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I'm looking to start a bit more adventure touring next year and wondering if I need to have a Garmin or equivalent for routes etc? I stopped using them to measure speed/cadence years ago as they took the fun out of riding for me.
So do I invest or get by with using my phone and Google maps.
Let me know what you use.
Ta.
I use my (android) phone and maverick GPS navigation app, caches OSM, OS,and other maps of your choice for off line use. Blackview 5800 currently, heavy duty, waterproof phone with 5800mah battery on a rubber bar mount.
Done this for the last 10 years for hiking and biking, even sailing with a charts app, here and abroad and for work (was an outdoor access officer). I put the phone in airplane mode when I don't need to communicate and have a power bank if needed for multiday trips, though it's been so e time since I've done them.
You are probably best sticking with a phone and buying a decent app that does what you need unless you NEED a gadget to strap to your bike.
I needed a gadget to strap to my bike and bought a Wahoo Element Bolt because it was mis-priced in the LBS for £100 including a cadence sensor, speed sensor and heart rate sensor of which I only use the speed sensor as it is also required for distance. https://www.amazon.co.uk/Wahoo-Fitness-ELEMNT-Computer-Unisex/dp/B09NSHW8MM
If you need some man maths to justify the £160+ price then I worked out that it was a lot cheaper than smashing or losing my new phone - after losing my old phone when it fell from my pocket on a ride. The Wahoo has loads of features that I have never really explored but for me the battery life is okay, the map is clear and you can make it flash or beep or something to remind you when you are approaching a turn which is great when I am day dreaming as I cycle along.
I like a bike specific gps on the bars as the size is about right, they're more durable, have better battery life and I like keeping my phone separate for pics, etc.
I do however have OS maps on my phone for the bigger picture if needs be.
Wahoo are better than Garmin for ease of setting up and the mapping is great for roads but inconsistent off road. Rights of way are recorded but if passing through an FC wood the fire roads might not be there unless they are also ROW so it can be a faff working out where to go at cross roads and so on.
I've just got one of these:
Garmin Edge Explore- Renewed https://amzn.eu/1z7ptYj
They say renewed but are completely as new and come in a garmin branded box with all the papers and accessories.
I think Garmin are having a discount weekend this weekend.
Thanks guys.
I use a Garmin Etrex. The bonus is that you can display the data that you want and only look at speed, cadence, etc if you want it
It takes AA batteries, will "do" several rides on one set and you can carry spares (rechargeable, alkaline, whatever), which keeps the phone available for, well, phoning
Generic mounts are fine cable-tied to the 'bars with a lanyard for the Garmin (they occasionally make a bid for freedom). A rubber o-ring around the Garmin and mount stops this