Anyone use a handheld GPS?

[slo rider]

So I just moved to Washington from California and I don't know where any "good" roads are yet. Instead of carrying multiple maps on my explorations I've been toying with the idea of buying a hand-held GPS unit. I was wondeing if anybody else has tried this, what unit they tried, and what they like or didn't like about it.

[RolnCode3]

I have a Garmin 60CS unit. I also have the Mapsource software for it. I have a full RAM mount and Powerlet powering it while it's on the bike.

Things I like:
Easily take it off the bike. Is battery powered and used at the PC while downloading maps.

Things I don't like:
Only internal memory 56mbs. Can't be expanded (doesn't use cards).
Screen is fairly small.
Doesn't have a feature to tell you which routes are nearby (which is how I have all the roads input).

If I were to get another one (or upgrade), I would seriously consider a TomTom unit, or the Garmin 300 series (I think that's the right number...look like the TomTom units).

The main reason to get a handheld vs. vehicle mount is that you'll be using the unit off of the bike. Geocaching, mountain biking, hiking, etc...If you have no intention of ever doing those things, you'll probably be better off with a vehicle mount...My $0.02.

[bosozoku]

Originally Posted by slo rider

So I just moved to Washington from California and I don't know where any "good" roads are yet. Instead of carrying multiple maps on my explorations I've been toying with the idea of buying a hand-held GPS unit. I was wondeing if anybody else has tried this, what unit they tried, and what they like or didn't like about it.

Been here yet?.
http://washington.destinationhighways.com/

[princessbeemie]

Originally Posted by slo rider

So I just moved to Washington from California and I don't know where any "good" roads are yet. Instead of carrying multiple maps on my explorations I've been toying with the idea of buying a hand-held GPS unit. I was wondeing if anybody else has tried this, what unit they tried, and what they like or didn't like about it.

Welcome Matt,

Instead of spending money on the GPS unit, pick up a Destination Highways book (http://washington.destinationhighways.com/). It is a very extensive book and map of the top roads in Washington that includes bike shops, lodging and gas station. They have a great rating system of every road, the number one road being close to you is North Cascades Highway. If you are planning a trip to the Motorcycle show in Seattle this December they are always selling them there.

Also, I-90 Motorsports does a club ride on Sundays that looks pretty organized. They are a little far from us, but they have a great group working out of their shop.

Hope this helps you out,
Wendy

[montana]

Originally Posted by RolnCode3

I have a Garmin 60CS unit.
If I were to get another one (or upgrade), I would seriously consider a TomTom unit, or the Garmin 300 series (I think that's the right number...look like the TomTom units).

I'll take that 60CS off your hands if you don't want to suffer the pains of having a substandard unit...

I have an eTrex Vista, which I use all the time for lots of different things, which is why I got a handheld. It's good for what it does, but keep in mind that you shouldn't be doing too much map reading or button pushing while riding. As long as you follow that advice, the handhelds do pretty good. Set it up while you're stopped, and then just let it go. If you want the pretty-sounding lady to give you directions while you ride, then you get the high-dollar stuff, or a smart passenger (or is that the same thing...???)

Ow! Who hit me!??!! Yes, dear...sorry, honey....

[slo rider]

Thanks for the help everybody. I'll definitely track down one of the Destination Highways books. I was considering the GPS mainly to reduce the chances of getting lost while investigating back roads. Thanks again.

Matt

[bosozoku]

Originally Posted by slo rider

Thanks for the help everybody. I'll definitely track down one of the Destination Highways books. I was considering the GPS mainly to reduce the chances of getting lost while investigating back roads. Thanks again.

Matt

If you're going to the bike show in Seattle, they usually have a booth with all their goodies.

[vmachado209]

Originally Posted by slo rider

So I just moved to Washington from California and I don't know where any "good" roads are yet. Instead of carrying multiple maps on my explorations I've been toying with the idea of buying a hand-held GPS unit. I was wondeing if anybody else has tried this, what unit they tried, and what they like or didn't like about it.

Hi Steve,

I use a garmine iQue3200. I carry it around as you would any PDA and it uses all of the regular Palm OS software. The mapping software that comes with it has every road around including forest roads and trails. I don't know the name of the mapping software right now...sorry. I think the newer version of the Garmine is the iQue3600. You'll need to check out their web site for more info.

I bought a handlebar mount and a nice looking cigarette lighter to plug it into. Nothing tacky.

This little unit has taken me about 15,000 miles into the Sierra's so far. No complaints.

Take care.

[rawb]

Originally Posted by bosozoku

Been here yet?.
http://washington.destinationhighways.com/

Been doing this for years, and am still amazed by the stuff you can find on the internet.

So, the obvious question: does Tim know about this? Do these guys know about Tim? Seems like a perfect deal in the making. I want my hardbound coffee-table copy of California Motorcycle Roads...

Rob

[flying_hun]

Originally Posted by slo rider

So I just moved to Washington from California and I don't know where any "good" roads are yet.

Hi there,

I used to work in Renton, and have lived all over the area. You might want to try heading SE out past Maple Valley to Black Diamond and beyond. Try Green Valley Road (not great, but nice) and roads that radiate out from the Flaming Geyser Park end of that road. Watch for radar in Black Diamond. Head further south yet through Buckley and out through Carbonado and up towards Mowich Lake and Glacier. It's a deadend entrance to Mt. Rainier NP. Hwy 410 is also fun once you get above the Crystal Mountain turnoff, but it's a bit late season for that. While up that way, continue over Cayuse Pass and down towards Randle to get access to the back side of Mt. St. Helens.

The islands are fun to ride in, though not quite the racer roads you may have become accustomed to around SLO. Also, I used to ride with a guy from up near Sedro Wooley who knew some great roads. If you'd like to ride up that way I could see if I could hook you up with him.

As previously mentioned, Hwy 20, the North Cascades Hwy is great. That road is also great as it goes further east around Republic and Wauconda. Just some thoughts.

Cheers,

Kurt