BEST GPS

[naked indian]

Good INfo, thanks!  My trip got scrubbed last weekend, wifey got sick, but were on for this weekend and I finally figured out how to load the stuff I want on it, I ordered a handlebar mount, hoping it will get here by friday GO time, I will definetely implement that lanyard tie to the bar method, thanks!

[chuckc1971]

Thanks for the discussion.

I've gone back and forth with my research on GPS devices between the Garmin Vista HCx and the new DeLorme Earthmate PN-40 device.

Here's a nice review of the latter:
http://gpstracklog.com/2009/02/delorme-earthmate-pn-40-review.html

Background: I'm a total handheld GPS newb which concerns me with the thought of using the DeLorme’s Topo USA 7.0. However, I will be able to spend $29.95 and get access to:

•1:24,000 scale USGS topo maps
•B/W aerial imagery
•Color aerial imagery
•SAT 10 imagery

Since I will be riding is Eastern hardwood, I don't know if the aerial or SAT imagery will be helpful, but I do know the USGS quad information will be very valuable. Garmin has yet to be able to do this outside of a few national parks. I did find a page that has the ability to convert USGS quads to Garmin maps:

http://moagu.com/

However, I wouldn't know if this solution is more or less complex than going with the DeLorme unit since I don't have either unit  in hand to be able to figure it out.

Battery life appears to be shorter with the DeLorme unit which may be a deal killer.

Lastly, it looks like I will be able to use topofusion to modify an existing gpx file for my route. I will have to cut out certain sections and add additional road mileeage in. Is this correct, or do I need another program?

Thanks!

[jonesy792]

I've been using my vista hcx for ~4 months now and couldn't be happier.  As far as maps for the gps go check out http://www.gpsfiledepot.com/maps/  I got a full set of free topo maps of arizona for my hcx from them.