GPS anyone ? Thoughts ? preferences?

[HikerToo_imp]

This is just the way, I usually use my Garmin Zumo 660 at my motorcycle.

I plan the route at home at my PC, using the software `basecamp', which comes from Garmin with the device. Beside the maps, delivered by Garmin, you can also use Openstreetmap. I also use topological maps, to get an idea, where it's interesting to go.

Then I use the USB connection, to download the route to my device very easily. Also, I can upload the tracks, which I recorded with my device during the tour, and see on my computer maps, where I was in reality.

During the ride I use the device mainly as a pointing device to follow my predefined route, not for calculating any routes. Very seldom I just press the `bring me home' button.

When we do tours in a group, approx. 6 out of 10 have a Garmin and we share the same route. So nobody gets lost during the tour and we just reunion at certain waypoints, we also have planned into the tour. No need for waiting at every junction or traffic light for the followers.

Beside that, you can download routes from other riders from the internet, like http://www.gpsies.com and use them on your device, or just for getting an idea where to go in an area, where you haven't been before.
E.g. [url=http://www.gpsies.com/map.do?fileId=ujojvdlwbpohkhfu]this tour I did recently at a weekend with a rented motorcycle, when I was in San Diego for a business trip. And I used tour material from other riders, who have been there before, to get a clue about, where to go.

Great info Django! Nice to have all the tech savvy CB1100 riders we can find.
Could be that many older folks ride CB1100's and are less techy than some other forums....sorry, but true.