Navigation

[joeymac]

Can i get some ideas on field tested navigation equip/software Etc. have used map source and google earth then convert to gpx file to down load to iphone using motionX. A lot of data seems to be lost during all the process. Is There better Stuff out there compatible with the iphone? Apps ect.

 

[viewdvb]

An I-phone isn't the answer to everything. You want to navigate and can't handle maps - get a SATNAV. This is the age of multi-purpose technology but some of it is built to do a particular job. A phone is, at best, a compromise. A hand held, non-storm proof device that does a lot of things but not as well as a purpose built SATNAV. My laptop will do likewise but I don't use it to navigate.

 

[bloodline]

I've been down this road. Tried the iphone, tried various nuvi's, etc. Garmin montana is where I wound up.

The iphone is not sunlight readable, smokes the battery when navigating, overheats, relies on the network for POI (for now), requires touchscreen compatible gloves, is fragile, the gps sucks , etc.

The iphone has replaced my nuvi in the truck, though. MotionX drive is my app of choice. I don't need track logging, route planning, etc in the truck.

Very happy with the montana.

 

[Dirt_Dad]

I've owned the Garmin Zumo 550, 660 and now 665. Even had a Zumo 220 for about two hours.

Ignoring the purchase price (which is too high), the 665 has impacted my riding more than any other GPS. Now that I can see the weather on the map I know exactly how far to ride before putting on rain gear, or even if it's going to be necessary. There's no more, "it looks like rain ahead," then putting on gear and sweating for no reason because it really wasn't in my path. I also find I'm playing games with it like riding as close to the rain on a day ride, then staying just out of it by taking whatever road serves the purpose to stay dry. Ended up in some very unfamiliar places doing that.

It is also handy for avoiding traffic when you're slabbing it. It will route you around the traffic. Wish I realized that feature existed before melting on I-81 in a hour long 3 mile backup in 111 degree heat.

As far as navigation and software, it works like ever other Zumo. A unit specifically built for riding. Does a good job, is waterproof and works well with gloves.

 

[xr400guy]

I recently purchased a Montana, previously having used a cheap Nuvi.
The problem with the Montana is that it is so darn complicated and can do so much, that the learning curve is steep for me.
I really like the way it tells you where you have been. I got it to work in the "Nuvi" mode, but it only gives me a straight line from where I am to my destination. I am sure that it is a simple setting somewhere to give me turn by turn directions.
It is my mission to learn about the full capabilities of this GPS! :-X

 

[EricV]

Can i get some ideas on field tested navigation equip/software Etc. have used map source and google earth then convert to gpx file to down load to iphone using motionX. A lot of data seems to be lost during all the process. Is There better Stuff out there compatible with the iphone? Apps ect.

Start out with telling us what you want to do with it.

Just A - B, or do you want to plan multi-point routes with many via points? Road Atlas and Streets and Trips are more user friendly, and allow the creation of a file, but usually need to be converted to a gpx file before you can move it to the GPS (SATNAV) unit.

I use two Garmin 2610 GPS units. Older, not supported any more and the last mapset was '09(?). But good features and easy to use, plus cheap on ebay these days.

 

[briang123]

I decided the Montana is where Im headed too. It will do everything I want and more. Plus it feels like it'll take a hit or two. Saving my nickles and dimes. Heck, the topo package costs more then a nuvi.

 

[joeymac]

I decided the Montana is where Im headed too. It will do everything I want and more. Plus it feels like it'll take a hit or two. Saving my nickles and dimes. Heck, the topo package costs more then a nuvi.

Im with Ya. Either the 665t or the montana. Im still looking between the two. Garmin is really proud of there products ::022::