GPS for mountain bikers

If you want something that is primarily a training partner, the Edge series  is a great choice.

But most mountain bikers getting a GPS will want one that has better navigation features.

The Legend HCx and Vista HCx are great choices for mountain bikers. The Vista HCx adds a barometric altimeter and electronic compass. With a larger screen and a better button layout while on the bike, the GPSMAP 60Cx or 60CSx are great choices too. The latter also adds an electronic compass and barometric altimeter. These units don’€™t come with any kind of detailed map though. Fortunately, there are free topo maps available for most states for Garmin units.

A new introduction, the Delorme PN-40 (shown above, at right), is another good option for mountain bikers. It can accommodate aerial imagery and real USGS topos.

Touchscreen units

In the past, I’ve been reluctant to recommend any of the new touchscreen units, due to visibility issues. I was pleasantly surprised by the new Garmin Dakota 20 however, and it is the first touchscreen model I’m recommending. It won’t be as bright as an eTrex or 60C(S)x, but the touch screen interface is awesome. Another model to consider, with a larger screen, is the Garmin Oregon 450. It’s the first Oregon unit I’m recommending for bikers. These newer touch screen units have some awesome new features, and they are well worth checking out.