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GPS Bike Computer. Are maps important or useful?

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  • 28-11-2016 10:14pm
    #1
    Galego
    Registered Users Posts: 1,237 ✭✭✭


    Buying a GPS Bike Computer but doubting between the polar v650 and m450.

    I am leaning towards the m450 as it seems more compact but has no maps.

    In reality.....are they useful? Do you all not know the routes fairly well by now? I cycle pretty much always the same ones.

    Anyone wants to help me choose between these two polars? Just unsure the v650 is too big and toyish looking.


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    #2
    Cee-Jay-Cee
    Registered Users Posts: 12,235 ✭✭✭✭Cee-Jay-Cee


    If you cant see yourself ever needing maps then why pay money for something you don't need?

    I have needed a map once in my time cycling and used Google maps to find where I was and where I needed to go.

    Go for the M450.


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    #3
    07Lapierre
    Registered Users Posts: 8,248 ✭✭✭07Lapierre


    Maps are handy if you cycle somewhere new. E.g. If you cycle outside of Ireland.
    I use all the time when cycling in Spain. Also you can download maps for free.


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    #4
    Rokta
    Registered Users Posts: 97 ✭✭Rokta


    I never needed maps on a bike computer. However having one that offers turn by turn breadcrumb navigation can help you preparing a new route at home and then loading it onto the device. Other than that, if lost use your phone :)


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    #5
    cdaly_
    Registered Users Posts: 6,440 ✭✭✭cdaly_


    I never bothered with a bike GPS. Instead I use OsmAnd+ app with maps already downloaded. Good for satnav work as well as both displaying a track to follow and tracking your ride. It also has contours which I find to be a drawback on google maps etc. It doesn't do ride analysis, you would need to upload the track post-ride and analyse it elsewhere.

    That said, I grew up using paper maps in my Scouting days and so I know how to use a map.


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    #6
    triggermortis
    Registered Users Posts: 2,684 ✭✭✭triggermortis


    I went through a load of hassle putting maps on my Garmin 800 and find it so hard to use that when I get lost (I've a terrible sense of direction) I find it easier to use my phone.
    When I moved back to ireland a few months ago, I changed my maps and have yet to use it. It was something I wanted when I bought the unit, but rarely use


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    #7
    Rokta
    Registered Users Posts: 97 ✭✭Rokta


    I got myself the garmin edge 25 recently as I wanted something small and I love it. I has no Strava live segments but it still syncs with Strava. If I get lost I just use the mobile app to plot a route, sync it on the fly and I get turn by turn directions.


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