there to download it for you and ride over to get it on CD or memory card.

Oh and yes 89kb is the correct size for the 250point .gpx file.

[Transalper]

Ok again, had a second go with my 62s for an alternative and maybe simpler method but maybe not so reliable....
anyway I usually turn on my Map62s and let it settle in before plugging in to the USB as I have had the odd corrupted file by just plugging it in to USB while it was turned off.
so try this...

1 turn on the Map62s
2 once it has finished booting up plug in to USB.
3 If the PC asks if you want to open the folder Garmin GPSmap 62s then say yes.
If it didn't do that automatically then do it manually.... go to the 'Start Button' on the task bar, 'My Computer', then find the 'Garmin GPSMAP 62s and open it.

You should now have the Garmin folder open containing folders Documents, Garmin, and maybe autorun.inf

4 Open the Garmin folder.

You should now have displayed a bunch of folders and other files.

5 Open the folder called GPX

6 Take the db1k-2012-route-250-V1.gpx from where ever you downloaded it to and copy it in to this GPX folder.

7 Unmount the GPS and unplug the GPS then turn the GPS back on.
It should boot and at some point have a little progress bar appear and dissapear again during the process.

8 When ready on the GPSmap 62s press the 'Find' button, highlight the 'Routes' icon and press 'enter' then you should see the DB routes in the list.

Try it and let us know.

Note if you have the PC set to hide extensions you may not see the .gpx on the end of the file name. There are a lot of other tweaks on a PC and GPS that may make the way things display and behave different to how it does on mine so it is a bit hard to cover all the bases.

[JATZ]

OK, just seen this thread, I have all the answers and Ryan and I have been making a kind of GPS FAQ video for youtube but I know the Jatz's are dial up peps so may not help much.
PM me your land line number mr Jatz and I'll fix u up.
The GPS Map62s is completely different to the Map60 when it comes to file transfers.

Basecamp is what you really need for the 62s... but I will ask what version of Mapsource you have anyway as it sounds like you may have an old version running?
We are using Mapsource v6.16.2 for Zumos and Etrex legends and the Map60 but Basecamp for the Map62s and probably need that for some of the other newer units too.
BTW Basecamp is a 100Mb download so when stuck on dialup it may be quicker to get someone up there to download it for you and ride over to get it on CD or memory card.

Oh and yes 89kb is the correct size for the 250point .gpx file.

Cheers T.A. :niceone:

p.m on it's way

I'm not doing the D.B. just trying to use a known good file to upload to gps

[cooneyr]

Time for the embarrassment and dissing. Thanks to TA and TimG for their assistance. Check out this vid on youtube about getting the DB1k files onto various GPS models. Apologies for the crap narration. I'll be putting a link on the 2012 DB1k thread and the DB1k website.

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/dLs28xfttnw" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

This process will work for other files as well though you obviously need to think about if you set the route file up for on road or off road routing when you created it (or stole it from another source).

Cheers R

[NordieBoy]

Yep. Easiest is drag and drop into the GPX folder and then check the routes on the GPS.

Make sure it's on off-road navigation for the DB1K ones as after a few seconds it'll be calculating and then half the waypoints will probably disappear...

[Trials Rider]

OK I know this has been thrashed around but technology is moving fast and changing all the time, I have a Garmin Nuvi 765 which is basically a car unit, I want to get another GPS for the bike and bush.

There are that many models now I dont know where to start, main thing I want is water proof and bike friendly so I thought I would light the fuse, stand back and see what happened.

If you have a GPS which is easy to use can you give me the model number please.

[Jantar]

Up to now I've been using a Garmin Etrex Legend Hcx. I have just upgraded to the latest Garmin Etrex @30.

Although the screen size is a bit small they are both high definition, easy to use and can run on batteries or be hard wired via a mini usb plug. Uploading and downloading is a breeze. Garmin make a variety of mounts that allow the unit to be securely clipped to your handlebars.

[Eddieb]

Just to be a bore, this has been thrashed to death as recently as the last month or so. I'm sure there's been no major advances in technology in that time so do a search.

[Trials Rider]

Just to be a bore, this has been thrashed to death as recently as the last month or so. I'm sure there's been no major advances in technology in that time so do a search.

Cool, can you past the link up, I cant find it on the system, the search option doesn't work well.

[Jantar]

Cool, can you past the link up, I cant find it on the system, the search option doesn't work well.

I've merged the two latest threads, and made it a sticky for future refernce.

[Trials Rider]

I've merged the two latest threads, and made it a sticky for future refernce.

Brilliant, thanks for that, I am not that techno so any help is good help, we should all buy GPS's on the same day and be done with it.

[cooneyr]

I just wrote an email to a guy asking about GPS's for the dusty. I'll post it in below as a perspective piece.




I'll answer this with comments rather than direct answers unfortunately.

If you are not budget constrained and want this unit purely for the bike and primarily around town with some adventure riding then a Garmin Zumo is the way to go
https://buy.garmin.com/shop/shop.do?cID=135

I don't recommend car units due to water/dust proofing, powering, ease of button use issues.

If you want to do mainly adventure riding (and also tramping/walking) then you have more choices
https://buy.garmin.com/shop/shop.do?cID=145

The Garmin Montana and Oregon are touch screen which is good and bad. They tend to have bigger screens (good) but harder on batteries and not sure about screen durability with the dust and grit etc. The Montana 650 is a very nice unit - probably the pic of the Montana and Oregon bunch. I've already got topo's so I'd probably not go for the Montana 650t though topos are bloody nice to have.

GPSMap 6? series is seen as the premium hand held, more tramping orientated units. 62stc is the top of this line but you need to think about if you need the topos and the camera. Most I know go for the 62s which is just missing the topo's and the camera. Very nice unit, slightly bigger screen than the eTrex series, slightly worse battery life, easier to use given more buttons (less wading through menus). The GPSMap 7? Units are for boaties as they float. Apart from floating and buttons above screen they are the same as the 6?

eTrex series is the budget conscious version of the GPSMap 6? Units. Slightly smaller screen, longer battery life but the eTrex 30 has all the functions of the GPSMap 62s, just slightly harder to use with less buttons. The 10, 20, 30 are the new units and the Legend, Vista, Summit, Venture etc are the older models. A few years back the H version of the Legend, Vista etc was built with a high sensitivity receiver which actually made it better at keeping at satellite lock than the GPSMap models at time. The eTrex use to have a lower sensitivity receiver than the GPSMap hence was the budget version but this is no longer the case.

I've personally got a eTrex Legend Hcx which is pretty much the equivalent of the eTrex 20 except for a couple of extra software features on the newer 20. I'd personally go for a 62s if budget was not an issue or I'd the eTrex 30 if budget was an issue. If budget is a really big issue the cheapest unit I'd get is the eTrex 20. Only reason I'd not go for a 62 with an s or a t is that I'd not bother with a camera or the topo maps as I don't need them.

Sorry the answer is not more straight forward but hope this helps.

[NordieBoy]

I run an Oregon 300 with topo's and all the fruit.
The touch screen works well although I must get around to putting some protection on it sometime.

If I was spending someone elses money, I'd get a Montana.
Larger screen, portrait and landscape mode...

The both have "profiles" so I have one set up as "work" with road maps, no tracking, geocaches off etc.
The "Adventure" profile shows topo, roads, geocaches, tracks etc.
The TT350 profile also shows speed and time as it's hiding the speedo.

The DB1K profile shows roads, topos, time and dist to next waypoint, off-road routing and large text for wp's.

[Trials Rider]

OK have had al look at some GPS's I like the following

Garmin 62s

Garmin Zumo 660

Garmin Montana 650T

If you have one of these can you tell me anything you dont like about it or any technical issues with it, any help appreciated

[ADVGD]

OK have had al look at some GPS's I like the following

Garmin 62s



G'day mate, I don't normally particpate in the numerous GPS threads, but for you... :)

...I have used a 62s for quite some time now, I like the navigation, functionality and extensively customizable screens making for quick and easy use on the bike in motion. Ideal size and durability to take off the bike and use for fishing, hunting tramping etc, it is the same unit that all the DOC employees on foot use due to it having remarkable reception under heavy bush cover. The first unit periodically shut down, I sent it back and Garmin gave me a new one, Mapworld said it was the first they'd heard of such an issue, have had no similar issues since. It can be a bit slow panning or zooming large distances on the map (eg 100km+) when you are simultaneously tracking a route (no doubt the processor will be working overtime) but not a major as it only happens every now and then and comes right after a couple of seconds. I have it loaded with FreshMap topos and have the FreshMap program on my computer for creating routes, marking spots etc and transferring to the unit, I like it, good price, good battery life, for my type of use it is perfect

[Aslan]

Based on advice from the GPS man in Chistchurch - (Tony Savage http://kiwigps.co.nz/) who many on this site express confidence in and Jantar's post earlier in the month in response to my Q's; I went with a Garmin eTrex20.

A found a conversation with Tony really worthwhile. He listened to my intended application and sold me only what I needed. Good guy IMO -

I've yet to use the device so will be learning on the DB - I seem to have successfully loaded the maps on to the device

I'm looking forward to Ryan's GPS 101 tutorial at the Friday briefing - Oh and yes I plan on having a roll sheet as well

cheers Aslan

[cooneyr]

.....I'm looking forward to Ryan's GPS 101 tutorial at the Friday briefing....

cheers Aslan

Oh bugger. I forgot about that. Better figure out what I'm going to talk about!!!

Cheers R

[Trials Rider]

OK helmets and gloves off, I have decided to get the Garmin 62s after talking to Josh:niceone:

Look forward to playing:eek:

[cave weta]

Im now a GPS owner....

Perhaps I should have consulted the 'great ones' at KB before purchasing but well- It was only $75 so I cant moan.

Its a Garmin Etrex. and I can not for the life of me figure some details out.


If I have a GPS coordinate supplied, can I enter it in and be guided there?
I can't seem to find this basic function in there!

Also It now seems that thing is nothing more than a track marker- all it really seems to do is let me retrace a journey that I have previously entered in to it. It has no maps installed so all I get is a twisty line on a screen. NordieBoy- Im down your way in a week- are you clued in on these?

[Jantar]

Which model eTrex is it?

[cave weta]

Which model eTrex is it?

Well thats it! its a Garmin Etrex. no mention of any sub model on the case or in the manual....

[Jantar]

In that case it is probably one of the early models (yellow?) that isn't routeable. You should still be able to enter a waypoint with the mark function then editing the lat/lon to the waypoint you desire. Selecting GOTO should then allow the GPS to give you a single direction and distance to that point.

[Padmei]

My tracklog says it is 98% full. Is there any way to merge these tracks as some of them are overlapped.
I have a garmin 62csx.
Is it possible to change them as routes? I have googled & can't really find anything that helps me. I have mapsource & downloaded trackmaker. They aren't that user friendly. Is there someone that knows this stuff & could guide me thru it? Or has anyone found a tutorial they could direct me to?

Hold fire guys. i have found lots of crap to sift thru on adv rider unless someone knows how to do it quickly & could save me time...

[Transalper]

Piece of cake to show you in person but guess that isn't going to happen soon as you are over 5 hours riding and some gas money savings away.
Much harder to fumble through online... especially since I think you have written the model of your gps wrong... don't think there is a 62csx, there is a Map60csx and a GPSmap62s but no 62csx :pinch:

Cutting and joining tracks is very easy with mapsource, converting them in to routes a bit more involved.

[Padmei]

ok cheers anyway
must be a 60csx

[NordieBoy]

My tracklog says it is 98% full. Is there any way to merge these tracks as some of them are overlapped.
I have a garmin 62csx.
Is it possible to change them as routes? I have googled & can't really find anything that helps me. I have mapsource & downloaded trackmaker. They aren't that user friendly. Is there someone that knows this stuff & could guide me thru it? Or has anyone found a tutorial they could direct me to?

Hold fire guys. i have found lots of crap to sift thru on adv rider unless someone knows how to do it quickly & could save me time...

Easy to do...

[Padmei]

Easy to do...

good cos you're doing it...:niceone:

[Beem02]

Decided to pick up a new (first) GPS before the Dusty Butt, so gave Tony at KiwiGPS in Chch a call, as I remember him being mentioned positively on KB before. He was very helpful, and had the unit all set up, with Maps loaded at no extra cost - then couriered to Wellington.

I chose the GPSMAP 78s. Its similar to the 62s but also for marine use so water proof, which I wanted and can attest to after rain, snow and a brief river dunking last weekend with no issues. Also it works well as a handheld unit for geocaching off-road.

With all DB1K routes loaded, plus a bunch of other advroutes to check out on the way down and back, plus a whole heap of South Island geocaches to look for, the GPS had no issues with memory and was able to record track data for the whole 2400 km 5 day trip. Couldn't be happier :yes:
Also would recommend Tony, as the service was great when I needed a few noob questions answered in the first day or two of sussing it out.

PS. only running basecamp software, not mapsource, but it works OK, and I can save the tracks as GPX files then view them on google earth as well

Cheers, Bruce

[Transalper]

.....
I chose the GPSMAP 78s. Its similar to the 62s but also for marine use so water proof, which I wanted and can attest to after rain, snow and a brief river dunking last weekend with no issues. ....

The are both waterproof as are most the other handheld sized Garmins but the 78s also floats (very important for a marine unit I suspect) and has the water resistant external 12v power socket both of which the 62s doesn't.
Good to hear you are another happy customer, I think you made a good choice.

[Rosie]

Now I've (mostly) figured out how to operate the GPS, the associated mapping software is doing my little head in :confused:

Is anyone else using Maptoaster mobile topos on basecamp? Basecamp loaded up the open gps project maps no trouble, but it hasn't loaded the topos. The open gps maps are good for searching for things (which basecamp does well), but they don't have enough detail for map browsing (and the topos are possibly more comprehensive for DOC huts etc)

Mapsource (which apparently isn't the right program for my 62s, but I installed it anyway), shows the topos, and the open gps project maps, but I can't get it to search properly, and it's a bit clunky dealing with waypoints and routes, so I can't really use it by itself.

Thus I've got two partially functional programs, which should (I imagine) both be doing the same things.

A search of teh internetz has not yielded anything useful on either the basecamp, or mapsource fronts.

Help...? :mellow:

[Transalper]

Ok I could be wrong as I do not have the Map Toaster stuff but I got the impression that to use map toaster maps you have to use maptoaster software. The Maptoaster maps do not install in such a way as to be accessed by Mapsource or Basecamp.

Hopefully someone can shed some more light on the subject.

It may be possible to break down the map image from the GPS and install it back on the PC in such a way that Garmin sofware can see it... there are utilitys for this but I have only had limited success experimenting and not with Map Toaster stuff.

[Rosie]

For maptoaster mobile, they recommend using mapsource to load it onto your GPS (for GPSs without a card slot, or if you want to upload multiple maps). So mine came with a micro SD card, which is in the GPS, and a CD, which I've installed on my computer, and which will run via Mapsource. I also have Maptoaster for the PC, which runs on its own software (and can also be used to manage tracks and waypoints from the GPS).
Confused yet? I am <_<

[Transalper]

That's good to know.

Now did you know Mapsource and Basecamp can only display one map product at a time ? and how to swap between mapsets ?

Don't have Basecamp on this PC (at work now) but on Mapsource you switch mapsets like from Open maps to Topos by (couple of ways depending upon your tools displayed) going to the 'View' menu then selecting the 'Switch to product' option then choosing which mapset you wish to use.
On my setup I also have a dropdown box displayed in the tool bar area that says 'Free NZOGPS_DOC_STRM' and when I click on that the dropdown revels the other maps that are available.

Basecamp should have something similar.
If you don't get the maptoaster option in those menus then you need more help than I can give via the web.

Edit: I re-read your original question and sounds like you already have Mapsource swapping between products so this post is probably no good to you after all.

[Rosie]

Yes, Basecamp will switch between maps, but only has the base Garmin maps and the open gps maps in its drop down menu. Mapsource also has the topos in its drop down menu.
We'll see if anyone else has direct experience with maptoaster, otherwise I may have to brave a gps forum :shit:

[Transalper]

Found an old post by Tony at KiwiGPS on a GPS forum (http://forums.gps.org.nz/viewtopic.php?f=6&t=5425#p41958) (21-04-2010) ....



At present the many 3rd party maps I have display in BaseCamp except one, MapToaster Mobile. It works in BaseCamp on a Mac but not with a PC. A fix will be coming for this.
...a fix surely by now, but I haven't found it. Maybe email him or the maptoaster support ?

Edit: I have emailed Tony. I'm all curious myself now.

[Transalper]

MapToaster Mobile maps in Garmin Basecamp fix

Righto here's what Tony at KiwiGPS (http://www.kiwigps.co.nz/) said when he replied...
.... yes, there's a small patch that fixes this annoying issue - I'd forgotten about it.

Here's a copy of the info I got which worked:

=================
Here's the update files

http://projx.inmap.net/MTTopoNZ-1.1.18.zip

Copy the 3 files from this zip file into the MapToaster Mobile/NZ folder

C:\Program Files\IntegratedMapping\MapToaster\MobileNZ

MTM should now appear in BaseCamp.

=================

All the best - Tony Savage


KiwiGPS (http://www.kiwigps.co.nz/) Garmin Advice, Supply and Support


So give that a try and please post back how you got on so I can let him know.
Cheers
TA.

[Rosie]

MapToaster Mobile maps in Garmin Basecamp fix

Righto here's what Tony at KiwiGPS (http://www.kiwigps.co.nz/) said when he replied...
.... yes, there's a small patch that fixes this annoying issue - I'd forgotten about it.

Here's a copy of the info I got which worked:

=================
Here's the update files

http://projx.inmap.net/MTTopoNZ-1.1.18.zip

Copy the 3 files from this zip file into the MapToaster Mobile/NZ folder

C:\Program Files\IntegratedMapping\MapToaster\MobileNZ

MTM should now appear in BaseCamp.

=================

All the best - Tony Savage


KiwiGPS (http://www.kiwigps.co.nz/) Garmin Advice, Supply and Support


So give that a try and please post back how you got on so I can let him know.
Cheers
TA.

I've only had a quick look (it is past my bedtime), but it appears to be working now, thank you :woohoo:

[Phreaky Phil]

We had some friends staying with us on the weekend and they were showing us there I PAD. This looks awesome for travelling on the bike with and loading photos onto etc, but we also need to be able to run Mapsource or similar. Is there an App for this or is there another Tablet that is as good that can do this ?

[manakau.KTM]

I have an android app called BackCountry Navigator that includes the functionality to download topo maps from nztopomaps.com. It has gps, waypoints and compass options. As far as I know it has not been written for apple. It is available as a free version or around $13 dollars for the pro. I haven't come to grips with it yet, the free version give you the chance to try before you buy. It is available on the android 'market'.

[NordieBoy]

The iPad is crap for loading photos on/off.
To do navigation, you'd need the 3G version as the gps is part of the 3G chip.

For Android, Dual Sport Maps is quite good and can download heaps of differing maps and map styles from www.dualsportmaps.com

The iPad is nice to use but limiting.
The Droid devices are less polished but also less limiting.

I'd go for the Samsung 10.1 over an iPad any day.

[Eddieb]

The guys at TBAM mag rave over MudMap, I believe it's only available for Apple devices.

[Padmei]

Am I missing something here?
With a GPS there are heaps of satellites to use. With a phone/ipadthing i thought you had to be in cell phone range?

[manakau.KTM]

The gps in smart phones is not dependent on cell coverage. The only thing you have to do is load the maps either through your data plan or a wi fi site before you go bush.

[Jantar]

Am I missing something here?
With a GPS there are heaps of satellites to use. With a phone/ipadthing i thought you had to be in cell phone range?
There are a number of smartphones that now have GPS chips included.

[NordieBoy]

Am I missing something here?
With a GPS there are heaps of satellites to use. With a phone/ipadthing i thought you had to be in cell phone range?


There are a number of smartphones that now have GPS chips included.

Including the one Padders uses...

[Phreaky Phil]

Am I missing something here?
With a GPS there are heaps of satellites to use. With a phone/ipadthing i thought you had to be in cell phone range?
My plan is to do what others have done on the TAT and load all of the roads etc on to a laptop or gadget then upload each days riding to my GPS. Even if we are following route sheets the GPS should be backing up what the route sheets have told us.

[Cary]

Anyone got maps of Oz for a Zumo 550, how good, where from and how much? Can't find a free map download site like ones for NZ.

Garmin maps seem way expensive :(

[Transalper]

Anything at http://www.osmaustralia.org/ of any use to you?

Otherwise I wonder if s post at www.advrider.com Ausy section (http://www.advrider.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=32) might give some results?

[Transalper]

This page has the routable maps.... I've loaded them in to Mapsource and the appear to work though they are not letterbox indexed as in exact numbered house addresses are not there but streets, POI's etc are.
http://www.osmaustralia.org/garminroute.php

You need to do a little procedure to load them in to Mapsource..

Download the utilitys:
Mapset Toolkit (here) (http://dl.box.com/dl/415206850/500817473576387a6005e8367a7e5707?a=c0d1c5ea0ba9099 124c71100dee5de9c&m=10.12.30.52,11211&x=1&c=c2d3d632a9378683606bf2158bbab96c) or from http://masmap.org/ (http://masmap.org/cms4/documentation/trainee-mapper/install-software/mapsettoolkit/)

and cgpsmapper (here) (http://www.cgpsmapper.com/download2/FreeSetup.exe) from www.cgpsmapper.com (http://www.cgpsmapper.com)

Actually I just followed the instructions found here.. www.gpsfiledepot.com/tutorials/how-to-load-.img-files-into-mapsource-with-mapsettoolkit/ (http://www.gpsfiledepot.com/tutorials/how-to-load-.img-files-into-mapsource-with-mapsettoolkit/)

If you can't follow that I can try summarise the steps in my own words for you.
Good luck.

[Cary]

Cheers, will give em a go

[Hitcher]

zumo 550 now replaced with another zumo 550. This one has alerts for fixed speed cameras. Thank you, Mr Garmin. And Ms Nasty.

[cooneyr]

I was just given a couple of track logs to convert to routes for a friend and found I have the tracksforaustrialia map set on the laptop. Would be worth a look Cary. Straight download, install on Laptiop/PC, then upload to GPS. Not file modifications etc but also unfortunately not autorouting like our very cool NZ mapset.

http://www.gpsoz.com.au/tracks4australia/

No idea how good they are cause never been their with a GPS to test them out.

Cheers R

[Eddieb]

Anyone got maps of Oz for a Zumo 550, how good, where from and how much? Can't find a free map download site like ones for NZ.

Garmin maps seem way expensive :(

I have Garmin Aus 2008 or something. It's a bit fiddly to get installed but I have used it in Aus a couple of times.

[pete-blen]

I have just bought a Garmin Navi 50..
5" screen..I can almost see it:gob:

Wheres the best place to get Topo maps from ?
theres a set on TM .... mico SD card & CD for $190..good buy?
http://www.trademe.co.nz/electronics-photography/gps/gps-accessories/auction-449998359.htm

PS... Best = cheapest / Prob bought the wrong one:angry:

.................................................. .................................................. .....
Question 2..
bike mount...
Do these mounts with the clear plastic make the GPS screen
harder to see.. refection etc..
http://www.trademe.co.nz/electronics-photography/gps/gps-accessories/auction-449969317.htm

[.chris]

I have just bought a Garmin Navi 50..
5" screen..I can almost see it:gob:

Wheres the best place to get Topo maps from ?
theres a set on TM .... mico SD card & CD for $190..good buy?
http://www.trademe.co.nz/electronics-photography/gps/gps-accessories/auction-449998359.htm

PS... Best = cheapest / Prob bought the wrong one:angry:

.................................................. .................................................. .....
Question 2..
bike mount...
Do these mounts with the clear plastic make the GPS screen
harder to see.. refection etc..
http://www.trademe.co.nz/electronics-photography/gps/gps-accessories/auction-449969317.htm

Or you could just download your own maps.
http://sites.google.com/site/rcmaps2/

[NordieBoy]

I have just bought a Garmin Navi 50..
5" screen..I can almost see it:gob:

Wheres the best place to get Topo maps from ?
theres a set on TM .... mico SD card & CD for $190..good buy?
http://www.trademe.co.nz/electronics-photography/gps/gps-accessories/auction-449998359.htm

PS... Best = cheapest / Prob bought the wrong one:angry:

.................................................. .................................................. .....
Question 2..
bike mount...
Do these mounts with the clear plastic make the GPS screen
harder to see.. refection etc..
http://www.trademe.co.nz/electronics-photography/gps/gps-accessories/auction-449969317.htm

Free...
http://www.nzopengps.org/public/DOC_NZOGPS/

[pete-blen]

Free...
http://www.nzopengps.org/public/DOC_NZOGPS/


FREE..You are the man....:cool:

[young1]

The iPad is crap for loading photos on/off.
day.

I can plug my camera directly into my iPad and download the photos.

[NordieBoy]

I can plug my camera directly into my iPad and download the photos.

Really? How?

[Transalper]

I can plug my camera directly into my iPad and download the photos.

Yes, please, do tell.
Got one here (on loan) and can't see any way to do that.
The proprietary plug has a big USB male end on it not compatible with any of my cameras.

Edit: or have you spent another $50 for this camera connection kit thingy (http://store.apple.com/nz/product/MC531ZM/A)?

[young1]

Yes, please, do tell.
Got one here (on loan) and can't see any way to do that.
The proprietary plug has a big USB male end on it not compatible with any of my cameras.

Edit: or have you spent another $50 for this camera connection kit thingy (http://store.apple.com/nz/product/MC531ZM/A)?


Yes that is what I have - it works a treat.
Also very good for backing up the photos that you have taken just in case something happens (as it did to me when I was in India and Nepal in 2008. 3 weeks into my trip my camera says memory card error - please reformat the card!! I lost all the photos I had taken up to that point)

[young1]

I also have a really cool cover "thingy" to put the iPad in. Really strong and robust, provides enough protection that I would be happy sliding the iPad down into a pannier etc. Can't remember the name at the moment but if you are interested I can find it out.

[Transalper]

Ah, very good.

.... 3 weeks into my trip my camera says memory card error - please reformat the card!! I lost all the photos I had taken up to that point)
Assuming you had a spare card in your kit, as soon as you got that error you should have pulled that card from the camera and kept it aside until you got home and then run some recovery software on it in your PC, you most likely would have recovered most of the photos.

[young1]

Ah, very good.

Assuming you had a spare card in your kit, as soon as you got that error you should have pulled that card from the camera and kept it aside until you got home and then run some recovery software on it in your PC, you most likely would have recovered most of the photos.


I did stop taking photos (I was on my way to Everest Base Camp) and as I didnt have a spare card I bought one at Namche Bazaar on the trek out. The local shop managed to recover maybe 80 photos.

I now have carry spare cards and of course an iPhone also as a back up for photos.

The grunty box to put an iPad in comes from Otter Box.

[NordieBoy]

3 weeks into my trip my camera says memory card error - please reformat the card!! I lost all the photos I had taken up to that point)

Ahh. I regularly have to recover peoples files from camera cards that have done that. No problems at all.

[NordieBoy]

If I was looking for a tablet for photoy type stuff, it'd be an Acer. They have a nice USB port you can plug in a keyboard, mouse, usb stick, external harddrive, camera to.

But I'd still get a Samsung Galaxy Tablet instead.

The problem with the iPad card reader is then you're only using the iPad's storage for backup. How many photos is that at 1-2,000 per day?
Getting them off the iPad is a mission too. Either use iTunes or mail them to yourself.
The Android devices seem to be much more flexible than the iDevices.

[.chris]

I have been using Outdoor Atlas (https://market.android.com/details?id=ch.corridor5.opm&feature=search_result#?t=W251bGwsMSwxLDEsImNoLmNvc nJpZG9yNS5vcG0iXQ..) (with NZ maps addon) for android, they have just updated and you can now bulk download maps (previously you had to manually browse regions so they were cached for later use while out of cell range).

My device is now downloading 1.3gb of maps which will be pretty good resolution of the entire north island.

Does not have autorouting or anything, it just reads gps location and shows where you are on what is eseentially a multi resolution image (zoomable to whatever level you have cached).

[NordieBoy]

I have been using Outdoor Atlas (https://market.android.com/details?id=ch.corridor5.opm&feature=search_result#?t=W251bGwsMSwxLDEsImNoLmNvc nJpZG9yNS5vcG0iXQ..) (with NZ maps addon) for android.

Looks similar to DualSport Maps.

[.chris]

Looks similar to DualSport Maps.
Yeah appears similar. but free :)

I think I have about 3gb of maps loaded for my trip next week. Will probably not get used as I only use the GPS when I am proper lost (which of course mostly almost never usually happens).

I do carry my old cellphone which is a Windows mobile running Garmin XT software which works nicely with auto routing. But that feels like cheating. I was thinking of selling that phone, if anyone is interested shout out (phone is pretty crap but the GPS/software is pretty handy)

[pete-blen]

just got this GPS mount to fit a 5" unit in...
good when yer eyes are no longer up to
those little hand held GPS screens..
It well made.. the touch screen still works.
has a block of foam in it to keep the unit tight
well worth the $30NZ shiped off E-bay if yer
need a bigger screen..can get them for 4" & 5" units..

http://www.ebay.com/itm/GN032-WPCS-5-Garmin-Nuvi-2595-2555-2495-2455-2475-GPS-Motorcycle-Mount-Case-/330639904410?_trksid=p5197.m7&_trkparms=algo%3DLVI%26itu%3DUCI%26otn%3D5%26po%3D LVI%26ps%3D63%26clkid%3D7031111236797457059

[Crim]

G'day can you turn off the waypoints when you are following a route and just follow the "purple brick road"? not a lot of use having the waypoints on the screen and then the old APPROACHING 027 annoys the hell out of me - anyone got any suggestions to help a grumpy old man be not so grumpy?
Cheers

[Transalper]

G'day can you turn off the waypoints when you are following a route and just follow the "purple brick road"? not a lot of use having the waypoints on the screen and then the old APPROACHING 027 annoys the hell out of me - anyone got any suggestions to help a grumpy old man be not so grumpy?
Cheers
That's on the MAP60csx isn't it?
I think you can turn off the "Approaching ...." bit but not so sure about the flags or blocks or what ever your way or via points show as.

Suppose you want to know how next.... must go now and think on it, not so easy as I don't have the 60 here to play with but I do have it's manual on file.

edit1... it's not the Guidence text you're talking about is it?
if so when in the map screen press menu to get the context menu, select 'guidance text', choose 'always off'.

edit2... waypoints etc. you may be able to turn them off by using the 'Map Setup - Points Page'. By default I think zoom levels are set to Auto but there may be an off option. So same again.... from the map displaying page press 'MENU' then select 'Setup Map' this time and move across to the 'Flag' icon and you'll see your options.

edit3.... You could also check you have the 'Next Turn Pop-up' turned off too... Press 'Menu' twice to get the 'Setup Menu', choose 'Routing Setup', find 'Next Turn Pop-up', select 'Off'.

That's about all I can offer over the web.

[Crim]

That's on the MAP60csx isn't it?

That's about all I can offer over the web.

Yep 60CSx - thanks TA - all good options, now all I have got to do is get out there and test them

[Phreaky Phil]

Garmin suck !!! I have been waiting on the phone for 25min now trying to find out about my zumo550. It has started playing up. doing crazy stuff like coming up with GARMIN EUROPE GO on the screen, shifting screens by itself, RESET ALL USER DATA on screen and other things.
I believe that you can exchange the unit for a reconditioned one for about $280. All I get is some "TWANGY" Aussie womans voice saying they are busy and my call is important to them. How the F##k would they know whether its important. You have to answer the phone to find that out !!!:angry2::angry2::angry2:
32mins now

[Cary]

Just a lil note for those looking for an Aussie gps map.

Got a full set for Oz from this (http://www.trademe.co.nz/Members/Listings.aspx?member=3718244) guy off Trademe, came on SD card was $64inc and was easy as to use. No probs so far.

[Phreaky Phil]

Is anyone out there a wiz on garmins Basecamp program ?

[cooneyr]

Is anyone out there a wiz on garmins Basecamp program ?

Watch us all speak up and risk having to do some work for you! What's up?

[NordieBoy]

Is anyone out there a wiz on garmins Basecamp program ?

I use a cute iMac but run Mapsource for the GPS'y stuff.

[Phreaky Phil]

Iv'e been working on creating GPS routes for our TAT route sheets to use as backup. Iv'e done the Tennessee section OK but when doing the Mississippi section there is a gap in the map joining to roads that we cross. The road exists in real life, iv'e had a look in google earth. Problem is the route i'm creating will not go across the gap. No matter what iv'e tried it will route me around, even going to a point then turning around and going back around to the other side, (when ive put via points at each road end. :mad: I can draw a track over the gap but it comes up as a seperete track to my route. I can convert the whole route to a trackl but it will come up with a zillion way or via points to create it. If you create a track from a route and limit the number of points it doesn't follow the road, it draws straight lines from point to point. From what ive learned my zumo can support 50 routes with 250 points for each route. I only used 80 via points for 450km through Tennessee. I want to be able to do all 10 states as as a route each. not a bit of route, then a track then another route etc. Ive asked in ADV rider but not had definite this is how you do it, it can be done.
Colin reckons he may be able to do it in Mapsource. Basecamp is meant to be the Bees Knees, the Dogs Bollocks !!
Hmmm !!

[Eddieb]

It's quite possibly a gap in the map data itself where for some reason there's a break in the data for that road. I've had a similar issue with the NZ free maps from time to time on some backroads. You didn't use to be able to route from Raglan to Port Waikato up the coast for example till they fixed the data in a later Map data release.

[NordieBoy]

Basecamp is meant to be the Bees Knees, the Dogs Bollocks !!
Hmmm !!

But instead, it's a knee in the bollocks...

What sort of routing are you using?

I'd almost be tempted to end the track there and start the new one after the gap.

[Transalper]

Fairly sure the zumo will force you to use off road mode for a 250 point route thus you end up with the straight lines again. Limit on both my Garmins is 50 points for auto routing/250 points for Direct or off road routes, per route. Thought the zumo was similar but I know the Dusty Butt routes had to be trimmed as the zumos would not accept 250 point direct routes.
Do some tests with your gps and routes containing similar numbers of via points before to be sure of the devices limits for yourself.

To work around the gap if estimated distance and ETA's aren't important just put a waypoint at each side of the gap and ignore it routing around, when actually there you ride straight through the gap and the gps will pick you up on the other side.
You could always stick another independent waypoint in their or name the one at the front of the gap to remind you to go straight through.

[Transalper]

Just a thought... in Basecamp or Mapsource you can jump the gap by using the auto routing map to get to the start of the gap, swap to a non autorouting map to jump the gap as a Direct/Off Road Route bit, then swap back to Auto routing map to do the rest.
Looks good for a start BUT...Problem is that after that, any time you do something that makes the software need to recalculate the route it will forget you jumped the gap and re route you around the route-able road again.
Same as when you load it in to the gps, the gps will recalculate it as soon as you activate the route and you end up with the round about route again.

[That looks like fun]

So converting a route to a track eliminates the GPS recalculating? Advantages vs Disadvantages of route vs track :corn:

[Rosie]

So converting a route to a track eliminates the GPS recalculating? Advantages vs Disadvantages of route vs track :corn:

When I'm putting something together on the computer, I usually convert it to a track, so I can run it with the topo basemap (which doesn't allow routing).

[Rosie]

This year the MMMMM is going all technologically advanced, and will have a GPS track as well as a routesheet.

I've only ever made tracks/routes for personal use (Garmin 62s), so have no idea about the best way to make something up for general consumption.

It's basically all on public roads, so I've been putting together a series of routes in basecamp (including one short non-routable section a la Phreaky Phil :facepalm:).

Now I just need to figure out the best way to package it all up, and want some input from people who have BTDT. Specifically;

- the relative advantages of having it formatted as tracks vs routes

- limitations of other GPS models to keep in mind (max # of points on tracks etc)

- the best way of handling splits in the route (I have two optional longer sections, and it would be nice to have a GPS track for both the long and short versions of each)

- any other traps for young players

As well as the main route(s)/track(s), I thought I might put in the odd waypoint for lunch stops etc. Unless this is likely to initiate the self-destruct sequence in some models of GPS <_<

[cooneyr]

This year the MMMMM is going all technologically advanced, and will have a GPS track as well as a routesheet.

I've only ever made tracks/routes for personal use (Garmin 62s), so have no idea about the best way to make something up for general consumption.

It's basically all on public roads, so I've been putting together a series of routes in basecamp (including one short non-routable section a la Phreaky Phil :facepalm:).

Now I just need to figure out the best way to package it all up, and want some input from people who have BTDT. Specifically;

- the relative advantages of having it formatted as tracks vs routes

- limitations of other GPS models to keep in mind (max # of points on tracks etc)

- the best way of handling splits in the route (I have two optional longer sections, and it would be nice to have a GPS track for both the long and short versions of each)

- any other traps for young players

As well as the main route(s)/track(s), I thought I might put in the odd waypoint for lunch stops etc. Unless this is likely to initiate the self-destruct sequence in some models of GPS <_<

For some funny reason I've had a bit of a play at this. I'll get back to you tomorrow sometime - bit late tonight and I've got to jump a red eye flight to Aucks tomorrow.

[Pikey]

Just scored one on Trademe.
Any way of updating maps that anyone knows of? Or alternative maps that are available?:confused:

[TangoCharlie]

Really? How?

We have just ordered some SD Cards with built in Bluetooth that allow you to load photos direct to iPad iPod etc Very Cool

[TangoCharlie]

Check this out....

[Night Falcon]

how much are they worth and will they work with a gopro?

[Waihou Thumper]

Looking at a Garmin Handheld 62s...Had the 62CSx and the CS, this looks great and I cannot get it cheaper overseas....
Dick Smith $499 on special...
I will have to get a new RAM cradle for it though, approx $10 nzd plus a bit of postage.
The size is different and so is the power management.

[pomgolian]

Looking at a Garmin Handheld 62s...Had the 62CSx and the CS, this looks great and I cannot get it cheaper overseas....
Dick Smith $499 on special...
I will have to get a new RAM cradle for it though, approx $10 nzd plus a bit of postage.
The size is different and so is the power management.

I have also looked at that from what i have read the new power supply is a USB from the old four pin plug which on some other threads i have read is playing up so people are running on rechargeables rather than the USB getting wet and causing probelms, looks good though.

[Rosie]

I have also looked at that from what i have read the new power supply is a USB from the old four pin plug which on some other threads i have read is playing up so people are running on rechargeables rather than the USB getting wet and causing probelms, looks good though.

I'm running my 62s off the bike via the USB and all has been good so far.
It's a good unit, I'm really pleased with it, but it is my first GPS, so I don't really have anything to compare it to.

[NordieBoy]

One bonus with the Oregon, the usb port is internally waterproofed.

[Waihou Thumper]

Might go back to the CSx or the CS, the older Garmin with the four pin plug worked well. I see that the USB connection is at 90 degrees to the socket, thus I think preventing it from popping out so often. 16-18 hours with rechargeable eneloops ain't bad. Does it really need to be hard wired?

[NordieBoy]

There's a 62s for sale 2nd hand in Nelson for $390 odd.
I could probably get it cheaper if anyone wants it...

[Waihou Thumper]

There's a 62s for sale 2nd hand in Nelson for $390 odd.
I could probably get it cheaper if anyone wants it...

I am looking at getting one this weekend, or a device similar. There are two on auction 60CSx and a lesser 60CS.
Cheaper sounds good. :) If you can, let me know the price, might be interested. Ta. The ones I am following - 60CS is local and going for $199 NR and the CSx is $350 reserve met.
Something in the middle I suppose price wise. The thing is, the CS means I can use existing power cable, cradle and all is compatible. The 62s, gotta start again and purchase almost all.....Maybe the older but wiser GPSMap units are the ones to follow?

[NordieBoy]

I'm waiting for some decent Garmin style apps for my Android phone...

[Rosie]

Might go back to the CSx or the CS, the older Garmin with the four pin plug worked well. I see that the USB connection is at 90 degrees to the socket, thus I think preventing it from popping out so often. 16-18 hours with rechargeable eneloops ain't bad. Does it really need to be hard wired?

My 62s doesn't like the vibes so much when it's running on batteries - it loses power intermittently, but doesn't have a problem when it's plugged in to the bike. My GPS mount is a home-made alu job, so probably transmits a lot more vibes than a commercial (or ram-mounted) one.
My charger is also a random one from something else, that had the same micro (or is it mini?) USB plug, so it doesn't have the 90° bend in the plug - makes it easier to install.

[NordieBoy]

My 62s doesn't like the vibes so much when it's running on batteries - it loses power intermittently, but doesn't have a problem when it's plugged in to the bike.

Smear some vasaline around the batteries including on the contacts.
On the contacts stops the arcing when the batteries vibrate and around the sides of the battery damp the movements.
Messy but works. Better than tape as that can put a bit much pressure on the back and compromise the waterproof seal.





Are seals waterproof? I know frogs aren't, that's why they have to spend so much time in the water.
Drugs are good...

[pomgolian]

I'm waiting for some decent Garmin style apps for my Android phone...

I've been looking but all there is that you can add routes to that uses topo maps is Ihike which isnt fantastic, surely something better has to come along. Anybody build apps ?

[NordieBoy]

I've been looking but all there is that you can add routes to that uses topo maps is Ihike which isnt fantastic, surely something better has to come along. Anybody build apps ?

Look at DualSportMaps...

[Eddieb]

Look at DualSportMaps...

Ouch $24. Thats the most expensive app I've seen.

[NordieBoy]

Ouch $24. Thats the most expensive app I've seen.

Yep. He (CraftyCoder on AdvRider) didn't want people to pay $2 and then realise it wasn't what they wanted and shit on it in the ratings.
At $24, people are going to do some homework first.

He's also got a remote control for it...
<iframe width="640" height="360" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/RiWlCVZFWnM" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

[gunnyrob]

pbtech.co.nz has Garmin Zumo 660s going for around $650 inc GST. I ordered one last night.

[pomgolian]

Look at DualSportMaps...

Looks good but no good for my iphone MotionX GPS looks good so far

[NordieBoy]

Looks good but no good for my iphone MotionX GPS looks good so far

A DR rider with an iPhone?


Ewww, tacky...

[pomgolian]

A DR rider with an iPhone?


Ewww, tacky...

:killingme once had a KTM as well but she was a far too high maintenance ride

[Gremlin]

pbtech.co.nz has Garmin Zumo 660s going for around $650 inc GST. I ordered one last night.
Price is ex GST Rob, but still fantastic... not sure how fast they will fill a backorder tho...

[gunnyrob]

Price for the Zumo 660 is $560+GST and they have 8 in the logistics centre. Should be sweet as.

[Willdat?]

So GPS geeks, is there a nice way to turn my GPX file into a pretty fly over (preferably in Google Earth) so I can impress friends and influence people with my outstanding ascent rates...or just show off my routes...Thank you kindly

[NordieBoy]

So GPS geeks, is there a nice way to turn my GPX file into a pretty fly over (preferably in Google Earth) so I can impress friends and influence people with my outstanding ascent rates...or just show off my routes...Thank you kindly

Yes there is...

[Willdat?]

Yes there is...

I can email you the attachment :P

[cooneyr]

So GPS geeks, is there a nice way to turn my GPX file into a pretty fly over (preferably in Google Earth) so I can impress friends and influence people with my outstanding ascent rates...or just show off my routes...Thank you kindly

Instead of Mr Helpful's reply, something of use. Firstly open GE, choose open, then change the file type from kml/kmz to gps (which I think has GPX and other types next to it). Play with height options in the little pop up window to suit.

Then - on your own again - I can't remember details after that suffice to say there is a button somewhere!

Cheers R

[NordieBoy]

I can email you the attachment :P

Go for it...

[Padmei]

Ok need help.
I have had my 60csx active log on while riding in the past.
My screen has lots of lines running across the screen.
These lines are from somewhere -for example lets say- the bottom of the Maungatapu & the other end of the straight line may be somewhere like the hamner end of the rainbow. I believe these lines may be from where I have turned off the active log & then started the active log again at a different location - I don't know, I'm guessing.

Anyway my problem is that I have tried to get rid of said lines.
In mapsource I have all the tracks running like a spidersweb all over the place. I would like to edit the tracks so only the info I want (ie the off road bits) are shown & the road stuff deleted so I have a small lil worm showing a track.

I try to use the track divide function but when I tick it & hover over the portion of line i want to divide in half quite a few lines ( maybe covering 100s of kms ) are highlited not just a point or line between points.

If I use the track erase function & use the pencil eraser thing over a portion of the track I wish to erase, it just basically wipes out the closest point & the track then shifts to the next closest point still leaving a long line covering maybe 50kms or so.

Clear as mud?

What I want to do is just split a track in half at some point so I can then delete the unwanted portion of the track.

As you can prob tell I'm not that good a this crap so if there is an easy method please let me know.

Many thanks for your help in this matter


I've been waiting for an hour & a half - don't keep me waiting you'll only make me cross...
I have had another go at editing the track. What happens is if I delete a section of the track i lose the closest two points to where I erase. if I carry on I end up deleting the whole track.

has noone else edited parts off their tracks?

[NordieBoy]

Track divide is the one you're after.
It may just be highlighting the previous or next track...

[cooneyr]

Ok need help......
In mapsource I have all the tracks running like a spidersweb all over the place. I would like to edit the tracks so only the info I want (ie the off road bits) are shown & the road stuff deleted so I have a small lil worm showing a track.

I try to use the track divide function but when I tick it & hover over the portion of line i want to divide in half quite a few lines ( maybe covering 100s of kms ) are highlited not just a point or line between points. .....

Track divide is the way to go. Sounds like you have some super long track logs including turning the machine off in one location and turning it on in another location and the track log continuing.

Just have to keep dividing the log up and then deleting the sections that are the "straight line links" between the good bits. You can only divide at points that already exist so divide the log at the start and end of each good bit.

HTH.

Cheers R

[Padmei]

Thanks guys & i agree with your presumption ryan but when I go to divide the track there is a thin line that shows where the track will then shift once the highlited piece of track is erased. I don't see any indication that I have successfully divided the track.
I think I have layers of tracks underneath with different colours.

Bloody frustrating things.

[NordieBoy]

Thanks guys & i agree with your presumption ryan but when I go to divide the track there is a thin line that shows where the track will then shift once the highlited piece of track is erased. I don't see any indication that I have successfully divided the track.
I think I have layers of tracks underneath with different colours.

Bloody frustrating things.

Make sure you're viewing tracks on the left side.
You'll se a new one appear each time you divide a track.

[cooneyr]

Make sure you're viewing tracks on the left side.
You'll se a new one appear each time you divide a track.

What he said. ;)

[brp]

Anyone used/using any of the android GPS apps for the dusty butt ?

The backcountry navigator looks pretty comprehensive - see there's even a trimble outdoor navigator app

Anyone got a link please for gps coordinates for a canterbury location to test these apps - assuming that's how wang fang gps works


Cheers

[NordieBoy]

It's exactly what DualSportMaps was made for...

[brp]

Cherz Nordie

[.chris]

I use the New Zealand Maps app (https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=ch.corridor5.opm.plugins.newzealand&feature=search_result#?t=W251bGwsMSwxLDEsImNoLmNvc nJpZG9yNS5vcG0ucGx1Z2lucy5uZXd6ZWFsYW5kIl0.) it lets you pre-load the topo maps for the regions you are heading towards, or you could pre-load the entire country if you wanted/had the space.

The only downside is it does not do any autorouting, it just has nz topo maps which you can overlay routes/tracks. For the autorouting on roads I use Route66.

[brp]

Thanks Chris - looks good :niceone:

[brp]

Downloaded backcountry navigator demo but it says it does not have turn by turn routing, with gps enabled - it drew a straight line from my current location to a location I chose it to go to 70 km a way - as the crow flies (location i chose one of many in the 400 km gpx file loaded)

If its going to draw a line as the crow flies from waypoint to waypoint and not along the road or track seems bit useless - am I missing something ? Ain't got much time to read pages of the manual or play round as we doing the run tomorrow.


Nordies suggestion of dualsportmap the developer states it does offer rudimentary turn by turn routing even when offline but its not the apps core competency though. If you need turn by turn instructions there are better options available.

Anyone using the dualsportmap and is the turn by turn sufficent for most trips ? Does it use GPS satelites to do the turn by turn navigation ? The better options ?


Cheers

[brp]

Sussed out the back country app bit more - can see the whole redline route now with red triangles for each way point - will do the job

[NordieBoy]

DSM is waypoint to waypoint too.

It's made for offroad nav where there may not be roads.

[Transalper]

DSM is waypoint to waypoint too.

It's made for offroad nav where there may not be roads.

Just like the DB1k... waypoint to waypoint or via point to via point as the crow flys is how it is done, again because there are no roads on the maps through some of it.
Same as the route I did today using riverbeds and roads.

[NordieBoy]

When I did my gps file for the first DB1K I put a waypoint at each intersection and another on the destination track about 50m away. Then you were sure which direction to head. It did double the number of waypoints but even the old eTrex Legend handled the whole dusty in 3 files.

Slightly easier than point to point where you may not initially be heading in the direction of the next waypoint.

[Transalper]

When I did my gps file for the first DB1K I put a waypoint at each intersection and another on the destination track about 50m away. Then you were sure which direction to head. It did double the number of waypoints but even the old eTrex Legend handled the whole dusty in 3 files.

Slightly easier than point to point where you may not initially be heading in the direction of the next waypoint.

Ryans files do have extra via points in between the main Waypoints to help with that but I do like the next via point to be closer to the associated waypoint as in your method inplaces.
I also put in a file with waypoints that correspond with the numbers on the roll chart which was quite useful on one turn for me last time, wasn't sure wether to go thru a gate or follow the road. Would have become obvious soon enough but checked which chart number we were at and the diagram told the rest of the story with out any try this and see if the gps argues in 200 meters type stuff.

[NordieBoy]

Yep. Way/via points numbered same as roll chart and secondary points to indicate direction had a "B" after them.

[rigley]

Sussed out the back country app bit more - can see the whole redline route now with red triangles for each way point - will do the job

Hi,

I am stuggling with getting the NZ Topographic Map to show on screen, all I seem to get is a hazard type of signs in circles? I am using the Demo version, the program appears to have downloaded onto my android phone ok, am I missing something here?:facepalm:

[brp]

Hi,

I am stuggling with getting the NZ Topographic Map to show on screen, all I seem to get is a hazard type of signs in circles? I am using the Demo version, the program appears to have downloaded onto my android phone ok, am I missing something here?:facepalm:

It all makes more sense when you get out on the loaded route and engage gps - an arrow will come up and show where you are, as you twist the throttle and go along the red route line the arrow will move with you along the route - magic !

I downloaded dualsports maps and didn't seem as user friendly as backcountry - will play round with it bit more - had the turn by turn working breifly - both apps went a miff by turning gps off to conserve battery - towards end of run ,will wire in 12v supply

[rigley]

It all makes more sense when you get out on the loaded route and engage gps - an arrow will come up and show where you are, as you twist the throttle and go along the red route line the arrow will move with you along the route - magic !

I downloaded dualsports maps and didn't seem as user friendly as backcountry - will play round with it bit more - had the turn by turn working breifly - both apps went a miff by turning gps off to conserve battery - towards end of run ,will wire in 12v supply

Ahh, is that what happens, this App has been doing my flipping head in for the last two days!!! Will switch on the GPS now and see what happens?

I am still waiting for a waterproof case and handle bar mount from ebay, the next thing on my Xmas list is a 12v supply to feed the my Samsung S2 charger, this is just a backup plan for my roll charts, would like to get it properly sorted though, thanks for your help :niceone:

[rigley]

It all makes more sense when you get out on the loaded route and engage gps - an arrow will come up and show where you are, as you twist the throttle and go along the red route line the arrow will move with you along the route - magic !

I downloaded dualsports maps and didn't seem as user friendly as backcountry - will play round with it bit more - had the turn by turn working breifly - both apps went a miff by turning gps off to conserve battery - towards end of run ,will wire in 12v supply

OK, just travelled about 2km down the road with GPS and Data on, still no map, any ideas what to do?

[Transalper]

....any ideas what to do?Use it as a phone?

Maybe I should try sell you my old Garmin Etrex Legend HCX. I was keeping it as a backup but haven't really used it since getting the 62s in 2010.

[rigley]

Use it as a phone?

Maybe I should try sell you my old Garmin Etrex Legend HCX. I was keeping it as a backup but haven't really used it since getting the 62s in 2010.

I'm beginning to think I will use it as a phone, the whole idea of using it as a GPS was not to buy another thing which spends 360 days a year on the shelf. Thanks for the offer though, I will brush up on my roll chart. :yes:

[JATZ]

I'm beginning to think I will use it as a phone, the whole idea of using it as a GPS was not to buy another thing which spends 360 days a year on the shelf. Thanks for the offer though, I will brush up on my roll chart. :yes:

I can loan you my old 62cx including ram mount for the bar, and a 12v power cord. It's a veteran of a couple of dustys and is so easy to use even I can navigate with it.

[Transalper]

Lots of people seem to follow fairly blindly those in front and when those in front suddenly find they aren't sure where to go or simply miss a turn then unless you've been paying attention to your own navigation system (be it GPS or roll chart) then you'll find yourself just as lost as them.
That is to say even the GPS can be a bit tricky to navigate with if you only look at it to try get back on track after following someone off course.
You really need to keep aware of the distance to the next instruction.
With roll chart I find to read the things properly almost requires a complete stop for safety reasons, to roll the chart on and check next instruction without riding off the road or in to traffic etc.
All part of the fun though, but not the riding off the road or into others bit :no:

[brp]

OK, just travelled about 2km down the road with GPS and Data on, still no map, any ideas what to do?

It should show if you have selected it as the current gpx file you want displayed

[brp]

To clarify - was replying on phone earlier

It was excellent - just with all the turning off and on of the gps and a forced stop on both apps the data got miffed.

With the processing power of a smart phone - coupled with a decent app, think using your phone is a great idea ... high resoloution colour screen, not having to charge a gps unit and phone, ease of upgrading app and choices of apps, one unit - "modern day swiss army knife" once apon a time folk use to carry around an mp3 player and their phone - who bothers these days ? :niceone:

[cooneyr]

For some strange reason I don't have any navigation issue ;) I could follow the route without any aids (in fact that is the plan - will carry GPS purely to capture my times etc).

I've got around to trying the outdoor atlas and the gpx files on my SIII. Works for me it seems. Interesting alarms because so far off route!

Cheers R

[rigley]

For some strange reason I don't have any navigation issue ;) I could follow the route without any aids (in fact that is the plan - will carry GPS purely to capture my times etc).

I've got around to trying the outdoor atlas and the gpx files on my SIII. Works for me it seems. Interesting alarms because so far off route!

Cheers R

You must have been a homing pigeon in a previous life. :innocent:

This has not broke me yet, I can't wait to say I knocked the bastard off! :Punk:

[rigley]

I can loan you my old 62cx including ram mount for the bar, and a 12v power cord. It's a veteran of a couple of dustys and is so easy to use even I can navigate with it.

Cheers Jatz,

Are you going to Umopom's party tomorrow night? If you could bring it along, would be appreciated.

Thanks m8

[clint640]

Downloaded the Outdoor Atlas app plus the NZ topo add on yesterday to my Xperia Active & it all seems to work good. Loaded up the Dusty route & some other .gpx files I had no probs once I found my SD card in the slightly cryptic folders display. I scrolled around the dusty route at 250k & 50k scales last night so the maps are all cached. It was a bit slow at downloding some sections of map but it all got there in the end.
It happily recorded a track & displayed the cached maps on my commute where the ph signal is quite patchy. It talks to the inbuilt compass in the ph & seems to do a good job of pointing the map in the right direction as I travel. Need to work out how to create or record a local route now so I can have a go at following that.

Will have to sort out a bar mount & power supply next. The phone is waterproof so case not required, will just have to remember to unplug the power & put the wee cap back in for rain/rivers. I think I'll take the roll charts also as I have a good lunchbox setup already for that.

Cheers
Clint

[rigley]

Downloaded the Outdoor Atlas app plus the NZ topo add on yesterday to my Xperia Active & it all seems to work good. Loaded up the Dusty route & some other .gpx files I had no probs once I found my SD card in the slightly cryptic folders display. I scrolled around the dusty route at 250k & 50k scales last night so the maps are all cached. It was a bit slow at downloding some sections of map but it all got there in the end.
It happily recorded a track & displayed the cached maps on my commute where the ph signal is quite patchy. It talks to the inbuilt compass in the ph & seems to do a good job of pointing the map in the right direction as I travel. Need to work out how to create or record a local route now so I can have a go at following that.

Will have to sort out a bar mount & power supply next. The phone is waterproof so case not required, will just have to remember to unplug the power & put the wee cap back in for rain/rivers. I think I'll take the roll charts also as I have a good lunchbox setup already for that.

Cheers
Clint

I will try this, have taken Back Country Navigator off my phone, if Outdoor Atlas does not load properly then it must have something to do with the anti virus software I have loaded on the phone. Ebay delivery of 12v power supply and Galaxy S2 waterproof case and mount arrived yesterday, so well on the way, all I need now is MAPS!!! :rolleyes:

[NordieBoy]

Downloaded the Outdoor Atlas app plus the NZ topo add on yesterday to my Xperia Active.

Finally got mine upgraded from Gingerbread to Ice Cream Sandwich! :headbang:

[rigley]

Finally got mine upgraded from Gingerbread to Ice Cream Sandwich! :headbang:

I bet that tastes nice :sick:

[NordieBoy]

I bet that tastes nice :sick:

Much better on a hot day.
http://www.redbookmag.com/cm/redbook/images/8R/chunky-monkey-ice-cream-sandwich-lgn.jpg

[cooneyr]

Downloaded the Outdoor Atlas app plus the NZ topo add on yesterday to my Xperia Active & it all seems to work good. .......
Will have to sort out a bar mount & power supply next. The phone is waterproof so case not required, will just have to remember to unplug the power & put the wee cap back in for rain/rivers. I think I'll take the roll charts also as I have a good lunchbox setup already for that.

Cheers
Clint

Good stuff with the outdoor atlas. Talk to that good lady of yours about creating a route file. Seems she had it well sorted for the MMMMM but she needs to create one as an off road rather than an on road one.

Just a though re cases for your phone - make sure you have a screen protector. Fair old amount of dust that accumulates on the screen that you need to wipe of occasionally so good to have the screen protected. Generic (cut to size) screen protectors at Dicky Smiths.

Cheers R

[rigley]

Much better on a hot day.
http://www.redbookmag.com/cm/redbook/images/8R/chunky-monkey-ice-cream-sandwich-lgn.jpg

That picture must have taken hours to find......... Great ginger bread/ ice cream sandwich though :clap:

[rigley]

I can loan you my old 62cx including ram mount for the bar, and a 12v power cord. It's a veteran of a couple of dustys and is so easy to use even I can navigate with it.

Thanks Jatz for the loan of you GPS last night, much appreciated:2thumbsup

[JATZ]

Thanks Jatz for the loan of you GPS last night, much appreciated:2thumbsup

Don't thank me just yet.....it might not work :D
If you need help with it I'm pretty sure Rog has my ph number. You'll need to download the route file and then use mapsource (I have that on my laptop) to transfer to the gps

[Howie]

I see Trail Tech have a Bike computer with built in GPS now, wonder what mapping system they are using? They have also started this site for up/down loading GPS tracks http://ohvtrails.net/ which could be of use when planning that big trip overseas.

[NordieBoy]

I see Trail Tech have a Bike computer with built in GPS now, wonder what mapping system they are using? They have also started this site for up/down loading GPS tracks http://ohvtrails.net/ which could be of use when planning that big trip overseas.

No mapping.

Just tracks.

[Transalper]

Another Garmin Vibration Shutdown fix....
Same issue as I had with the old Legend HCX, it took longer to happen but now after a year and especially on the WR250R at higher revs the Map62s is doing the vibration shutdown thing.
It's not the batterys, same as my Legend, it was not the batteries shaking about then either. It is the contacts from the back of the battery compartment to the circuit board.
Picture attached shows the spots of the damage to the contact pads on the circuit board from the arcing.
Fix as before is to solder small wires to permanently connect the contacts to the circuit board. When I did that to the Legend it never shut down through vibration again.
Thankfully the 62s was a lot easier to open up than the legend was, just 6 small torex screws and your there, got a screw driver set from Jaycar to fit.

[clint640]

Since the team navigational officer couldn't make the Dusty due to a broken ankle I bolted the 62s to the bars of the 640 & got a Jaycar 12V - dual USB socket adapter (http://www.jaycar.co.nz/productView.asp?ID=MP3664&keywords=cigarette+usb&form=KEYWORD)
I soldered a feed directly onto that from my accessory relay, insul taped in the USB cable & stashed it behind the headlight.
This worked ok at first but started to shut off randomly after a few days use, so I stuck a big blob of blu-tack around where the USB cable plugs into the back of the GPS & had no problems right through the dusty & all the way home. Having both the roll chart & the GPS made navigation a snap.

Cheers
Clint

[Eddieb]

This worked ok at first but started to shut off randomly after a few days use, so I stuck a big blob of blu-tack around where the USB cable plugs into the back of the GPS & had no problems

Good problem solving. My Colorado also shuts down randomly when powered from the usb input, though mine seems more speed related as it doesn't seem to do it on rough terrain but will turn off very quickly once the speed gets over about 70km/h. The colorado socket is on top of the unit and my theory is that the wind pushing the cable causes the connection to drop.

[Transalper]

Nice report on 12v-ing a 62s. No pictures though??
I'm sticking with batteries myself and with the WR250R the terrain didn't matter as much as engine revs, long highway runs at high revs was worst for causing the vibration induced shutdown.
My fix has worked, the 62s stayed on without fail and using the white 2000mAh Sanyo Eneloop Rechargable batteries it goes for at least 14 hours with backlight set to stay on as well.
All batteries still had a heap of charge left in them when removed at the end of each DB1k day but on the DB1k I like fresh ones in to start the day with so changed them each night ready for the morning, though that didn't stop me from being late getting away to the meeting spot both mornings. :facepalm:

[Waihou Thumper]

Nice work Clint :)

Since Garmin changed the plug from the 5 pin round to the USB connector, there has been multiple issues with loss of power.
The 60Csx I had for three years never once lost power due to vibration on the LC4. The 62s, although a marginally better? (depends on who you read review wise) also requires a new cradle different to the 60Csx....bugger.
I bought a 62s with a four year warranty, thinking of re-mounting it to the aprilia but have to buy a cradle RAM mount from GPS City (cheap prices)
I guess if the 62s becomes a permanent fixture, the hard wiring may be the option, but I know the eneloops last forever, so may go down that route for the time being.

[clint640]

Nice report on 12v-ing a 62s. No pictures though??
I'm sticking with batteries myself and with the WR250R the terrain didn't matter as much as engine revs, long highway runs at high revs was worst for causing the vibration induced shutdown.
:

Just imagine the Jaycar dongle all wrapped in insulation tape with a cable sticking out either end :msn-wink:

It was higher speed & revs that was shutting it down on the 640 too rather than rough terrain. I may yet make a vibration isolating mount a-la touratech as the 640 vibes are rather brutal & I will probably try mounting up my phone on the bars once the nav officer has repossessed her GPS.

Cheers
Clint

[Rosie]

Just imagine the Jaycar dongle all wrapped in insulation tape with a cable sticking out either end :msn-wink:

It was higher speed & revs that was shutting it down on the 640 too rather than rough terrain. I may yet make a vibration isolating mount a-la touratech as the 640 vibes are rather brutal & I will probably try mounting up my phone on the bars once the nav officer has repossessed her GPS.

Cheers
Clint

Once I repossess the GPS? Have you seen it recently? :shifty:

[Adux]

After a little advice regarding a decent handlebar mount for a Legend Hcx, currently using a push bike one but not ideal. Any suggestions greatly appreciated

Cheers

[cooneyr]

After a little advice regarding a decent handlebar mount for a Legend Hcx, currently using a push bike one but not ideal. Any suggestions greatly appreciated

Cheers

Ram stuff is a good solution. http://www.ramsolutions.co.nz/lifestyle/shop/motorcycles/ram-mount

I used a Ram cradle but made the rest myself. Used alloy tube, bolts with nylocks and half ball tap washers (two back to back makes a nice soft rubber ball). Touch floppy but never had a shut down and stayed in place for about 4 years now.

Cheers R

[Howie]

I use a Ram mount system to mount my GPS as well, Ordered mine from Ram mounts in the USA. AS with a reasonably good exchange rate even with postage the price was about 1/3 less than sourcing through NZ. here's the link http://www.rammount.com/Products/MotorcycleMounts/tabid/128/Default.aspx#/

[Waihou Thumper]

Use GPS City, they post to NZ, based in Nevada and calculate REAL shipping prices....

http://www.gpscity.com/

Ram mounts and all GPS devices and extras are way cheaper than New Zealand.

[NordieBoy]

I get mine from RAM Solutions in NZ.

Much cheaper from gpscity though.

[Adux]

Thanks to all, plenty of options to follow up on

Cheers

[pete-blen]

Is the Garmin Oregon 450 any good?:confused:
looking at a used one on TM...

[Waihou Thumper]

Is the Garmin Oregon 450 any good?:confused:
looking at a used one on TM...

Try this. Lots of reviews.

http://www.gpscity.com/garmin-oregon-450-reviews.html

[NordieBoy]

Is the Garmin Oregon 450 any good?:confused:
looking at a used one on TM...

Good enough to be on my watchlist :shifty:

[Waihou Thumper]

If anyone wants a Garmin 62s, I have one for sale. Bought it from Dick Smith (Garmin official suppliers)
I have not even used it outside yet. I have a four year official warranty and it is transferable so no worries there.
Only selling because the bike I just purchased came with a brand new Zumo 600, so will be using that once wired in.
Box, contents and maps installed, I can add Europe, North America, Topo, whatever. It has heaps of memory space for maps.
It is a great unit, just not worth having two.

Selling way cheaper than the stores and don't forget, the 4 year warranty from Dick Smith and Garmin. PM me if you are interested. Offers around $580 free postage.


I also have a few RAM cradles for the Garmin 60Csx and other models of the 60C series.....I no longer have that unit either now, so if you want one, let me know. Attachment bolts included (but not RAM mount) for your RAM mount. $15 each plus postage.....I have three of these.

I also have a GoPro HD vehicle mount if anyone wants one. This is the 200kph suction mount type.....sticks like shit to a blanket :) $15.00 plus Postage

[Adux]

I also have a few RAM cradles for the Garmin 60Csx and other models of the 60C series.....I no longer have that unit either now, so if you want one, let me know. Attachment bolts included (but not RAM mount) for your RAM mount. $15 each plus postage.....I have three of these.

Hi Thumper, I'm interested in the attachments bolts, I have a Garmin Legend HCx and am looking to get a mounting system, if you have the bits and bobs that are compatible with the RAM mount for the Legend then I'll have a set off you,

Cheers
Adux

[Waihou Thumper]

I also have a few RAM cradles for the Garmin 60Csx and other models of the 60C series.....I no longer have that unit either now, so if you want one, let me know. Attachment bolts included (but not RAM mount) for your RAM mount. $15 each plus postage.....I have three of these.

Hi Thumper, I'm interested in the attachments bolts, I have a Garmin Legend HCx and am looking to get a mounting system, if you have the bits and bobs that are compatible with the RAM mount for the Legend then I'll have a set off you,

Cheers
Adux

The Garmin legend isn't a 60 series...The cradle mount will not fit I am afraid mate. But I do have a set of bolts for the back and the plate/knob that will fit into your system (check and see) if you are interested? I think that these are universal diamond shape for most RAM mounts. Send me a PM if you are interested. Mark

[Waihou Thumper]

The install was very easy. I now have the mount for the vehicle and the mount established for the motorbike.
There is a lot of cable and connections that I will never use. I have cable tied the left over connections and just hard wired the unit to the bike.
I would still like to get it wired properly to the ignition somehow, that way it will work the same as the car, when connected.
For the time being, this will work well.
I am impressed with the Garmin extras you get with this unit. The wet weather cover shield and the nice stowage case for the GPS :)
I am happy. I wouldn't have bought one though, but as it came with the bike brand new I guess I did in the end....Buy one :)

[Eddieb]

After my 9 day ride just finished I'm thinking a GPS with a decent hard wiring connection will be in my future. I love my Colorado except it won't run very well using the USB cable to power it from the bike. For short trips it's no problem but longer ones get to be a pain and expensive with batteries required.

[Waihou Thumper]

After my 9 day ride just finished I'm thinking a GPS with a decent hard wiring connection will be in my future. I love my Colorado except it won't run very well using the USB cable to power it from the bike. For short trips it's no problem but longer ones get to be a pain and expensive with batteries required.

http://www.gpscity.com/garmin-colorado-and-oregon-vehicle-power-cable.html

2 options here.
1. cut off the adaptor, split the wires and hard wire with spades to the battery.
2. Use this with a 12V Cig adaptor up around the dash? Good for other toys as well :)

Either way, cheap and in the country for less than $30.00

[Eddieb]

http://www.gpscity.com/garmin-colorado-and-oregon-vehicle-power-cable.html

2 options here.
1. cut off the adaptor, split the wires and hard wire with spades to the battery.
2. Use this with a 12V Cig adaptor up around the dash? Good for other toys as well :)

Either way, cheap and in the country for less than $30.00



Already did that. Wired in a ciggy lighter before the trip and ran it off the USB input for about 5 days then it stopped working as the cable broke. The USB socket isn't a firm enough connection for riding and it drops the connection and shuts off regularly also.

[Rosie]

http://www.gpscity.com/garmin-colorado-and-oregon-vehicle-power-cable.html

2 options here.
1. cut off the adaptor, split the wires and hard wire with spades to the battery.
2. Use this with a 12V Cig adaptor up around the dash? Good for other toys as well :)

Either way, cheap and in the country for less than $30.00



We hacked up a car charger for my GPS power supply but (Clint can correct me if I'm wrong), it's hard-wired onto the bike, so avoids rattly, dusty connectors. I just bundle it up and zip-tie it to the bars when I'm not using the GPS.
The power supply is on a relay (from the headlight?) so it powers on and off with the bike.
It's a very good setup, I haven't had any real problems with it :sunny:

[Howie]

After my 9 day ride just finished I'm thinking a GPS with a decent hard wiring connection will be in my future. I love my Colorado except it won't run very well using the USB cable to power it from the bike. For short trips it's no problem but longer ones get to be a pain and expensive with batteries required.

So you want something like this?

http://www.trademe.co.nz/electronics-photography/gps/gps-accessories/auction-559429712.htm

[Waihou Thumper]

So you want something like this?

http://www.trademe.co.nz/electronics-photography/gps/gps-accessories/auction-559429712.htm

apparently mounting aint the issue, it is the mini USB, similar issues with the 62s, see previous posts.
My 62CsX had the occasional hic-cup, but the design of the plug (round 6 pin) was better fit that a right-angled mini usb.
I guess at the end of the day, battery life being what it is now, 16 hours life way exceeds a days ride. Then there is the logistics of re-charging your Eneloops....:) Solar? That works well, have the unit on the top box or at least in daylight somewhere....

[Eddieb]

Mine was hard wired into the ignition, it's the connection of the wire into the GPS thats the issue.

[pete-blen]

So you want something like this?

http://www.trademe.co.nz/electronics-photography/gps/gps-accessories/auction-559429712.htm


i use one of those on my XT660... easy to wire straight to the batt...
i got mine off E-bay... not seen them on TM before..

[Howie]

i use one of those on my XT660... easy to wire straight to the batt...
i got mine off E-bay... not seen them on TM before..

Yeah if I could find one with the correct plug for my old Magellan eXplorist I'd probably get it, as the part that seems to lose contact on mine seems to be the USB connection into the 5v output supply plugged into the cig lighter socket. So I'm probably going to pull it all to pieces and hardwire my own up.

[pete-blen]

I had the car charger hard wired...
easy to do...
wrap a wire around the centre pin twist tight with plires.. (positive)
the same with one of the side loop contacts.. (Neg)
double both wires up over the body...wrap the shit out of it with tape...
then wire to batt...

[clint640]

Mine was hard wired into the ignition, it's the connection of the wire into the GPS thats the issue.

Blu-Tack Bro!

As per my prev post, when I had that problem 2 weeks ago I just put a big blob o' Blu-Tack around the plug into the GPS & problem solved. That's with the GPS bolted to the notoriously shaky 640 so the method should deal with the comparatively wimpy DR vibes no worries.

I soldered 12V to the cig-usb adapter & insul taped the usb plug into that, none of that gave any probs.

Cheers
Clint

[Waihou Thumper]

Check out the Trader section Guys n Gals....
I don't need another GPS but it came with the bike brand new in the box....
So....of course I tried it out in my wagon, mounted it to the bike but as far as that goes it is all new....
Plastic bags, all RAM mounts etc containing spare screws, spacers are included....:)

Open to offers...I do not need 2 GPS units...

[Waihou Thumper]

Damn, that 660 was a good unit! :)
Maybe I will buy one after all...

[BMWST?]

anyone use these guys.Montana is cheap(ish)

http://gps-newzealand.com/index.php?route=product/product&path=18&product_id=200

[rastuscat]

Anyone got views on this?

http://www.triginstruments.co.nz/store/product_info.php/garmin-zumo-660-preloaded-with-nzaus-maps-p-1585

I'll be buying a Zumo in the next couple of weeks. Just would like to hear opinions on the 660 versus the 350. The 350 has lifetime maps, but do our roads change that much? Like, is it worth the extra dosh? I know the 660 is an older model, but that doesn't always mean the newer one is better.

[Eddieb]

Anyone got views on this?

http://www.triginstruments.co.nz/store/product_info.php/garmin-zumo-660-preloaded-with-nzaus-maps-p-1585

I'll be buying a Zumo in the next couple of weeks. Just would like to hear opinions on the 660 versus the 350. The 350 has lifetime maps, but do our roads change that much? Like, is it worth the extra dosh? I know the 660 is an older model, but that doesn't always mean the newer one is better.

Can't comment on the merits of each device but I bought off trig a few years ago and had great after sales service. Weekly updated Garmin maps are available from the NZ Open GPS project for free. Around where I am (The Tron) the roads are changing a lot at the moment.

[NordieBoy]

Anyone got views on this?

http://www.triginstruments.co.nz/store/product_info.php/garmin-zumo-660-preloaded-with-nzaus-maps-p-1585

I'll be buying a Zumo in the next couple of weeks. Just would like to hear opinions on the 660 versus the 350. The 350 has lifetime maps, but do our roads change that much? Like, is it worth the extra dosh? I know the 660 is an older model, but that doesn't always mean the newer one is better.

I would use the free NZ maps anyway.

[BMWST?]

Adv rider has a thread on this topic plus a dedicated thread on the 350

http://www.advrider.com/forums/showthread.php?t=868994

http://www.advrider.com/forums/showthread.php?t=802312

[ADVGD]

A basic review on the 62s: Garmin 62s GPS review (http://www.adventureguide.co.nz/articles/12/359/garmin-62s.php):

http://www.adventureguide.co.nz/articles/12/359/images/garmin-62s.jpg

[dino3310]

nice one mate great review :niceone: ive been looking at one for over a year now, only theres always something else that takes priority:no:
currently using a basic magellan for hunting but ya get what ya pay for and its shite once you get under a descent canopy or valley no signal, plus no mapping stuff on it. Soooo the 62s looks like the one for me, was always comprehensive and reluctant to get one as i was worried about gps coverage but your reviews cleared all my worries... cheers mate,.

[That looks like fun]

I have a 62 series that I use on my scooters Dino. I run it off the bikes power when its on the machine as vibration seems to switch the little buggers off from time to time.
Fully agree its a real simple unti to use and bloody near indestructable (which is a real bonus the way I ride). The screen is a bit small for my eyes :eek5: but I cope. Not good for town use, as mentioned the processor is a bit slow. By the time it finishes giving you its last instruction and it realises that you have indeed gone around the corner it wanted you too, you have covered three city blocks and missed your next turn :gob:
I have three sets of Maps I use in mine (each needs a seperate micro sd card). I use the NZOGPS NZ Auto Routing maps. NZOGPS_DOC_SRTM Maps and a set of extremly well detailed Topo Maps that I "stole, cracked and installed" :Police:
I would not recomend Fresh Maps at all :oi-grr: I purchased a set and then found they couldnt be installed into Base Camp or Mapsource. May not sound like much, but try and plan a route using only your the screen on your 62 series and then do the same exercise with Base Camp.
Walking in the bush with your handheld, hunting Bear :ar15: oops I might be a bit off track, zoom out to see where you are, oops no detail any more .

[dino3310]

ahhh your a funny good bugga col:laugh:
what do ya mean in that last paragraph? i read it as ' it dosent do well when ya zoom out on the topo and gives a blank screen'
is that correct

[ADVGD]

currently using a basic magellan for hunting but ya get what ya pay for and its shite once you get under a descent canopy or valley no signal, plus no mapping stuff on it.

Great hunting unit, the 62s is used by the DOC workers on foot in the bush, great reception under canopy. The topo contour lines (with FreshMap topo) make easy work of picking ridges and spurs


I would not recomend Fresh Maps at all :oi-grr: I purchased a set and then found they couldnt be installed into Base Camp or Mapsource. May not sound like much, but try and plan a route using only your the screen on your 62 series and then do the same exercise with Base Camp.

Sorry brother, ya doing the wrong thing. Trying to use FreshMap on your GPS with Base Camp/Mapsource on your PC is like buying a Honda C50 piston and trying to install it on a KTM450. They are not compatible for a reason, Freshmap has GPS unit software and separate PC software. Both FreshMap software versions cost around $320 but I have no qualms with paying that as you get what you pay for. Using the FreshMap PC software for planning/reviewing routes is very userfriendly and feature rich; the nicest and most practical software I have used to date. If you have a go with both together, you'd no doubt be impressed

[dino3310]

Great hunting unit, the 62s is used by the DOC workers on foot in the bush, great reception under canopy. The topo contour lines (with FreshMap topo) make easy work of picking ridges and spurs





Perfect
nothing worse than bagging a beasty then humping it over ridge after ridge following a compass, so easy to plot an easier route with topo in a gps

cheers mate

[That looks like fun]

Freshmap has GPS unit software and separate PC software. Both FreshMap software versions cost around $320 but I have no qualms with paying that as you get what you pay for. Using the FreshMap PC software for planning/reviewing routes is very userfriendly and feature rich; the nicest and most practice software I have used to date. If you have a go with both together, you'd no doubt be impressed

So you would figger they would tell you that when you buy it eh :no:
Tell the person who is selling it to you what you want, this is the shizz he says, yep will do everything you want as well as change water into wine oh yeah :violin:
And dont get me started about the promise of lifetime free updates mate :mad:

The problem with zooming out Dino is not just limited to Fresh Maps. As you zoom the amount of detail alters, you can customize it but with the 62's small screen to get a wider overall view you need to zoom out a long way. First the contour lines go, then the foot tracks, followed by vehicle tracks and so on until eventually you and the pig make friends and have a hokey pokey icecream with the monkey.:eek:

[dino3310]

as long as i can zoom out to cover up to a 2klm walk i'll be happy any further than that my fat arse is dragging:laugh:

[Waihou Thumper]

Just sold my unit to a guy in Nelson. I am going back to a Zumo 660 for the bike/ute. I liked the 62s but found the 62csx the better unit.

[dino3310]

That PB tech is pretty awesome, ive shopped there a couple of times and some of there specials are hard to beat

[Waihou Thumper]

I scored a Nuvi 660 for the vehicle for $21.00 on Trade Me....works great after updating 5 years worth of maps. Came with all of the attachments and more.
I bought a Montana 650 for the bike......
I didn't buy the Zumo for obvious reasons as above....:)
The Montana is a do all anywhere device, most impressed!

[NordieBoy]

I want a Montana...

[dino3310]

I want a Montana...

they look the shiz, was looking at a couple last night..... farked if i could afford one though

[BMWST?]

I want a Montana...

There is a huge thread and faq on adv rider,they not without their issues

sent from the tag

[NordieBoy]

There is a huge thread and faq on adv rider,they not without their issues
I wouldn't want to buy one, I just want one.

Same with a GoPro 3 Black....

[Eddieb]

What about the Monterra?

http://garmin.blogs.com/my_weblog/2013/06/introducing-monterra-new-garmin-outdoor-handheld-with-android-os.html

[Waihou Thumper]

they not without their issues



Issues with everything over there....on all things, all of the time.
The early ones, yes had their foibles, updated patches, software has turned these into reliable
beasts. Mind you, even the 62s had issues at times....
It got me lost! :)
Which as it happens is the whole reason for owning one of these. Go out with the intention of getting lost is always fun!

[BMWST?]

What about the Monterra?

http://garmin.blogs.com/my_weblog/2013/06/introducing-monterra-new-garmin-outdoor-handheld-with-android-os.html


cant figure out why they didnt enable mobile data too.

[NordieBoy]

cant figure out why they didnt enable mobile data too.

They did on the Garmin-ASUS that flopped as it was no better than a normal smart phone. Hope the hardware is moar betterer in this one...

[dino3310]

Issues with everything over there....on all things, all of the time.
The early ones, yes had their foibles, updated patches, software has turned these into reliable
beasts. Mind you, even the 62s had issues at times....
It got me lost! :)
Which as it happens is the whole reason for owning one of these. Go out with the intention of getting lost is always fun!

i see your bidding on the 60csx.... nice

[Waihou Thumper]

i see your bidding on the 60csx.... nice

Yeah, there are a couple going, the Cx as well....I thought I might get one for the aprilia if it suits pricewise. I already have the mounts
and the hard wiring kit in my gps store...:)

[NordieBoy]

There's a Vista hcx for sale locally for $99 that might bolt on to one of the bikes nicely...

[Waihou Thumper]

There's a Vista hcx for sale locally for $99 that might bolt on to one of the bikes nicely...

Thanks, yeah I considered the Etrex, nice GPS, however I have mounts here for two 60 series, so chasing one of these..

[Waihou Thumper]

There's a Vista hcx for sale locally for $99 that might bolt on to one of the bikes nicely...

Is this still available Nordie?

[dino3310]

did ya get outbid mate