Getting The Most From Your GPS
By Lee Klancher
Unless you've been living under a rock, you already know the latest motorcycle-oriented GPs units are virtually weatherproof, handlebar-mounted minicomputers. But it doesn't end there-the latest breed of GPs can give you directions to nearly any address in North America; find restaurants, hotels and gas stations; and even record and share favorite rides
As with any new technology there can be a learning curve, so we've compiled some tips and techniques for your next GPs-assisted journey.
If you're planning a group expedition, it's a good idea to preride the route, save a track and waypoints, then upload it to Google maps or Google earth.
Next time you're on your favorite road, use the find feature to see what restaurants are listed. if you come across an interesting name hit "go" and check it out. Bear in mind that listings can occasionally be inaccurate, but guides usually provide a phone number for the restaurant or hotel, so . .
Link Your GPs unit with a cell phone. take the mystery out of the quest by pressing "call" to ring that restaurant and see if it actually exists.
You can buy a Fodor's guide for some GPs units to add information about restaurants, hotels and so on.
If you're tied so tightly to your cell phone that you need to take calls on the road, install a Bluetooth headset in your helmet to do so and hear your GPs unit's spoken commands. Helmet noise will likely make using a Bluetooth headset on the road pretty dicey, and it's always a wiser choice to pull over to use the cell.
Some backroads won't even appear on preloaded maps of North America- particularly gravel roads.
GPs units are a dream if you're out of the country. on commercial tours the leaders can usually load the day's ride on your GPs. if you're on your own be sure to load a map of the country you're visiting. remember that some maps of Europe can lack detail for backroads and lesserknown countries, so if you want precise directions take the time to find that particular country's maps for your GPs.
When you have a set amount of time to ride, a GPs is really slick. set the GPs to find your home destination and leave that setting on all day. you'll get an etA on the screen, letting you know how long it'll take to finish your ride.
XM satellite radio, weather reports and traffic updates are available with high-end units, but these can be expensive if you don't already subscribe to Xm. watch out for additional charges.
GPs units don't always provide the most efficient route when you ask for directions. the suggestions can range from a few minutes of additional travel time to hours. Bring a good-quality map along, and if the GPs route looks fishy check the map. you can also ride the route you think is right-the GPs will automatically update as you go.
Hardwire the GPs to your bike battery. Battery life averages only four hours-not enough for a real tour-and it can take a long time to recharge it.