07-01-2021, 02:20 AM
Tom, the original poster, likes maps and memory. I can't say as I disagree with that approach much, especially when riding solo. Others have opined about their approaches to route planning and all seem valid to me, not that my opinion is worth the time it takes to read it.
For me, since I usually ride with at least one other person and since we usually have a specific destination in mind, I prefer to plan the route in advance. I use Google Maps on my desktop and then export that route into Scenic and use my phone to view my route. I do not use the audio turn-by-turn in Scenic and I do often have a paper back-up in case my phone craps out plus I do a "dry run" on new routes, including identifying gas and food stops along with landmarks on Google Maps before the ride. I can share the route with the other riders in my group so they know where I'm heading which is a nice feature. Most of this I've done because I don't want a tank bag mucking up the looks of our beautiful motorcycle. LOL So basically, I've gone hi-tech out of pure vanity.
For me, since I usually ride with at least one other person and since we usually have a specific destination in mind, I prefer to plan the route in advance. I use Google Maps on my desktop and then export that route into Scenic and use my phone to view my route. I do not use the audio turn-by-turn in Scenic and I do often have a paper back-up in case my phone craps out plus I do a "dry run" on new routes, including identifying gas and food stops along with landmarks on Google Maps before the ride. I can share the route with the other riders in my group so they know where I'm heading which is a nice feature. Most of this I've done because I don't want a tank bag mucking up the looks of our beautiful motorcycle. LOL So basically, I've gone hi-tech out of pure vanity.