Now I done IT... ???

T

tripplec

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To GPS or Not?

I read some of the very very old input in the GPS section and now debating whether or not a GPS would help on trails (road a given but when off road is questionable). I have read a number of reviews and the one that comes up to be a real low cost serious contender is the TomTom ONE 3rd edition on sale @ $149.

What is this overlay maps or topographical about in this application. I know what is meant by the term but does it help on the trails? I am not certain if it is supported on this or what models, nor if they are available and whether they are model/OEM specific.

Yep I started something. But work with me. Christmas is coming and my stocking empty. Who would grubble at getting one for Christmas? Eh eh? :letitsnow
 
I've used mine to record my trips on the sd card and then downloaded the info as an overlay on google earth. It helps the many hours when you cant be on the sled to pass the time.
 
I just bought the garmin 60csx for snowmobiling and if you look around on the internet there is trial maps for the GPS. I went to www.gpssledmaps.com and downloaded their FREE Upper Michigan maps and they overlay my topo map. They seem to be pretty accurate at the spots it crosses the roads with my car, but I dont know about when your out away from the road. I guess we will see if the snow ever comes. :letitsnow
 
I use my GPS on my sled and in both of my jeeps. Also a fun toy as a passenger. I also bought the turn by turn directions software and used it for a solo trip I took. I really liked planning out my trip on my computer screen and following it in the jeep. I also had issues getting lost in the woods. That was when my wife bought me the GPS. Here all this time I thought she didn't want me to come home again....
 
I was wondering how well these gps would work on known trails as well.
While our trails in N WI are usually well marked, sometimes they are a little ambiguous as to which direction you should really go.

with the gps prices really coming down, i was wondering how theyw ould work on a sled.

Also, wouldn't you need a unit that is weatherproof ( a pricey motorcycle unit) rather than the car use ones that are meant to be out of the elements?
 
Weather Proof & How it works

Well after much research and calls I have assertained. You don't need waterproof etc no more for this than a cell phone you likely carry as well. You would not mount a GPS on your sled or leave it in the cold for long. Purely as a reference when you come to a crossing or stop and wonder where you are.

For most of the units such as the TomTom One which does not support trail or map overlays. You would see were you are in an unmarked area (no roads etc). But you would see the roads which are part of the mapping software in them and navigate in relation to them to get where you want or hook up to one looking for a trail. It would not help you on a trail other that to get to a road and/or show you where you are if you get turned around or lost at night.

For the units which support map overlays. The trails on them overlay the existing built in map so you can navigate your way through a void. Hills, lakes, cliffs etc would be last minute surprises.

I recall snowmobiling along someone elses track on a trail just off a road to a town. Turns out the the turkey who make this trail which seem well travelled went over a cliff, and I did not see it until the wide open ski and drop confronted me. Turns out my son was following behind me and did the same. He swore never to follow me again. We were both scared shi.....less. Asume nothing, expect everything!!!!
 
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Mine is mounted on my handle bar. It is also capable of using additional maps. I downloaded a map set of the Upper Peninsula snowmobile trails. The only thing that I have issue with is I don't have snowmobile power to it. I also think with the external power the thing will leave the back light on. It runs off of the AA batteries. The batteries last me about a day of riding.

I have a Garmin etrax legend CX. Along with the snowmobile trail maps I also have the TOPO maps, the Rec maps and the streets and trips maps with auto mapping.

I can't speak for the TomTom.
 
Topp Map? Optional on that?

JeepTherapy said:
Mine is mounted on my handle bar. It is also capable of using additional maps. I downloaded a map set of the Upper Peninsula snowmobile trails. The only thing that I have issue with is I don't have snowmobile power to it. I also think with the external power the thing will leave the back light on. It runs off of the AA batteries. The batteries last me about a day of riding.

I have a Garmin etrax legend CX. Along with the snowmobile trail maps I also have the TOPO maps, the Rec maps and the streets and trips maps with auto mapping.

I can't speak for the TomTom.
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I have been looking primarily at the Nuvi lineup. Mainly since I would use it in a vehicle and only carry it in my jacket for reference on the trail. Garmins supports overlays if you wish to use them and you can get detailed maps for the trails in your snowmobiling turf. Mine is Haliburton, Ontario. However, TomTom One does NOT support any overlays or upgrades! Bummer so if you want to be able to add anything you need at least a Nuvi using NAVTECH maps. Without trail maps they tell me it would show where I am in the void between the mappped roads. GPS shops say they are not designed to withstand the rigours of snowmobiling and freezing cold. Also I cannot see how I could read/see it with a small screen while moving. I would have to stop anyway. So I would keep it in my jacket where it's warm. Once the trek and season is over the automotive unit fits back on the dash.

My thoughts anyway and any feedback? Specify what you're using and map source etc since many of us are new to this implementation. :wel:

We are all trying to learn what is the best bang for the buck!!! Old GPS thread talked about a sub $200 Legend my Magellin I believe.
 
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