08-12-17, 04:14 PM
(08-12-17, 12:59 AM)robbo link Wrote: Blimey, who'd have thought a chuck away remark about GPS could cause such a controversy :lol . I've been firmly routed in the "notes and a map on the tank bag" camp, and still am, ever since I started riding any great distance. In fact there was no alternative back then. Taking the satnav on my last trip was an experiment more than anything else, and due to time constraints,hoped it would save time navigating any towns/cities, which it did. I know I'm not using it properly, as have no audio link to it, and as far as programming way points etc, forget it. Any computer based procedures, just drop me out.
Getting on to the bends thing. The purpose of taking it in the first place was to evaluate its usefulness,as there's no point in taking a gadget if it doesn't earn its keep so to speak. Other than the purposes it was designed for, I did find it useful to know that a 180 degree bend was coming up, so that awareness of the unexpected could be raised. The pace regulated accordingly,making progress,in my opinion, a lot smoother, more relaxed and therefore less tiring which is only a good thing when putting in a long day in the saddle.
Maybe as the Garmin was fairly new to me, it was a bit like a new toy, as I was very aware that it was there. Possibly a long time user might refer to it more subconsciously,like a mirror check,but still take on board the info they've seen without realizing it. A bit like the throttle blip saga, with riders unaware that they did it. Just a natural action that is performed without thought.
All being well, my next foreign foray will be Le Mans 24 hr in April, but I'll leave the satnav at home, as I know the way by heart :lol .
I must admit I like the sound turned on so I can hear the instructions through my ear phones whilst ride, I find it save having the bother of having to have my eyes open to look at the Sat Nav, or, ahead for that matter as I ride ride.
Easy