subject: Garmin Gps Zumo 660 Unit [print this page] Once you've decided on what type of GPS you would like to look for, there are several more factors that you might want to consider before making a decision. Such as, how good is the battery life on the model you want? Can you have it wired into your bike's electrical system so that it draws power while you're off the mark? How accurate is the GPS? How easily can it be updated?
What could be worse than being some hours from home, relying on the GPS for directions, only to find that the batteries are dead? If you select a cheaper unit with lesser battery life, the lesson here is simple, simply carry spare batteries! Most handheld GPS units run on 4, 6 or 8 'AA' size batteries, so they're easy to take along with you.
First off, battery life is important. It isn't good to have something that won't complete the journey. Some require double A or triple A batteries, but it is far better to have rechargeable batteries that can hook up to battery on the motorcycle.
To avoid the issue of battery life, consider having the GPS hard-wired into your bike's electrical system. Generally, GPS units draw very little current, and because the battery is being recharged by the alternator while the bike is running, your battery power is not compromised.
Starter models, for example the Magellan Roadmate are available from around $250. For the better models you can pay anywhere up to $1400. Widely regarded as the best value for motorcyclists is the TomTom RIDER, which retails around $700. It's got full functionalities that riders need, including door-to-door address route plotting anywhere in the united states.
GPS units don't work well undercover. They rely on being in line-of-sight contact with satellites outside earth's atmosphere, and anything - including trees - can interfere with the signal. If you spend a lot of time on roads that run through forested areas, it's worth considering one of the new SiRF Star III Chipset models. They offer superior coverage in leafy areas.
