GPS purchase and question

[Trader]

I recently purchased a garmin Nuvii 750 off a member here.

I have a couple of questions......

 

When I was told that the unit "came with a ram mount" was I wrong to expect that that would include the handlebar clamp?

All I got was the "frame" piece that holds the gps.

 

When I asked the member about it....he said "I'm buying a bigger unit for my bike so I need that"

I can't complain too much....I got the unit and the Ram mount frame for $65

 

 

 

2nd question....I've heard members say they put their own planned routes into the GPS...how does that work? (I'm talking about uploading a route...not entering multiple stops on the gps)

[etcswjoe]

I would not have expected the handlebar clamp.

 

Most route planners such as Google Maps, HD Ride planner etc have options to upload the routes to your GPS also the Garmin mapping software will let you do it too.

[Wizard765]

Steve:

 

I really like the garmin software (Mapsource) and I will create a route in that software. Once the route is created I plug the garmin into the computer and then the software has a button for uploading to the GPS. Make sure you use lots of waypoints or sometimes the route gets messed up a bit when it recalculates.

That unit will save up to 10 routes.

[djh3]

I find mapsource and base camp to be way confusing and hard to use. But I learned route planning on Microsoft streets and trips and the 2 are nothing alike. I am using TYRE. A free program that will utilize Google maps and has drag and drop rerouting. Also this is a handy link to have http://forums.gpsreview.net/

On the mount, no I dont think I would have expected the handlebar part. That piece is fairly inexpensive, I thinks under $20 if you search around.

[Trader]

Well, OK then.....2 out of 2 responses say I should not have expected the handle bar clamp.

 

My Bad I guess!

 

Like I said....I was happy with the price...just felt wrong somehow to only get half the mount!

[chabicheka]

I think the mount should have been included....and the handlebar too!

 

 

 

[IronMike]

I have three GPS on the bike. A Garmin CSX 60. For absolute waterproof. Also uses Mapsource and I find bthat to be a PITA. , a old Garmin auto GPS. nuvi. And my Note 2 of course has Google maps and GPS I use it in a waterproof bag from wal mart for cell phones and it clings to the tank by use of a neridium magnet glued to the bag with RV glue.

 

On my last trip to the Dragon in a downpour I used all three at times, but by far the Nuvi. I made it waterproof just by putting a ice bag from the hotel over it and then clipping it in the mount. Downpour proof and readable. If it had a TFT display it would really be readable. That's where the 60 CXS came in.

 

I like having at least two units as I can display different info on each and that keeps my hands on the bars rather than scrolling through pages for info. Speaking of which, I find the Nuvi does well at that even with gloves on and the ice bag over it. Amazing. I just put it on because I upgraded the car and what else to do with the old Garmin? Put it on two years ago expecting to to crap out on me. Ha!

 

Anyways between the three I always had the info I needed . Google places came in handy on the phone finding hotels and gas and places to eat. And of course Radar. The Rainy Days app is too cool! Got that tip here.

 

Anyways. I drive professionally for a living. And a GPS that you have to load up like the Mapsource type drives me nuts although you can upload info on cards now and change them out.

 

On that last trip the route was changed several times to avoid rain and a programmed route would have been a disaster. I have the entire east coast in my CSX. But anyways just some thoughts to ponder.

 

Always have more than one way to navigate and stop and get a free map at the welcome center. Never can beat a map.

 

BTW my laptop has MS streets and trips and I use that to plan out trips and estimate gas stops and costs and times. Its worth every cent.

 

Mapsource is my enemy, both at work and at play.

[Barrycuda]

I use a garmin 765 which I waterproofed with a tip on this site. I use a Baggie and a rubber band. Does it work? You bet! Was put to the test on a run to Tennessee and Kentucky in May. It poured all the way there and back. Dry as a bone...

However when I can't use it or don't have it on me, I agree with IronMike, I find a gas station or truck stop and use their maps...

[Yammer Dan]

Never can beat a map!! I knew someone would say it!!!!

[djh3]

I like my streets and maps to help plan the stops and total driving time. TYRE does not have that yet. They are allways updating and improving so maybe in the future. Works off Goggle maps so if you can work them your in.

Oh and on the clamp part of you mount you need, be sure to shop around as prices vary widely. Mine is 3/4" clamp with ball and the arm must be about 3" long.