Garmin

hosta1

Hey people, I am thinking of buying a garmin cycle computer thing, for using on the tandem. It would give my wife something to play with whilst stoking, and then she could tell me where to go!
But I am confused which one to get. I would like it to do all the basic cycle computer stuff, plus give a rolling road map. Any ideas?
Thanks

barrybaines

Edge 705 with the additional maps if you want colour rolling maps, best thing is to plot your route at home on Bikehike.com or the like, upload it and let the Garmin direct you from there.
Great bit of kit absolutley love mine

hosta1

Thanks for the tip, barry. I've checked this out and it certainly gives a lot of info'. Is there a version which does not have quite so many features? I probably won't ever use the heart rate monitor, though maybe I should?

barrybaines

I think the 605 has the maps etc. BUT it does not give the option to use the HR or Cadence if you desired to do so in the future

dag_on_a_bike

I have the Edge 705. Absolutely great and never regretted my decision.

The 605 doesn't have the altimeter, I think, which was a boon when riding the hills.

I only ever use the HRM on the turbo but probably should use it more.

Getting the right maps too does make a massive difference.

BigJimmyB

Jumping on this one......if I basically want a 'sat nav' so I can load in routes and then follow them, but am not worried about cadence/HR etc, is there a Garmin for me?

Thx
BJB

antfly

Edge 205.,it has no maps though.

Myk-ee

I used a Garmin GPSMap 60CSX for many years, which has mapping and is a more multi purpose gps unit over the edge (also uses 2 x AA, which can be useful). I recently moved to the 705 which is superb machine but i still really like the interface of the 60csx. The 60csx is a little bigger and heavier, and not as refined as the 705 but i found the screen easier to read although the buttons are not as easy to use as the 705 particularly with winter gloves.

I know some people who have also used a mapping Etrex, but I'm not familiar with that range.

So, at least have a look at the 60csx if you don't need cadence and heart rate. I'm sure I'll be using mine again for any touring in the future...

andrew_s

There are 3 possible models:
Edge - 605 or 705
Smallest (and smallest screen), uses internal rechargeable batteries, so it you are away longer than 12 hours you need a powermonkey or similar external battery pack.
The 705 gets you a barometric altimeter, heart rate (for 1 rider), and optional cadence

Etrex - Legend HCx or Vista HCx
Intermediate in size, uses 2xAA batteries lasting up to 25h
The Vista gets you a compass and barometric altimeter

GPSMap 60Cx or CSx
Biggest, biggest screen, 2xAA batteries lasting up to 18h
CSx gets you a compass and barometric altimeter.

The Etrex and GPSMap60 are really hiking models,and handlebar mounts are extra (£14 ish).
A barometric altimeter gives you heights that don't fluctuate like GPS-only ones do, so you get sensible figures for amount of climbing..
A compass gives you a direction when you aren't moving. Probably not important on a bike.
The run-time of built-in lithium rechargeable batteries reduces with age (regardless of use/non-use), and they can't be changed by the owner.

Maps:
City Navigator maps will cost something like £80 for all Europe on DVD or on SD card, or £50 for UK/Ireland on SD card
DVD versions can be used on your PC (bigger screen, easy setup of routes), but get registered to your GPS and you have to buy a card to write to for use in the GPS. SD cards can be used with any GPS, but there's no comeback if it gets corrupted (not sure about backup).
TopoGB is less useful than CN for cycling. Contours obscure the roads, so only get it if you intend to use the GPS away from the road network.
There are also various unofficial free maps (SMC contours, OpenStreetMap), but these are less accurate (contour), or not yet complete in many areas (OSM).

I've got a 60CSx.
Buying now, I'd get an Etrex Vista HCx, and CN maps on DVD.

hosta1

Thanks Andrew, and everybody, that seems a pretty comprehensive overview. Looks like the 60CSx as a starting point. To be honest I am happier with the thought of a map and compass, clearly becoming a luddite in my older age. Happy riding.

andrew_s

Oops!

There appears to be nowhere to anchor a safety strap on the Edge, so if the mount breaks there's nothing to stop it falling onto the road and getting run over. The Etrex and 60CSx come with wrist straps you can loop to the bars.

sdklein

I've had good luck with the 305. Just create a route on mapmyride or google, download it to the Garmin and let your wife tell you when the turns are coming up. Works like a charm.

GL

Solis

I use the Etrx Summit HC, has electronic compass,altimeter, built in (very basic) maps. Originaly purchased just for hill walking but find it is great for the bike, though obviously no cadence/hrm.
In my case use it in conjunction with Fugawi maps.

antfly

I use the 305 for planned routes but it`s only as good as your waypoints and is difficult to follow at roundabouts and complicated junctions.I am always getting slightly lost.

FCE2007

If anyone still only has the basemap then UK/Ireland 2008 mapping is available here for 30 quid.