Garmin eTrex Legend GPS

I bought this as second GPS unit specifically to use while biking. I wanted something that would acquire track data as I went along, that I could use to get back to my starting point if I got lost, and help me navigate along the way. This unit does all of that quite well.

Pros:

Acquires tracks and waypoint data in a logical, automatic way.
Has enough information so you can find your way back.
Price is low enough to make the decision easy.

Cons:

Lack of a color screen.
Lack of included maps.
Lack of a touch screen.

Get it now from Amazon.com

This is an excellent lower-priced unit for basic hiking and biking. I don't recommend it for road navigation.

You'll need to buy some maps as well. Garmin Topos are available at a reasonable price from Amazon. For road navigation you'll want to look at Garmin MetroGuide North America. You can often find the maps on eBay.

I have a mount on my bicycle that was specifically designed for the eTrex series. Very solid and secure, I have taken some thumps on my front wheel and the unit has stayed put. I have not had any outright crashes so far so that test remains to be done.

This unit can also be connected to a laptop to provide a full screen capability. I have not done this yet but stay tuned.

Finally, if you start acquiring tracks you'll want to share the information with others. The Garmin MapSource that comes with the maps is OK and has its own set of capabilities. You might also consider some other utilities for manipulating and displaying the data.

ExpertGPS. Useful for track manipulation, image export, waypoint manipulation. About $60.
EasyGPS. From TopoGraphix just like ExpertGPS but free. Limits on capabilities.
GeePeeEx. An excellent waypoint and POI editor from a small publisher. The price makes this one a no-brainer: less than $20.
TopoFusion. This tool does lots of things that I don't understand. Climbing analysis, exercise efficiency, and more. I bought it because it can add accurate elevation data to tracks and because it does a better job of smoothing tracks and profiles. About $40 for the "family" version.

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